2019 Tesla Model 3 Safety Report
2019 Tesla Model 3: Excellent crash test performance offset by numerous complaints and recalls, particularly concerning suspension and ADAS.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Tesla Model 3
Reliability Score
The 2019 Tesla Model 3 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2019 Tesla Model 3
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Tesla Model 3:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension Lateral Link Separation Fasteners for the front suspension lateral link can loosen or detach, leading to separation of the link from the sub-frame. This can cause loss of steering control and instability, increasing crash risk. This issue is linked to NHTSA Recall 21V-835. |
High | Common | 30000-60000 miles |
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunction Complaints and recalls indicate issues with the Forward Collision Avoidance system, including failure to alert or brake, and muted pedestrian warning sounds, increasing the risk of frontal collisions. |
Medium | Common | N/A miles |
| Safety Restraint System Faults Multiple complaints cite 'Front Passenger Safety Restraint System Fault' or 'Front left safety restraint system issue,' often related to wiring or sensors under the seat, potentially compromising airbag deployment. |
High | Common | N/A miles |
| Electrical System Issues (Instrument Cluster/Adas) Recalls address incorrect font sizes on the instrument cluster making warnings hard to read, and software issues with ADAS that could lead to unpredictable behavior. Some owners report inaudible system alerts. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Seat Belt Warning System Failure Recalls indicate that the seat belt warning light may not illuminate for an unbelted driver, increasing injury risk in a crash. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System (Tpms) Malfunction The TPMS warning light may not remain illuminated, potentially leading to driving with improperly inflated tires and increasing crash risk. |
Low | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Steering System Corrosion/Water Ingress Reports indicate steering system failure due to corrosion and water ingress affecting the steering rack and wiring harness. |
High | Rare | 40000+ miles |
| Rear Seat Belt Anchorage Issues Recalls mention incorrectly reassembled rear seat belt buckles or anchors, which could impair performance in a crash. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Tesla Model 3:
Frequent complaints related to the performance and warnings of the forward collision avoidance system.
Significant number of complaints and recalls concerning suspension components, particularly the front lateral links.
Complaints and recalls related to various electrical system issues, including instrument cluster display and ADAS software.
Complaints regarding safety restraint system faults, potentially affecting airbag deployment.
Complaints related to steering system performance and failures, including those due to corrosion.
Complaints regarding the lane departure warning system's functionality.
Complaints related to issues with vehicle speed control, sometimes in conjunction with forward collision avoidance.
Complaints concerning visibility issues, such as camera malfunctions or wiper system problems.
Complaints and recalls related to tire pressure monitoring systems.
Complaints and recalls concerning seat belt systems, including warning lights and rear anchorage.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Tesla Model 3
Is the 2019 Tesla Model 3 safe?
The 2019 Tesla Model 3 achieves a perfect 5-star NHTSA crash test rating, indicating excellent occupant protection in collisions. However, a high volume of complaints and numerous recalls, particularly concerning suspension integrity and advanced driver-assistance systems, suggest potential reliability and safety concerns that warrant careful consideration.
What are the most common problems reported for the 2019 Tesla Model 3?
The most frequently reported issues include problems with the Forward Collision Avoidance system (63 complaints), Suspension components (52 complaints), and Electrical System issues (23 complaints). Safety restraint system faults and steering problems are also notable.
What are the main safety recalls for the 2019 Tesla Model 3?
Key recalls for the 2019 Model 3 involve potential separation of front suspension lateral link fasteners, issues with the Pedestrian Warning System sound, incorrect font sizes on the instrument cluster, ADAS software vulnerabilities, and problems with rear seat belt anchorages.
How does the 2019 Tesla Model 3 perform in crash tests?
The 2019 Tesla Model 3 received the highest possible ratings from NHTSA, achieving 5 stars in Overall Safety, Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover categories, demonstrating strong structural integrity and occupant protection.
Are there any critical safety defects I should be aware of?
Yes, the potential for front suspension lateral link separation is a critical safety defect that has led to recalls and owner complaints, posing a risk of loss of control. Additionally, reported safety restraint system faults could impact airbag functionality.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2019 Tesla Model 3 offers excellent crash protection, potential buyers should be aware of the significant number of complaints and recalls, especially regarding suspension and ADAS. Thorough pre-purchase inspection and review of maintenance history are highly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Tesla Model 3
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Tesla Model 3. The data includes 574 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 21 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 55 reported crashes, 5 fire incidents, 21 reported injuries, and 4 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Tesla Model 3 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.