Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2023 Tesla Model Y
The 2023 Tesla Model Y has 1,188 complaints and 17 recalls, indicating potential concerns, particularly with the forward collision avoidance and steering issues. Given the large number of complaints across multiple components, buyers should be thorough in checking these areas. The recall data suggests the need for updated software and careful inspection of steering components. Limited by available data, these recommendations focus on reported issues from recalls and complaints.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2023 Tesla Model Y has 17 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,197 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.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #26V507000 Low Beam Headlights May Be Too Bright/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #26V283000 Rearview Camera Image May Not Display/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V092000 Loss of Power Steering Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V002000 Rearview Camera Image May Fail/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V935000 TPMS Light May Not Remain Illuminated/FMVSS 138 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V554000 Software May Fail to Detect Unlatched Hood NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V376000 Seat Belt Warning System Malfunction/FMVSS 208 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V051000 Incorrect Font Size on Warning Lights/FMVSS 105 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V035000 Rearview Image May Not Display NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V838000 Autopilot Controls Insufficient to Prevent Misuse NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V489000 Forward-Facing Camera Misaligned NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V434000 Defective Pyrotechnic Battery Disconnect NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V385000 Steering Wheel May Disconnect from Steering Column NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V130000 Second-Row Seat Frame May Be Improperly Secured NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V085000 Full Self-Driving Software May Cause Crash NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V895000 Front Suspension Lateral Link Fasteners Improperly Tightened NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V844000 Taillight May Fail to Illuminate NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Forward Collision Avoidance 482 complaints
- Steering 219 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 168 complaints
- Unknown or Other 158 complaints
- Service Brakes 153 complaints
- Suspension 137 complaints
Of the 1,197 complaints on file, 158 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 1,197 complaints, owners report 87 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Forward collision failures
How to check: Test collision avoidance and alert systems
Loose steering fastener
How to check: Inspect steering wheel for looseness
Delayed rearview camera
How to check: Check camera delays when reversing
Loose suspension fasteners
How to check: Check for unusual noises from suspension
Service brakes complaints
How to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noise
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for abnormal engine noises
Red flag: Loud knocking or tapping
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check stability of idle speed
Red flag: Hesitation or irregular idling
- 03
Around the block
What to check: Feel for smooth steering function
Red flag: Steering feels loose or wobbly
- 04
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for smooth stops
Red flag: Persistent grinding or squealing
- 05
Straight road
What to check: Ensure vehicle tracks straight
Red flag: Vehicle pulls to one side
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth power delivery
Red flag: Hesitation or power loss
- 07
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Test rearview camera clarity
Red flag: Camera delay or blackout
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the vehicle received any software updates?
- Were there any issues with collision avoidance?
- Has the steering been serviced or addressed?
- Have suspension components been inspected recently?
- Are all recalls up to date?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle service history
- Record of recalls and repairs
- Software update history
- Title and registration
- Warranty details
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2023 Tesla Model Y at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2023 Tesla Model Y? Check the actual car
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.