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AI-generated from NHTSA recall & complaint counts

Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Tesla Model 3

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 shows a broad range of issues, with 22 recall campaigns and over 670 owner complaints. Common concerns include forward collision avoidance, brakes, and electrical systems. These areas should be thoroughly evaluated, given the limited reliability data on specific failures. While Tesla frequently updates software to address such issues, vigilance during inspection and test drives is crucial.

NHTSA data on file today

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 has 22 NHTSA recall campaigns and 674 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.

NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 4 NHTSA-tested trims.

Newest 20 recall campaigns on file

Most-cited components in owner complaints

  • Forward Collision Avoidance 411 complaints
  • Service Brakes 126 complaints
  • Vehicle Speed Control 123 complaints
  • Unknown or Other 95 complaints
  • Electrical System 80 complaints
  • Lane Departure 34 complaints

Of the 674 complaints on file, 46 report a crash and 5 a fire; across all 674 complaints, owners report 19 injuries and 8 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).

Recall notices and owner complaints for the 2021 Tesla Model 3

Known issues to inspect

high severitysafety

Delayed rearview camera

How to check: Shift to reverse and monitor for camera delay.

medium severityelectrical

Headlight brightness issues

How to check: Check headlights operation against a wall or surface.

medium severitybrakes

Service brake complaints

How to check: Test brake response and noise during drive.

medium severitysuspension

Loose lateral link fasteners

How to check: Check for unusual suspension noises or alignment issues.

Test-drive walkthrough

  1. 01

    Cold start

    What to check: Listen for unusual engine or electrical noises.

    Red flag: Persistent strange noises

  2. 02

    First minute idling

    What to check: Ensure all dashboard lights are functioning.

    Red flag: Warning lights remain on

  3. 03

    Low-speed driving

    What to check: Test brakes for smooth, effective stopping.

    Red flag: Grinding or delayed braking

  4. 04

    Highway acceleration

    What to check: Check for smooth acceleration without lurching.

    Red flag: Hesitation or jerking

  5. 05

    Lane change

    What to check: Ensure Autopilot features operate as expected.

    Red flag: Autopilot fails to engage correctly

  6. 06

    Parking

    What to check: Use rearview camera to ensure no delay in image.

    Red flag: Delayed or distorted camera view

Questions for the seller

Use this exact phrasing.

  1. Has the Autopilot system been serviced?
  2. Are all recall repairs completed?
  3. Have you experienced any brake issues?
  4. Is the battery under warranty?
  5. Have there been any suspension repairs?

Documents to request

Don't sign anything until you have these.

  • Full service history
  • Record of completed recalls
  • Battery warranty document
  • Proof of ownership
  • Recent maintenance receipts

Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Tesla Model 3 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.

Recalls & complaints for the 2021 Tesla Model 3 Reliability forecast Tesla Model 3 reliability by year Run a free VIN check

Next step

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This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.

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