Tesla

Tesla Model S reliability & recalls

NHTSA data · verified Jul 12, 2026 · How to read this →

Complaints 3,218 ≈215/model-year · tracked-EV median 62 unverified consumer reports

5 open NHTSA investigations

An investigation is a question NHTSA is asking, not a finding of a defect. It may close with no action, a manufacturer fix, or a recall.

Recall history

Most recent first. Every campaign below has a remedy on file with NHTSA. Expand a row for what NHTSA says and how it's fixed.

May 4, 2026 Back Over Prevention / Software Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

218,868 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017, 2021-2023 Model 3, 2020-2023 Model Y, 2021-2023 Model S, and Model X vehicles operating software version 2026.8.6. The rearview camera image may be delayed when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 3, 2026. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-26-00-001.

NHTSA campaign 26V283000 ↗
Mar 19, 2025 Air Bags Airbags & seat belts Remedy available

91 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model S and 2021-2025 Model X vehicles. An air bag with the incorrect horn pad may have been installed, preventing the horn from sounding.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla service will inspect and install an air bag with the correct horn pad as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-20-001.

NHTSA campaign 25V172000 ↗
Jan 6, 2025 Back Over Prevention / Software Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

239,382 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Model 3, Model S, 2023-2025 Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The computer circuit board may short, resulting in the loss of the rearview camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Tesla will also identify any vehicles that experienced a circuit board failure, or stress that may lead to a circuit board failure, and replace the affected computers, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 7, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-00-001.

NHTSA campaign 25V002000 ↗
Show all 39 recalls
Dec 23, 2024 Air Bags / Frontal / Driver Side / Cushion Airbags & seat belts Remedy available

487 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Model S and Model X vehicles. The driver's air bag could tear during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 212, "Windshield Mounting."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla service will replace the air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 21, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-20-001.

NHTSA campaign 24V967000 ↗
Jul 24, 2024 Electrical System / Software Software OTA update

1,849,638 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-012.

NHTSA campaign 24V554000 ↗
May 28, 2024 Seat Belts / Front / Warning Light/devices Airbags & seat belts OTA update

125,233 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-008.

NHTSA campaign 24V376000 ↗
Feb 27, 2024 Forward Collision Avoidance / Warnings / External/pedestrian Alert Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

6,557 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2013, 2018-2021 Model S, 2020-2021 Model X, 2018-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A factory reset muted 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."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, release 2023.44.30.14, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-006.

NHTSA campaign 24V153000 ↗
Jan 30, 2024 Electrical System / Instrument Cluster/panel Other equipment & body OTA update

2,193,869 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck vehicles. An incorrect font size is displayed on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla began releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-003.

NHTSA campaign 24V051000 ↗
Jan 22, 2024 Back Over Prevention / Sensing System / Camera Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

199,575 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model S, X, and Y vehicles equipped with full self-driving computer 4.0 and running a software release version 2023.44.30 through 2023.44.30.6 or 2023.44.100. Software instability may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 22, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-002.

NHTSA campaign 24V035000 ↗
Dec 19, 2023 Electrical System / Software Software OTA update

120,423 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model S and X vehicles. The cabin doors can be unlocked during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 17, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-009.

NHTSA campaign 23V862000 ↗
Dec 12, 2023 Electrical System / ADAS / Driver Monitoring / Software Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

2,031,220 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): 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.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-008.

NHTSA campaign 23V838000 ↗
Nov 3, 2023 Steering / Steering Wheel/handle Bar Other equipment & body Remedy available

194 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model S and Model X vehicles. An incorrect air bag may have been installed when the steering yoke or round steering wheel was replaced with a different style of yoke or steering wheel.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla Service will inspect and replace the driver air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-20-005.

NHTSA campaign 23V743000 ↗
Jul 14, 2023 Forward Collision Avoidance / Sensing System / Camera Driver assistance (ADAS) Remedy available

1,337 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model S, Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The forward-facing camera may be misaligned, causing some of the active safety features such as emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane assist to become unavailable without alerting the driver.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla Service will inspect and adjust the pitch angle, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 12, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-17-006.

NHTSA campaign 23V489000 ↗
Jul 14, 2023 Seat Belts / Front Airbags & seat belts Remedy available

15,869 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model S and Model X vehicles. The front-row seat belts may not be connected properly to the pretensioner anchors, which can cause the seat belts to detach.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla Service will inspect the front-row seat belts and connect the seat belts to pretensioner anchors, or replace the seat belt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 12, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-20-004.

NHTSA campaign 23V488000 ↗
Feb 15, 2023 Steering / Automated/adaptive Steering Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

362,758 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2023 Model S, Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving Beta (FSD Beta) software or pending installation.  The FSD Beta system may allow the vehicle to act unsafe around intersections, such as traveling straight through an intersection while in a turn-only lane, entering a stop sign-controlled intersection without coming to a complete stop, or proceeding into an intersection during a steady yellow traffic signal without due caution. In addition, the system may respond insufficiently to changes in posted speed limits or not adequately account for the driver's adjustment of the vehicle's speed to exceed posted speed limits.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge.  Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2023.  Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752.  Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-001.

NHTSA campaign 23V085000 ↗
Nov 1, 2022 Visibility / Rearview Mirrors/devices / Exterior Other equipment & body Remedy available

53 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021 Model S exterior side rearview mirrors, part numbers: 1622232-00-B and 1622233-00-B. The driver side exterior rearview mirrors are convex (curved glass) and the passenger side mirrors do not include the "Objects in Mirror Are Closer Than They Appear" etched warning. As such, these mirrors fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla Service will replace the mirrors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 31, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-12-002.

NHTSA campaign 22E092000 ↗
Nov 1, 2022 Steering / Electric Power Assist System Other equipment & body OTA update

40,168 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S and Model X vehicles. The electronic power assist steering (EPAS) system may experience a loss of power steering assist when driving on rough roads or after hitting a pothole.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update to recalibrate the EPAS system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 31, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-014.

NHTSA campaign 22V818000 ↗
Sep 19, 2022 Visibility / Power Window Devices And Controls Other equipment & body OTA update

1,096,762 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3, 2020-2022 Model Y, and 2021-2022 Model S and Model X vehicles. The window automatic reversal system may not react correctly after detecting an obstruction. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update of the automatic window reversal system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 31, 2032. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-013.

NHTSA campaign 22V702000 ↗
Jul 21, 2022 Air Bags / Frontal Airbags & seat belts Remedy available

5 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2022 Model S vehicles. The front bumper carrier structure may alter the vehicle's crash detection, causing the front passenger air bag to deploy incorrectly during certain low speed crashes. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla Service will replace the front bumper carrier structure, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 19, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-10-006.

NHTSA campaign 22V526000 ↗
May 3, 2022 Equipment / Electrical / Infotainment / Video (touch)screen/monitor/unit Other equipment & body OTA update

129,960 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S, Model X, and 2022 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles operating certain firmware releases. The infotainment central processing unit (CPU) may overheat during the preparation or process of fast-charging, causing the CPU to lag or restart.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will improve CPU temperature management, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-009.

NHTSA campaign 22V296000 ↗
Apr 12, 2022 Forward Collision Avoidance / Warnings / External/pedestrian Alert Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

594,894 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): 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."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, including Summon and Smart Summon, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall supersedes recall 22V-063. Vehicles configured with Summon or Smart Summon and already remedied under 22V-063 will need to have the new remedy software installed.

NHTSA campaign 22V235000 ↗
Mar 18, 2022 Back Over Prevention / Display Function Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

947 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Model S, Model X, and 2017-2020 Model 3 vehicles equipped with Autopilot Computer 2.5 and operating certain firmware releases. The rearview image may not immediately display when the vehicle begins to reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-004.

NHTSA campaign 22V169000 ↗
Feb 23, 2022 Air Bags / Side/window / Curtain / Inflator Airbags & seat belts Remedy available

9 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S vehicles. The right or left side curtain air bag inflators may have been assembled incorrectly.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla Service Centers will replace the side curtain air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-20-001.

NHTSA campaign 22V104000 ↗
Feb 4, 2022 Forward Collision Avoidance / Warnings / External/pedestrian Alert Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

578,607 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): 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."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall has been superseded by Recall 22V-235. Tesla's number for the new recall is SB-22-00-003.

NHTSA campaign 22V063000 ↗
Feb 2, 2022 Electrical System / Software Software OTA update

26,681 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A software error may cause a valve in the heat pump to open unintentionally and trap the refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting in decreased defrosting performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-18-002.

NHTSA campaign 22V050000 ↗
Feb 1, 2022 Seat Belts / Front Airbags & seat belts OTA update

817,143 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The audible chime may not activate when the vehicle starts and the driver has not buckled their seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-002.

NHTSA campaign 22V045000 ↗
Jan 27, 2022 Steering / Automated/adaptive Steering Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

53,822 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): 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.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that disables the "rolling stop" functionality, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-001.

NHTSA campaign 22V037000 ↗
Dec 21, 2021 Latches/locks/linkages / Hood / Latch Other equipment & body Remedy available

130,441 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2014-2021 Model S vehicles. The front trunk latch assembly may be misaligned, preventing the secondary hood latch from engaging. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 113, "Hood Latch System."

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla Service will inspect and reposition the latch assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 18, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-11-003.

NHTSA campaign 21V00B000 ↗
Nov 9, 2021 Air Bags / Frontal / Driver Side / Cushion Airbags & seat belts Remedy available

7,600 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021 Model X and Model S vehicles. The driver's air bag cushion may tear during deployment.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla Service will replace the driver's air bag, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 7, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-007.

NHTSA campaign 21V868000 ↗
Oct 29, 2021 Forward Collision Avoidance / Sensing System / Camera Driver assistance (ADAS) OTA update

11,728 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S, Model 3, Model X, and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles operating software version 2021.36.5.2. A communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB) system.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004.

NHTSA campaign 21V846000 ↗
Jan 29, 2021 Visibility / Defroster/defogger/hvac System Other equipment & body Remedy available

134,951 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Tesla Model S and 2016-2018 Model X vehicles with a center display equipped with a NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor and an 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device. When the 8GB eMMC NAND flash memory device for the center display reaches lifetime wear, the eMMC controller will no longer be able to maintain the integrity of the filesystem, causing a failure in some of the center display functions.

Remedy (NHTSA): Owners should ensure their vehicles are operating firmware release 2020.48.48.12 or newer, which will alert owners if the eMMC is approaching lifetime wear. Tesla will notify owners, and will replace the VCM daughterboard with one containing an enhanced eMMC controller, free of charge. The recall began March 29, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-21-001.

NHTSA campaign 21V035000 ↗
Jan 7, 2019 Air Bags / Frontal / Passenger Side / Inflator Module Airbags & seat belts Remedy available

68,673 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling all 2014-2016 Model S vehicles equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will replace the passenger frontal air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began May 29, 2019. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-19-20-001.

NHTSA campaign 19V002000 ↗
Mar 29, 2018 Steering / Electric Power Assist System Other equipment & body Remedy available

70,421 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Tesla Model S vehicles equipped with Bosch steering racks. The aluminum bolts that attach the power steering gear assist motor to the gear housing may corrode and fracture causing a reduction or complete loss of power steering assist.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will replace the steering gear mounting bolts and add a corrosion-preventative sealer, free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-18-32-002.

NHTSA campaign 18V204000 ↗
Jan 9, 2018 Air Bags / Frontal / Passenger Side / Inflator Module Airbags & seat belts Remedy available

17,846 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling all 2013 Model S vehicles equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will replace the passenger frontal air bag modules, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in March 2018. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-18-20-001.

NHTSA campaign 18V031000 ↗
Apr 19, 2017 Parking Brake Brakes Remedy available

31,709 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016 Model S and Model X vehicles. The electric parking brake calipers have an internal gear that may be improperly manufactured, possibly resulting in the gear fracturing during parking brake application or release.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will notify owners, and service centers will replace both the left and right electric parking brake calipers, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2018. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-17-33-002.

NHTSA campaign 17V260000 ↗
Jan 10, 2017 Air Bags / Frontal / Passenger Side / Inflator Module Airbags & seat belts Remedy available

2,997 vehicles · Prompted by a NHTSA investigation

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla Motors, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling all 2012 Model S vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the frontal air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag, free of charge. The recall began September 12, 2017. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752.

NHTSA campaign 17V023000 ↗
Nov 23, 2015 Seat Belts / Front Airbags & seat belts Remedy available

59,415 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla Motors, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Model S vehicles manufactured May 31, 2012, to November 12, 2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with driver or front passenger seat belts that may be improperly connected to the outboard lap pretensioner.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will notify owners, and service centers will inspect the driver and front passenger seat belts, correcting their connection, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 14, 2015. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-15-20-002.

NHTSA campaign 15V780000 ↗
Jan 13, 2014 Electrical System / Propulsion System / Charging / Cable/cord / Accessory Charging system OTA update

21,081 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla Motors, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain model year 2013 Model S vehicles equipped for, and delivered with, certain NEMA 14-50 (240 volt) Universal Mobile Connector (UMC) adapters. During charging, the adapter, cord, or wall outlet could overheat.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will notify owners and provide an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Some owners have already received this update. This update allows the Model S on board charging system to detect any unexpected fluctuations in the input power or higher resistance connections to the vehicle. If detected, the onboard charging system will automatically reduce the charging current by 25%. Tesla owners can verify that they have received the updated software (version 5.8.4 or later) by viewing the vehicle's center information screen. Additionally, Tesla will mail owners a replacement NEMA 14-50 adapter that is equipped with an internal thermal fuse. The recall began on March 14, 2014. Owners may contact Tesla Service Center at 1-877-79-TESLA (1-877-798-3752).

NHTSA campaign 14V006000 ↗
Jun 14, 2013 Seats Other equipment & body Remedy available

1,228 vehicles · Initiated by Tesla

The issue (NHTSA): Tesla Motors, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain model year 2013 Model S electric vehicles manufactured May 10, 2013, through June 8, 2013. An improper method for aligning the left hand seat back striker to the bracket may have weakened the weld between the bracket and the frame of the vehicle.

Remedy (NHTSA): Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will inspect the left hand second row strikers. Tesla will add additional mounting hardware to ensure a proper joint between the bracket and the frame, free of charge. The recall began on June 24, 2013. Owners may contact Tesla at 1-650-681-5000.

NHTSA campaign 13V249000 ↗

What owners report

The top complaint categories owners submitted to NHTSA, by count. Bars show each category's size relative to this model's largest category.

Other equipment & body 1,561 · 49%
Software 950 · 30%
Driver assistance (ADAS) 387 · 12%
Drivetrain & motor 259 · 8%
Battery & high-voltage 241 · 7%

Complaints are unverified consumer reports, not confirmed defects. One complaint can span multiple categories, so percentages are of the 3,218 total and may add up to more than 100%.

Complaints by model year

2012 59
2013 459
2014 364
2015 647 most reported
2016 604
2017 379
2018 129
2019 32
2020 80
2021 175
2022 135
2023 108
2024 38
2025 6
2026 3

Raw counts — older model years have had more time on the road to accumulate reports. These are unverified consumer reports.

What this means

Every mainstream EV on the road carries recalls on its NHTSA file — a recall is the system working: a known issue gets documented and, almost always, fixed for free.

What actually matters is whether the remedies have shipped and whether NHTSA still has open questions. For the Tesla Model S, all 39 recalls on file have a remedy available, and 5 NHTSA investigations are currently open (an open question, not a finding of a defect).

Frequently asked questions

Is the Tesla Model S reliable?

"Reliability" is measured differently by different sources, and NHTSA doesn't publish a reliability score. What its public file — the basis for this page — shows for the Tesla Model S is 39 recalls, all with a remedy available, 5 open investigations, and 3,218 owner-submitted complaints — which are unverified reports, not confirmed defects. For predicted-reliability and owner-satisfaction verdicts, Consumer Reports and J.D. Power run large owner-survey panels; check their model pages for those ratings.

Does the Tesla Model S have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 39 recall campaigns for the Tesla Model S. All of them have a remedy available. The most recent was filed May 4, 2026 and involved Back Over Prevention / Software. A recall is how a known issue gets fixed — usually free of charge — so the presence of recalls isn't the same as an unresolved problem.

Does the Tesla Model S have battery problems?

NHTSA's file lists 0 recalls classified to the battery / high-voltage group and 241 owner complaints (unverified consumer reports) that touch the battery. Owner complaints are unverified and one complaint can span more than one category, so treat the count as a signal of what owners raise, not a defect rate.