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, Jun 27, 2024
1. Blinker button trim/keycaps occasionally become physically stuck in the default (unpressed, open) position. Clicking the buttons at an angle sometimes remediates the issue but not consistently. As a result, the blinkers are physically inaccessible for lane changes. 2. The blinker buttons occasionally signal the incorrect way when depressed. For example, clicking the left signal results in a right-sided signal. Seems to also be a physical issue. These defects can be a hazard to other drivers because of improper use of blinker signals. Component has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer. Malfunctions have been occuring since receiving the vehicle and occurs seemingly at random.
Steering, Jun 26, 2024
Steering wheel buttons fail to activate turn signals no matter how hard they are pressed intermittently. Occurrences happens around 15% of the times when changing lanes or requiring signaling leading to increased danger due to failure of turn signals. Manifacturer has replaced steering wheel and problem still exists with no resolution. When presented to service center subsequently, I am instead recommended to correct fixing hand location and posture, which does not rectify the issue.
Steering, Structure, Jun 25, 2024
Today is June 25,2024 I took delivery of my 2024 Tesla model 3 long range on May 26,2024. At time of delivery I visually observed crease in metal of rear right door and damage to paint after Tesla over polished the vehicle with electric equipment. Tesla representatives created a due bill for this repair but decided to do smaller repair by buffing & polishing door panel (and not address the physical crease damage observed on right rear door). Over past 28 days the left and right turn signal buttons located on steering wheel have frequently been inoperable while I drive vehicle. Unfortunately turn signals have failed to activate on multiple occasions while I was driving on highway and trying to change out of far left fast lane. Tesla Burbank service center was notified prior to my 1st scheduled service appointment on June 5,2024 that I experienced times while driving where left and right turn signal buttons didn’t activate after being pushed. Tesla elected not to do anything to resolve customer stated problem during the June 5,2024 service appointment. From June 5,2024-June 25,2024 I have sent 6 messages to Tesla Burbank service center with date and time stamp when turn signal buttons on steering wheel didn’t activate. Tesla Burbank service center feels that this car continues to be safe to drive. As vehicle owner it is my opinion that Turn signals not operating properly creates condition that is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury if the vehicle is driven; Defective turn signal buttons are in vehicle owner opinion a Significant impairment of the motor vehicle Tesla should proceed to immediately recall 2024 Tesla model 3 vehicles to correct the operation of turn signal buttons.
Other or unspecified, Jun 13, 2024
This car has a new, unique design for activating turn signals. The right and left turn signals are buttons on the steering wheel. The buttons need to be pushed to activate the left or right turn indicators for the car. But the buttons do not work all the time. I thought it was a finger placement issue, but have confirmed it is not that. Instead, the buttons simply become stuck and cannot be depressed. This is very dangerous when I cannot signal to change lanes on the road or freeway, or signal to indicate when I will make turns. An Internet search has revealed this is a common problem for this vehicle model, according to various message boards.
Other or unspecified, Jun 13, 2024
The horn stops working after rain. Took the vehicle to Tesla and they stated that this was expected after heavy rain. This is a safety issue because you cannot honk to warn other vehicles or pedestrians as an issue issue, even after the rain until the whole thing dries out
Steering, Electrical system, Jun 13, 2024
Turn signal buttons are sticking regularly, preventing turn singal lights from flashing to make safe lane changes
Other or unspecified, Jun 10, 2024
I took delivery of my ordered 2024 Tesla Model 3 LR 3/30/2024. Later in the day when I put the car into reverse, I had no back-up view on the touch screen. When it occurred, it also froze the illustrated car on the touch screen when car was put into Drive. There was also no movement of the vehicle on the touch screen's map. After contacting Tesla two times and rebooting the touch screen, I was asked to do time stamps on the date and time when the problem occurred, which I did. The problem comes and goes which, in addition to the noted problems, also results in Park Assist being unavailable. I had an appt on Memorial Day to bring the car to my Service Center so it could figure out what the problem was. I was given a loaner older model Model 3 to use while it was in the shop. When I picked up the car, I was told it "may be" the rear-view camera, which was not in stock and had to be ordered. I was scheduled for a Mobile Service visit to have it installed while working from home the following week, which it was. Later in the day when I was going to the grocery store, I encountered the exact same problems after putting the car into reverse: no back-up view; frozen illustrated car on the touch screen; no movement on the right-side map; and no Park Assist availability. That evening (Friday, 6/07) I contacted my SC to let it know what happened, and asked "What's next?" I'm still awaiting a response. Today I contacted my SC by phone and was told to bring it in again, but that such appt would be weeks away. I contacted the Tesla Consumer Assistance # later this morning and was told it would contact my Service Center about expediting an appt; I'm to hear from it within 24 hours about setting an expedited appt. As of this writing, it's only been about 10 hours since my call. Hopefully I'll hear from the SC tomorrow morning. I'm very discouraged as I had hoped to show the car off in the coming weeks to friends and family and go on a mini-vacation. Nearly 2.5 months & counting.
Electrical system, Jun 10, 2024
Turn signals occasionally are not working . Electrical buttons get stuck and will not allow me to signal right or left
Steering, Forward collision avoidance, Lane departure, Jun 8, 2024
Incident Description: One week after purchasing our new Tesla Model 3 2024 , we encountered several error messages upon returning to our car after a brief stop: "APP_w264 - Lane Departure Avoidance feature unavailable," "GTW_w075 - Steering assist reduced," and "UI_a020 - Steering assist reduced." With no cell signal available, we had to drive back slowly with hazard lights on. The steering was extremely tight, making it very difficult to maneuver. Tesla Roadside Assistance suggested towing the car and using an Uber coupon, which was impractical due to our location in the outskirts of Vancouver, Canada, with no Uber services, and our home in Seattle, USA.We drove over 100 miles to the nearest service centre in Vancouver, posing a significant safety risk on curvy freeway roads. The service centre confirmed that the wire supplying power to the steering was cut due to contact with the fan, and they repaired the issue. Conclusion: The steering failure of our Tesla Model 3 was a major safety concern. Driving with impaired steering could have led to a severe accident. The issue was due to a design flaw, with the wire contacting the fan. We request a thorough investigation to prevent future occurrences and consideration for the inconvenience and risk we faced. Component/System Failure: The wire supplying power to the steering mechanism was severed due to contact with the vehicle's fan. Safety Risk: The steering became extremely tight, making large turns nearly impossible and small turns very difficult. This posed a significant safety risk, especially while driving on curvy freeway roads. Inspection & Problem Confirmation: The problem was confirmed by the Tesla service centre in Vancouver. They verified that the wire was cut due to contact with the fan. Errors: "APP_w264 - Lane Departure Avoidance feature unavailable" "GTW_w075 - Steering assist reduced" "UI_a020 - Steering assist reduced"
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Jun 7, 2024
The turn signal indicator buttons fail to work consistently. About 30% of the time when I try to indicate a turn or lane change the button does not respond. It is sort of stuck in place. Not being able to show an intent to turn is a serious safety issue in heavy traffic.
Exterior lighting, May 17, 2024
Two issues regarding vehicle turn signals not working as intended: Issue #1: Sometimes, vehicle turn signal turns on for the opposite direction than intended. Narrowly missed a few accidents because of this issue, and I have been honked at and flipped off by drivers thinking I'm a careless driver. This issue can be replicated on demand. Issue #2: The turn signal buttons on the steering wheel lock up and no matter how hard I press, does not turn on. Creates a safety hazard when trying to change lanes, merge, or exit where I cannot communicate intent to other drivers. This issue happens randomly & resolves itself after about 10 seconds. Both of these issues were brought to the notice of the manufacturer, but service technicians were not concerned about the issue. Wanted me to leave the car behind for an extended period with no loaner car or rental provided. I cannot afford to do that not knowing how long I'm going to be without transportation.
Other or unspecified, May 13, 2024
The left and right turn signal indicator buttons gets stuck sometimes. But I noticed on my vehicle it is the left turn indicator button is the one gets stuck most. When it is stuck I cannot make left turn signal. Before I asked Tesla to fix it the issue happens every time on my 8 mile trip. After Tesla attempted to fix it it happens a lot less now but this could mean it can go worse as the component wears out. This can put me and others at risk as sometimes I get panicked and depending on the situation.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, May 1, 2024
I have my phone mounted to the back of the computer screen, and I also have the phone power cord running from the center console 12V plug up to my phone. I have found that if the power cord comes in contact with the computer screen, it can inadvertently put the car in Neutral (it acts like a finger touch). This could be extremely dangerous if, for example, the car is making a left turn in front of oncoming traffic and the car unexpectedly goes into Neutral. I think consumers should be aware that a phone power cord can cause changes on the computer screen if there is contact, especially if it switches the car to Neutral.
Exterior lighting, Apr 20, 2024
Right turn signal gets stuck and doesn't allow me to press it. It is very dangerous when it happens out on the road. First attempt to fix it was April 5th 2024. According to Tesla service invoice the steering wheel was replaced and software was updated. As of April 19 2024 the problem has returned. As I attempted to make a right turn and couldn't signal. I also have videos showing the issue I am having. After reviewing online forums it seems this is a common problem for 2024 Tesla Model 3 which is extremely dangerous.
Exterior lighting, Apr 15, 2024
The rear tail light on the driver side of the vehicle is filling with water. Additionally, the brake light is occasionally not working, presenting a potentially serious safety issue. The vehicle is brand new. Tesla has a history of this issue with previous generations of this vehicle, but the problem persists in the new model. I have been waiting for a new tail light to come in for two weeks. A quick internet search reveals other drivers with the same problem. Tesla is doing nothing to expedite the parts needed for the repair, but they sure continue to sell new cars. They should not be selling any cars until they figure out how to successfully seal the light and keep standing water out of the unit.
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Apr 12, 2024
Tesla officially confirmed as I brought my car in a THIRD time that the repeated turn signal failure I was/am experiencing is now a known software issue. They looked at the timestamps and video I shared and saw that I had indeed applied pressure to the turn signal buttons to no avail/effect. Out of the three times I took the car in and shared timestamps for when this issue occurred this is the only time they identified the issue in the logs, which leads me to believe they never even looked at the logs the previous two times I had brought the car in and they failed to ID the issue or a fix. They have been unable to reproduce in person, as the issue occurs at random while the vehicle is in motion. I brought it in a third time after multiple instances in one day of the turn signal not working and putting me in highly precarious situations on the highway. There is still NO FIX currently and the technicians even acknowledged/admitted it is a serious safety issue, yet they are returning the car to me unfixed. This feels like an extremely dangerous problem to not address urgently via a software fix. There is no message or warning displayed related to the issue.
Visibility/wiper, Mar 25, 2024
Automatic wipers are unreliable and vehicle does not accurately detect amount of rain. This led to obstructed view of the road during heavy rain. Only option was to choose manual speed wipers but had to keep choosing different speeds through my 3.5 hour drive due to constantly changing rain amount. Having to focus on constantly changing wiper speed takes focus off the road each time which increases risk. Tesla has many complaints against the auto wiper function not working across various models and hopefully this will be addressed.