2021 Tesla Model S Safety Report

The 2021 Tesla Model S presents a mixed safety picture, characterized by a high number of recalls addressing critical safety systems, alongside a notable volume of owner complaints. With 23 recalls, this model has seen significant factory-level interventions for issues ranging from air bag defects (e.g., 'AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:CUSHION' recall where the driver's air bag could tear during deployment) to steering and advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) malfunctions. For instance, recalls like 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE' highlight concerns with Autosteer, and 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS:EXTERNAL/PEDESTRIAN ALERT' points to issues with the Pedestrian Warning System. These recalls indicate a proactive, albeit extensive, effort by Tesla and NHTSA to address potential hazards. Owner complaints, totaling 172, reveal patterns that often align with recall themes. 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (23 complaints) and 'STEERING' (17 complaints) are the most frequently cited components. Specific complaints detail 'TOTAL loss of function to include steering, restraint, and braking functionality at approximately 60 to 65 miles per hour' and 'peeling on the yoke steering wheel' which could affect grip. 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' (14 complaints) also stands out, with reports of the car failing to stop at red lights while in Full Self-Driving (FSD) mode. The vehicle has been associated with 12 crashes, 2 fires, 3 injuries, and 1 death, underscoring the severity of some reported incidents. While NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2021 Model S are largely 'N/A' for overall, frontal, and side impacts, it did receive a 5-star rating for rollover resistance, which is a positive indicator for stability. However, the absence of comprehensive crash test data makes a full assessment of its passive safety performance challenging. The high number of recalls, particularly those related to fundamental safety features like airbags, seat belts, and steering, suggests that while the vehicle has strong potential, it has required numerous post-production corrections to ensure safety. The recurring theme of ADAS-related complaints and recalls, such as FSD Beta software allowing the vehicle to 'exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner,' indicates ongoing challenges in the implementation and reliability of these advanced systems. In summary, the 2021 Tesla Model S has undergone extensive recall campaigns to rectify a broad spectrum of safety-critical issues, from physical component failures to software glitches in its advanced driving systems. Owner complaints frequently echo these recall concerns, particularly regarding steering and ADAS performance. While its rollover rating is excellent, the lack of full crash test data and the documented incidents of crashes, injuries, and a fatality necessitate a cautious approach, emphasizing the importance of ensuring all recalls are addressed and being aware of the reported issues, especially concerning autonomous driving features and steering integrity.