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AI-generated from NHTSA recall & complaint counts

Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2022 Tesla Model 3

The 2022 Tesla Model 3 shows solid potential as a used purchase. However, recurring issues in software affecting safety features, such as seat belt warnings and pedestrian alerts, demand attention. Limited recalls highlight concerns with the hood latch and rear visibility systems. Prospective buyers are advised to carefully evaluate software functionality and ensure all recalls have been addressed for a safer driving experience.

NHTSA data on file today

The 2022 Tesla Model 3 has 18 NHTSA recall campaigns and 773 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.

NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.

Recall campaigns on file

Most-cited components in owner complaints

  • Forward Collision Avoidance 535 complaints
  • Vehicle Speed Control 171 complaints
  • Service Brakes 168 complaints
  • Unknown or Other 94 complaints
  • Electrical System 60 complaints
  • Lane Departure 45 complaints

Of the 773 complaints on file, 57 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 773 complaints, owners report 47 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).

Recall notices and owner complaints for the 2022 Tesla Model 3

Known issues to inspect

high severitysafety

Delayed rearview camera

How to check: Reverse the car and monitor camera response time.

medium severitysafety

Seat belt warnings nonfunctional

How to check: Verify seat belt chime with unbuckled driver.

medium severitysafety

Pedestrian warning system muted

How to check: Ask seller if factory reset has been conducted.

high severitybody

Hood may not latch properly

How to check: Inspect hood latch and ensure it secures tightly.

low severityelectrical

Instrument cluster font size issue

How to check: Check the font size of dashboard warnings.

Test-drive walkthrough

  1. 01

    Cold start

    What to check: Listen for unusual sounds when starting.

    Red flag: Strange noises from engine bay.

  2. 02

    First minute idling

    What to check: Check for warning lights on the dashboard.

    Red flag: Persistent warning lights displayed.

  3. 03

    City driving

    What to check: Test braking for smoothness and reliability.

    Red flag: Braking feels inconsistent or weak.

  4. 04

    Highway acceleration

    What to check: Monitor for smooth acceleration response.

    Red flag: Hesitation or jerking during acceleration.

  5. 05

    Reverse parking

    What to check: Verify the rear camera view activates promptly.

    Red flag: Delayed or no camera image.

Questions for the seller

Use this exact phrasing.

  1. Have all recalls been addressed?
  2. Has the hood latch assembly functioned correctly?
  3. Any issues with the infotainment system?
  4. What software version is currently installed?
  5. Are there any unresolved dashboard warnings?

Documents to request

Don't sign anything until you have these.

  • Recall completion records
  • Service history reports
  • Infotainment software version logs
  • Title and registration documents
  • Warranty coverage details

Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2022 Tesla Model 3 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.

Recalls & complaints for the 2022 Tesla Model 3 Reliability forecast Tesla Model 3 reliability by year Run a free VIN check

Next step

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