Avoid: No year grades F. Weakest: 2021
Best: 2020
4 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 7 model years, the Tesla Model Y has 7,114 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 100 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are forward collision avoidance and service brakes. 2021 drew the most complaints (3,255), 2020 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (280).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Tesla Model Y vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $28,527–$37,623.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 2021 (3,255 complaints). Lowest: 2020 (280).
Mixed sentiment with a clear evolution over time.
Panel gaps, misalignments, and various defects on delivery, particularly noted on early production units (2020-2021).
Harsh, firm suspension criticized for providing a poor ride, often described as among the least comfortable in the segment.
Noticeable at highway speeds, attributed to thin glass and insufficient sound deadening, especially on Standard trim with single-pane glass.
Seats described as lacking support and comfort, particularly in the Standard trim compared to Premium trims.
Reports of inability to reach representatives, poor claims handling, and leaving customers without support.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Model Y. Individual model years are broken down above.
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