2024 Tesla Model 3
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Forward collision avoidance is the leading concern among 217 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 7th highest complaint count among 9 Model 3 model years with reports.
Of the 2024 reports, 25 involved a crash and 1 involved a fire. 19 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Structure, body, bumpersJul 7, 2026
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2026 Model Y and 2024 Model 3 vehicles. The vehicles were originally built for a foreign market and do not have knee air bags, may not be equipped with certain interior safety countermeasures, and may not have been tested for bumper impact resistance procedures. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers, 208, "Occupant Crash Protection," 201, "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact," and Part 581, "Bumper Standards."
A noncompliant vehicle may have reduced occupant protections, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Tesla will repurchase noncompliant vehicles currently registered in the United States, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 5, 2026. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752 or resolutions@tesla.com. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-26-00-004.
Campaign 26V445000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, softwareJan 7, 2025
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."
A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
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 recall is SB-25-00-001.
Campaign 25V002000 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
Latches/locks/linkages, hood, latchJul 24, 2024
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.
An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 24V554000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, side/window, thoraxApr 19, 2024
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.
Without a deflector, the air bag may deploy improperly, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
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.
Campaign 24V284000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
217 reports, newest first.
Other or unspecified, Forward collision avoidance, May 26, 2026, crash
I was using actual smart summon to get my vehicle out of my garage. While standing behind the vehicle, it indicated that the car was in drive with no reversing lights on. The vehicle then rapidly lurches backwards, striking me and a freezer. After reviewing the dashcam footage the vehicle stated it was in drive and never once activated its reverse lights, even when they was objects and a human behind the car, still reversed at a high rate of speed.
Other or unspecified, May 21, 2026
Attached is a photo of the lower driver-side knee bolster/under-dash panel after it detached while I was driving. The panel dropped directly into the pedal area and interfered with normal foot access to the brake and accelerator pedals. Given that no broken attachment points or damaged clips were reportedly identified, I am requesting a formal review of both the safety concern and the handling of this issue.
Steering, Apr 25, 2026
The steering wheel turn signal buttons on my Tesla Model 3 intermittently becoming unresponsive or getting stuck signaling left or right. This prevents me from reliably signaling lane changes or turns. This is a safety risk because I may be unable to properly signal maneuvers as required under Maryland Vehicle Law §21-604, potentially confusing nearby drivers and increasing the risk of an accident. As this is a moving violation, I can be fined and or points on my driving record The issue has occurred multiple times during normal driving but has not yet been formally confirmed by a service center.
Electrical system, Apr 24, 2026
This car was designed without steering wheel stalks for control of the directionals. In their place it uses push buttons on the steering wheel. It becomes difficult to start the directionals when the steering wheel is turned because the buttons are no longer in a standard position and aren't easily located. This is especially difficult in traffic circles or when making rapid turns where directionals are needed. In addition if your fingers are kept rested on the buttons the system alarms and tells you they have been in place too long and the buttons stop working. I believe Tesla should offer an after market replacement returning to a much safer and standard steering column stalk which is and has been used on almost all cars for at least 75 years.
Other or unspecified, Forward collision avoidance, Apr 20, 2026, crash
2024 Tesla model 3 driving on the turnpike heading south of NJ right between exit 5-6 when my vehicle suddenly and spontaneously spun out into the guardrail, while at the same time the automatic emergency brake was disabled. Weather conditions were slightly rainy, there was no signs of traction issues or alerts regarding any concerns. Luckily no other vehicles were hit. The vehicle has not been inspected by any other of the above questioned. No such warning signs, lamps, or symptoms prior to this failure. I do have the dash cam footage that shows the incident.
Other or unspecified, Forward collision avoidance, Apr 20, 2026
On March 21, 2026, the vehicle’s Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC), suffered a severe "phantom braking" failure. While driving, the vehicle engaged in a violent, full-force emergency brake application without any external hazard or driver input. This unprompted deceleration caused the seatbelt to exert extreme pressure and trauma on my abdomen. As I was [XXX] pregnant, this abrupt stop was medically treated as a high-force accident. The trauma caused pregnancy abnormalities, requiring a 20-hour hospital admission for observation and fetal monitoring. I contacted Tesla customer service multiple times. Initially, I was told a service check was necessary, but the Service Center stated they could not provide assistance for "automatic behavior" issues. A corporate representative (Angel) admitted the vehicle should have been flagged for a formal medical claim and instructed me not to visit the service center. Despite this, I took the vehicle to the Service Center on April 15, 2026. Technicians confirmed they had no findings or solutions regarding the phantom braking event. No warning lamps, audible alerts, or system messages appeared prior to the failure. Upon requesting the vehicle data logs for the date of the incident, I noticed that the specific timeframe of the event was "missing" from the record. The manufacturer cited a VIN-matching error as the cause for the data gap. On April 20, 2026, Tesla corporate denied that a claim had ever been filed and stated they would not take responsibility for injuries related to pregnancy or a fetus, claiming these do not meet their internal threshold for medical injury. The vehicle remains available for inspection. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Mar 25, 2026
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 manufacturer's service center on February 20, 2025, at 7,060 miles. The service center documented the concern as the horn not working after rain. A Low Voltage Circuit Integrity Check and miscellaneous labor were performed (Invoice #3000S0012397168). However, the manufacturer's service center stated the horn was \"working as designed\" at the time of inspection and advised the owner to monitor the issue and record video. The problem was not resolved.\n\nThe issue has been reported to the manufacturer's service center on multiple subsequent occasions, but they have been unable to reproduce it because the horn functions normally in dry conditions. The defect only manifests during rain and downpours, making it difficult to demonstrate on demand at a service center.\n\nThis is a significant safety hazard. During heavy rain, when visibility is already reduced and driving conditions are more dangerous, the horn -- which is one of the most basic and essential safety devices on any vehicle -- is rendered completely nonfunctional. The owner feels powerless in dangerous situations when the horn cannot be heard. The horn is required safety equipment under FMVSS 571.108, and a horn that fails during adverse weather conditions represents a serious defect.
Forward collision avoidance, Feb 26, 2026
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 and Autosteer disengaged with traffic behind me. Very scary.
Wheels, Feb 25, 2026
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 told them about the tire issue and why there's no recall and they told me to contact NHTSA. They just want to change them one at a time until warranty expires so they don't have to replace all defective tires. I guess they're waiting for somebody to have an accident and sue them to fix the problem.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 22, 2026
Screen is black and no app access. No power to accelerate.
Steering, Other or unspecified, Lane departure, Jan 20, 2026, crash
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 obstruction in the road (sticks, plastic bags, etc.). Last month this malfunction has caused an accident, and my car has been totaled, my insurance will not cover it, and I have been advised by two separate attorneys to sue. This has been litigated in court with lawsuits against Tesla (See Benavides v. Tesla; see also IN RE: TESLA ADVANCED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS LITIGATION). I had notified Telsa twice of this issue, the car left the lane and did not notice a concrete barrier on the left side going north on I-95 in or around Broward County. To my knowledge no one has inspected the car. I was not warned that this car would cause an accident, the problem first appeared when I reported the issue using the voice reporting feature around November 2025. It is currently located at a tow facility in Broward County, FL and can be inspected there.
Seat belts, Jan 12, 2026
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
Back over prevention, Forward collision avoidance, Jan 7, 2026, crash
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 intentionally moving cautiously. My attention at the time was focused on the front right corner of the vehicle, as clearance there was tight. While reversing, the rear of my vehicle struck a parked truck behind me. The truck was relatively high (its headlights were positioned high on the vehicle). Neither I nor my passenger heard any rear collision warning, cross-traffic warning, or parking alert prior to impact. The vehicle also did not apply automatic braking. The contact occurred at very low speed and resulted in only minor cosmetic damage (a small dimple/deformation), but I was surprised that no warning or braking intervention occurred. Based on prior experience driving this vehicle, the collision and parking warning systems are typically configured to warn early, and I had confidence that a warning or automatic braking would activate in this scenario. Following the incident, I conducted a simple test by placing cones in front of the vehicle to see whether forward collision warnings would activate. They did not. While I understand cones may not trigger frontal collision alerts, this further contributed to my concern about object detection reliability in low-speed scenarios. The vehicle’s cameras were clean and unobstructed. I regularly clean the camera lenses. I am filing this complaint because my confidence in the vehicle’s collision warning and automatic braking systems has been shaken. I recently submitted a similar complaint regarding a collision involving our Tesla Model Y, and these two incidents—on two different Tesla vehicles—raise concerns for me INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air bags, Dec 16, 2025
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 faults. Safety Implication: The vehicle was sold with simultaneous hardware failures in both the passenger occupant sensing system AND the driver's steering column airbag controls. This confirms widespread physical/electrical trauma to the vehicle's Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) that was concealed at the time of sale. The dealer released a vehicle with compromised safety hardware in both the driver and passenger zones. I have attached the official Tesla Invoice confirming these replacements. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air bags, Dec 13, 2025
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 vehicle was released to the public after substandard repairs to a prior wreck. The airbag system was disabled due to this physical damage.
Steering, Dec 12, 2025
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 driving the vehicle until at least January. This defect affects the steering system, a critical safety component, and raises serious concerns regarding vehicle control and driver safety. Tesla has not offered a loaner vehicle or alternative transportation while awaiting a permanent fix. I believe this vehicle is unsafe to operate and am reporting this as a safety-related defect in the steering system.
Other or unspecified, Dec 11, 2025
When there’s heavy rain, the horn is muffled very badly you can barely hear it.
Steering, Suspension, Wheels, Dec 9, 2025
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 contact. Tesla service has attempted repairs multiple times, including a recent visit that lasted several weeks. Although some minor issues were addressed, the abnormal metal impact noise continues and has never been fully resolved. The repeated unresolved noise raises concerns about structural integrity and potential failure within components related to steering, wheels, or suspension. While the vehicle remains operable, the issue affects driving confidence, comfort, and concentration. Over time, the repeated metal noise has caused stress and anxiety because I am unsure whether a part will loosen or fail while driving. Since the problem remains after multiple attempts to repair, I am reporting this as a potential safety-related defect. Thank you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air bags, Seat belts, Dec 1, 2025
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. DISABLED RESTRAINT SYSTEM (RCM): Tesla Service Mode diagnostics confirm the Restraint Control Module (RCM) is in "Post Replacement" state, displaying the prompt: "Post Replacement Tasks - Routine requires Service Mode Plus authentication." This proves the airbag computer was replaced following a crash/electrical trauma but NEVER calibrated. Consequently, the SRS is disabled and will not deploy. The vehicle explicitly warns: "The Safety Restraint System may not perform as designed." The dealer released a non-roadworthy vehicle. 2. EVIDENCE OF DEALER KNOWLEDGE: Internal logs show critical crash fault codes (VCFRONT_a059 & RCM2_a003) logged on Oct 15, 2025. Dealer records confirm the car was in their exclusive inventory on this date (listed since Sept 23). These faults were active 9 days before sale. The dealer ignored active safety warnings to facilitate the transaction. 3. CONCEALED DAMAGE: Inspection by Classic Collision confirmed hidden structural damage requiring $9,676.69 in repairs, consistent with the uncalibrated module. CONCLUSION: Braman Cadillac knowingly sold a vehicle with a lethal safety defect. I demand an investigation into their release of vehicles with uncalibrated safety modules. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Nov 29, 2025
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 notification while I was sleeping, with no alerts for over eight hours, failing to provide proper security warnings. Tesla customer support was unable to resolve the issue and suggested multiple drivers might have access, even though only one friend has access to the car and it was not her doing. Vehicle data from Tesla privacy support showed two hours missing during the trunk event, and Tesla could not explain why, only speculating a software glitch. This incident demonstrates a critical software and security failure that compromises vehicle safety and personal property. Tesla has failed to provide an explanation, solution, or preventive fix. I am reporting this as a serious software reliability and consumer safety concern. Best, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Vehicle speed control, Forward collision avoidance, Nov 27, 2025
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 v13.2.9). As a result, the system routinely exceeds posted speed limits by 5–20 mph with no way for the supervised driver to correct it short of fully disengaging FSD. The vehicle ignores speed-limit signs, relies on inaccurate map data, and follows surrounding traffic speed instead of the legal limit, even in school zones, construction zones, residential areas, and adverse weather. This significantly increases risk of collision, injury, and traffic citations. Reproduced/confirmed: Widely reproduced by thousands of owners on Tesla forums, Reddit, and X immediately after v14 rollout in late 2025. I have chosen to remain on v13.2.9 to avoid this exact defect. Inspected by manufacturer or others: No in-person inspection required; Tesla has full remote log access. Multiple owners have submitted in-car bug reports. Warning lamps/messages: None. The speed-offset control is simply grayed out and non-functional by design in v14. Vehicle available for inspection upon request.
Air bags, Seat belts, Other or unspecified, Nov 25, 2025
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 become more frequent as of recent. Potentially this is a critical safety issue regarding airbag/seatbelt's potentially failing to work as designed for all similiar models.
Electrical system, Nov 21, 2025
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 output to become extremely quiet and ineffective. This is a serious safety concern. The horn is a primary means of warning surrounding drivers and pedestrians of danger, especially in poor weather conditions, where visibility is already compromised. Ironically, during heavy rain when a horn is most needed it becomes significantly quieter and nearly unusable. I have personally experienced this issue multiple times, and it poses a clear risk to myself and other road users. I believe this design presents a safety defect because: The horn does not function at full volume when wet. The speaker-based horn assembly is exposed to moisture and not adequately protected. Drivers may be unable to alert surrounding traffic during hazardous weather conditions. No warning is provided to the driver that the horn is impaired. I request that the NHTSA investigate whether the use of a speaker-based horn system without adequate waterproofing meets federal motor vehicle safety standards, and whether Tesla should issue a service bulletin, recall, or design modification to restore safe horn functionality regardless of weather conditions. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I am willing to provide photos, videos, or further documentation if needed.
Forward collision avoidance, Nov 17, 2025
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 inspection upon request. This obstruction puts my safety at risk because these systems either disable themselves or operate unpredictably when the camera view is blocked. The issue occurred again this year under normal outdoor temperatures, and the fogging cannot be cleared by the driver or by using defrost or cabin heat. The problem has been confirmed previously by a Tesla service center, where technicians inspected the camera area and told me my vehicle had one of the worst cases they had seen and told me this is a common issue. They attempted a repair, but the issue has returned, making it a recurring defect. No police or insurance representatives have inspected it. During the first occurrence, the vehicle displayed messages indicating that features like Autopilot, cruise control, and lane assist were disabled due to camera obstruction. The current recurrence produced visible internal haze over the camera lens and a warning message appeared which I do have that Tesla acknowledges this is an issue and that rather than fixing it, you can bring your car in for expedited cleaning. I have read others stating Tesla changed their windshield design and it doesn't heat up this area properly any longer. This issue has happened in multiple winter seasons and directly affects the proper operation of safety-critical driver assistance systems.
Forward collision avoidance, Nov 12, 2025
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.