2021 Tesla Model 3 Safety Report
2021 Tesla Model 3: Excellent crash test scores but significant ADAS and electrical system concerns noted in complaints and recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Tesla Model 3
Reliability Score
The 2021 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 2021 Tesla Model 3
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Tesla Model 3:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunctions Numerous complaints indicate issues with Forward Collision Avoidance, including automatic emergency braking failures, warning system malfunctions, and unexpected steering inputs, potentially related to camera or sensor issues. |
High | Common | N/A miles |
| Rear Door Manual Release Absence Rear passengers lack a mechanical door release, posing a significant safety risk in the event of electrical system failure or a crash, potentially trapping occupants. |
High | Common | N/A miles |
| Hvac System Failures Complaints detail repeated failures of the HVAC system, often attributed to pressure and temperature sensors, leading to loss of heating and cooling for critical vehicle systems. |
Medium | Common | 7500-84000 miles |
| High-Voltage Battery Failures Multiple reports of high-voltage battery failures occurring under warranty, with some owners experiencing repeat failures, raising concerns about long-term battery reliability. |
High | Occasional | 15100-105050 miles |
| Seat Belt Malfunctions Complaints include rear seat belts becoming locked and unusable, and driver's side belt latches failing to remain locked, indicating potential issues with the seat belt mechanisms. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Autopilot/Full Self-Driving Software Issues Reports of FSD software malfunctioning, including running red lights, turning into oncoming traffic, and unexpected steering inputs, raising significant safety concerns. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Electrical System And Software Glitches Issues such as high-voltage enable safety lockouts due to ECU mismatches, and central computer/camera system failures after software updates, impacting vehicle operability and safety systems. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Steering System Failures Reports of steering rack failure, leading to loss of steering assist, autopilot, and lane departure prevention functions. One instance of wheels locking unexpectedly while driving. |
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 2021 Tesla Model 3:
The most frequently reported component, with 197 complaints, indicating widespread issues with automatic emergency braking, collision warnings, and related systems.
A significant number of complaints combine issues with the service brakes and forward collision avoidance systems.
Complaints related to vehicle speed control in conjunction with forward collision avoidance systems.
A notable percentage of complaints fall into a general 'unknown or other' category, making specific issue identification difficult.
Complex issues involving speed control, brakes, and collision avoidance systems are reported.
Complaints related to the vehicle's electrical systems, including instrument clusters and power management.
Issues reported with the automatic windshield wiper system's unpredictable behavior.
Complaints specifically targeting the vehicle speed control system.
Direct complaints about the service brakes, separate from ADAS integration.
A combination of general issues and forward collision avoidance problems.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Tesla Model 3
Is the 2021 Tesla Model 3 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Tesla Model 3 achieves excellent 5-star crash test ratings. However, there is a high volume of complaints and numerous recalls related to its advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), electrical components, and other critical safety features, which warrant careful consideration.
What are common problems with the 2021 Tesla Model 3?
The most reported issues involve the Forward Collision Avoidance system, with numerous complaints about automatic emergency braking and warning systems. Other common problems include the absence of rear door manual releases, HVAC system failures, and high-voltage battery issues.
How reliable is the 2021 Tesla Model 3?
While crashworthiness is high, the significant number of complaints and recalls related to critical systems like ADAS and electrical components suggest potential reliability concerns that could impact the ownership experience.
What are the main safety concerns for the 2021 Tesla Model 3?
The primary safety concerns stem from the high number of complaints and recalls related to the Forward Collision Avoidance system, potential malfunctions of Autopilot/Full Self-Driving software, and the critical safety issue of lacking manual rear door releases.
Have there been significant recalls for the 2021 Tesla Model 3?
Yes, the 2021 Tesla Model 3 has had 20 recalls addressing issues such as tire pressure monitoring, hood latch integrity, seat belt warnings, pedestrian alerts, instrument cluster readability, and autonomous driving software.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Consider the excellent crash test ratings, but be aware of the high volume of complaints and recalls concerning advanced driver-assistance systems and electrical components; ensure all recalls have been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Tesla Model 3
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Tesla Model 3. The data includes 630 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 20 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 42 reported crashes, 5 fire incidents, 19 reported injuries, and 4 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.