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2020 Tesla Model 3 VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2020 Tesla Model 3 has mixed reliability. There are 20 recalls and 416 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Tesla Model-3. Severity signals include 50 crash-related complaints and 2 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Forward Collision Avoidance (77), Vehicle Speed Control (59), Unknown Or Other (55).

Model 3 reliability snapshot

54/100
Latest model-year reliability score
2.0/5
RepairPal rating (overall)

Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.

Used-car research

Research the Tesla Model 3 before checking the VIN

Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.

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Most-reported 2020 Tesla Model 3 issues

Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.

  • Forward Collision Avoidance77
  • Vehicle Speed Control59
  • Unknown Or Other55
  • Steering43
  • Electrical System29
  • Air Bags27

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2020 Tesla Model 3

Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.

  • Inspect suspension components for wear or noise
  • Test adaptive cruise control for phantom braking
  • Check airbag system for warning lights or faults
  • Verify infotainment system functionality and responsiveness
  • Inspect undercarriage for damage or loose components
  • Check for water ingress in trunk and undercarriage
  • Test door handles for proper operation and integrity

What owners reported

2020 Tesla Model 3 owner complaints in detail

Owners have reported 50 crashes, 2 fires, 29 injuries and 2 deaths to NHTSA for the 2020 Tesla Model 3. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.

Owner complaints77

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Owners report that the 2020 Tesla Model 3 experiences frequent "phantom braking" incidents, where the vehicle unexpectedly applies brakes without any apparent obstacles, often at highway speeds. This issue occurs under clear conditions with no vehicles nearby, and some owners have stopped using cruise control due to these occurrences. Complaints also highlight problems with the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, including failure to detect roadside objects, leading to collisions, and incorrect lane changes or turns. Some incidents have resulted in crashes, though no injuries are reported. These issues are observed across various mileages, suggesting they are not isolated to high-mileage vehicles. Potential buyers should be aware of these patterns, particularly regarding the vehicle's automated systems.

Severity signals: 4 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints59

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners of the 2020 Tesla Model 3 frequently report issues with vehicle speed control, particularly involving "phantom braking" during the use of adaptive cruise control. Symptoms include sudden, unexpected deceleration without any apparent obstacles, often occurring on highways and sometimes linked to specific conditions like passing under overpasses or driving at night. Complaints also mention incidents of unintended acceleration, sometimes associated with interacting with vehicle controls. Several reports involve crashes, and one involves a fire, with some incidents resulting in injuries. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, with some owners experiencing them shortly after acquiring the vehicle. Such patterns suggest potential safety risks, making it important for used car buyers to be aware of these reported behaviors.

Severity signals: 12 crash, 1 fire, 5 injury reports

Owner complaints55

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2020 Tesla Model 3 frequently report issues related to software and system malfunctions, with several complaints highlighting problems following software updates, such as erroneous alerts and unintended acceleration. Symptoms described include sudden unintended acceleration, incorrect GPS navigation, and malfunctioning autopilot features leading to inappropriate lane changes or failure to stop at traffic signals. Some reports indicate these issues have led to crashes, with a few involving injuries. Complaints also mention HVAC system failures, often occurring just after the expiration of the warranty period, typically around 37,000 miles. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns, particularly the potential safety implications associated with the vehicle's software and automation features.

Severity signals: 8 crash, 0 fire, 3 injury reports

Owner complaints43

STEERING

Owners report various steering-related issues with the 2020 Tesla Model 3, notably involving power steering failures and suspension component problems. Complaints frequently mention sudden loss of power steering, often at highway speeds, which requires increased steering effort and poses a risk of losing vehicle control. Additionally, multiple owners describe premature suspension failures, such as broken control arms and loose bolts, with some incidents occurring below 50,000 miles. These failures sometimes result in steering becoming unresponsive or the vehicle unexpectedly veering, contributing to crashes and injuries. Prospective buyers should be aware of these issues, as they are associated with significant safety implications, including crashes and loss of steering control.

Severity signals: 6 crash, 1 fire, 2 injury reports

Owner complaints29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners report several electrical system issues with the 2020 Tesla Model 3, most notably problems related to the 12V battery failing without warning, which can result in occupants being unable to open doors. Complaints frequently mention software updates causing malfunctions in autopilot and camera systems, with some owners noting features like auto high beams and rearview cameras becoming inoperable. Several reports also involve persistent issues with the trunk latch and window operation, often unresolved despite recall notifications. Safety implications are significant, with four crashes reported, including one fatal incident where the vehicle veered off the road. Failures often occur around 20,000 to 70,000 miles, and potential buyers should be aware of these recurring electrical issues.

Severity signals: 4 crash, 0 fire, 3 injury reports

Owner complaints27

AIR BAGS

Owners of the 2020 Tesla Model 3 frequently report issues with the airbag system, particularly concerning non-deployment during crashes and recurring "Front Passenger Safety Restraint System Fault" alerts. Several complaints involve airbags not deploying in significant collisions, with some owners reporting injuries such as concussions and facial lacerations. The recurring safety restraint system fault often leads to costly repairs, with some owners indicating charges exceeding $1,000 for sensor replacements and recalibrations. These problems often manifest after the vehicle has exceeded the warranty mileage, with some reports noting issues arising around 60,000 miles. The safety implications are notable, with multiple crashes and injuries reported, highlighting potential risks for used car buyers considering this model.

Severity signals: 8 crash, 0 fire, 8 injury reports

Owner complaints23

SERVICE BRAKES

Owners report frequent instances of "phantom braking" in the 2020 Tesla Model 3, where the vehicle's brakes activate unexpectedly during cruise control or autopilot use, often without any apparent obstacles. Symptoms typically include sudden, hard braking at highway speeds, sometimes causing near-collisions with vehicles behind. Multiple complaints also describe a spongy brake pedal feel, with at least one case leading to a crash when the vehicle failed to stop as intended. Crashes and injuries are associated with these issues, and the problems appear across various mileages, with some occurring as early as 9,600 miles. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential safety implications when considering this model.

Severity signals: 3 crash, 0 fire, 3 injury reports

Owner complaints21

SUSPENSION

Owners report frequent issues with the front suspension of the 2020 Tesla Model 3, particularly involving the control arms. Complaints commonly describe symptoms such as loud squeaking, clunking, and groaning noises, often emerging around or shortly after the expiration of the warranty, typically around 40,000 to 100,000 miles. Several reports mention premature wear and the need for repeated repairs, with some owners experiencing instability or poor handling. Safety concerns are noted, including one reported crash resulting in an injury, as well as instances of suspension components failing and causing potential loss of control. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring suspension issues and the associated repair costs.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints14

STRUCTURE

Owners report that the 2020 Tesla Model 3 frequently experiences issues with the undercarriage aero shield, which can detach or degrade when exposed to water, leading to potential damage to the vehicle. Complaints often describe the rear bumper and skid plates being pulled off when driving through water, with some reports indicating this has led to crashes. Multiple owners also mention problems with the vehicle's door handles delaminating, creating sharp edges that can cause injuries. Additionally, several reports highlight issues with water ingress through the trunk seal, leading to flooding and mold growth. These structural issues are reported at various mileage points and can have significant safety implications, such as loss of control or injury, which prospective buyers should consider.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints8

POWER TRAIN

Owners of the 2020 Tesla Model 3 frequently report issues with the power train, particularly involving unexpected power reduction and unintended acceleration. Symptoms often include sudden speed limitations to as low as 7 mph, as well as error messages like "Power Reduced" and "Power Limited - OK to Drive." These problems have been reported at various mileages, with some incidents occurring around 20,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with two crashes reported, one involving unintended acceleration and another following a suspected electrical fire. Prospective buyers should be aware of these issues, especially when considering the vehicle's use for freeway driving or reliance on its self-driving features.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 0 fire, 2 injury reports

2020 Model 3 recalls (20)

Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2020 Model 3. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

  1. TIRESNHTSA 24V935000Dec 17, 2024

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024 Cybertruck, 2017-2025 Model 3, and 2020-2025 Model Y vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light may not remain illuminated between drive cycles, failing to warn the driver of low tire pressure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."

    Consequence: Driving with improperly inflated tires increases the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-018.

  2. SEAT BELTSNHTSA 24V376000May 28, 2024

    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."

    Consequence: A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  3. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 24V153000Feb 27, 2024

    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."

    Consequence: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are muted, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  4. ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 24V051000Jan 30, 2024

    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."

    Consequence: Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  5. ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 23V838000Dec 12, 2023

    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.

    Consequence: In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, and the driver does not maintain responsibility for vehicle operation and is unprepared to intervene as necessary or fails to recognize when Autosteer is canceled or not engaged, there may be an increased risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  6. STEERINGNHTSA 23V085000Feb 15, 2023

    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.

    Consequence: FSD Beta software that allows a vehicle to exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  7. SEAT BELTSNHTSA 22V798000Oct 21, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The second-row left seat belt buckle and second-row center seat belt anchor may have been incorrectly reassembled during vehicle service.

    Consequence: An incorrectly reassembled seat belt anchor can impair the performance of the seat belt during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will inspect and reassemble the seat belt anchors as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-20-004.

  8. VISIBILITYNHTSA 22V702000Sep 19, 2022

    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."

    Consequence: A closing window may exert excessive force by pinching a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    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.

  9. ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 22V263000Apr 18, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Model 3 Performance vehicles. The unit of speed (mph or km/h) may fail to display on the speedometer while in Track Mode. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Control and Displays."

    Consequence: The driver may not know how fast the vehicle is traveling without the mph or km/h unit display, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 17, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-008.

  10. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCENHTSA 22V235000Apr 12, 2022

    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."

    Consequence: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  11. BACK OVER PREVENTIONNHTSA 22V169000Mar 18, 2022

    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."

    Consequence: A delayed rearview camera image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  12. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCENHTSA 22V063000Feb 4, 2022

    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."

    Consequence: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  13. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SEAT BELTSNHTSA 22V045000Feb 1, 2022

    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."

    Consequence: The driver may be unaware that their seat belt is not fastened, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  14. ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 22V037000Jan 27, 2022

    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.

    Consequence: Failing to stop at a stop sign can increase the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  15. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, VISIBILITY, BACK OVER PREVENTIONNHTSA 21V00D000Dec 21, 2021

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling all 2017-2020 Model 3 vehicles. The rearview camera cable harness may be damaged by the opening and closing of the trunk lid, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.

    Consequence: A rearview camera that does not function reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will inspect and install a guide protector and new cable harness as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 24, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-17-008.

  16. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCENHTSA 21V846000Oct 29, 2021

    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.

    Consequence: Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    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.

  17. SUSPENSIONNHTSA 21V835000Oct 25, 2021

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Model Y and 2019-2021 Model 3 vehicles. The front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen, allowing the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame.

    Consequence: A lateral link separation could shift the wheel alignment, causing instability and increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will tighten or replace the lateral link fasteners as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-31-003.

  18. AIR BAGSNHTSA 21V834000Oct 25, 2021

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021, 2023 Model 3 vehicles. The left and/or right side curtain air bag may have been improperly secured to the roof rail, which could result in a twisted air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."

    Consequence: A twisted side curtain air bag may improperly deploy, increasing the risk of injury or occupant ejection during a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will inspect and realign the left and right side curtain air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-006.

  19. SEAT BELTSNHTSA 21V389000May 25, 2021

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Model 3 and 2019-2021 Model Y vehicles. One or both fasteners that secure the front seat shoulder belt to the b-pillar may not be properly attached.

    Consequence: An improperly attached fastener may prevent the seat belt system from performing as designed, increasing the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will inspect and repair both fasteners if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service online by visiting www.tesla.com/support/contact or by calling 1-877-79-TESLA (or 1-877-798-3752). Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-001.

  20. SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICNHTSA 21V387000May 25, 2021

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Model 3 and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles. The brake caliper bolts may be loose, allowing the brake caliper to separate and contact the wheel rim.

    Consequence: Contact with the rim may cause a loss of tire pressure, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will inspect and tighten, or replace the caliper bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service online by visiting www.tesla.com/support/contact or by calling 1-877-79-TESLA (or 1-877-798-3752). Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-33-002.

Used-market value

2020 Tesla Model 3 resale snapshot

49.4%estimated value retained after 5 years
535listings in the model-level benchmark
$24,990median asking price from 60 listings

Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.

Compare Tesla Model 3 value by year →Full Tesla Model 3 market analysis at CarResaleValue →

2020 Tesla Model 3 on the road

206,500 2020 Tesla Model 3 units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2020 Tesla Model 3 stacks up against rivals

The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.

Hyundai Ioniq 6
Reliability: 82/100·Rivalry score: 95
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Reliability verdict for the 2020 Tesla Model 3

With a 41/100 score against a 79/100 segment average, the 2020 Tesla Model 3 lands well below the norm for reliability. The gap is large enough to indicate elevated buyer risk rather than a marginal shortfall. As year 4 of the first generation, this model year still shows substantial reliability exposure in the available data.

Issues are not confined to a single system. Complaints cluster most heavily around forward collision avoidance and vehicle speed control, with additional concentration in steering and the electrical system, plus a sizable share falling into unknown or other. That spread suggests multiple areas contributing to owner-reported problems rather than one isolated weak point. The recall count is elevated, reinforcing the overall risk profile.

Overall risk level: elevated.

What you get in a 2020 Tesla Model 3 report

Available title brand history
Odometer readings & rollback detection
Accident & damage records
Auction sales with photos
Open safety recalls
Theft & stolen vehicle check

Check a 2020 Tesla Model 3 now

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2020 Tesla Model 3 — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2020 Tesla Model 3 reliable?

With a 41/100 score against a 79/100 segment average, the 2020 Tesla Model 3 lands well below the norm for reliability. The gap is large enough to indicate elevated buyer risk rather than a marginal shortfall. As year 4 of the first generation, this model year still shows substantial reliability exposure in the available data.

How many recalls does the 2020 Tesla Model 3 have?

20 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2020 Tesla Model 3. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

What are the most common 2020 Tesla Model 3 problems?

The most-reported 2020 Tesla Model 3 problem areas are: Forward Collision Avoidance (77), Vehicle Speed Control (59), Unknown Or Other (55).

Should I run a VIN check on a 2020 Tesla Model 3?

Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2020 Tesla Model 3, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.