← All Tesla Model S years

2021 Tesla Model S VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2021 Tesla Model S has poor reliability. There are 67 recalls and 1211 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Tesla Model-S. Severity signals include 99 crash-related complaints and 8 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Forward Collision Avoidance (332), Vehicle Speed Control (148), Electrical System (126).

Model S reliability snapshot

26/100
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 S 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.

Years to avoidThe weakest years and stronger alternativesCommon problemsComplaint patterns across model yearsRecall historyNHTSA campaigns grouped by model year

Most-reported 2021 Tesla Model S issues

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

  • Forward Collision Avoidance332
  • Vehicle Speed Control148
  • Electrical System126
  • Unknown Or Other126
  • Steering117
  • Service Brakes91

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Tesla Model S

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

  • Test for phantom braking with adaptive cruise control
  • Inspect suspension components for wear or loose bolts
  • Check steering for responsiveness and any warning messages
  • Verify infotainment screen functionality and responsiveness
  • Ensure battery charges fully and check for error codes
  • Test heat pump and defrost system, especially in cold conditions

What owners reported

2021 Tesla Model S owner complaints in detail

Owners have reported 99 crashes, 8 fires, 29 injuries and 5 deaths to NHTSA for the 2021 Tesla Model S. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.

Owner complaints333

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Owners of the 2021 Tesla Model S frequently report issues with phantom braking, particularly when using cruise control or autopilot features. Typical symptoms include sudden and unexpected braking at highway speeds, often with no apparent obstacles, which raises the risk of rear-end collisions. Complaints suggest that these issues have been ongoing since vehicle delivery, with some owners experiencing multiple incidents during single trips. Safety implications are significant, with 13 reported crashes and 1 injury linked to these events. Buyers considering a used Model S should be aware of these recurring braking issues and the potential for sudden vehicle control loss.

Severity signals: 13 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints148

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners of the 2021 Tesla Model S frequently report issues with "phantom braking" where the vehicle unexpectedly applies brakes while using adaptive cruise control or Autopilot, even in the absence of any apparent obstacles. This sudden and aggressive braking often occurs on highways and two-lane roads, especially in response to oncoming traffic or shadows, and poses a risk of rear-end collisions. Some complaints also highlight unintended acceleration incidents during low-speed maneuvers, such as parking, which have led to crashes. Safety implications are significant, with reports of 12 crashes, 7 injuries, and 1 fire among the complaints. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, with some owners experiencing problems shortly after delivery.

Severity signals: 12 crash, 1 fire, 7 injury reports

Owner complaints126

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners report several issues with the 2021 Tesla Model S, particularly related to software and control systems. Commonly mentioned problems include malfunctioning rear cameras after software updates, climate control failures in cold weather, and difficulties with the horn due to its location on the steering yoke. Complaints frequently highlight the touchscreen and instrument panel going black, leading to a loss of critical driving information. Safety concerns are evident as 15 complaints involve crashes, with some attributed to unintentional acceleration and autopilot malfunctions. These issues often occur shortly after software updates or in specific conditions like cold weather, suggesting potential reliability concerns for buyers considering this model.

Severity signals: 15 crash, 0 fire, 2 injury reports

Owner complaints126

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners report frequent issues with the electrical system in the 2021 Tesla Model S, particularly involving the instrument panel and computer system failures. Complaints frequently mention the screen going blank, which can disable essential functions such as speed display, turn signals, and driver assistance features. These issues often occur randomly but have been noted from as early as a few days after delivery and can persist despite software updates. Safety implications are significant, with multiple reports of crashes, one involving a fire, and several incidents where occupants were trapped due to door malfunctions. Mileage at the time of failure varies widely, but some owners experience problems by approximately 9,400 miles. This information is crucial for potential buyers to consider when evaluating the reliability and safety of this vehicle model.

Severity signals: 12 crash, 1 fire, 10 injury reports

Owner complaints117

STEERING

Owners report several steering-related issues with the 2021 Tesla Model S, including steering lock-ups, heavy steering, and loss of steering assist, often accompanied by warning messages such as "steering assist reduced." Complaints frequently mention these problems occurring around 25,000 to 55,000 miles. Some owners describe situations where the steering becomes unresponsive or locks while driving, leading to loss of control, with 12 incidents resulting in crashes and six injuries reported. Additionally, issues with the steering yoke, such as peeling and horn button placement, are noted as potential safety concerns. These patterns suggest prospective buyers should be aware of potential steering system repairs and associated costs.

Severity signals: 12 crash, 1 fire, 6 injury reports

Owner complaints105

SERVICE BRAKES

Owners report that the 2021 Tesla Model S frequently experiences "phantom braking" incidents, where the vehicle unexpectedly applies the brakes without any apparent obstacles, often during highway driving with adaptive cruise control or autopilot engaged. Typical symptoms include sudden deceleration from speeds of 65-80 mph to significantly lower speeds, sometimes as low as 35 mph, which can pose a risk of rear-end collisions. Although the mileage at which these incidents occur is not consistently reported, some owners note that the issue persists even after software updates. Among the 105 complaints, 7 involve crashes, and 1 injury is reported, highlighting potential safety implications. Prospective buyers should be aware of these braking anomalies and the potential for unexpected vehicle behavior.

Severity signals: 7 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints53

SUSPENSION

Owners report frequent issues with the suspension system of the 2021 Tesla Model S, particularly involving the control arms and suspension links. Symptoms commonly described include premature tire wear, creaking or squeaking noises during low-speed maneuvers, and components separating or failing, often without warning lights. Complaints suggest these issues can manifest as early as 10,000 miles and continue to occur around 50,000 miles. Some reports involve crashes and one injury, indicating potential safety implications such as loss of steering control. Buyers should be aware of these recurring suspension problems and the associated repair costs, as they may not be covered under warranty.

Severity signals: 4 crash, 1 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints27

POWER TRAIN

Owners of the 2021 Tesla Model S frequently report issues related to the power train, including sudden loss of power and regenerative braking malfunctions. Symptoms often described include abrupt deceleration, unexpected propulsion, and intermittent drive disconnections, sometimes without warning lights or alerts. These issues have been reported to occur at various mileages, with some incidents leading to crashes and fires, highlighting potential safety risks. Additionally, multiple complaints mention problems with the vehicle's front half shafts and drive unit failures, often requiring repeated service visits without a definitive resolution. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers considering a used 2021 Tesla Model S.

Severity signals: 3 crash, 2 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints19

AIR BAGS

Owners report two primary issues with the 2021 Tesla Model S airbag system: intermittent airbag deactivation for front seat passengers and recurring safety restraint system faults. Complaints frequently mention the passenger airbag failing to activate, especially for lighter passengers around 100-123 lbs, with status changes occurring during drives. Multiple owners describe persistent alerts for safety restraint system faults, often linked to occupant and impact sensors, which sometimes return even after service visits. Approximately five incidents involved crashes where airbags did not deploy, with some vehicles having mileage as low as 1,000 miles. These issues, particularly the lack of airbag deployment in crashes, suggest potential safety concerns for prospective buyers.

Severity signals: 5 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints3

ENGINE

Owners of the 2021 Tesla Model S report issues primarily related to motor malfunctions. Complaints frequently mention sudden vehicle stalling or complete shutdowns, often accompanied by loud noises or thuds from the rear of the vehicle. One report involves a fire following a rear motor malfunction, where the vehicle initially indicated it was safe to drive before the incident occurred. These issues are noted to occur without prior warning, posing potential safety risks such as loss of control or inability to move the vehicle. The complaints do not specify exact mileage ranges, but the incidents are described as unexpected and potentially hazardous, particularly if they occur in traffic or at higher speeds.

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

2021 Model S recalls (34)

Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Model S. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

  1. AIR BAGS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 25V172000Mar 19, 2025

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model S and 2021-2025 Model X vehicles. An air bag with the incorrect horn pad may have been installed, preventing the horn from sounding.

    Consequence: An inoperative horn may prevent the driver from alerting other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla service will inspect and install an air bag with the correct horn pad as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-20-001.

  2. AIR BAGSNHTSA 24V967000Dec 24, 2024

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Model S and Model X vehicles. The driver's air bag could tear during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 212, "Windshield Mounting."

    Consequence: A torn air bag may not adequately protect an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    Tesla service will replace the air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 21, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-20-001.

  3. LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES, ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 24V554000Jul 24, 2024

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.

    Consequence: An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-012.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. STEERING, AIR BAGSNHTSA 23V743000Nov 3, 2023

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model S and Model X vehicles. An incorrect air bag may have been installed when the steering yoke or round steering wheel was replaced with a different style of yoke or steering wheel.

    Consequence: An air bag that is not designed to function with the replacement steering yoke or wheel may deploy incorrectly, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will inspect and replace the driver air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-20-005.

  9. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICNHTSA 23V679000Oct 11, 2023

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model X vehicles. The vehicle controller may fail to detect low brake fluid and will not display a warning light. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

    Consequence: Without a warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, which can reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-005.

  10. SEAT BELTSNHTSA 23V488000Jul 14, 2023

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model S and Model X vehicles. The front-row seat belts may not be connected properly to the pretensioner anchors, which can cause the seat belts to detach.

    Consequence: A detached seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will inspect the front-row seat belts and connect the seat belts to pretensioner anchors, or replace the seat belt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 12, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-20-004.

  11. 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.

  12. AIR BAGSNHTSA 22V843000Nov 15, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model X vehicles. The restraint control module (RCM) calibration may cause the front passenger air bag to deploy incorrectly during certain low speed crashes. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

    Consequence: A passenger air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury during a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update to recalibrate the RCM, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-015.

  13. STEERINGNHTSA 22V818000Nov 1, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S and Model X vehicles. The electronic power assist steering (EPAS) system may experience a loss of power steering assist when driving on rough roads or after hitting a pothole.

    Consequence: A loss of power steering assist can require greater steering effort, especially at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update to recalibrate the EPAS system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 31, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-014.

  14. 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.

  15. BACK OVER PREVENTION, EQUIPMENTNHTSA 22V296000May 3, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S, Model X, and 2022 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles operating certain firmware releases. The infotainment central processing unit (CPU) may overheat during the preparation or process of fast-charging, causing the CPU to lag or restart.

    Consequence: A lagging or restarting CPU may prevent the center screen from displaying the rearview camera image, gear selection, windshield visibility control settings, and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will improve CPU temperature management, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-009.

  16. 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.

  17. AIR BAGSNHTSA 22V233000Apr 8, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model X vehicles. The left or right front-row side curtain air bags may not deploy as intended when the windows are lowered. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 226, "Ejection Mitigation."

    Consequence: Improper side curtain air bag deployment can increase the risk of injury during a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service Centers will replace the left and right front-row side curtain air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 16, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-20-003.

  18. 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.

  19. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, VISIBILITYNHTSA 22V050000Feb 2, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A software error may cause a valve in the heat pump to open unintentionally and trap the refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting in decreased defrosting performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."

    Consequence: Decreased defrosting performance may reduce the driver's visibility, 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 April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-18-002.

  20. 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.

  21. 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.

  22. AIR BAGSNHTSA 21V868000Nov 9, 2021

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021 Model X and Model S vehicles. The driver's air bag cushion may tear during deployment.

    Consequence: A torn air bag may not adequately protect an occupant in a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will replace the driver's air bag, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 7, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-007.

  23. 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.

  24. 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.

  25. EXTERIOR LIGHTINGNHTSA 22V844000Nov 15, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. One or both taillights may intermittently fail to illuminate.

    Consequence: A taillight that fails to illuminate may reduce the visibility of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-016.

  26. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE, LANE DEPARTURE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 22V317000May 9, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Model 3 and 2021 Model Y vehicles. The fisheye and narrow camera cable terminals were incorrectly installed in the cable harness connector, resulting in swapped camera views.

    Consequence: Swapped camera views can prevent the vehicle's cameras from detecting crossing objects and high-curvature lane lines, impairing the Autosteer and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) performance, and increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will correct the swapped terminals and recalibrate the cameras, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-17-007.

  27. SUSPENSIONNHTSA 21V912000Nov 21, 2021

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The front and rear suspension knuckles may fracture, causing the suspension links to separate.

    Consequence: Suspension links that separate can reduce vehicle stability and control, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will inspect and replace the knuckles as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 18, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-31-004.

  28. 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.

  29. 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.

  30. SEAT BELTSNHTSA 21V388000May 25, 2021

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Model Y vehicles. One or both fasteners that secure the left and right second row seat belt retractors may not be properly attached.

    Consequence: Improperly attached fasteners may prevent the seat belt retention system from performing as designed, increasing the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will inspect and replace 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-21-20-002.

  31. 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.

  32. VISIBILITYNHTSA 22E092000Nov 1, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021 Model S exterior side rearview mirrors, part numbers: 1622232-00-B and 1622233-00-B. The driver side exterior rearview mirrors are convex (curved glass) and the passenger side mirrors do not include the "Objects in Mirror Are Closer Than They Appear" etched warning. As such, these mirrors fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

    Consequence: When using the incorrect mirrors, the driver may misjudge the distance of other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will replace the mirrors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 31, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-12-002.

  33. AIR BAGSNHTSA 22V104000Feb 23, 2022

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S vehicles. The right or left side curtain air bag inflators may have been assembled incorrectly.

    Consequence: An incorrectly assembled inflator can cause a delayed or improper deployment of the side curtain air bag, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service Centers will replace the side curtain air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-20-001.

  34. LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGESNHTSA 21V00B000Dec 21, 2021

    Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2014-2021 Model S vehicles. The front trunk latch assembly may be misaligned, preventing the secondary hood latch from engaging. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 113, "Hood Latch System."

    Consequence: If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the hood could open unexpectedly, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Tesla Service will inspect and reposition the latch assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 18, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-11-003.

2021 Tesla Model S on the road

11,556 2021 Tesla Model S units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2021 Tesla Model S stacks up against rivals

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

Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Reliability: 76/100·Rivalry score: 90
Compare vs 2021 Tesla Model S →
BMW 5-Series
Reliability: 71/100·Rivalry score: 90
Compare vs 2021 Tesla Model S →
Audi E-Tron-GT
Reliability: 75/100·Rivalry score: 85
Compare vs 2021 Tesla Model S →
Volvo S90
Reliability: 75/100·Rivalry score: 70
Compare vs 2021 Tesla Model S →

Reliability verdict for the 2021 Tesla Model S

The 2021 Tesla Model-S exhibits a reliability score significantly below the segment average, indicating an elevated risk for potential buyers. Complaints are notably concentrated in forward collision avoidance and vehicle speed control, suggesting these as primary areas of concern. The presence of 67 recalls points to an elevated recall count, reflecting ongoing challenges in addressing these issues.

With over a thousand total complaints, the issues appear distributed across several systems, including electrical and steering, further highlighting reliability concerns. As this was a facelift year, the introduction of new features may contribute to these reliability challenges.

Overall, the 2021 Tesla Model-S presents an elevated reliability risk, warranting careful consideration for those prioritizing dependability in their vehicle choice.

What you get in a 2021 Tesla Model S 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 2021 Tesla Model S now

Confirm exact options, recall completion, accident history, and odometer accuracy in minutes.

2021 Tesla Model S — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2021 Tesla Model S reliable?

The 2021 Tesla Model-S exhibits a reliability score significantly below the segment average, indicating an elevated risk for potential buyers. Complaints are notably concentrated in forward collision avoidance and vehicle speed control, suggesting these as primary areas of concern. The presence of 67 recalls points to an elevated recall count, reflecting ongoing challenges in addressing these issues.

How many recalls does the 2021 Tesla Model S have?

34 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Tesla Model S. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

What are the most common 2021 Tesla Model S problems?

The most-reported 2021 Tesla Model S problem areas are: Forward Collision Avoidance (332), Vehicle Speed Control (148), Electrical System (126).

Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Tesla Model S?

Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Tesla Model S, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.