Tesla began production of the Model Y sport utility in 2020. Derived from the Model 3 platform, the Model Y offers three rows of seating and a best-selling all-electric platform. Most of the known problems with the Y are related to build quality and electronics.
Model Y Powertrain (Motor, Transmission) Issues
Tesla’s powertrains consist of a motor or multiple motors and a reduction gearbox. Several related components, including batteries and control units, are also considered part of the powertrain.
Loss of Drive Power, Contactors (25V-690): Certain 2026 Model Y vehicles may experience a sudden opening of battery pack contactors, causing a loss of power. Tesla will replace the contactors for free.
Recalls for the Tesla Model Y
Most of the recalls for Tesla vehicles, including the Model Y, involve repairs utilizing over-the-air (OTA) updates. As with most manufacturers, the most common recalls for Tesla vehicles are for electronic systems issues versus mechanical problems.
Rearview Camera Image Lag (26V-283): Certain 2020–2024 Model Y vehicles may experience a lag in the backup camera display. Tesla addressed this with a free OTA software update.
Missing Weight Certification Label (26V-315): Certain 2025–2026 Model Y vehicles are missing the certification label displaying weight specifications, risking vehicle overloading. Tesla will physically inspect and affix the label.
Windshield Washer Nozzle Blockage (25V-359): Certain 2026 Model Y vehicles were equipped with wiper arm washer hose elbow connectors that may be blocked. Tesla will replace the washer nozzle.
Improper Horn Ground Wire (25V-490): Certain 2026 Model Y vehicles may have an improperly secured ring terminal for the horn, resulting in a loss of continuity. Tesla will inspect and secure the ground wire.
Suspension Fasteners (21V-835): Certain 2020–2021 Model Y vehicles had lateral link bolts in the front suspension that may not have been secured to correct specifications. Tesla will inspect and replace/tighten them.
Technical Service Bulletins for the Model Y
A technical service bulletin (TSB) is a recommended diagnosis or repair procedure from a manufacturer. It usually involves something related to a full recall or a common warranty claim complaint. Because Tesla issues TSBs by vehicle identification number (VIN) instead of by model year or similar designation, finding a complete list of Tesla TSB issues for a given vehicle is difficult. The Model Y, however, has had a few notable service bulletins, which we’ve listed here.
SB-26-31-003: Addresses front upper control arm (FUCA) mounts to resolve suspension creaks, rattles, and knocking noises in the refreshed Model Y (2026+).
SB-25-31-005: Targets front damper assemblies to resolve low-speed suspension noises in the refreshed Model Y (2026+).
SB-24-11-006: Addresses improperly adhered trunk bed trim that can detach on certain vehicles.
SB-21-33-002: Recall for loose brake caliper bolts on specific 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles.
Tesla Model Y Known Issues
This list includes the most well-documented issues Model Y owners report in forums, on social media, etc. It also includes some that have been reported by technicians in those same places. These are issues that are not subject to a recall repair or a known TSB.
Build Quality & Trim: Buyers often report “fit and finish” issues, including mismatched panel gaps and misaligned doors or liftgates.
Software and Sensors: Issues with the infotainment screen freezing or losing LTE connectivity are known to occur. On Autopilot, “phantom braking” (where the car unexpectedly slows down) is an ongoing issue.
Exterior Wear: The factory paint is relatively thin and can be prone to chipping from road debris. Additionally, the flush door handles can occasionally fail to present themselves properly in freezing weather.
Heat Pumps: Earlier models sometimes faced heat pump failures in cold climates, leading to cabin heating loss.
Automatic Windshield Wipers: The automatic windshield wipers are frequently criticized by users for activating randomly on dry days or failing to turn on during heavy rain.
How To Check For Recalls On Your Tesla
The easiest way to check for current recalls that may affect your Model Y is to visit the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) Recalls page and enter your license plate or 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) to run a search. You can also do this at the Tesla Service VIN Recall page.
