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AI-generated from NHTSA recall & complaint counts

Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Tesla Model 3

The 2018 Tesla Model 3 has 19 recall campaigns and 1,032 owner complaints, which might suggest some reliability concerns. Issues mainly involve forward collision avoidance, suspension, and electrical systems. Buyers should be cautious, particularly about safety and functionality recalls. Limited data may result in unknown problems.

NHTSA data on file today

The 2018 Tesla Model 3 has 19 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,036 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.

NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.

Recall campaigns on file

Most-cited components in owner complaints

  • Forward Collision Avoidance 204 complaints
  • Suspension 193 complaints
  • Unknown or Other 175 complaints
  • Electrical System 168 complaints
  • Air Bags 143 complaints
  • Seat Belts 104 complaints

Of the 1,036 complaints on file, 103 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 1,036 complaints, owners report 44 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).

Recall notices and owner complaints for the 2018 Tesla Model 3

Known issues to inspect

high severitysuspension

Lateral link may loosen

How to check: Inspect for any loose or missing bolts in the suspension.

medium severityelectrical

Rearview camera wiring damage

How to check: Open and close trunk; check camera image functionality.

medium severitysafety

Forward collision warning errors

How to check: Test collision warning system by approaching an obstacle.

Test-drive walkthrough

  1. 01

    Cold start

    What to check: Monitor for unusual dashboard warnings or errors.

    Red flag: Persistent system errors or warnings

  2. 02

    First minute driving

    What to check: Check for steering alignment and noise from suspension.

    Red flag: Pulling to one side or clunking noises

  3. 03

    City driving

    What to check: Engage forward collision system to verify responsiveness.

    Red flag: False warnings or no response

  4. 04

    Highway acceleration

    What to check: Ensure smooth acceleration and no power loss.

    Red flag: Hesitation or sudden power cuts

  5. 05

    Braking test

    What to check: Test brakes for effectiveness and noise.

    Red flag: Squealing noise or reduced braking power

  6. 06

    Parking maneuvers

    What to check: Check camera display and parking sensors.

    Red flag: Camera blackout or sensor failures

  7. 07

    Final idle

    What to check: Listen for unusual electrical system sounds.

    Red flag: Incessant high-pitched noises

Questions for the seller

Use this exact phrasing.

  1. Has the suspension been serviced recently?
  2. Are there any unresolved recall repairs?
  3. How often is the collision system activated?
  4. Is the rearview camera functioning well?
  5. Has the vehicle's software been updated?

Documents to request

Don't sign anything until you have these.

  • Service history records
  • Recall repair documentation
  • Warranty details
  • Previous inspection reports
  • Battery health report

Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Tesla Model 3 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.

Recalls & complaints for the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Reliability forecast Tesla Model 3 reliability by year Run a free VIN check

Next step

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