2024 Tesla Model 3 Safety Report
2024 Tesla Model 3 Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2024 Tesla Model 3
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2024 Tesla Model 3. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (4) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (186) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 15 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Unknown Or Other | Compare unknown or other issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2023 | Compare against the 2023 Tesla Model 3 with 396 complaints and 10 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2018 | Check the 2018 Tesla Model 3 before buying across this generation. |
Tesla Model 3 Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Tesla Model 3 years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Tesla Model 3 | 396 | 10 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2022 Tesla Model 3 | 734 | 16 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2021 Tesla Model 3 | 630 | 20 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2020 Tesla Model 3 | 419 | 20 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2019 Tesla Model 3 | 574 | 21 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Tesla Model 3 | 955 | 18 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2024 Tesla Model 3 Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2024 Tesla Model 3, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Unknown Or Other
44 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Tesla onlyForward Collision Avoidance
16 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Forward Collision Avoidance issues Tesla onlyExterior Lighting
16 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Exterior Lighting issues Tesla onlyElectrical System
13 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Tesla onlySteering
12 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Steering issues Tesla onlyVehicle Speed Control,Forward Collision Avoidance
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Vehicle Speed Control,Forward Collision Avoidance issues Tesla onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2024 Tesla Model 3
Reliability Score
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 receives a reliability score of 87 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2024 Tesla Model 3
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2024 Tesla Model 3:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steering Column Defect Steering column defects have been reported, affecting driving safety. |
Medium | Rare | 30k-60k miles |
| Horn Audibility Horn becomes inaudible during heavy rain, posing a significant safety risk. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring Tire pressure monitoring systems have been reported to fail, affecting vehicle stability. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Forward Collision Avoidance False warnings from forward collision avoidance systems can distract drivers. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2024 Tesla Model 3:
Steering column defects have been reported, affecting driving safety.
Horn becomes inaudible during heavy rain, posing a significant safety risk.
Tire pressure monitoring systems have been reported to fail, affecting vehicle stability.
False warnings from forward collision avoidance systems can distract drivers.
Recall Details for the 2024 Tesla Model 3
The following 4 recalls have been issued for the 2024 Tesla Model 3 by NHTSA:
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Model 3, Model S, 2023-2025 Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The computer circuit board may short, resulting in the loss of the rearview camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Tesla will also identify any vehicles that experienced a circuit board failure, or stress that may lead to a circuit board failure, and replace the affected computers, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 7, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this reca...
Summary: 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.
Summary: 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.
Summary: Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling one 2024 Model 3 vehicle. The driver seat side air bag module was assembled without a deflector that directs gas flow during deployment.
Consequence: Without a deflector, the air bag may deploy improperly, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Tesla service replaced the side air bag, free of charge. The affected vehicle was repaired April 12, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-13-001.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2024 Tesla Model 3
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 14 complaints involved crashes. 6 reported injuries or fatalities.
The vehicle's horn becomes completely inaudible during heavy rain, particularly during downpours. This is a serious safety concern as the horn is a critical safety device for alerting other drivers and pedestrians. The issue has occurred repeatedly since the vehicle had approximately 7,060 miles on it and continues at the current mileage of 28,617 miles.\n\nThe issue was first reported to the manu...
I continue to experience phantom "forward collision avoidance" warnings. Tesla has looked at this several times, even once charging me $60 to clean the cameras (should be under warranty in my opinion). Latest response to problem: known issue, no known hardware cause. In other words live with it. They even suggested buying FSD package at $1200/yr as a solution! One more than one occasion the TACC ...
The Michelin tires used for this particular model have a foam issue. This foam is put by Michelin to reduce road Noice and they are coming apart thus creating a rattle in the car making it a hazard while driving on the highway. Tesla replaced one of my tires on May 27, 2025 free of charge and told me it was a known issue. Today 2/25/26 I have the same issue and they're quoting me almost $400. I to...
Screen is black and no app access. No power to accelerate.
I purchased a 2024 Tesla Model 3 a little over a year ago. Recently, and after an update, myself, and other drivers in my life, noticed the self-driving feature was malfunctioning - to the point I used the audio reporting feature to report this problem twice to Tesla. The car would veer off the road when flasing lights appeared and would jerk suddenly for no reason when it thought there was a obst...
on Jan 4th 2026 my car popped a waring RCM2_a700 Front Right Safety Restraint System Issue - I took it in Jan 5th 2026 they said they could not replicate the warning and it was a GLITCH. On Jan 10th 2026 the warning popped up again
Incident Description (in my own words): This incident occurred in the parking lot of the [XXX] in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. It was evening after sunset. The parking lot was dark but illuminated by overhead parking lights. My Tesla Model 3 headlights and vehicle lights were fully on. I was reversing slowly out of a tight parking space, traveling approximately 2–3 miles per hour. I was intenti...
SUPPLEMENT TO PREVIOUS COMPLAINT (VIN: ...XXX): CRITICAL NEW EVIDENCE OF MULTI-POINT SAFETY FAILURE. On Dec 10, 2025, Tesla Service performed a full diagnostic and repair of the airbag safety system. In addition to the previously reported "damaged wires" in the passenger seat (OCS Module), the technician ALSO had to replace the Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) to resolve the active safety f...
SUPPLEMENT TO ODI # 11702355 and 11698467: Validated proof of physical defect: Tesla Service diagnosis (Dec 10, 2025) confirms "damaged wires at the OCS module" caused the airbag failure. This finding indicates the vehicle suffered physical trauma that was concealed prior to sale. The presence of damaged internal safety wiring is inconsistent with a factory-condition vehicle and suggests the veh...
I am leasing a 2024 Tesla Model 3. The vehicle has a steering column defect that was previously acknowledged and temporarily repaired by Tesla Service. Within days, the issue returned. Tesla has now informed me that the steering column has a known design flaw, that replacement parts are still in development, and that any repair attempted now would fail. Despite this, I am being asked to continue ...
When there’s heavy rain, the horn is muffled very badly you can barely hear it.
I purchased this used Tesla Model 3 (VIN: [XXX] ) from a licensed dealer on July 15th, 2025. The vehicle is still under the original manufacturer warranty. Since ownership, I have experienced a persistent metal-impact noise coming from the suspension and steering area, especially when going over speed bumps, uneven road surfaces, or low-speed turns. The noise sounds like loose metal parts making ...
NHTSA Complaint Narrative (Copy & Paste) CRITICAL SAFETY DEFECT: SALE OF VEHICLE WITH DISABLED AIRBAGS Incident: 10/24/2025 | Dealer: Braman Cadillac (Miami, FL) | VIN: [XXX] Braman Cadillac sold me this 2024 Tesla Model 3 representing it as "clean/no accidents." In reality, they released a vehicle with a disabled airbag system resulting from a crash that occurred in their inventory. 1. DISABLE...
Tesla Model 3 Software & Trunk Security Issue Vehicle: Tesla Model 3, 2024 Issue Date: September 25, 2025 I am reporting a serious software reliability and security defect in my Tesla Model 3. On September 25, 2025, the trunk opened on its own overnight due to what appears to be a software malfunction, resulting in the theft of $500 in personal belongings. The Tesla app sent only one notificatio...
Component/system that failed: Tesla Full Self-Driving (Supervised) software version 14.x (2025.38.x and later). The issue is software-only and remains installed on any vehicle updated to v14. Description of safety defect: FSD v14 deliberately removes the driver’s ability to set or adjust maximum speed offset using the right scroll wheel (feature present in all prior versions including my current ...
Safety restraint warning in car, unsure of actual issue but warning keeps popping up. Presumed that the seatbelts or airbags would not properly work in event of a crash. Dealer/company says it's a known issue, with other cars needing a fix too, however they aren't able to specify exactly the issue or issue a timeframe on repair. Issue first started appearing in Late August of this year, and has...
To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting a formal safety complaint regarding a potentially dangerous defect in my 2024 Tesla Model 3. Unlike traditional vehicles that use a dedicated horn assembly, this model relies on the external speaker system as its horn. While this may function under normal conditions, during rain or heavy moisture the speaker becomes saturated with water, causing the horn’s ...
The forward-facing camera on my vehicle repeatedly fogs up inside the sealed camera housing, creating a light to severe haze across the camera lens. This internal fogging obstructs the camera’s view and affects the vehicle’s safety systems that rely on it, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping, and adaptive cruise control. The components are available for i...
While driving with FSD engaged and set to standard profile, FSD accelerated to 76mph in a 55 zone. This is on software version 14.1.4. Unfortunately this new update no longer allows you to set your speed while using FSD, you can only select sloth, chill, standard, hurry, or mad max.
COMBINED FORMAL & SUPPLEMENTAL COMPLAINT – UPDATED WITH VIDEO EVIDENCE DISCLOSURE To: Florida Division of Motorist Services – Consumer Complaint Division Attn: Dealer Licensing & Compliance Section [XXX] Via Online Portal: [XXX] Date: November 09, 2025 Re: Misrepresentation in Sale of 2024 Tesla Model 3 by Braman Cadillac, Miami, FL VIN: [XXX] Purchased: [XXX] | Price Paid: $42,000.05 Dealer Li...
Showing 20 of 186 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2024 Tesla Model 3
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Electrical System:Adas:Driver Monitoring:Software
Opened 2024-04-25
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is opening a Recall Query to assess the remedy adequacy of Recall 23V838. On December 12, 2023, Tesla filed a Defect Information Report (Recall 23V838) applicable to all Tesla models produced and equipped with any version of its Autopilot system, which Tesla described as an SAE Level 2 (L2) Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). Autopilot is the simultaneous engagement of Tesla’s Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC) and Autosteer. In describing the saf...
Component: Electrical System:Adas
Opened 2025-10-07
The Office of Defects Investigation (“ODI”) is opening this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) to assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety consequences of FSD executing driving maneuvers that constitute traffic safety violations. This investigation concerns versions of FSD that Tesla has labeled as "FSD (Supervised)" and "FSD (Beta)." Tesla characterizes FSD as an SAE Level 2 partial automation system requiring a fully attentive driver who is engaged in the driving task at all times. Level 2 par...
Component: Electrical System:Adas:Autonomous/Self Driving
Opened 2025-01-06 · Closed 2026-04-03
On January 6, 2025, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation 24003 (PE24033) to investigate Actually Smart Summon (Summon) sessions resulting in crashes during active sessions. According to Tesla, Summon is a short-distance SAE Level 2 system, controlled by the user from a cell phone within a certain distance and intended for use in parking lots and on private property. ODI analyzed complaint data provided by Tesla as well as complaints submitted to ODI from consu...
Component: Electrical System:Adas
Opened 2024-10-17 · Closed 2026-03-18
On October 17, 2024, NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE24031) of Tesla’s Full Self Driving Beta and Full Self Driving (Supervised) (collectively, FSD) to assess: the ability of the FSD system to detect and respond appropriately to reduced roadway visibility conditions; whether any other FSD crashes had occurred under degraded roadway visibility conditions that are similar in nature to the four SGO-reported crashes identified in the opening document,...
Component: Electrical System:Adas
Opened 2026-03-18
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is opening this Engineering Analysis to evaluate Tesla’s Full Self Driving Beta and Full Self Driving (Supervised) (collectively, FSD) degradation detection system. The focus of this investigation will be to assess the system’s ability, when encountering reduced roadway visibility conditions, to detect degradation and alert the driver with sufficient time to respond. ODI will evaluate the performance of FSD in degraded roadway conditions and the updates ...
Component: Electrical System:Adas
Opened 2025-08-20
The Office of Defects Investigation (“ODI”) has identified numerous incident reports submitted by Tesla, Inc. (“Tesla”) in response to Standing General Order 2021-01 (the “SGO”), in which the reported crashes occurred several months or more before the dates of the reports. The majority of these reports involved crashes in which the Standing General Order in place at the time required a report to be submitted within one or five days of Tesla receiving notice of the crash. When the reports were su...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2024 Tesla Model 3
Has the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 been recalled?
Yes, the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 has 4 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 have?
The 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 has 186 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 15 involved crashes. 15 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3?
The 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 does not have an NHTSA safety rating on file. This can happen for newer model years, specialty vehicles, or models that have not been crash-tested.
What are the most common problems with the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 involve unknown or other (44 complaints), forward collision avoidance (16 complaints), exterior lighting (16 complaints). Other affected components include electrical system, steering, vehicle speed control,forward collision avoidance.
How many crash reports does the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 have?
There are 15 crash reports associated with the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 out of 186 total complaints (8.1% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 have?
There are no fire reports for the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3.
How many injuries are reported for the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3?
15 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2024 TESLA MODEL 3?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 is research thoroughly before purchasing. It has 186 complaints, 4 recalls. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3?
The components with the most failures on the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 are: 1. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (44 complaints), 2. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (16 complaints), 3. EXTERIOR LIGHTING (16 complaints), 4. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (13 complaints), 5. STEERING (12 complaints). UNKNOWN OR OTHER is the single most-reported problem area with 44 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2024 TESLA MODEL 3?
Be aware of potential steering column defects, horn audibility issues, tire pressure monitoring failures, and false forward collision avoidance warnings. The 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 has 186 NHTSA complaints and 4 recalls on record.
How reliable is the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3?
The 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 receives a reliability score of 87/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 186 owner complaints, 4 recalls, and 15 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Steering Column Defect and Horn Audibility.
What are the known issues with the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3?
Known issues with the 2024 TESLA MODEL 3 include: Steering Column Defect, Horn Audibility, Tire Pressure Monitoring, Forward Collision Avoidance. These are based on patterns found across 186 NHTSA complaints. 4 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the common issues with the 2024 Tesla Model 3?
Common issues include steering column defects, horn audibility during heavy rain, tire pressure monitoring failures, and false forward collision avoidance warnings.
Are there any known safety defects in the 2024 Tesla Model 3?
Yes, there are known issues with the horn becoming inaudible during heavy rain and steering column defects.
What should I do if I experience false forward collision avoidance warnings?
Contact Tesla customer service to report the issue and seek a resolution.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of potential steering column defects, horn audibility issues, tire pressure monitoring failures, and false forward collision avoidance warnings.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2024 Tesla Model 3
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2024 Tesla Model 3. The data includes 186 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 15 reported crashes, 15 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16