2018 Tesla Model 3
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Forward collision avoidance is the leading concern among 1,025 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the highest complaint count among 9 Model 3 model years with reports.
Of the 2018 reports, 102 involved a crash and 4 involved a fire. 44 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Exterior lighting, headlightsAug 5, 2026
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. The headlight low beams may be too bright and exceed the maximum light output. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Headlight low beams that are too bright can reduce visibility for oncoming drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy is currently under development. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 3, 2026. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-17-003.
Campaign 26V507000 on NHTSA.gov
Tires, pressure monitoring and regulating systemsDec 17, 2024
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."
Driving with improperly inflated tires increases the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 24V935000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, front, warning light/devicesMay 28, 2024
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-008.
Campaign 24V376000 on NHTSA.gov
Forward collision avoidance, warnings, external/pedestrian alertFeb 27, 2024
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2013, 2018-2021 Model S, 2020-2021 Model X, 2018-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A factory reset muted the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are muted, increasing the risk of a crash.
Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, release 2023.44.30.14, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-006.
Campaign 24V153000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, instrument cluster/panelJan 30, 2024
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck vehicles. An incorrect font size is displayed on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a crash.
Tesla began releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-003.
Campaign 24V051000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, adas, autonomous/self driving, softwareDec 12, 2023
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autosteer leading up to the version(s) that contains the recall remedy. In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature's controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse of the SAE Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature.
In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, and the driver does not maintain responsibility for vehicle operation and is unprepared to intervene as necessary or fails to recognize when Autosteer is canceled or not engaged, there may be an increased risk of a crash.
Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-008.
Campaign 23V838000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, frontMar 31, 2023
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Model 3 vehicles. The front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen, allowing the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame.
A lateral link separation could shift the wheel alignment, causing instability and increasing the risk of a crash.
Tesla Service will tighten or replace the lateral link fasteners as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 30, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-31-001. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 21V-835.
Campaign 23V235000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, automated/adaptive steeringFeb 15, 2023
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2023 Model S, Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving Beta (FSD Beta) software or pending installation. The FSD Beta system may allow the vehicle to act unsafe around intersections, such as traveling straight through an intersection while in a turn-only lane, entering a stop sign-controlled intersection without coming to a complete stop, or proceeding into an intersection during a steady yellow traffic signal without due caution. In addition, the system may respond insufficiently to changes in posted speed limits or not adequately account for the driver's adjustment of the vehicle's speed to exceed posted speed limits.
FSD Beta software that allows a vehicle to exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk of a crash.
Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-001.
Campaign 23V085000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, rear/other, anchorageOct 21, 2022
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The second-row left seat belt buckle and second-row center seat belt anchor may have been incorrectly reassembled during vehicle service.
An incorrectly reassembled seat belt anchor can impair the performance of the seat belt during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Tesla Service will inspect and reassemble the seat belt anchors as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-20-004.
Campaign 22V798000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, power window devices and controlsSep 19, 2022
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3, 2020-2022 Model Y, and 2021-2022 Model S and Model X vehicles. The window automatic reversal system may not react correctly after detecting an obstruction. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."
A closing window may exert excessive force by pinching a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury.
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update of the automatic window reversal system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 31, 2032. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-013.
Campaign 22V702000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, instrument cluster/panelApr 18, 2022
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Model 3 Performance vehicles. The unit of speed (mph or km/h) may fail to display on the speedometer while in Track Mode. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Control and Displays."
The driver may not know how fast the vehicle is traveling without the mph or km/h unit display, increasing the risk of a crash.
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 17, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-008.
Campaign 22V263000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, softwareApr 12, 2022
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y, Model X, Model S, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, including Summon and Smart Summon, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall supersedes recall 22V-063. Vehicles configured with Summon or Smart Summon and already remedied under 22V-063 will need to have the new remedy software installed.
Campaign 22V235000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, display functionMar 18, 2022
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Model S, Model X, and 2017-2020 Model 3 vehicles equipped with Autopilot Computer 2.5 and operating certain firmware releases. The rearview image may not immediately display when the vehicle begins to reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
A delayed rearview camera image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-004.
Campaign 22V169000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, softwareFeb 4, 2022
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model S, Model X, Model Y, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles."
Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall has been superseded by Recall 22V-235. Tesla's number for the new recall is SB-22-00-003.
Campaign 22V063000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, softwareFeb 1, 2022
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The audible chime may not activate when the vehicle starts and the driver has not buckled their seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
The driver may be unaware that their seat belt is not fastened, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-002.
Campaign 22V045000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, adas, autonomous/self driving, softwareJan 27, 2022
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The "rolling stop" functionality available as part of the Full Self-Driving (Beta) software may allow the vehicle to travel through an all-way stop intersection without first coming to a stop.
Failing to stop at a stop sign can increase the risk of a crash.
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that disables the "rolling stop" functionality, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-001.
Campaign 22V037000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiring, rear compartment/trunkDec 21, 2021
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling all 2017-2020 Model 3 vehicles. The rearview camera cable harness may be damaged by the opening and closing of the trunk lid, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
A rearview camera that does not function reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Tesla Service will inspect and install a guide protector and new cable harness as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 24, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-17-008.
Campaign 21V00D000 on NHTSA.gov
Forward collision avoidance, sensing system, cameraOct 29, 2021
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S, Model 3, Model X, and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles operating software version 2021.36.5.2. A communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB) system.
Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash.
Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004.
Campaign 21V846000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat beltsMay 25, 2021
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Model 3 and 2019-2021 Model Y vehicles. One or both fasteners that secure the front seat shoulder belt to the b-pillar may not be properly attached.
An improperly attached fastener may prevent the seat belt system from performing as designed, increasing the risk of injury.
Tesla Service will inspect and repair both fasteners if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service online by visiting www.tesla.com/support/contact or by calling 1-877-79-TESLA (or 1-877-798-3752). Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-001.
Campaign 21V389000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: suspension
186 reports, newest first. Show all
Suspension, Sep 28, 2026
While operating 2018 Tesla Model 3(Odometer: ~174,489 miles)the vehicle experienced a catastrophic mechanical failure when the front suspension lateral link detached/separated from the subframe. The collapse of the right upper/lower suspension immediately rendered the vehicle non-drivable and non-rolling, Tesla quoted $4803 in customer-pay repairs, specifying complete replacement of the front subframe structure, front compliance links and front lateral links. Prior Service & Warning Symptoms Presented to Tesla:On XXX (Invoice #XXX; Odometer: 89,939 miles), I brought this exact vehicle to the Tesla Service Center in [XXX], specifically complaining of a front-end steering issue (Clicking noise when steering wheel turns right)Tesla technicians noted could not duplicate and performed no diagnostic torque checks or structural inspections of the lateral link fasteners Correlation to Known Safety Defect / Recall 23V-235 (SB-23-31-001) Safety Recall 23V-235 (Tesla Bulletin SB-23-31-001)Tesla acknowledges that front suspension lateral link fasteners on 2018–2019 Model 3s can loosen and back out over time, leading to lateral link separation from the subframe while driving. Crucially, Tesla’s defect report explicitly highlights that "abnormal noise from the front suspension when steering" is the primary early warning indicator of loosening fasteners before total separation occurs Defect Summary & Remedy Denial:We previously brought the vehicle to Tesla Service reporting the exact warning symptom front-end steering noise associated with loosening lateral link fasteners The issue was left uncorrected, directly resulting in eventual fastener detachment lateral link separation and severe consequential damage to the front subframe structure Tesla Service management refused recall remedy or goodwill coverage on the grounds that this specific VIN was excluded from the narrow VIN list for Recall 23V-235 despite the vehicle exhibiting the identical defect INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Suspension, Sep 21, 2026
Clunking noise when in reverse and turning.
Suspension, Sep 20, 2026
AMENDMENT / SUPPLEMENT TO VOQ #11763975 regarding PE26006. Following my initial report of a catastrophic lower lateral link detachment, Tesla Service Center Santa Rosa has provided a highly sanitized and misleading repair report. The official invoice completely omits the physical structural detachment and missing subframe nut, recharacterizing a severe mechanical failure as a simple 'steering alignment adjustment.' Furthermore, the technician took misleading photographs (omitting the damaged side of the vehicle or using obscuring angles). I possess dated photographic evidence of the complete link separation prior to tow-in on a flatbed, which directly contradicts Tesla's service records. This is submitted to alert investigators that field incidents for PE26006 are actively being mislabeled and obscured in Tesla's internal repair databases.
Suspension, Sep 19, 2026
On August 6, 2026, my spouse was driving our 2018 Model 3 at low speed while making a U-turn out of The Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch when she heard a clunk from the front of the car and the car felt as though it had dropped down. Steering was not affected. The car began to slow, and she drove it at low speed into a nearby parking lot, where it stopped and would not move forward even with the accelerator pressed. It had to be towed. She did not strike a curb, pothole, debris, or any other object, and there was no impact of any kind. Inspection at the scene showed that the driver's side front lower lateral link had separated at its inboard, subframe end. The link was hanging down and resting on the pavement, still attached at the wheel end. A close-up photo shows the bushing inner core with two bolt ears and empty bolt holes: no fastener present and no broken fastener remnant. The link is not bent, gouged, or scraped. The left front wheel was pushed rearward in the wheel arch and was pressed against the rear edge of the fender, which damaged the fender and a brake line. The tire and wheel have no curb rash or impact marks. The vehicle was not included in recall 23V-235, and Tesla's VIN recall lookup shows all recalls issued for it as completed. Mileage at the time was approximately 108,043 miles. The vehicle was declared a total loss and has since gone to salvage. This failure appears to match Preliminary Evaluation PE26006.
Suspension, Sep 14, 2026
My 2018 Tesla Model 3 suffered a catastrophic detachment of the right front lower lateral link from the subframe, while merging on the freeway, causing an immediate risk of a collision or injury. My VIN is not listed under the Recall 23V235000, but this failure matches the exact safety risk currently being investigated by the Office of Defects Investigation under Active Investigation PE26006. The manufacturer must extend the recall coverage to this VIN block.
Suspension, Sep 8, 2026
During a routine inspection by an independent mechanic, it was discovered that the front lower compliance link (control arm) bushings are severely cracked on both the left and right sides of my 2018 Tesla Model 3. Both the compliance links and the lateral links require immediate replacement to prevent a catastrophic structural failure. Tesla Service has provided a repair estimate of $2,012.00 to fix the issue, which they are refusing to cover under warranty or past recalls. Safety Consequence: Cracked and failing compliance link bushings compromise the structural integrity of the front suspension. If these suspension links completely separate or fail while driving at highway speeds, it could cause an immediate loss of steering control, severe wheel misalignment, or a wheel detachment, creating an extreme risk of a high-speed crash. Relevance to Active Investigations: I am filing this complaint specifically to be included in the NHTSA's active Preliminary Evaluation (PE26006) regarding front lower suspension link detachments on 2018–2020 Model 3 vehicles. The failure of my vehicle's compliance links demonstrates that the front suspension components on early Model 3 production units are experiencing premature structural degradation and wear that goes well beyond the scope of Tesla's previously limited lateral link recalls (23V-235 and 21V-835).
Steering, Suspension, Aug 31, 2026
This is a follow-up to a previously submitted complaint regarding the same issue. I am submitting this update to reference NHTSA's recently opened investigation into 2018-2019 Tesla Model 3 suspension failures. Previous complaint ID is 11732882.
Suspension, Aug 27, 2026
2018 Tesla Model 3, VIN [XXX], approximately 58,736 miles. Front lower suspension lateral link (fore link) separated from the subframe on the right (passenger) front. The fastener that attaches the link to the subframe backed out and is missing. The link is hanging down and the right front wheel sits at a visibly different angle compared to the left, indicating the alignment has shifted. I discovered the hanging component while the vehicle was parked; there was no impact or off-road use. The vehicle is not being driven and is being towed to service. This is the same failure mode addressed in NHTSA recalls [XXX] and [XXX] (Tesla [XXX]) and currently under investigation in [XXX]. My VIN is not included in either recall per the NHTSA VIN lookup. Photos of the separated link and wheel angle are attached. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Suspension, Other or unspecified, Aug 23, 2026
I was driving normally and drove in a dip in the road. The vehicle went completely into auto drive, leaving me helpless behind the wheel. It spun and swerved wildly for 30-45 seconds on a neighborhood street resulting in the left rear tire and the rim being mangled. When it was spinning out of control, the left rear tire was seemingly stuck, dragging in whichever direction it chose. Thankfully, no one, pedestrians or other vehicles were injured or damaged. This was a truly terrifying experience.
Suspension, Aug 19, 2026
On July 10, 2026, while driving, I started to hear a rattling metal noise coming from under the right front side of the car. When making turns, the noise gets louder, less when driving straight. When I got home, I looked under the car and found a large metal piece hanging down adjacent to the right front tire. When the Tow Truck came to pick up the car, the right front tire started to get loose aiming to the right. Took the car to a Tesla Service Center and a new Correction Links - Lateral - Lower Front - Pair (Remove & Replace) Remove and Replace.
Suspension, Power train, Aug 15, 2026
I am reporting a front suspension failure on my 2018 Tesla Model 3 Dual Motor, that appears relevant to NHTSA Preliminary Evaluation PE26006 and similar to Recall 23V-235. While driving slowly in a parking lot, I heard a clunk and felt the front wheel/steering alignment become slightly skewed. After entering the highway, the vehicle developed severe vibration and became unstable and difficult to control. I exited and stopped as soon as safely possible. While attempting to park it at a curb, during reverse, the suspension entirely collapsed and left front wheel was then severely displaced and the tire was rubbing the wheel well. Tesla inspected the vehicle and confirmed: “The left lateral link was found detached with missing hardware.” Tesla also found the left front halfshaft detached from the drive unit. Tesla replaced the front subframe, both front lower lateral links, both front lower compliance links, the left front halfshaft, and performed an alignment. Total cost was $6,328.96. The failed parts were replaced by Tesla; I do not know whether they remain available for inspection. This failure created a serious risk of loss of vehicle control at highway speed and could have endangered me and surrounding traffic. The problem was confirmed and inspected by Tesla Service. There was no collision or other discrete impact event that I recognized as causing the failure. There were **no warning lights, warning messages, or other vehicle alerts before or during the failure**. The first noticeable symptom was the clunk in the parking lot, followed by the skewed steering/wheel position and later severe highway vibration. I have pre-repair photos showing the displaced wheel, tire contact, and detached suspension component, as well as Tesla’s final repair documentation. I request that this incident be considered in connection with PE26006 and Recall 23V-235.
Suspension, Aug 12, 2026
While driving, I noticed that the vehicle suddenly began pulling to the right. There were no warning lights, warning messages, or alerts displayed on the vehicle's screen before I noticed the problem. I took the vehicle to the Tesla Service Center and reported that the vehicle was pulling to the right. The service center determined that the issue was likely related to the front suspension and recommended replacement of the front lower lateral links, front lower compliance links, and front upper control arms, along with a four-wheel alignment. The vehicle had approximately 80,000 miles at the time of the repair. The service center explained that these suspension components can wear at higher mileage, particularly because of the weight of the vehicle and its battery. I paid out of pocket for the recommended suspension repairs and four-wheel alignment. The repair invoice is available for inspection upon request. Before the repairs were completed, I was driving the vehicle without knowing that there was a potential problem with the front suspension. The vehicle pulling to the right affected its handling and steering and created a safety concern for me and others on the road. There were no warning lights, messages, or other indications from the vehicle alerting me to a potential suspension problem. I was also not warned by the Tesla service center that the issue could be related to a known or potentially widespread suspension problem. A few days after having the repairs completed, I became aware of an NHTSA investigation concerning front suspension issues involving Tesla vehicles, including the same make, model, and model year as my vehicle. I had already paid out of pocket to have the affected front suspension components replaced. I am submitting this complaint to document the suspension problem, the safety risk I experienced, and the out-of-pocket expense I incurred to correct the issue. I am concerned that I was placed at risk by a potential su
Suspension, Aug 10, 2026
Lots of creaking and grinding noises coming from both front upper control arm bushings. Steering starting to become less stable.
Suspension, Aug 3, 2026
When driving in a parking lot a bolt came out on the drivers side suspension. The body of the car dropped on the tire and I could no longer drive the car. I was only going about 5mph but if I was going faster I can see this putting somebodies safety at risk. When I took it to Tesla they said is was not under warranty and had me replace the lower lateral link on the driver and passenger side of the vehicle. There were no warning lamps that came on.
Suspension, Aug 2, 2026
I am filing this complaint in direct relation to NHTSA Preliminary Evaluation PE26006 regarding Tesla front suspension lower lateral link failures. I am the owner of a 2018 Tesla Model 3. On XXX, at approximately 101,728 miles, my vehicle experienced a severe suspension issue. The vehicle began producing a loud, frequent squeaking and rattling noise originating from the front passenger-side wheel area while driving under 40 mph. Due to the clear mechanical risk and safety concerns associated with a suspension failure, I brought the vehicle to the Tesla Service Center in [XXX]. Tesla technicians diagnosed the problem and confirmed a failure in the front suspension. The repair required the complete removal and replacement of both front lower lateral links (Tesla Part Number: 1044341-00-E) and accompanying hardware. Because the vehicle was past its standard warranty mileage, I was forced to pay $1,291.75 out of pocket for the total repair, which included $583.68 explicitly for the lower lateral link parts and associated labor/alignment. While my lower lateral link did not completely separate while driving at high speed, the component failed prematurely and exhibited the exact structural degradation currently being investigated by the NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. I have retained the official Tesla service invoice (Invoice # XXX) to verify this failure, the diagnosis, and the out-of-pocket repair costs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Suspension, Aug 1, 2026
Car suspension failed on front driver wheel. Lower lateral link failure. Car was not drivable. Car towed and fix for $4k.
Steering, Suspension, Aug 1, 2026
Concern: Suspension Noise - What location is the noise coming from? Front. Suspension or Steering. What best describes the issue? Noise from suspension when driving on uneven roads. Repair Notes: Inspected Front Suspension for Activity 01 (Front suspension noise). Found torn bushings on Front Lateral Links and Compliance Links. Heavily torn on LH side. Safety concern. Both LH and RH Front Lower Compliance link and Lateral Links replacement recommended. Wheel alignment required for Lateral Link replacement.
Suspension, Jul 31, 2026
Lower links replaced ~69k miles due to squeeking
Steering, Suspension, Jul 31, 2026
The contact owns a 2018 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shaking uncontrollably. The contact pulled over and had the vehicle towed to the dealer. The dealer determined that the front control arm had detached from the front passenger’s side wheel. The dealer replaced the front control arm, lateral link, and steering column. The contact stated that there was no impact to the vehicle to have caused the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 76,000.
Suspension, Jul 18, 2026
As I was backing out of the driveway I heard a strange noise and the steering started feeling crunchy. I parked the car and when I got out I saw a very large bolt on the ground that appears to have dropped out of the car. This seems to be the same issue as described in safety recall 23V-235. Tesla is saying my vin isn’t included and not covered despite the safety recall expiring including this manufacturing date range.
Suspension, Jul 3, 2026
My car experienced a loud clunking noise when turning for the past few weeks. After doing some research and inspecting behind the front right tire, I found a front suspension lateral link bolt nearly falling off. It was only being held on by a few threads. It was so loose I could unscrew it completely or tighten it more by hand with no resistance. It sounds related to an existing recall for 2018 Tesla model 3’s (my year and model), but my car is not included in the recall. The other joints around it appear prematurely worn as well. See picture to show exactly how loose it was upon inspection. Requesting to review and likely expand the existing recall to more 2018 Tesla Model 3s
Suspension, Other or unspecified, Jun 23, 2026
My vehicle should've been included in a recall. While exiting my garage to pick up my son from school, a loud mechanical banging noise came from the front of my car. I abruptly stopped and proceeded to reverse back into my garage to inspect my vehicle. While inspecting my vehicle and the surrounding area, I discovered a large bolt on the ground. A quick image search says "on a Tesla Model 3, this specific high-strength 10.9 Class metric hex flange bolt is a critical structural component that almost certainly backed out of [my] front suspension lower control arm/ lateral link assembly or the front subframe structural mounts." So the loud banging noise came from my suspension falling apart after the bolt fell out. Upon further inspection, I confirmed that this was the issue and that a second bolt on the same side had partially backed out as well. My vehicle was not safe to drive, so I had to have my vehicle towed to the nearest service center for repairs. I took photos and video of the areas, as well as the bolt, which showed no signs of any damage to the head or threads - so the bolt simply backed out and appears to be a manufacturing/ assembly issue. After a quick search, we learned that there were previous NHTSA recalls (ie Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-235) for this particular issue, including for my same vehicle make, model, year (2018 Tesla Model 3) and production dates (Jan 5, 2018 - Mar 30, 2019). Unfortunately, I never received a recall notice. I barely drive my car, so bolts shouldn't just be backing out on their own. Unfortunately, my car is no longer under warranty, but was advised by the service managers to file a report and to get reimbursed thru NCDS. This is a huge safety issue. I had no warnings or alerts from the car. My alignment was checked a year ago. My wheels and tires get checked often and are well maintained, so I didn't even need air or rotation, yet my suspension just fell apart on its own before 60K miles.
Suspension, May 18, 2026
Tesla model 3 2018 long range 86k miles. While driving 50mph on freeway the lower control arm link separated from the frame. No impact, no damage, and no pothole/bump. Lost steering and was able to get to side of road. When I got out and look at vehicle the control arm was disconnected from the frame. The frame showed no damage and the control arm showed no damage. The mounting holes for each here intact and no damage. Appears that bolt fell out or sheared off and the control arm disconnected. This is a safety failure and was scary. I towed to Tesla and they claim that failure was form worn parts and tolerances. I stated how could this be worn parts when mounting holes are in excellent condition. They are refusing to help with cost of repair and quoted me $2800. They are not taking responsibility and I believe that others should know of this failure. I believe I am being wronged and would like to report. Thanks.
Steering, Suspension, May 8, 2026
The control arms on all make and models of tesla have a horrible design that all water off of the car flows down the sides of the front hood and down onto the control arm bushing. This could be a simple fix for tesla to out a boot on it to cover the bushing. The control arms start to fail at any given time. This is costing owners thousands of dollars. I have had to had them replace once under warranty and now they want me to pay 2000 since I am out of warranty. Owners with newer vehicles sometimes start to have problems within the first year. This part design needs to be recalled and all persons have free repairs. According to sources, driving with severely worn control arm bushings can lead to a fatal accident. While bushings often start as a minor nuisance, complete failure compromises the structural integrity of your vehicle's suspension. Don't wait till deaths start happening. Protect the customer and others and send a recall on this. Yiu can Google tesla control arm issues and and see over and over in videos and forums that this is a major issue.
Steering, Suspension, Structure, Apr 21, 2026
The front lateral links, compliance links, and stabilizer bar link on my 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range failed and required replacement in January 2026. Prior to failure, abnormal creaking and clunking noise from the front suspension began appearing weeks before the repair — no warning lights illuminated at any point. The failed components were replaced by a Tesla-certified Service Center and are no longer available for inspection. The failure was confirmed and repaired solely by the Tesla Service Center; no police, insurance representatives, or other parties inspected the vehicle. I was charged out of pocket for this repair. The lateral link separation risk directly endangers vehicle safety — if a fastener loosens sufficiently, the lateral link can detach from the subframe, causing sudden wheel misalignment and loss of steering control, which could result in a crash at any speed. Tesla issued recall 23V-235 (NHTSA campaign 23V235000) in March 2023 for this exact condition on 2018-2019 Model 3 vehicles. My vehicle's VIN was not included in the recall population, yet experienced the identical failure mode. I am requesting this complaint be considered for recall expansion under 23V-235 and seeking reimbursement for out-of-pocket repair costs for a defect Tesla has already acknowledged in identical vehicles.