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Tesla · Known Issues

2020-2026 Tesla Model Y Problems: 21 Known Issues

2020-2026 model years · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated August 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2020-2026 Tesla Model Y has 21 documented known issues, with 9 rated critical. The most serious are Front Suspension Lateral Link Bolts Loose - Separation Risk (Recall 21V-835) ($0-$0 repair), Heat Pump / Octovalve Failure in Cold Weather (Loss of Cabin Heat and Defrost) ($0-$5,000 repair), Model S / Model X First-Row Seat Belt Anchor Inspection Recall (23V-488) ($0-$0 repair), Hood Latch Switch Deformation — No 'Hood Open' Warning, Frunk Can Fly Open While Driving, FSD Degraded-Visibility Detection Defect — NHTSA Engineering Analysis EA26002, Battery Pack Contactor Opens Suddenly Causing Loss of Drive Power (Recall 25V690 / SB-25-13-001) ($0-$0 repair), Autopilot/TACC Phantom Braking on Highway (NHTSA PE22-002, 416k Model 3/Y) ($0-$0 repair), Electronic Door Handles Inoperative on Low 12V Voltage — Occupants Trapped (NHTSA Investigation PE25-010) ($0-$0 repair) and Electronic Power Steering Assist Loss From Overstressed Circuit Board (Recall 25V092 / SB-25-00-004) ($0-$0 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $400 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Model Y Safety/Recalls6
  • Model Y Suspension3
  • Model Y Body/Panels3
  • Model Y HVAC1
  • Model Y Drivetrain1
  • Model Y Steering1
  • Model Y Electrical4
  • Model Y Exterior2
  • Recalls35
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Safety/Recalls6
  • Suspension3
  • Body/Panels3
HVAC
1
  • Drivetrain1
  • Steering1
  • Electrical4
  • Exterior2
  • Recalls35
  • FAQ
  • All 21 Known Issues

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    NHTSA recall 23V-488 covers approximately 15,869 Tesla Model S (2021-2023) and Model X (2021-2023) vehicles for first-row seat belts that may not have been properly reconnected to their pretensioner anchors after a prior repair. If the anchor connection is below spec, the seat belt may not restrain the occupant correctly in a crash. (Note: this entry was originally drafted as a Model Y recall during the EV batch; the actual recall affects S/X, not Y — listing under Model Y for legacy slug reasons but the affected vehicles are S/X 2021-2023.)

    This issue also affects: Lucid Air, Polestar Polestar 2, Tesla Cybertruck

    Common Symptoms

    • loose seatbelt anchor
    • safety recall

    How to Fix

    Free recall remedy at any Tesla service center — inspection and, if needed, reconnection or full seatbelt assembly replacement. Check VIN against 23V-488. Tesla has not reported crashes or injuries linked to this defect.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation upgraded its Full Self-Driving probe to an Engineering Analysis (EA26002) on March 18, 2026, covering roughly 3.2 million FSD-equipped Teslas including 2020-2026 Model Y. The alleged defect is in the FSD degradation-detection system: when roadway visibility is reduced by sun glare, fog, dust or other airborne obstructions, the system may fail to detect the degraded condition or warn the driver in time to take over, and may lose track of — or never detect — a lead vehicle. NHTSA cited nine crashes tied to the condition, including one fatality and two injury crashes, with six additional incidents under analysis. An Engineering Analysis is the last procedural step before the agency can demand a recall. A separate probe covering roughly 2.88 million vehicles concerns FSD-induced traffic-law violations such as wrong-lane entries and driving straight through turn-only lanes. Owner complaints on 2025 Model Y independently describe FSD steering into barriers and guardrails and failing to recognize signals and stop signs.

    Common Symptoms

    • FSD fails to slow for a lead vehicle in glare, fog or dust
    • Abrupt FSD disengagement with too little time to react
    • Vehicle steers toward barriers, guardrails or the wrong lane
    • Missed traffic signals, stop signs or turn-lane markings

    How to Fix

    Treat FSD as a driver-assist system requiring hands-on, eyes-up supervision at all times — especially into low sun, in fog, in blowing dust, and on wet night roads where lane markings wash out. Disengage proactively when entering glare or low-visibility conditions rather than waiting for the car to hand control back. Keep the windshield and camera surfaces clean, since the pillar and forward camera views feed the same perception stack. Watch for an NHTSA-mandated remedy: check the VIN periodically against Tesla's recall page and NHTSA's recall lookup, and install FSD software updates promptly, as any remedy will most likely arrive as an over-the-air update.

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    After Tesla moved to Vision-Only Autopilot in May 2021, 2021-2022 Model Y (and Model 3) owners reported hundreds of cases of the car suddenly applying brakes for no visible reason at highway speed while Autopilot or TACC is engaged. NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation opened PE22-002 in February 2022 covering ~416,000 vehicles after initially 354 complaints, growing to 758+ by mid-2022 and 1,845+ (including 272 from 2023 models) in follow-up reporting.

    Common Symptoms

    • Sudden brake application on Autopilot or TACC
    • Forward Collision Warning with no visible obstacle
    • Rapid deceleration on highway
    • Often triggered near overpasses, shadows, or oncoming traffic
    • Repeated events in one drive

    How to Fix

    Keep firmware current; some owners report improvement on newer FSD builds. If recurrent, disable Autopilot/TACC in problem zones and file a complaint at nhtsa.gov so the open NHTSA investigation has data. No mechanical repair available.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    NHTSA opened Preliminary Evaluation PE25010 on September 15, 2025, covering an estimated 174,290 2021 Model Y vehicles after at least 9 to 16 reports that the exterior electronic door handles became inoperative when the car's low-voltage (12V) system dropped to insufficient voltage. The electronic releases (both exterior and, for occupants who can't reach them, interior) stop working, so doors cannot be opened. Several complaints involve parents who had just placed or retrieved children in the rear seats; in four of nine documented cases the parents broke windows to get back in. No low-voltage battery warning appeared before the handles failed. The probe lists 2017-2022 Model 3 and Model Y as peer vehicles and was reported to be widening in late 2025.

    Common Symptoms

    • Exterior door handle does nothing when pressed
    • Doors will not unlock or open with no prior warning
    • Occupants (especially children) trapped inside
    • Total loss of electronic door release tied to low 12V battery voltage

    How to Fix

    No recall remedy has been issued yet (investigation open as of late 2025). Tesla vehicles have manual interior door release levers; owners and passengers should learn the manual-release location for every door (front doors have an obvious mechanical pull; rear doors on Model Y have a hidden manual release). Keeping the 12V/low-voltage battery healthy and replacing it promptly when it weakens reduces the risk. Owners experiencing a dead 12V condition can use the exterior emergency low-voltage terminals to power the front trunk and access the cabin.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    NHTSA complaints on the 2025 Model Y show a persistent cluster of forward-collision-avoidance failures separate from FSD steering behavior: the vehicle applies hard automatic braking on clear, open road with no obstacle present, most often near overpasses, shadows, oncoming traffic on curves and roadside signage. Owners report the deceleration is severe enough to create a rear-end risk from following traffic. A recurring aggravating factor in the complaints is that the AEB setting cannot be permanently turned off — any reduction or disabling of the setting resets to the default at the start of each drive, so an owner who has experienced repeated false events cannot durably opt out. A smaller subset of the same complaint group reports the opposite failure, with AEB not engaging when a collision was imminent.

    Common Symptoms

    • Sudden hard braking with no vehicle or obstacle ahead
    • Repeated false forward-collision warnings on open road
    • AEB setting reverts to default at the start of every drive
    • Occasional failure of AEB to engage when a collision is imminent

    How to Fix

    Document each event with date, time, road and the resulting deceleration, and file a complaint at NHTSA so the pattern is on record. Report it to Tesla service via the app so a diagnostic snapshot is pulled — logs sometimes identify a specific camera or radar-fusion input triggering the event. Keep the forward camera area of the windshield and the pillar cameras clean and unobstructed, and have the cameras recalibrated after any windshield replacement, since a miscalibrated forward camera is a known amplifier of false activations. Increase following distance and be aware that the setting will revert on each new drive, so re-check the Autopilot settings screen if you rely on a reduced setting.

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    Software release 2024.38.3 introduced a defect on 2020-2025 Model Y (and 2017-2025 Model 3, 2024 Cybertruck) vehicles in which the tire pressure monitoring system warning telltale would reset when the vehicle was powered down or went to sleep between drives. As a result, the low-tire-pressure warning light did not remain illuminated across drive cycles as required by FMVSS 138, so a driver could begin a new trip unaware that a tire was still under-inflated. The recall covers approximately 694,000 vehicles.

    Common Symptoms

    • Low tire pressure warning light disappears after the car sleeps or powers down
    • TPMS telltale not illuminated at start of a new drive despite low pressure
    • No persistent under-inflation warning between trips

    How to Fix

    Tesla pushed a free over-the-air firmware update (release 2024.38.7, 2024.38.10, 2024.40 or later, excluding 2024.44/2024.44.1) that restores compliant TPMS telltale behavior so the warning persists between drives. No service visit is needed.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    On 2020-2021 Model Y built March 2020-June 2021, the two fasteners connecting the front lower control arm (lateral link) to the subframe were not torqued to spec at the factory. The bolts can back out over time, allowing the lateral link to separate from the subframe and causing sudden loss of wheel alignment and steering control. NHTSA Recall 21V-835 / Tesla SB-21-31-003 covers inspection and re-torque.

    Common Symptoms

    • Clunking from front suspension over bumps
    • Wandering steering
    • Uneven tire wear
    • Visible loose or missing bolt at subframe
    • Sudden alignment shift after pothole

    How to Fix

    Check VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for open 21V-835 status. Tesla Service inspects and re-torques (or replaces) the lateral link fasteners free of charge. Do not delay - this is a separation-risk recall.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    Owners of the refreshed "Juniper" Model Y report creaking, rattling or knocking noises from the front suspension at low speed and over uneven pavement, broken pavement, speed bumps and driveway transitions. The noise is often present from delivery and is one of the most widely reported complaints on the refreshed platform. Tesla traced the condition to the front upper control arm (FUCA) mounts and to the internal seating/valving of the front damper assemblies, with the wiper bracket 'pencil braces' contributing. Tesla issued two campaign-classified service bulletins on May 8, 2026 — SB-25-31-005 and SB-26-31-003 — that formally acknowledge the condition. Because they are Campaign Bulletins, the diagnosis and repair are covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty rather than charged to the owner.

    Common Symptoms

    • Creaking or groaning from the front end at low speed
    • Knocking or clunking over bumps, expansion joints and driveway aprons
    • Rattle from the front suspension on rough pavement
    • Noise present from new or within the first few thousand miles

    How to Fix

    Have the service center diagnose against SB-25-31-005 first: replace the front upper control arm mounts with the updated components and remove the wiper bracket pencil braces. If the mounts and braces have already been done and the noise persists, SB-26-31-003 directs replacement of the left and right front damper assemblies. Full procedure runs roughly 4 hours and includes a pre- and post-repair test drive to verify the noise is gone. Do not accept a 'normal for the model' answer — the campaign bulletins exist and the work is warranty-covered. Request the repair through the Tesla app service request describing the noise as low-speed knock over bumps so the tech can remotely triage and pre-order parts.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    2020-2024 Model Y (especially Performance trim, which sits ~10mm lower) is delivered with aggressive, non-adjustable rear negative camber that causes severe inner-edge wear on the rear tires. The factory rear camber cannot be changed via standard alignment — only toe is adjustable. Owners commonly replace rear tires every 15-25k miles, with some Performance owners going through 3 sets in 60k miles. The 400+ lb-ft of instant rear-wheel torque combined with the vehicle's 4,400-4,600 lb weight amplifies the wear.

    Common Symptoms

    • Smooth/balding inner shoulder of rear tires while outer is fine
    • Cords or wear bars showing on inner edge under 25k miles
    • Cupping or feathering on inner rear tread
    • Pull or off-center steering wheel from delivery

    How to Fix

    Get a four-wheel alignment at first sign of inner wear. For lasting fix, install adjustable rear camber arms (N2itive, MPP, Unplugged Performance) and re-align to about -1.0deg camber with neutral toe. Rotate tires every 5-6k miles thereafter.

    What you need to fix it

    Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

    • Mountain Pass Performance Arastradero Rear Upper Camber Arms

      adjustable rear-upper-arm branch after an alignment confirms uncorrectable rear camber contributes to wear Fitment/availability: all Tesla Model Y according to manufacturer; pair is preset to OEM length and includes a ride-height sensor …

      Mountain Pass Performance
    • Unplugged Performance Model Y Billet Adjustable Rear Camber Arm Set

      alternative adjustable rear-upper-arm branch after measured alignment diagnosis Fitment/availability: Tesla Model Y factory non-adjustable rear upper camber-arm replacement according to manufacturer; confirm model/build, headlight-level …

      Unplugged Performance

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

    Typical repair cost:$600 - $1,800

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    The front hood (frunk) latch assembly contains a small latch switch that can deform in service. Once deformed, the vehicle no longer detects that the hood is unlatched, so no 'hood open' warning is shown on the touchscreen. A driver who closes the frunk incompletely gets no alert, and the hood can then fully open at speed, blocking forward vision and in some reported cases shattering the windshield. NHTSA recall 24V554000 covers 2020-2024 Model Y (plus 2021-2024 Model 3/S/X) for this defect; the latches were supplied by Magna Closures. Complaints of the hood suddenly opening at highway speed with no prior warning continue on 2025 Model Y vehicles outside the recall population, including reports that the secondary mechanical safety catch failed to hold.

    Common Symptoms

    • No 'hood open' warning on the touchscreen when the frunk is not fully latched
    • Frunk pops up to the safety catch while driving
    • Hood flies fully open at speed, blocking the windshield
    • False or missing frunk status in the vehicle UI

    How to Fix

    Confirm the vehicle has firmware 2024.20.3 or later — the recall remedy is an over-the-air software update that adds improved logic for detecting the deformed switch and raises an 'open hood' warning on the UI. Check the VIN against recall 24V554000 on the Tesla account page or the NHTSA recall lookup. Regardless of software state, physically confirm the frunk is latched by pressing down firmly on the leading edge of the hood until it seats — do not rely solely on the touchscreen indicator. If the hood ever pops to the safety-catch position on its own, or the touchscreen shows the hood open when it is closed, book service to have the latch assembly inspected and replaced rather than just re-flashing software.

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    Early-production (2020-2021) Model Y reports of the panoramic rear glass cracking, sometimes spontaneously, sometimes from minor flex. Owners reported cracks appearing during cold-weather closing of the trunk. Tesla covered most under warranty but did not recall. Issue largely resolved in later builds.

    This issue also affects: Lucid Air, Polestar Polestar 2, Tesla Cybertruck

    Common Symptoms

    • cracked rear glass
    • shattered roof glass
    • spontaneous crack

    How to Fix

    Tesla goodwill or warranty replacement (~$700-$1,200) — file a service request promptly. Out-of-warranty rear glass replacement $800-$1,400 + install ($300-$500). 3rd-party glass shops may quote less than Tesla service center.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,900

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    2020-2023 Model Y crossovers built at Fremont and Giga Austin can leak water into the rear trunk and subtrunk through gaps around the liftgate lamp studs and connector, and through inadequate liftgate sealing. Owners report standing water in the spare-tire well, soaked carpet, and water cascading out when the trunk is opened after rain. Tesla released SB-23-10-003 (April 2023) to reseal the assembly.

    Common Symptoms

    • Water pooling in subtrunk / spare-tire well
    • Wet trunk carpet after rain or car wash
    • Water streaming out when opening the liftgate
    • Musty smell from rear of cabin
    • Corrosion on trunk-mounted electronics

    How to Fix

    Request service under TSB SB-23-10-003. Tesla replaces the liftgate lamp double-ended stud gaskets and connector gaskets and applies polymer sealant (about 1.8 hours of labor, covered for many owners). Dry the subtrunk fully first to prevent mold.

    What you need to fix it

    Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

    • Loctite Teroson MS 5510 Gray Polymer Sealant 300 mL

      bulletin-specified sealant consumable used only as part of the complete diagnosed liftgate reseal Fitment/availability: Tesla SB-23-10-003 R4 specifies LOCTITE 5510 elastic adhesive 300 mL for the non-EMEA Model Y liftgate reseal procedu…

      Grainger

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $400

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    On 2021-2022 Model Y, the heat pump's Electronic Expansion Valve (EXV) in the Octovalve supermanifold can stick open if controller communication is interrupted, causing total loss of cabin heat and defrost in sub-freezing temperatures (especially -10C/14F or colder). In severe cases the AC compressor and Octovalve must be replaced. Tesla recalled ~26,681 vehicles (NHTSA 22V-050, Feb 2022) across Model S/X/3/Y running firmware 2021.44 through 2021.44.30.6 for the software-related issue, but hardware failures also occur, especially in extreme cold.

    Common Symptoms

    • No cabin heat
    • Windshield will not defrost
    • HVAC blows cold air only
    • Heat pump runs but no warmth
    • Warning message about climate system

    How to Fix

    Update firmware to 2021.44.30.7 or later per NHTSA recall 22V-050. If heat is still lost, request Tesla Service inspect the Octovalve and AC compressor; warranty covers replacement on most 2021-2022 vehicles.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $5,000

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    On 2026 Model Y (built ~Mar 15 to Aug 15, 2025) and 2025 Model 3 vehicles, a battery pack contactor can open unexpectedly because of a poor coil-termination connection in the contactor's solenoid. When it opens, the flow of electricity from the high-voltage battery to the drive motor(s) stops, causing a sudden loss of propulsion with no advance warning; the screen then instructs the driver to pull over safely. The contactor solenoid was supplied by a third party (Sistemas Mecatronicos/InTiCa) and built into SongChuan contactors. Tesla identified 36 warranty claims and 26 field reports. The recall covers 12,963 vehicles, of which roughly 7,925 are 2026 Model Y.

    Common Symptoms

    • Sudden loss of drive power / loss of propulsion while driving
    • 'Pull over safely' or vehicle-needs-service warning on screen
    • Car coasts to a stop with no prior warning
    • Vehicle will not move / no drive after contactor opens

    How to Fix

    This is a hardware defect that cannot be fixed over-the-air. Affected owners must take the vehicle to a Tesla Service Center, where technicians replace the battery pack contactors free of charge under warranty.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    On 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles built roughly Feb 28 to Oct 11, 2023, running software prior to 2023.38.4, the printed circuit board for the electronic power steering assist can experience an overstress condition. This causes a loss of power steering assist when the vehicle comes to a stop and then accelerates again, requiring much greater steering effort, especially at low speeds. The defect followed a lengthy NHTSA investigation (PE23-016, later upgraded to an engineering analysis) that collected more than 2,300 complaints alleging loss of steering or steering control, including at least one crash. Tesla recalled 376,241 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles in February 2025.

    Common Symptoms

    • Steering wheel becomes very hard to turn after stopping and accelerating again
    • Power steering assist fault / 'Steering assist reduced' warning on screen
    • Heavy steering effort at low speeds and in parking maneuvers
    • Loss of steering control warning message

    How to Fix

    Tesla issued a free over-the-air software update (2023.38.4 or later) that revises the power-up sequence and current handling to prevent the EPS circuit board from being overstressed. No service-center visit is required; owners simply need to ensure the vehicle is updated. Vehicles that already suffered a hardware failure of the steering board are repaired under warranty.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    Leaving Sentry Mode and/or Cabin Overheat Protection enabled on 2020-2024 Model Y causes 7-14% HV pack drain per day plus accelerated 12V battery cycling, because the car keeps the HV system live, cameras recording, and the Autopilot computer processing video continuously. Owners report dead 12V batteries, range anxiety, and inability to drive after a few unplugged days. Tesla added throttling in 2024.32.6 and a ~40% reduction in 2024.38.4, but baseline drain remains substantial.

    Common Symptoms

    • Phantom drain of 5-15% per day when parked
    • 12V battery dead after several unplugged days
    • Premature 12V battery replacement (often <2 years on early lead-acid units)
    • 'Vehicle may not restart' / 'Power reduced' 12V low warnings
    • Car cannot wake or shift to Drive after parking

    How to Fix

    Update to 2024.38.4 or later (40% drain reduction via FSD-computer motion detection offload; MCU stays asleep until video write). Use 2024.32.6+ behavior that cuts 12V outlets/USB in Sentry. Disable Sentry Mode and Cabin Overheat Protection during long-term parking, or whitelist home/work. Replace the 12V battery if drain persists: 2020-2021 and early 2022 builds are flooded lead-acid; production starting late December 2021 transitioned to a 15.5V Li-ion module — do NOT cross-fit the wrong chemistry.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $400

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    Certain 2026 Model Y vehicles built between February 6, 2025 and July 26, 2025 were delivered with one or both reverse lamps inoperative. The root cause is a wiring defect in the rear fascia harness — an improperly seated terminal pin or connector produces a loss of continuity in the rear lamp circuit. Reverse lamps that do not illuminate when the vehicle is shifted into reverse both reduce the driver's rearward illumination at night and remove the visual cue that warns pedestrians and other drivers that the vehicle is about to back up, and they put the vehicle out of compliance with the federal lighting standard. NHTSA campaign 25V658000; Tesla reference SB-25-17-011.

    Common Symptoms

    • One or both reverse lights do not illuminate in reverse
    • Poor rearward illumination when backing up at night
    • No lighting fault warning shown on the touchscreen

    How to Fix

    Check the VIN against recall 25V658000 through the Tesla account recall page or the NHTSA VIN lookup. The remedy is free: Tesla inspects the reverse lamp housing and the rear fascia harness and repairs or replaces the defective connector or harness as needed — roughly a 20-minute job, so it can be handled by mobile service in many cases. Owner notification letters were mailed November 26, 2025. As a self-check, back the car toward a wall or garage door at night and confirm both reverse lamps light; a rear-camera image alone will not reveal a dead lamp.

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    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    On certain 2023-2025 Model Y (and 2023-2025 Model X, 2024-2025 Model 3/S) vehicles, the vehicle's computer (infotainment/MCU) circuit board can short due to a reverse-current condition on startup. When this happens, the rearview camera image fails to appear when the driver shifts into reverse, leaving a blank screen and forcing reliance on mirrors and shoulder checks — a violation of FMVSS 111 rear-visibility requirements. Tesla discovered the issue in November 2024 after a rising number of warranty computer replacements for shorted boards. The recall covers more than 239,000 vehicles.

    Common Symptoms

    • Blank/black rearview camera screen when shifting into reverse
    • Backup camera not displaying image
    • Center touchscreen or computer behaving abnormally before failure
    • Increased warranty computer (MCU) replacements

    How to Fix

    Tesla released free over-the-air software updates (versions 2024.44.25.3 and 2024.45.25.6 or later) that change the power-up sequence to prevent the circuit board / power components from shorting. Any vehicle whose computer already shorted before the update is given a free replacement computer under warranty.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    The 2025-2026 'Juniper' refresh re-added a physical turn-signal stalk after the steering-wheel haptic buttons proved unpopular, but owners report the new stalk is unreliable. It frequently will not 'hold' a continuous signal — many drivers report only about three blink cycles before it cancels, requiring repeated re-pressing or holding the stalk through a turn. The stalk lacks the traditional detented second click that latches the signal on, and owners on Tesla forums describe it as flimsy/cheap-feeling and counter-intuitive, a genuine safety annoyance because signals stop mid-maneuver. This is a design/usability defect rather than a recall.

    Common Symptoms

    • Turn signal cancels after only a few blinks
    • Stalk will not hold a continuous signal during a turn
    • Driver must hold or repeatedly press the stalk
    • Stalk feels flimsy or cheap

    How to Fix

    No official recall or fix. Tesla has adjusted behavior through software in some builds; a firm but quick flick is reported to latch it more reliably. Owners frustrated with the operation can raise a service ticket, though Tesla generally treats this as designed behavior. Aftermarket stalk-feel guides and software updates may improve reliability over time.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    Multiple Model Y owners report the windshield spontaneously cracking while using cabin preconditioning or the defrost function in cold weather. Owners describe a consistent crack pattern that appears as the heating system warms the cold glass, suggesting thermal stress on the windshield (sometimes attributed to the defrost/heating airflow and the heated-glass or windshield design). Because Tesla windshields are large, curved, and expensive, and the cracks are not the result of road debris, owners frequently dispute warranty coverage. This is an owner-documented pattern rather than a formal recall.

    Common Symptoms

    • Windshield cracks while using cabin preconditioning or defrost
    • Crack appears with no impact/chip point
    • Consistent crack pattern reported by multiple owners
    • Cracking onset in cold-weather warm-up

    How to Fix

    Owners are advised to warm the cabin gradually rather than blasting maximum defrost onto very cold glass, and to clear ice mechanically before applying heat. If a crack appears without an impact point during preconditioning, document it and pursue a warranty/goodwill claim, though approval varies. Windshield replacement is the remedy if the glass cracks.

    Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,500

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

    Approximately 170-172 2026 Model Y vehicles built in a narrow window between April 15 and April 20, 2025 left the factory with a defective wiper arm washer hose elbow connector. The connector can block the washer nozzles so that no washer fluid reaches the windshield when the driver requests a wash. Because the Model Y relies on camera-based driver assistance that shares the windshield, and because the driver has no other way to clear road salt, bug splatter or film at speed, a dead washer circuit is a direct visibility hazard. NHTSA campaign 25V359000; Tesla reference SB-25-17-006 (also cited as SB-25-20-001 in some notices). This required a physical service visit rather than an over-the-air update — it was the first hardware recall on the refreshed Model Y.

    Common Symptoms

    • No washer fluid sprays onto the windshield
    • Washer pump audibly runs but nozzles produce nothing
    • Weak or one-sided washer spray

    How to Fix

    Check the VIN against recall 25V359000 via the Tesla account or the NHTSA VIN lookup. Tesla inspects the wiper arm washer hose elbow connectors and replaces any defective part with a corrected connector at no charge; the repair takes about 10 minutes and is mobile-service eligible. Before assuming the recall applies, confirm the reservoir is not simply empty and that the fluid is not frozen — but if the pump is audibly running and no spray reaches the glass on either side, the elbow connector is the likely blockage.

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    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
    NHTSA Recalls35 recalls

    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The "rolling stop" functionality available as part of the Full Self-Driving (Beta) software may allow the vehicle to travel through an all-way stop intersection without first coming to a stop.

    Campaign #22V03700027/01/2022

    SUSPENSION

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The front and rear suspension knuckles may fracture, causing the suspension links to separate.

    Campaign #21V91200021/11/2021

    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autosteer leading up to the version(s) that contains the recall remedy. In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature's controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse of the SAE Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature.

    Campaign #23V83800012/12/2023

    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y, Model X, Model S, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."

    Campaign #22V23500012/04/2022

    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model S, Model X, Model Y, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."

    Campaign #22V06300004/02/2022

    + 30 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the most common Tesla Model Y problems?

    According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2020-2026 Tesla Model Y has 21 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Front Suspension Lateral Link Bolts Loose - Separation Risk (Recall 21V-835), Heat Pump / Octovalve Failure in Cold Weather (Loss of Cabin Heat and Defrost), Model S / Model X First-Row Seat Belt Anchor Inspection Recall (23V-488). Of these, 9 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

    Is the Tesla Model Y reliable?

    The 2020-2026 Tesla Model Y has 21 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 9 issues are rated critical: Front Suspension Lateral Link Bolts Loose - Separation Risk (Recall 21V-835) and Heat Pump / Octovalve Failure in Cold Weather (Loss of Cabin Heat and Defrost) and Model S / Model X First-Row Seat Belt Anchor Inspection Recall (23V-488) and Hood Latch Switch Deformation — No 'Hood Open' Warning, Frunk Can Fly Open While Driving and FSD Degraded-Visibility Detection Defect — NHTSA Engineering Analysis EA26002 and Battery Pack Contactor Opens Suddenly Causing Loss of Drive Power (Recall 25V690 / SB-25-13-001) and Autopilot/TACC Phantom Braking on Highway (NHTSA PE22-002, 416k Model 3/Y) and Electronic Door Handles Inoperative on Low 12V Voltage — Occupants Trapped (NHTSA Investigation PE25-010) and Electronic Power Steering Assist Loss From Overstressed Circuit Board (Recall 25V092 / SB-25-00-004). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

    How much does it cost to fix common Tesla Model Y problems?

    Repair costs for known Tesla Model Y issues range from $0 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Front Suspension Lateral Link Bolts Loose - Separation Risk (Recall 21V-835), typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

    What year Tesla Model Y is the most reliable?

    Reliability varies across model years of the Tesla Model Y. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2020-2026 Tesla Model Y with 21 documented issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports.

    What is the 2020-2021 Tesla Model Y Front Suspension Lateral Link Bolts Loose - Separation Risk (Recall 21V-835)?

    On 2020-2021 Model Y built March 2020-June 2021, the two fasteners connecting the front lower control arm (lateral link) to the subframe were not torqued to spec at the factory. The bolts can back out over time, allowing the lateral link to separate from the subframe and causing… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

    What is the 2020-2022 Tesla Model Y Heat Pump / Octovalve Failure in Cold Weather (Loss of Cabin Heat and Defrost)?

    On 2021-2022 Model Y, the heat pump's Electronic Expansion Valve (EXV) in the Octovalve supermanifold can stick open if controller communication is interrupted, causing total loss of cabin heat and defrost in sub-freezing temperatures (especially -10C/14F or colder). In severe ca… Repairs typically run $0-$5,000. Severity: high.

    What is the 2021-2023 Tesla Model Y Model S / Model X First-Row Seat Belt Anchor Inspection Recall (23V-488)?

    NHTSA recall 23V-488 covers approximately 15,869 Tesla Model S (2021-2023) and Model X (2021-2023) vehicles for first-row seat belts that may not have been properly reconnected to their pretensioner anchors after a prior repair. If the anchor connection is below spec, the seat be… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

    What is the 2024-2025 Tesla Model Y Hood Latch Switch Deformation — No 'Hood Open' Warning, Frunk Can Fly Open While Driving?

    The front hood (frunk) latch assembly contains a small latch switch that can deform in service. Once deformed, the vehicle no longer detects that the hood is unlatched, so no 'hood open' warning is shown on the touchscreen. A driver who closes the frunk incompletely gets no alert… Severity: high.

    What is the 2024-2026 Tesla Model Y FSD Degraded-Visibility Detection Defect — NHTSA Engineering Analysis EA26002?

    NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation upgraded its Full Self-Driving probe to an Engineering Analysis (EA26002) on March 18, 2026, covering roughly 3.2 million FSD-equipped Teslas including 2020-2026 Model Y. The alleged defect is in the FSD degradation-detection system: when r… Severity: high.

    What is the 2026 Tesla Model Y Battery Pack Contactor Opens Suddenly Causing Loss of Drive Power (Recall 25V690 / SB-25-13-001)?

    On 2026 Model Y (built ~Mar 15 to Aug 15, 2025) and 2025 Model 3 vehicles, a battery pack contactor can open unexpectedly because of a poor coil-termination connection in the contactor's solenoid. When it opens, the flow of electricity from the high-voltage battery to the drive m… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

    What is the 2021-2022 Tesla Model Y Autopilot/TACC Phantom Braking on Highway (NHTSA PE22-002, 416k Model 3/Y)?

    After Tesla moved to Vision-Only Autopilot in May 2021, 2021-2022 Model Y (and Model 3) owners reported hundreds of cases of the car suddenly applying brakes for no visible reason at highway speed while Autopilot or TACC is engaged. NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation opened… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

    What is the 2021 Tesla Model Y Electronic Door Handles Inoperative on Low 12V Voltage — Occupants Trapped (NHTSA Investigation PE25-010)?

    NHTSA opened Preliminary Evaluation PE25010 on September 15, 2025, covering an estimated 174,290 2021 Model Y vehicles after at least 9 to 16 reports that the exterior electronic door handles became inoperative when the car's low-voltage (12V) system dropped to insufficient volta… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

    What is the 2023 Tesla Model Y Electronic Power Steering Assist Loss From Overstressed Circuit Board (Recall 25V092 / SB-25-00-004)?

    On 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles built roughly Feb 28 to Oct 11, 2023, running software prior to 2023.38.4, the printed circuit board for the electronic power steering assist can experience an overstress condition. This causes a loss of power steering assist when the vehicle… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

    What is the 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y Sentry Mode and Cabin Overheat Protection Excessive Battery Drain (12V and HV)?

    Leaving Sentry Mode and/or Cabin Overheat Protection enabled on 2020-2024 Model Y causes 7-14% HV pack drain per day plus accelerated 12V battery cycling, because the car keeps the HV system live, cameras recording, and the Autopilot computer processing video continuously. Owners… Repairs typically run $0-$400. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2020-2022 Tesla Model Y Early Model Y Rear Glass Cracking / Shattering?

    Early-production (2020-2021) Model Y reports of the panoramic rear glass cracking, sometimes spontaneously, sometimes from minor flex. Owners reported cracks appearing during cold-weather closing of the trunk. Tesla covered most under warranty but did not recall. Issue largely re… Repairs typically run $0-$1,900. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2020-2023 Tesla Model Y Liftgate Water Ingress Into Trunk and Subtrunk (Service Bulletin SB-23-10-003)?

    2020-2023 Model Y crossovers built at Fremont and Giga Austin can leak water into the rear trunk and subtrunk through gaps around the liftgate lamp studs and connector, and through inadequate liftgate sealing. Owners report standing water in the spare-tire well, soaked carpet, an… Repairs typically run $0-$400. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2026 Tesla Model Y Refreshed (Juniper) Model Y Front Suspension Creak, Rattle and Knock Over Bumps?

    Owners of the refreshed "Juniper" Model Y report creaking, rattling or knocking noises from the front suspension at low speed and over uneven pavement, broken pavement, speed bumps and driveway transitions. The noise is often present from delivery and is one of the most widely re… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2025-2026 Tesla Model Y Automatic Emergency Braking False Activation (Phantom Braking) That Cannot Be Permanently Disabled?

    NHTSA complaints on the 2025 Model Y show a persistent cluster of forward-collision-avoidance failures separate from FSD steering behavior: the vehicle applies hard automatic braking on clear, open road with no obstacle present, most often near overpasses, shadows, oncoming traff… Severity: medium.

    What is the 2026 Tesla Model Y Inoperative Reverse Lamps From Rear Fascia Harness Continuity Loss (Recall 25V658 / SB-25-17-011)?

    Certain 2026 Model Y vehicles built between February 6, 2025 and July 26, 2025 were delivered with one or both reverse lamps inoperative. The root cause is a wiring defect in the rear fascia harness — an improperly seated terminal pin or connector produces a loss of continuity in… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2020-2024 Tesla Model Y Premature Rear Tire Wear From Aggressive Negative Camber?

    2020-2024 Model Y (especially Performance trim, which sits ~10mm lower) is delivered with aggressive, non-adjustable rear negative camber that causes severe inner-edge wear on the rear tires. The factory rear camber cannot be changed via standard alignment — only toe is adjustabl… Repairs typically run $600-$1,800. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2023-2025 Tesla Model Y Rearview/Backup Camera Image Loss From Shorted Computer Circuit Board (Recall 25V002 / SB-25-00-001)?

    On certain 2023-2025 Model Y (and 2023-2025 Model X, 2024-2025 Model 3/S) vehicles, the vehicle's computer (infotainment/MCU) circuit board can short due to a reverse-current condition on startup. When this happens, the rearview camera image fails to appear when the driver shifts… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2021-2024 Tesla Model Y Windshield Cracking During Cabin Preconditioning / Defrost in Cold Weather?

    Multiple Model Y owners report the windshield spontaneously cracking while using cabin preconditioning or the defrost function in cold weather. Owners describe a consistent crack pattern that appears as the heating system warms the cold glass, suggesting thermal stress on the win… Repairs typically run $400-$1,500. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2026 Tesla Model Y Blocked Windshield Washer Nozzles From Defective Wiper Arm Hose Elbow Connector (Recall 25V359)?

    Approximately 170-172 2026 Model Y vehicles built in a narrow window between April 15 and April 20, 2025 left the factory with a defective wiper arm washer hose elbow connector. The connector can block the washer nozzles so that no washer fluid reaches the windshield when the dri… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: low.

    What is the 2025-2026 Tesla Model Y Refreshed (Juniper) Model Y Turn-Signal Stalk Fails to Latch / Cancels Early?

    The 2025-2026 'Juniper' refresh re-added a physical turn-signal stalk after the steering-wheel haptic buttons proved unpopular, but owners report the new stalk is unreliable. It frequently will not 'hold' a continuous signal — many drivers report only about three blink cycles bef… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: low.

    Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

    Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.