2021 Tesla Model Y VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2021 Tesla Model Y has mixed reliability. There are 21 recalls and 991 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Tesla Model-Y. Severity signals include 84 crash-related complaints and 6 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Forward Collision Avoidance (313), Vehicle Speed Control (135), Electrical System (99).

Model Y reliability snapshot

46/100

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 Y 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.

Best year to buyReliability, price and listing depth combined Years to avoidThe weakest years and stronger alternatives Common problemsComplaint patterns across model years Recall historyNHTSA campaigns grouped by model year Resale valueObserved prices, mileage and depreciation

Most-reported 2021 Tesla Model Y issues

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

Forward Collision Avoidance313
Vehicle Speed Control135
Electrical System99
Service Brakes91
Unknown Or Other91
Steering72

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Tesla Model Y

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 during cruise control
Inspect suspension for creaking or loose components
Check steering for lock-ups or reduced assist
Verify heat pump functionality in cold conditions
Ensure seat belts latch securely
Check for any unresolved recalls related to suspension or steering

What owners reported

2021 Tesla Model Y owner complaints in detail

Owners have reported 84 crashes, 6 fires, 24 injuries and 4 deaths to NHTSA for the 2021 Tesla Model Y. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.

Owner complaints313

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Owners of the 2021 Tesla Model Y frequently report issues with phantom braking, where the vehicle unexpectedly applies brakes during cruise control or Autopilot use, often triggered by shadows or vehicles passing in adjacent lanes. These incidents are described as abrupt and can occur multiple times during a single trip, with some reports noting occurrences at highway speeds. Complaints also detail failures in the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, including unsafe following distances and uncommanded lane changes. Mileage at which these issues arise is not consistently specified, though some reports mention software updates as a potential trigger. Nine complaints involve crashes, and one report mentions an injury, highlighting potential safety risks for prospective buyers.

Severity signals: 9 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints135

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners of the 2021 Tesla Model Y frequently report issues with phantom braking, where the vehicle unexpectedly decelerates without any visible obstructions, particularly when using adaptive cruise control or autopilot. This problem is often described in scenarios involving approaching large vehicles or on certain road conditions, and it is reported to occur consistently at specific locations or under specific circumstances. Another issue noted by owners is unintended acceleration, where the vehicle accelerates without driver input, sometimes requiring aggressive braking to regain control. These incidents are reported across a range of mileages, with some occurring as early as 38,727 miles. Safety implications include reports of crashes and injuries, indicating a potential risk of loss of control. Buyers considering a used Model Y should be aware of these recurring issues, especially when evaluating the vehicle's automated driving features.

Severity signals: 11 crash, 0 fire, 4 injury reports

Owner complaints99

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners report frequent issues with the 2021 Tesla Model Y's electrical system, particularly involving the high-voltage battery and 12V battery failures. Symptoms commonly described include sudden power loss, inability to charge, and vehicles becoming inoperable or locked, sometimes with occupants trapped inside. These problems often occur without warning and at varying mileages, with some reports indicating issues as early as 28,125 miles. Safety implications are significant, with multiple reports of crashes, one fire, and several injuries linked to these failures. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues, especially the risks associated with unexpected power loss and battery malfunctions.

Severity signals: 10 crash, 1 fire, 9 injury reports

Owner complaints95

SERVICE BRAKES

Owners report frequent issues with phantom braking in the 2021 Tesla Model Y, particularly when using adaptive cruise control or Autopilot. Complaints commonly describe the vehicle abruptly braking without any obstruction, often on clear and straight roads, which poses a risk of rear-end collisions. Some incidents involve the vehicle accelerating independently, leading to one reported crash. Many reports indicate these issues occur at highway speeds, often with mileage around 39,000 to 42,000. Additionally, some owners mention problems with brake fluid alerts and damaged brake components, which are addressed through service interventions. These patterns suggest potential safety implications, especially for buyers considering this model.

Severity signals: 4 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints91

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners report frequent issues with the 2021 Tesla Model Y's Full Self Driving (FSD) and autopilot systems, with multiple incidents involving unintended acceleration or failure to recognize obstacles, sometimes leading to crashes. Complaints often describe problems with the vehicle's cameras and sensors, such as glare or failure, which affect visibility and safety features like lane departure warnings. Some owners mention structural issues like control arm detachment and brake line corrosion, which have occurred at various mileages, including vehicles with moderate mileage. Safety implications are evident, with 15 crash reports and two injuries linked to these failures. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential issues and the associated safety risks.

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

Owner complaints72

STEERING

Owners report several steering-related issues with the 2021 Tesla Model Y, with a significant number involving control arms and steering racks. Complaints frequently mention steering wheel lock-ups, often without warning, and reduced steering assist, which can make the vehicle difficult to control. These issues often arise around 28,000 to 96,000 miles, with some owners noting that repairs can be costly. There are reports of crashes, injuries, and even a fire, highlighting potential safety implications. Buyers should be aware of these patterns, especially concerning steering control and the potential need for expensive repairs.

Severity signals: 10 crash, 1 fire, 6 injury reports

Owner complaints32

SUSPENSION

Owners report frequent issues with the suspension of the 2021 Tesla Model Y, particularly involving the front lower lateral and compliance links. Complaints frequently mention loud creaking, groaning, or clicking noises during low-speed maneuvers, with some noting these sounds progress to more severe symptoms like control arm detachment or wheel misalignment. These issues often arise around 22,000 to 53,000 miles, with several owners highlighting that their vehicles were not included in existing recalls despite experiencing similar problems. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes and instances where vehicles became undrivable due to suspension failures, although there is no mention of fires directly linked to these issues. Buyers should be aware of the potential for costly repairs and the importance of thorough inspection prior to purchase.

Severity signals: 3 crash, 1 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints23

POWER TRAIN

Owners of the 2021 Tesla Model Y frequently report issues with the power train, including sudden loss of drive power and intermittent drive disconnections, which sometimes occur without warning and can pose a safety risk. Common symptoms described by owners include abrupt propulsion after pedal release, unexpected vehicle acceleration, and power reduction alerts, with some incidents resulting in crashes. Complaints also note problems with regenerative braking, particularly in wet conditions, and issues with the drive unit, often at mileage around 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Additionally, there are reports of fires and electronic malfunctions, such as the vehicle rolling backward when stopped, which further highlight potential safety implications for buyers considering this model.

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

Owner complaints15

AIR BAGS

Owners of the 2021 Tesla Model Y frequently report issues with the front passenger safety restraint system, often noting a "Front Passenger Safety Restraint System Fault" message. Complaints commonly describe problems with the occupant classification system, where the sensor fails to detect the presence of an adult passenger, leading to the airbag being intermittently disabled. This issue appears at various mileage points, including as early as vehicle delivery and up to 68,400 miles. Additionally, five complaints involve crashes where airbags did not deploy, indicating potential safety implications. Buyers considering a used Model Y should be aware of these reported airbag and sensor faults, as repairs can be costly and may not be covered under warranty.

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

Owner complaints14

LANE DEPARTURE

Owners report various issues with the lane departure and related systems in the 2021 Tesla Model Y, with several complaints involving crashes. A common issue is the lack of audible alerts for the blind spot warning and rear cross traffic alert systems, which may lead to missed warnings during lane changes. Additionally, multiple owners describe erratic behavior of the autopilot and full self-driving features, including swerving and incorrect lane positioning, sometimes resulting in collisions. Water intrusion in the B pillar cameras and post-windshield replacement camera miscalibration are also noted, affecting the functionality of lane-keeping systems. These issues typically arise soon after updates or modifications, and they highlight potential safety implications, including vehicle control loss and collisions.

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

2021 Model Y recalls (21)

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

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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

2021 Tesla Model Y resale snapshot

48.4%estimated value retained after 5 years

420listings in the model-level benchmark

$28,990median 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 Y value by year →Full Tesla Model Y market analysis at CarResaleValue →

2021 Tesla Model Y on the road

161,527 2021 Tesla Model Y units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2021 Tesla Model Y stacks up against rivals

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

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Reliability verdict for the 2021 Tesla Model Y

With a 33/100 score against a 73/100 segment average, the 2021 Tesla Model Y rates well below average for reliability. The gap is large enough to indicate elevated buyer risk rather than normal year-to-year variation. Recalls are elevated, reinforcing that this model year carried more corrective activity than typical.

Complaints are not confined to one subsystem. They cluster most heavily around forward collision avoidance and vehicle speed control, then extend into electrical system and service brakes, with a meaningful share falling into unknown or other. That spread points to broad reliability exposure across core driving and control functions. As the second year of this generation, the data does not show a settled, low-issue pattern.

Overall risk level is elevated relative to the segment.

What you get in a 2021 Tesla Model Y 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 Y now

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2021 Tesla Model Y — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2021 Tesla Model Y reliable?

How many recalls does the 2021 Tesla Model Y have?

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

What are the most common 2021 Tesla Model Y problems?

The most-reported 2021 Tesla Model Y problem areas are: Forward Collision Avoidance (313), Vehicle Speed Control (135), Electrical System (99).

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

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