The verdict
A mixed-report mid-size luxury sedan, strong on safety and held back by ownership.
The 2021 Tesla Model 3 pairs genuinely class-leading running costs — 142 MPGe combined and an EPA-estimated $550 a year to fuel — with 5-star NHTSA and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ ratings, quick and smooth acceleration, and an over-the-air software program nothing else on sale matched that year. The trade-offs are real: tight 35.2-inch rear legroom, no Apple CarPlay/Android Auto or instrument cluster, below-average brand reliability, and a five-year ownership cost that pencils out worse than most mid-size sedans once depreciation and repair costs are included. It's the strongest case for an EV daily driver in 2021, not the roomiest or cheapest one to keep.
Jump to scoresStrengths
- Among the cheapest cars in America to actually run
- Top-tier crash safety across the board
- The best over-the-air software and app ecosystem on sale
What holds it back
- Expensive to actually own over five years
- No CarPlay, no gauge cluster, no head-up display
- Below-average reliability track record and costly repairs
Top alternatives
Cars shoppers cross-shop with the Tesla Model 3
2.73B-
Hyundai Ioniq 6Mid-Size SedanBetter at: Charging speedThe direct EV-sedan competitor: nearly as efficient, faster to charge on its 800-volt system, and it keeps CarPlay, physical controls and a gauge cluster along with a far stronger warranty.
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BMW i4Compact Luxury SedanBetter at: Interior qualityFor a shopper at the same $45–55k who cares more about interior quality, steering feel and a liftback's practicality than about range or running cost.
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Toyota CamryMid-Size SedanBetter at: Resale valueThe default fallback for anyone without home charging or worried about depreciation — cheaper to buy and insure, roomier in back, and it holds its value far better.
CompareHow it's evolved
10 scored model years · 2017–2026
Subject scores by year
Hover or tap a score to see what moved it versus the year before. A corner mark flags a big swing.
| Year | Performance | Efficiency | Safety | Space | Cost | Reliability | Tech | Use-case | Driving | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 76 | 74 | 84 | 77 | 50 | 64 | 68 | 59 | 71 | 74 |
| 2025 | 76 | 73 | 80 | 77 | 46 | 63 | 67 | 59 | 72 | 74 |
| 2024 | 76 | 73 | 77 | 76 | 36 | 65 | 66 | 58 | 72 | 76 |
| 2023 | 59 | 68 | 76 | 73 | 48 | 56 | 62 | 54 | 72 | 73 |
| 2022 | 58 | 68 | 79 | 73 | 37 | 47 | 65 | 55 | 72 | 71 |
| 2021 | 61 | 67 | 80 | 67 | 28 | 51 | 64 | 57 | 75 | 68 |
| 2020 | 61 | 68 | 81 | 64 | 64 | 52 | 61 | 56 | 75 | 75 |
| 2019 | 60 | 67 | 80 | 66 | 56 | 41 | 59 | 52 | 73 | 77 |
| 2018 | 56 | 63 | 71 | 62 | 52 | 51 | 62 | 53 | 71 | 74 |
| 2017 | 53 | 59 | 66 | 62 | 48 | 47 | 57 | 51 | 70 | 59 |
Compare two years
Best fit & conditions
Higher scores mean a better fit for that use case. Learn more about use-case fit →
Subject profile
Trims & configurations
3 trimsScores above reflect the volume trim. Per-trim specs and scores are rolling out — the full lineup:
Academic Probation · NHTSA safety recalls
Aug 4, 2026Exterior lighting: headlightsThe 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
Headlight low beams that are too bright can reduce visibility for oncoming drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Tesla Service will replace the headlights, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were be mailed October 3, 2026. Another notice will be sent once the repair becomes available. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-17-003.
NHTSA campaign 26V507000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-24-17-00320,349 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3May 4, 2026Back over prevention: softwareThe rearview camera image may be delayed when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017, 2021-2023 Model 3, 2020-2023 Model Y, 2021-2023 Model S, and Model X vehicles operating software version 2026.8.6. The rearview camera image may be delayed when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk
A delayed rearview image reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, 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 July 3, 2026. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-26-00-001.
NHTSA campaign 26V283000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-26-00-001218,868 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 3, 2026Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Dec 17, 2024Tires: pressure monitoring and regulating systemsThe 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
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.
NHTSA campaign 24V935000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-24-00-018696,281 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Feb 15, 2025Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Jul 24, 2024Electrical system: software · Latches/locks/linkages: hood: latchThe hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.
Defect
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.
Risk
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.
NHTSA campaign 24V554000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-24-00-0121,849,638 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 22, 2024Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3May 28, 2024Seat belts: front: warning light/devicesIn 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 24V376000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-24-00-008125,233 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 26, 2024Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Feb 27, 2024Electrical system: software · Forward collision avoidance: warnings: external/pedestrian alertA 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are muted, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 24V153000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-24-00-0066,557 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 27, 2024Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Jan 30, 2024Electrical system: instrument cluster/panelAn 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
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.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 24V051000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-24-00-0032,193,869 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Feb 21, 2024Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Dec 12, 2023Electrical system: adas: driver monitoring: softwareTesla, 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.
Defect
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.
Risk
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.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 23V838000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-23-00-0082,031,220 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Feb 10, 2024Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Feb 15, 2023Steering: automated/adaptive steeringIn 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.
Defect
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.
Risk
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.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 23V085000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-23-00-001362,758 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 15, 2023Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Oct 21, 2022Seat belts: rear/other: anchorageThe second-row left seat belt buckle and second-row center seat belt anchor may have been incorrectly reassembled during vehicle service.
Defect
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.
Risk
An incorrectly reassembled seat belt anchor can impair the performance of the seat belt during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V798000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-20-00424,064 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 20, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Sep 19, 2022Visibility: power window devices and controlsThe 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
A closing window may exert excessive force by pinching a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V702000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-00-0131,096,762 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 31, 2023Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3May 9, 2022Electrical system: adas: driver monitoring: camera/sensor · Forward collision avoidance: automatic emergency braking · Lane departure: lane keep: automatic steeringThe fisheye and narrow camera cable terminals were incorrectly installed in the cable harness connector, resulting in swapped camera views.
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Model 3 and 2021 Model Y vehicles. The fisheye and narrow camera cable terminals were incorrectly installed in the cable harness connector, resulting in swapped camera views.
Risk
Swapped camera views can prevent the vehicle's cameras from detecting crossing objects and high-curvature lane lines, impairing the Autosteer and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) performance, and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Tesla Service will correct the swapped terminals and recalibrate the cameras, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-17-007.
NHTSA campaign 22V317000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-17-0077 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 8, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Apr 18, 2022Electrical system: instrument cluster/panelThe 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
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.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V263000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-00-00848,184 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 17, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Apr 12, 2022Electrical system: software · Forward collision avoidance: warnings: external/pedestrian alertThe 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V235000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-00-003594,894 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 6, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Feb 4, 2022Electrical system: software · Forward collision avoidance: warnings: external/pedestrian alertThe 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V063000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-00-003578,607 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 12, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Feb 2, 2022Electrical system: software · Visibility: defroster/defogger/hvac system: air handler/chamber, ducts, and valvesA software error may cause a valve in the heat pump to open unintentionally and trap the refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting in decreased defrosting performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A software error may cause a valve in the heat pump to open unintentionally and trap the refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting in decreased defrosting performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."
Risk
Decreased defrosting performance may reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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-22-18-002.
NHTSA campaign 22V050000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-18-00226,681 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 1, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Feb 1, 2022Electrical system: software · Seat belts: frontThe 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
The driver may be unaware that their seat belt is not fastened, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V045000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-00-002817,143 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 1, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Jan 27, 2022Steering: automated/adaptive steeringThe "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.
Defect
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.
Risk
Failing to stop at a stop sign can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V037000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-00-00153,822 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 28, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Oct 29, 2021Forward collision avoidance: automatic emergency braking · Forward collision avoidance: sensing system: camera · Forward collision avoidance: warnings · Forward collision avoidance: softwareA communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB) system.
Defect
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.
Risk
Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 21V846000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-21-00-00411,728 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Oct 25, 2021Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Oct 25, 2021Suspension: critical fasteners · Suspension: frontThe front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen, allowing the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame.
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Model Y and 2019-2021 Model 3 vehicles. The front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen, allowing the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame.
Risk
A lateral link separation could shift the wheel alignment, causing instability and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Tesla Service will tighten or replace the lateral link fasteners as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-31-003.
NHTSA campaign 21V835000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-21-31-0032,791 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 20, 2021Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Oct 25, 2021Air bags: side/window: curtainThe left and/or right side curtain air bag may have been improperly secured to the roof rail, which could result in a twisted air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021, 2023 Model 3 vehicles. The left and/or right side curtain air bag may have been improperly secured to the roof rail, which could result in a twisted air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
Risk
A twisted side curtain air bag may improperly deploy, increasing the risk of injury or occupant ejection during a crash.
Remedy
Tesla Service will inspect and realign the left and right side curtain air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-006.
NHTSA campaign 21V834000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-21-20-0063 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 23, 2021Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3May 25, 2021Service brakes, hydraulic: critical fasteners · Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: disc: caliperThe brake caliper bolts may be loose, allowing the brake caliper to separate and contact the wheel rim.
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Model 3 and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles. The brake caliper bolts may be loose, allowing the brake caliper to separate and contact the wheel rim.
Risk
Contact with the rim may cause a loss of tire pressure, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Tesla Service will inspect and tighten, or replace the caliper bolts as 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-21-33-002.
NHTSA campaign 21V387000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-21-33-0025,974 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 23, 2021Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3
14 recalls on other model years of the Model 3 (2017–2020, 2022–2026)
Jul 7, 2026Air bags: knee bolster · Structure: body: bumpersThe 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
A noncompliant vehicle may have reduced occupant protections, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
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 [email protected]. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-26-00-004.
NHTSA campaign 26V445000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-26-00-00415 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Oct 10, 2025Electrical system: propulsion system: fuses, relays, contacts, and shuntsThe battery pack contactors may fail, causing a loss of drive power.
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2025 Model 3 and 2026 Model Y vehicles. The battery pack contactors may fail, causing a loss of drive power.
Risk
A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Tesla Service will replace the battery pack contactors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 9, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-16-005.
NHTSA campaign 25V690000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-25-16-00512,963 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 9, 2025Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Jun 18, 2025Seats: critical fastenersThe fasteners attaching the seat back to the seat bottom may have been improperly tightened.
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2026 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The fasteners attaching the seat back to the seat bottom may have been improperly tightened.
Risk
The seat may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Tesla Service Centers will inspect and tighten or replace the seat assembly fasteners as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 16, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-13-003.
NHTSA campaign 25V410000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-25-13-00348 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 16, 2025Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Feb 14, 2025Steering: electric power assist systemThe printed circuit board for the electronic power steering assist may experience an overstress condition, causing a loss of power steering assist when the vehicle reaches a stop and then accelerates again.
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles operating software prior to 2023.38.4. The printed circuit board for the electronic power steering assist may experience an overstress condition, causing a loss of power steering assist when the vehicle reaches a stop and then accelerates again.
Risk
A loss of power steering assist can require greater steering effort, especially at low speeds, 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 March 25, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-00-004.
NHTSA campaign 25V092000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-25-00-004376,241 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 25, 2025Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Jan 6, 2025Back over prevention: software · Electrical systemThe 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
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 recall is SB-25-00-001.
NHTSA campaign 25V002000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-25-00-001239,382 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 7, 2025Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Apr 19, 2024Air bags: side/window: thoraxTesla, 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.
Defect
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.
Risk
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 campaign 24V284000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-24-13-0011 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 12, 2024Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Jun 19, 2023Electrical system: propulsion system: traction batteryThe pyrotechnic battery disconnect may be defective.
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The pyrotechnic battery disconnect may be defective.
Risk
A defective battery disconnect may not isolate the vehicle's high voltage battery after a crash or fault detection, increasing the risk of electrical shock and injury.
Remedy
Tesla Service will replace the pyrotechnic battery disconnect, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 18, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-16-005.
NHTSA campaign 23V434000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-23-16-00526 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 18, 2023Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Mar 31, 2023Suspension: critical fasteners · Suspension: frontThe front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen, allowing the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame.
Defect
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.
Risk
A lateral link separation could shift the wheel alignment, causing instability and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 23V235000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-23-31-001422 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified May 30, 2023Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Nov 15, 2022Exterior lighting: tail lightsOne or both taillights may intermittently fail to illuminate.
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. One or both taillights may intermittently fail to illuminate.
Risk
A taillight that fails to illuminate may reduce the visibility of the vehicle, 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 January 14, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-016.
NHTSA campaign 22V844000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-00-016321,628 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jan 14, 2023Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3May 3, 2022Back over prevention: display function · Equipment: electrical: infotainment: video (touch)screen/monitor/unitThe infotainment central processing unit (CPU) may overheat during the preparation or process of fast-charging, causing the CPU to lag or restart.
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S, Model X, and 2022 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles operating certain firmware releases. The infotainment central processing unit (CPU) may overheat during the preparation or process of fast-charging, causing the CPU to lag or restart.
Risk
A lagging or restarting CPU may prevent the center screen from displaying the rearview camera image, gear selection, windshield visibility control settings, and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will improve CPU temperature management, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-009.
NHTSA campaign 22V296000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-00-009129,960 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 1, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Mar 18, 2022Back over prevention: display functionThe 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."
Defect
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."
Risk
A delayed rearview camera image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V169000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-22-00-004947 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified May 17, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Dec 21, 2021Back over prevention: sensing system: camera · Electrical system: wiring: rear compartment/trunk · Visibility: rearview mirrors/devices: interiorTesla, 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.
Defect
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.
Risk
A rearview camera that does not function reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 21V00D000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-21-17-008356,309 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 25, 2022Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3May 25, 2021Seat belts · Seat belts: critical fastenersOne or both fasteners that secure the front seat shoulder belt to the b-pillar may not be properly attached.
Defect
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.
Risk
An improperly attached fastener may prevent the seat belt system from performing as designed, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
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.
NHTSA campaign 21V389000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-21-20-0015,530 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 23, 2021Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3Oct 10, 2019Equipment: other: labelsThe driver-side sun visor may not have the required air bag warning information. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect
Tesla Motors, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2019 Tesla Model 3 vehicles. The driver-side sun visor may not have the required air bag warning information. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk
Failure to provide the air bag warning information increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will inspect the visor and replace it, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 6, 2019. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-19-15-003.
NHTSA campaign 19V719000 ↗Manufacturer no. SB-19-15-00389 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 6, 2019Filed by Tesla, Inc.Filed as MODEL 3
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall database, model years 2017–2026. Recalls are listed by model year as the manufacturer filed them; whether a specific car is affected depends on its VIN — check a VIN at nhtsa.gov ↗. NHTSA model names matched to this page: MODEL 3.
Detailed scoring by subject
1Performance & PowertrainMid-pack among this car's ten categories.2.11C
Scored on the rear-drive Standard Range Plus, the entry/volume trim of the three-trim 2021 lineup (Standard Range Plus RWD, Long Range AWD, Performance AWD). 2021 is the first full model year of the late-2020 Project Highland-era refresh (heat pump, black exterior trim, powered trunk), which did not change motor output versus the pre-refresh car.
Peak torque from the single rear motor of the Standard Range Plus, delivered instantly from zero rpm as with any EV.
Tesla's own quoted 0–60 mph time for the Standard Range Plus is competitive for a mid-size sedan at this price point, and the lineup tops out with a genuinely quick Performance trim.
Instant, silent, linear single-motor thrust with no lag and no gear steps — among the smoothest power delivery of any 2021 sedan regardless of powertrain, electric or otherwise. Held a few points below the best because low-speed motor whine is audible and the fixed, fairly aggressive regenerative braking takes some acclimation.
A single-speed reduction gear per motor means there is nothing to hunt for or shift through — delivery is seamless from a stop to top speed on every 2021 trim. Just short of a perfect score because the one-pedal regen calibration is fixed rather than driver-adjustable.
AWD is available on two of the three 2021 trims (Long Range and Performance, both dual-motor) but the volume entry trim — Standard Range Plus — is rear-wheel drive only, so a buyer on the cheapest configuration has no AWD option at all without stepping up a full trim level.
Battery-electric only, with no gas, hybrid or PHEV alternative on this nameplate. Within EV, 2021 offers three genuinely distinct configurations spanning 3.1 s to 5.3 s to 60 mph, but that is one fewer step than the lineup gained in later model years.
2Efficiency & RangeMid-pack among this car's ten categories.2.54C+
The rear-drive Standard Range Plus is among the most efficient cars sold in the US in 2021 at any price — a single motor and lower curb weight than the dual-motor trims push it near the top of the EV sedan class band. The late-2020 refresh's heat pump and aero tweaks did not change the EPA combined figure for this configuration versus the prior pre-refresh rating.
City is the Model 3's strongest mode, as with any EV — aggressive regenerative braking recovers most stop-and-go energy and there is no idle consumption.
Highway efficiency is solid for an EV sedan of this era, though lower than city as expected since regenerative braking contributes less at steady highway speed.
263 miles is the shortest range in the 2021 lineup by a wide margin — the Long Range trim tops out well above 350 miles — and sits in the lower portion of the EV sedan range band, though still practical for most daily and regional use.
The Standard Range Plus is capped well below the 250 kW ceiling of its Long Range and Performance siblings — a deliberate pack/charge-rate limit on the cheapest trim's smaller battery, not a missing capability. It still charges on the Supercharger network at a usable rate for an 400V-era EV.
Roughly 26 minutes for 10–80% is solidly competitive for a 2021 EV, since the smaller usable pack offsets the lower peak kW versus the Long Range/Performance trims. Tesla does not publish a 10–80% figure directly, so this is a corroborated third-party measurement rather than a manufacturer spec.
$550 a year is among the cheapest running costs of any 2021 vehicle in this dataset, and cheaper still on off-peak home or solar charging.
No fuel grade to worry about, and the Model 3 plugs directly into Tesla's proprietary Supercharger network — already the densest and most reliable DC fast-charging network in the US in 2021 — with Level 2 home charging covering daily use cheaply. Held a few points short of the ceiling because the Standard Range Plus's lower 170 kW charge cap and 263-mile range make road-trip charging stops more frequent than on the Long Range trim.
3SafetyThe Model 3's best-graded category.3.47B+
The Model 3's body structure and restraint systems were unchanged for 2021 from the original 2018 NCAP test that earned 5 stars overall and in every subcategory, with NHTSA noting the lowest overall injury probability of any vehicle it had evaluated at the time. No structural change in 2021 invalidates that rating.
IIHS rated the 2021 Model 3 Good across all six crashworthiness tests (small overlap front driver and passenger, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, head restraints/seats) and Good on both headlight hardware variants fitted that year, earning Top Safety Pick+. The one wrinkle specific to 2021: IIHS briefly pulled the award in May 2021 pending re-verification after Tesla's radar-to-camera (Tesla Vision) switch, then restored TSP+ in June 2021 once retesting confirmed the camera-only system matched the radar-based system's front crash prevention performance — a gap that didn't affect the volume-trim car for most of the model year.
Every 2021 trim (Standard Range Plus, Long Range, Performance) shipped with the full base suite standard: forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist (Autosteer), and camera-based rear cross-traffic alert, plus standard Autopilot (Traffic-Aware Cruise Control + Autosteer) bundled at no extra cost — nothing in this core safety set is paywalled to a higher trim. Held out of the 90s because the suite is camera-based only for part of the model year (radar removed from North American production in May 2021) with no conventional radar-based redundancy.
IIHS's front crash prevention testing on the 2021 Model 3 found Superior vehicle-to-vehicle performance regardless of build date, with pedestrian detection splitting by production timing: Advanced for cars built before May 2021 (radar+camera) and Superior for cars built after April 2021 on Tesla Vision alone — a rare case of the camera-only system testing as well as or better than the sensor-fusion predecessor it replaced. Held just below a perfect score because the mid-year hardware transition means not every 2021 build carries the top pedestrian-detection grade.
Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert are both standard on every 2021 trim, and RCTA is more than alert-only — the car applies automatic emergency braking or obstacle-aware acceleration if it detects a crossing vehicle or pedestrian while reversing. Held out of the 80s because blind-spot warning is purely a touchscreen display (a red icon the driver must glance at) with no audible chime by default and no side mirror that can be widened to cover the blind spot directly, both frequently cited owner complaints for this generation.
Autosteer on the 2021 Model 3 was already regarded as one of the more confident, less ping-pong-prone lane-centering systems on sale, standard rather than optional. Docked from the high 80s because cars built after the May 2021 radar removal initially had Autosteer capped at 75 mph with longer following distances while Tesla rebuilt confidence in Tesla Vision, a real, period-specific capability step-down from the radar-equipped cars built earlier in the same model year.
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control is full-speed-range with stop-and-go and is standard, combined with Autosteer into one coherent Autopilot mode rather than two loosely stitched systems. Scored below segment leaders because the May 2021 Tesla Vision transition temporarily capped Autosteer at 75 mph for part of the model year, automatic lane change still requires the paid Enhanced Autopilot option, and phantom-braking complaints on divided highways were already a documented issue in this era.
No hands-free driving existed on the 2021 Model 3 at any price. Even with the optional Full Self-Driving package and its limited-access FSD Beta (Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control, and beta city-streets driving for the small group of enrolled testers), Tesla required hands detected on the wheel at all times, policed by steering-wheel torque monitoring rather than a camera-based eyes-on-road system. This trails rivals like Super Cruise, which already offered genuine hands-off highway driving on mapped roads in 2021.
IIHS rated both headlight hardware variants fitted during the 2021 model year — reflector-type units on early-year cars and projector-type LEDs on cars built from roughly December 2020 — Good, with good visibility on both sides of the road in the low-beam straightaway test. One headlight spec is shared across the whole trim walk, so the volume car gets the same rating as the Performance.
Forward visibility benefits from a low hood and slim A-pillars, but the fastback's shallow rear window and thick C-pillars leave real rear-quarter blind spots, and unlike most rivals the side mirrors are fixed in a narrow, aerodynamic position that cannot be widened to cover the blind spot directly — owners are pushed toward the touchscreen's blind-spot indicator instead of a mirror glance. There is also no rear wiper to clear the shallow backlight in rain or snow.
IIHS rated LATCH ease of use Acceptable for the 2021 Model 3 — two rear seating positions carry complete lower-anchor-and-tether hardware and a third has a tether anchor only, a workable but not best-in-class setup. The flat, wide rear bench and EV floor help with fitting multiple seats, partly offsetting lower anchors that reviewers describe as requiring some digging to locate in the seat bight.
4Space & ComfortMid-pack among this car's ten categories.2.54C+
Standard 5-seat configuration across all 2021 Model 3 trims (Standard Range Plus, Long Range AWD, Performance); no 2+2 or 7-seat option offered.
Front headroom figure is unchanged by the November 2020 refresh (cosmetic/console changes only, no roofline change) and comes directly from Tesla's published interior dimensions.
Front legroom is generous for the mid-size sedan segment thanks to the flat front floor (no transmission tunnel).
Rear headroom is adequate but the fastback roofline trims space for taller rear occupants compared to boxier sedans.
Rear legroom is a well-documented weak point for the Model 3 versus mid-size and luxury sedan rivals, a consequence of the battery pack and rear seat positioning rather than overall vehicle length.
Trunk volume sits mid-pack for the segment, but the added front trunk meaningfully increases usable cargo capacity versus a typical sedan.
The November 2020 refresh redesigned the center console with a large covered bin, two integrated Qi wireless charging pads, and new cupholder/door storage; combined with the front trunk this is a standout storage package for a sedan.
Front seats are generally described as supportive and comfortable for daily use, but reviewers note relatively flat cushions and less rear-seat under-thigh support than class leaders.
Suspension tuning favors body control over compliance; ride is composed but firm, with road imperfections transmitted more than in softer-riding rivals.
The absence of engine noise is a clear advantage, but the double-pane acoustic glass added for 2021 is offset by noticeable tire and road noise at highway speed that is more apparent without a combustion engine to mask it.
The November 2020 refresh added a heat pump with an 'octovalve' for more efficient, faster-acting climate control; front and rear heated seats and a heated steering wheel are available, and the app supports remote pre-conditioning ("Defrost" and scheduled departure).
5Cost of OwnershipThe Model 3's lowest-graded category.0.00F
Entry trim MSRP for reference only; not scored independently.
Long Range AWD was Tesla's volume Model 3 trim in the US for 2021, balancing range and price between the base RWD car and the Performance model.
No oil changes or traditional driveline service lowers routine maintenance, but Tesla's high parts/body-repair costs and tire wear from instant torque push the combined 5-year maintenance+repair estimate above the segment norm.
Model 3 depreciates less than most EV rivals (e.g. Polestar 2 at ~28% retention) but still loses roughly half its value over five years as newer, cheaper Teslas and price cuts pressured used values.
Standard Tesla New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Model 3 in 2021.
Tesla's battery and drive unit warranty for the Long Range/Performance Model 3 is 8 years/120,000 miles with a minimum 70% capacity retention guarantee; the base RWD car carries the same 8-year term at 100,000 miles.
No complimentary scheduled-maintenance plan was included, and Tesla's standing 12-month/1,500 km free-Supercharging promotion (available since 2019) ended in September 2021, so most 2021 buyers paid for charging from delivery. Roadside assistance is bundled into the basic warranty rather than a standalone premium perk.
$50,990 volume-trim price minus its estimated resale value after 5 years (45% retained, or about $22,946) leaves about $28,045 in depreciation. Add the projected $11,662 in 5-year maintenance and repairs, and owning this vehicle for 5 years costs about $39,707 in total.
6Reliability & QualityOne of the Model 3's weakest categories.1.40D
Consumer Reports' predicted reliability for the Model 3 specifically landed in the average range even as Tesla as a brand scored poorly overall; CR continued to recommend the Model 3 despite flagging drive unit, body hardware, and paint/trim issues reported by owners.
Tesla ranked 30th of 33 brands in J.D. Power's 2021 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (176 problems per 100 vehicles vs. Lexus's 81) and sat near the bottom of Consumer Reports' brand reliability rankings in the same period — a consistently bottom-third standing across both major studies.
This generation has accumulated a high recall count (22 NHTSA campaigns across model years including this one) — well above typical for the segment — though most are software/OTA-remediable (TPMS warning-light logic, rear camera wiring harness wear, later Autopilot-related campaigns) rather than structural or fire-related, keeping severity moderate despite the frequency.
By 2021 the Model 3's electric drivetrain had four model years of real-world mileage behind it with generally strong motor and battery longevity (modest degradation at high mileage), though scattered drive-unit and half-shaft replacement reports keep it short of a fully proven high-mileage track record.
The 2021 cabin pairs vegan leather seating and a soft-touch dash with a minimalist layout, but reviewers consistently note hard plastics on lower surfaces and door panels, placing material quality a step behind premium European rivals at the same price point.
Sandy Munro's 2021 teardown found paint quality dramatically improved over early production with none of the orange-peel/rub-through defects of prior years, and overall panel-gap standard deviation improved roughly 40% fleet-wide, but he still identified visible gap inconsistencies on the passenger-side front door and taillight.
Tesla's direct-owned service network and mobile ranger fleet expanded rapidly (physical centers up ~35%, mobile service up ~40% year over year) but couldn't keep pace with Model 3 sales volume, leading to widespread 2021-era complaints about long wait times, sparse loaner availability, and long drives to the nearest service center in many markets.
Tesla tightly controls its parts supply chain with no independent/aftermarket parts ecosystem comparable to mainstream brands; body panels run well above segment norms (a front bumper cover roughly double a comparable sedan's) with multi-week wait times, and collision repair averages 20-30% higher than gas-powered sedan peers due to proprietary parts and mandatory ADAS recalibration.
7Technology & InfotainmentMid-pack among this car's ten categories.2.33C+
The center touchscreen is near the top of the sedan normalization band and is the sole interface for nearly every vehicle function.
Reviewers consistently rank the Model 3's infotainment as among the fastest and most polished in the industry, though the near-total reliance on touch for climate, mirrors, and glovebox controls draws criticism for ergonomics.
Tesla does not support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in any form (wired or wireless) on any trim; this is a deliberate design choice in favor of Tesla's own infotainment stack, not an omission.
Native navigation with live traffic and automatic Supercharger trip-stop planning is a genuine strength, but the 2021 voice assistant (activated via steering-wheel scroll wheel, no wake word) only handles a fixed command set rather than natural-language requests.
The Long Range AWD volume trim includes Tesla's Premium Audio system standard: a 14-speaker, 650-watt setup with subwoofer that reviewers rate as excellent; only the base RWD trim ships with a deactivated, reduced-speaker setup.
The 2021 Model 3 has no gauge cluster or driver display of any kind in front of the steering wheel — speed, range, and trip data are shown only in the top-left corner of the center touchscreen, a deliberate Tesla design choice but a real usability drawback for quick glances.
Tesla's whole-vehicle over-the-air update program is the industry benchmark, regularly adding new features, performance tweaks, and safety-system improvements long after purchase, not just maps or infotainment patches.
The Tesla app offers phone-as-key unlocking, remote climate pre-conditioning, charge monitoring and control, vehicle locating, Dog Mode/Camp Mode, and Summon, all included free with no subscription required for these core functions.
The November 2020 refresh switched the console and rear-seat ports from USB-A to faster USB-C and added two wireless charging pads as standard equipment — a strong device-power package for the segment.
Phone-as-key is standard and works automatically via Bluetooth proximity with no physical fob needed, backed up by an included key card; there is no classic proximity fob, which some owners find less convenient as a backup method.
A rear backup camera and front/rear ultrasonic parking sensors with a sonar visualization are standard, but the 2021 Model 3 does not offer a true stitched 360-degree bird's-eye camera view.
No head-up display is offered on any 2021 Model 3 trim; Tesla's design philosophy relies entirely on the center touchscreen instead.
8Use-Case FitOne of the Model 3's weakest categories.1.84C-
LATCH anchors and a flat rear floor are helpful, but tight rear legroom (35.2 in) and a low rear door opening make installing and accessing rear-facing car seats more awkward than in a roomier sedan or SUV.
The 2021 Model 3 earned 5-star NHTSA ratings across every category and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for a third consecutive year, with standard forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning on every trim including the base price point.
Cargo flexibility (trunk + frunk) and standard rear climate/heated seats help, but cramped rear legroom limits comfort for taller passengers over multi-hour drives.
One-pedal regenerative driving, instant and linear power delivery, and compact dimensions make the Model 3 widely praised as a relaxed, low-fatigue daily driver in stop-and-go traffic.
At 134 MPGe combined and roughly $550/year EPA-estimated fuel cost, the Long Range AWD's per-mile running cost is dramatically lower than any gas-powered rival in the segment.
A compact sedan footprint and standard backup camera plus parking sensors aid urban use, though the 38.8 ft turning circle is mid-pack rather than class-leading and there is no true 360-degree top-down view.
The Model 3 is not approved for towing in the US market in 2021 and has no bed or significant payload-hauling capacity, making it unsuitable for real work duty.
As a premium EV sedan, the Model 3 is not designed or marketed toward fleet/work abuse, and early-production build-quality concerns (panel gaps, trim rattles) were still being reported by owners into 2021, though chassis and powertrain durability were not themselves a major complaint.
There is no factory tie-down, rack, or upfit ecosystem for the Model 3, and the sedan body style offers no washable cargo area or jobsite-oriented provisions.
353 miles of EPA range on the Long Range AWD, Tesla's dense Supercharger network with automatic trip-planning stops, and standard Autopilot driver assistance make this a strong long-distance tourer, offset only by firmer ride and tighter rear-seat comfort on very long days.
5.5 inches of ground clearance and no US-approved tow rating sharply limit off-pavement and gear-hauling adventure use; AWD helps traction on gravel and light snow but this is fundamentally a pavement-bound sedan.
60/40 folding rear seats plus the front trunk add useful flexibility, but the sedan's trunk lid opening (rather than a hatch) and modest 15 cu ft trunk volume restrict bulky-gear hauling versus hatchbacks or SUVs.
9Driving ExperienceOne of the Model 3's strongest categories.3.10B
A low center of gravity from the floor-mounted battery, roughly 48/52 weight distribution, and quick-ratio steering give the Model 3 widely praised, segment-leading composure and grip through corners.
Steering is quick, accurate, and well-weighted at speed, but reviewers consistently note it transmits little genuine road feedback, leaving an precise-but-numb impression.
Regenerative braking blends smoothly with the friction brakes for strong one-pedal control, and instrumented stopping distances for the Long Range/Performance trims have tested competitively for the segment, though pedal feel at very low speed is sometimes described as slightly grabby.
The dual-motor Long Range AWD delivers instant, linear, and perfectly smooth torque with no gear changes, launching 0-60 mph in a manufacturer-rated 4.2 seconds with no driveline shudder or lag.
The electric motors are near-silent at cruising speed with only a faint, inoffensive whine under hard acceleration, and there is no vibration through the controls typical of a combustion powertrain.
Turning circle is mid-pack for the sedan segment — wider than the tightest-turning compacts but consistent across all 2021 Model 3 trims.
The 2021 car retains conventional steering-column stalks and a column-mounted gear selector with good seat/wheel adjustment range, but routing climate, mirror, and most other secondary controls exclusively through the touchscreen is a recurring ergonomic criticism versus physical switchgear.
Strong instant acceleration (4.2-second 0-60 for the Long Range AWD), sharp handling, and an engaging low-slung driving feel make the Model 3 a genuine enthusiast favorite among electric sedans, even if steering feedback and ride firmness take a little away from outright driver reward.
10Value & Market PositionOne of the Model 3's strongest categories.2.58C+
The base Standard Range Plus included a 15-inch touchscreen, standard Autopilot, keyless entry and over-the-air updates for the price — ahead of combustion rivals on tech — but heated seats were more limited on entry trim, premium audio/interior trim and Full Self-Driving were costly options, and the base car lacked some driver-assist features bundled standard on luxury-sedan rivals.
For the money, the Model 3 offered class-leading acceleration, range, OTA software improvement, and Supercharger network access that combustion and most EV rivals couldn't match, even as sticker prices climbed through 2021.
Three trims only (Standard Range Plus, Long Range AWD, Performance), a single body style, no regional/cab variety, and a short color/interior options list versus rivals offering many more configurations.
The Model 3 was the #19 best-selling vehicle overall in the US in 2021 (150,654 units) and the segment's dominant EV sales leader, well ahead of any other electric sedan.
Tesla carried a strong aspirational halo in 2021 — software-defined car leadership, cultural cachet, and a loyal buyer base willing to accept long wait times and repeated price increases rather than switch brands.
Tesla's federal EV tax credit had fully phased out at the end of 2019 under the 200,000-unit cap, so 2021 buyers received no federal incentive; Tesla has no dealer network or discounting, and demand was so strong the company raised Model 3 prices roughly a dozen times during 2021 while delivery waits stretched to nearly a year — the opposite of buyer-favorable deals.
The Model 3 was in its fifth model year of the first generation (since 2017) but received a meaningful November 2020 refresh carried into 2021 — black-finish exterior trim, a heat pump/octovalve thermal system, power-operated trunk, redesigned center console with wireless charging, and quieter double-pane glass — keeping it current without being a clean-sheet redesign.
The Model 3 swept major 2021 accolades: Edmunds' Top Rated EV (third consecutive year), MotorTrend's Best Compact Luxury Sedan, What Car?'s Large Electric Car of the Year, an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, and a Consumer Reports Top Pick.
