Owner-reported complaints naming the electrical system, filed with NHTSA
Data refreshed
Electrical reportsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
142
Latest Aug 12, 2026
Share of all reportsThis category as a share of every owner report on file for this model year. One report can name more than one component, so the categories overlap.
13%
of 1,052 total
Crash or fire reportedReports in this category whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. The reporter's own answer on the NHTSA form, not a verified finding.
15
Injuries or deaths reportedTotals the submitters entered on their own reports in this category. Not verified by NHTSA and not a casualty statistic.
12
What this page shows
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories. Every record below is an owner-reported complaint about the 2021 Tesla Model Y submitted to NHTSA — not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. 142 reports on file name it.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Owner reports naming electrical
The 25 most recent of 142, in the owner's own words
On 8/10/26, my Tesla experienced a complete low-voltage electrical failure while parked at my home. I owned the vehicle 34 days and put 1,054 miles on it after purchasing it directly from Tesla as a pre-owned vehicle. I entered the driver's seat, and closed the driver's door. The center touchscreen was completely black, the vehicle would not power on, and the Tesla mobile app could not control the vehicle. I attempted to exit the vehicle, but the electronic driver's-door release would not operate. My husband was outside the vehicle and was also unable to open the driver's door from the exterior. The outside temperature was approximately 80 degrees, and the interior of the vehicle became increasingly warmer. For several minutes, we attempted to open the driver's door, lower a window, or restore power without success. I had not been shown or instructed on the location or operation of the manual emergency door release when Tesla delivered the vehicle. I ultimately had to climb over the center console to the passenger side and push the passenger door open with both feet. Tesla Roadside Assistance was contacted and the vehicle was towed to the Tesla Service Center. Tesla's 8/12/2026 service record documents the concern as "Parked vehicle unable to power on" and states that the technician found the 12V battery inoperative. Tesla replaced the 12V lead-acid battery assembly. During the same service visit, Tesla also replaced the left-front door glass and upper trim. Tesla separately verified that the passenger-side window had come out of its track and scratched the trim and documented that the cause was a loose and improperly seated front-right door trim panel. I received no warning on the vehicle display or through the Tesla app before the low-voltage battery failed. My primary safety concern is that loss of low-voltage power disabled the normal electronic means of exiting the driver's door while I was inside the vehicle, with no advance warning.
NHTSA ID
11756565
Incident
Aug 10, 2026
ElectricalFuel systemPowertrain (other)
Filed Aug 8, 2026
The high-voltage battery failed unexpectedly shortly after the warranty expired (with only 9,000 miles past warranty). Tesla Service confirmed a main high-voltage battery defect and quoted a full battery replacement. A sudden high-voltage battery failure causes a complete loss of propulsion/power, creating a severe collision and safety hazard on public roads. There were no prior warnings until the system suddenly failed and rendered the vehicle inoperable. The vehicle is currently available for inspection. This appears to be a premature latent defect in 2021 model high-voltage battery packs.
NHTSA ID
11755660
Incident
Aug 3, 2026
Driver assistanceElectrical
Filed Aug 2, 2026
On June 7, 2026, my 2021 Tesla Model Y with approximately 37,131 miles became completely unresponsive and could not be driven. Tesla Mobile Service replaced the 12V low-voltage battery on June 11, 2026. The official repair notes stated that the battery was replaced, proper operation was verified, there were no active alerts, and the vehicle was in excellent condition. Shortly after this repair, multiple vehicle systems stopped functioning, including all cameras, navigation/GPS, and software/firmware updates. Tesla Service later diagnosed the vehicle as requiring replacement of the HW3 vehicle computer at a cost of approximately $3,066. The loss of camera functionality disabled or affected multiple driver assistance features that rely on the camera system. The vehicle has been unavailable for approximately one month while awaiting repair. During discussions with Tesla Service regarding the diagnosis, I was informed verbally by the Service Manager that they see similar HW3 computer-related issues on a regular basis (approximately every other week). I cannot independently verify that statement, but I am including it because it contributed to my concern that this may not be an isolated incident. I am not asserting the root cause of the failure. I am submitting this complaint because the loss of the vehicle’s camera system and related driver assistance functionality may represent a potential safety concern, and I believe NHTSA should be aware of this incident.
NHTSA ID
11754296
Incident
Jun 7, 2026
Body & structureElectrical
Filed Jul 31, 2026
My 2021 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [XXX]) experienced a serious safety malfunction during a 12V low‑voltage failure. When the vehicle displayed the 12V alert, it became non‑functional. Upon entering, no systems were operating. When I pressed the brake pedal, the interior lights flashed and both front windows began moving up and down automatically without any input. This uncommanded movement caused both windows to shatter violently inside the cabin. The glass broke along the lower section of the window, consistent with internal mechanical stress caused by the window motor cycling during a fault. This was not external impact. I have photos documenting the breakage pattern. This is a safety defect. Automatic window movement during electrical failure poses a risk of injury. Additionally, even if a customer closes a door with the window raised, the glass should not shatter. Tesla vehicles are designed with automatic window indexing and motor resistance protection. The system should adjust the window position to prevent breakage. The fact that the glass shattered indicates a failure of Tesla’s safety logic and window indexing system. Tesla denied responsibility and claimed “misuse,” but could not provide system logs to support this claim. Tesla also stated customers must ensure windows are lowered before closing doors, but this requirement does not exist anywhere in Tesla’s manual. Tesla’s explanation does not address the automatic window movement that caused the breakage. This malfunction presents a clear safety hazard: unexpected window movement, glass shattering inside the cabin, and risk of injury to occupants. I request NHTSA investigate Tesla’s window indexing behavior during 12V failures, the failure of safety protections, and the risk of glass breakage caused by system‑initiated movement. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA ID
11753908
Incident
Jul 15, 2026
Electrical
Filed Jul 30, 2026
High voltage battery pack failed. It is available for inspection. No one was affected by the issue when it occurred. Tesla has inspected it and stated it has imbalance, and entire high voltage battery pack needs to be replaced. Yes, there is a warning messages on the screen. (BMS_a079 - Unable to charge - Maximum charge level reached) ...but only shows 50% State of Charge The issue happened randomly while the car was parked yesterday 7/29/2026
NHTSA ID
11753772
Incident
Jul 29, 2026
ElectricalInterior & seats
Filed Jul 22, 2026
Hello, We have 46224 miles on the car currently. A couple of weeks back the whole battery died. Tesla replaced the battery and we picked up the car this past Friday, the XXX. After picking up the car the driver's seat does not slide. I looked it up online on the Tesla website as well as on the app and at both the places it was strongly recommended to bring the car back to Tesla as the problem was very very likely secondary to the battery replacement. the seat does not move at all. When I spoke to customer service at out local Tesla dealership in [XXX], the earliest date they could provide us was in the first week of August! This is an urgent issue. We happen to be away on vacation that week. So we were told to review the cost estimate and then find a date on the app to bring the car in. When I questioned the estimate price, I was told that this was the worst case scenario. But the invoice clearly states Calibration, and 3 prices for a switch package all amounting to $364.45 with tax!!! Again I questioned this huge charge, considering the battery replacement and I was told almost rudely, "That does not seem to be the issue." Just not right!! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA ID
11752211
Incident
Jul 22, 2026
Driver assistanceElectricalPowertrain (other)
Filed Jun 4, 2026
The vehicle’s secondary Autopilot Processor / car computer is internally faulted and stuck in a continuous wake/shutdown loop. This causes severe standby battery drain (~20 miles of range lost per day while parked) and completely prevents all over-the-air software updates - including federally mandated safety recall remedies. On April 4, 2024, Tesla Service diagnosed the fault and linked it to the drain and inability to update. On the same visit, Tesla added two safety recalls (23V-838 Autosteer controls and 24V-051 Brake/Park/ABS indicators) to the work order. They then demanded ~$3,000 customer payment for computer replacement before the recalls could be performed. After I declined the paid repair, Tesla marked both recalls as “completed” via software update despite the same invoice stating the vehicle could not receive updates and remained on software version 2023.38.9 (which predates both remedy firmwares they claimed was installed). Tesla is effectively paywalling federally required safety recall remedies by requiring the customer to first pay for computer replacement first. Two additional recalls remain open (21V-389 seat belt fasteners and 24V-554 hood latch). The problem has been confirmed and documented multiple times by Tesla Service.
NHTSA ID
11742219
Incident
Apr 2, 2024
Electrical
Filed Jun 3, 2026
My 2021 Tesla Model Y experienced a critical failure resulting in the vehicle displaying diagnostic code BMS_079. After the fault appeared, I was informed that the vehicle's High-Voltage (HV) Battery requires replacement at a cost exceeding $10,000. As a result of this failure, the vehicle is no longer drivable and has been effectively rendered unusable. The High-Voltage (HV) Battery Management System and/or HV battery pack failed, triggering Tesla diagnostic code BMS_079. The vehicle is currently unable to operate due to this fault. The vehicle and battery system are available for inspection upon request. The sudden failure of the HV battery system created a significant safety concern because the vehicle lost its ability to operate as intended. A battery failure can leave drivers stranded unexpectedly, potentially in unsafe locations such as highways, intersections, remote areas, or during adverse weather conditions. The inability to reliably operate the vehicle creates a safety risk for both occupants and other motorists. The fault code BMS_079 was diagnosed and confirmed through Tesla's service system. Tesla service personnel indicated that the HV battery requires replacement and that the vehicle cannot be driven safely until the repair is completed. Prior to the vehicle becoming inoperable, warning messages appeared on the vehicle display indicating a problem with the battery system. The BMS_079 fault code was displayed, and the vehicle subsequently restricted operation.no warning signs prior. I am concerned that a major HV battery failure requiring a repair exceeding $10,000 occurred on a 2021 Tesla Model Y. A failure of this magnitude on a relatively modern electric vehicle raises concerns regarding battery reliability, consumer cost burden, and potential safety implications when vehicles become unexpectedly disabled. I am requesting that this issue be investigated and that appropriate action be taken to address similar failures affecting Tesla owners.
NHTSA ID
11741720
Incident
Mar 1, 2026
Body & structureDriver assistanceElectrical
Filed May 19, 2026
I am reporting two unresolved safety-related defects on my 2021 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [XXX] ) that occurred following paid service at Tesla's League City Service Center on 04/16/2026 DEFECT 1 — COMPUTER AND SENSOR SYSTEM FAILURE: The vehicle's onboard computer cuts in and out intermittently. Sensors fail during operation and the problem worsens significantly in high-temperature conditions. Tesla vehicles rely on their computer and sensor systems for core safety functions including collision avoidance, autopilot, and driver assist features. Intermittent failure of these systems while operating the vehicle is a safety hazard to the driver and the public. DEFECT 2 — GLOVE BOX INOPERABLE: The glove box does not open following Tesla service. The glove box in Tesla vehicles houses key vehicle documentation and is integrated into the vehicle's locking and security system. I paid $2,497.50 for service on [06/16/2026]. Both defects were either caused or left unresolved by that service. I have notified Tesla service staff directly and followed up multiple times over more than four weeks. Tesla has not responded, has not scheduled any repair, and has not refunded my money. I am filing this complaint because (1) the sensor and computer failures present an active safety risk during operation, (2) Tesla has ignored all attempts to resolve this, and (3) public reviews indicate this is a pattern affecting multiple consumers. I request that NHTSA investigate and determine whether a safety defect investigation or recall is warranted. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA ID
11738762
Incident
Apr 16, 2026
Electrical
Filed May 13, 2026
The vehicle’s low-voltage battery system failed unexpectedly, causing a complete loss of electrical power and preventing normal vehicle access and operation. The failure resulted in my [XXX] child becoming trapped inside the vehicle. The malfunction appears related to the 12V/low-voltage battery and/or associated power management system. The vehicles inspection invoice is available upon request. This incident created a serious safety risk because the loss of low-voltage power prevented normal door operation and immediate access to my child. The situation posed risks of heat exposure, medical distress, panic, and delayed emergency access. Although the vehicle includes a manual emergency door release, it is not realistically accessible or operable by a baby or toddler secured in a child safety seat. A young child cannot reasonably be expected to understand, locate, or operate the manual release during an emergency. The sudden failure without warning left my child unable to exit independently while caregivers were temporarily unable to access the vehicle. There were no noticeable warning, messages, or other symptoms prior to the failure. The low-voltage battery appeared to fail suddenly and without sufficient warning, resulting in immediate loss of access and vehicle functionality. The problem has not yet been reproduced, but the low-voltage battery failure was identified after the incident. The vehicle has been inspected by Tesla service. No formal police or insurance inspection was performed, but a first responder was present. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA ID
11737674
Incident
May 15, 2024
Driver assistanceElectricalVisibility
Filed May 8, 2026
My 2021 Tesla Model Y HW3 experienced complete failure of all cameras, GPS, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Adaptive Cruise Control following the installation of software update 2026.8.6.1 — the OTA remedy update issued by Tesla for NHTSA Recall 26V283000. The vehicle was fully functional prior to this update. The failure was confirmed and reproduced by Tesla's authorized service center. The service advisor confirmed in writing: "During the update, the computer failed to reboot properly. We attempted to perform a 12V reset but unfortunately it is still stuck in the boot loop state." The Autopilot ECU (Primary/Turbo A) is stuck in a permanent boot loop and cannot be recovered by software means. Safety impact: All cameras including rearview camera are completely non-functional. Automatic Emergency Braking and all ADAS features are disabled. The vehicle cannot safely detect obstacles or pedestrians. GPS navigation is frozen. Tesla has confirmed the computer requires replacement but is classifying it as a customer-pay repair citing expired warranty, despite the failure occurring during Tesla's own recall remedy software deployment. This vehicle meets every technical criterion of Recall 26V283000 — HW3 hardware, 2021 Model Y, software version 2026.8.6.1, complete camera failure — but does not appear in the recall VIN database. I am requesting NHTSA review whether this VIN should be included in recall 26V283000 or a related investigation.
NHTSA ID
11736560
Incident
Apr 30, 2026
Driver assistanceElectrical
Filed May 7, 2026
The vehicle began experiencing repeated Autopilot/FSD failures while driving. Symptoms included sudden Autopilot disengagements, cruise control becoming unavailable, and loss of road visualization/navigation display functionality. The issue progressively worsened over time. The vehicle was first brought to Tesla service in 2025 for the same overheating-related concern. At that time, Tesla identified a coolant-related issue, topped off the coolant system, and returned the vehicle to service. However, the problem continued and gradually became more frequent and severe afterward. During the most recent service visit, Tesla diagnosed the HW3 Autopilot computer as overheating due to a heat transfer failure between the Autopilot board and cooling cold plate. Tesla stated that heat generated by the board could no longer be efficiently transferred to the coolant system, causing the Autopilot computer to overheat. Tesla further advised that continued operation without repair could eventually impact additional vehicle functions, including the center display screen shutting off due to overheating-related failures. Given the loss of driver-assistance functionality and potential impact to core vehicle systems, I am submitting this report so the issue is documented as a potential thermal management or hardware reliability concern involving the HW3 Autopilot computer system.
NHTSA ID
11736263
Incident
May 7, 2026
AirbagsElectrical
Filed Apr 13, 2026
**What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request?** The vehicle experienced a critical failure immediately on the same day of purchase, rendering it not functioning or inoperable. It was deemed to be preexisting from the dealership I bought it from. The battery is malfunctioning affecting the driving capacity and range. --- **How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk?** The failure created a significant safety concern, as the vehicle was not operating reliably immediately after purchase. This placed me at risk of being stranded and potentially exposed to hazardous conditions, including loss of transportation in unsafe or uncontrolled environments. Or stopping while driving. --- **Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center?** The issue was immediately reported to the dealership, and they acknowledged the problem by agreeing to an exchange of the vehicle due to its defective condition. It was confirmed by a service center of the car's manufacturer. --- **Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others?** At this time, the vehicle has inspected by the manufacturer. --- **Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear?** Yes, although the manufacturer can't pinpoint when they started but said they had been on since ATLEAST March 10. My purchase was made April 1, undisclosed to me of this huge issue.
NHTSA ID
11730990
Incident
Apr 1, 2026
BrakesElectricalSteering
Filed Mar 28, 2026
I was entering the on-ramp to [XXX] , from [XXX] , to merge onto the freeway east bound towards [XXX] , when my Tesla suddenly lost all power, the brakes did not work and the power steering completely failed making it feel like it was locked up. I was traveling approximately 40-50 mph at the time nearing the gore point to merge onto the freeway. Fortunately I was in the inside lane and I rolled to a stop away from other vehicles. I could not steer at all. Had I been completely on the freeway, I could have been rear ended badly. I had my two young boys in the vehicle with me, both [XXX] and [XXX] . We were completely trapped in the vehicle with no power. My [XXX] old remembered to use the manual latch to get out. I opened my door manually and It broke my driver side glass window. Vehicles were passing us rapidly to enter the freeway. I called my husband who is a police officer and he came and picked us up. We called Tesla who said they could not get a read on our battery whatsoever. We called a tow company and had this vehicle towed to Tesla repair center in [XXX] , after reporting our traumatic event. They claim our warranty is expired, but our vehicle only has 37,638 miles and should be covered under the 8 year, 120,000 mile warranty that covers a major malfunction like this. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA ID
11727700
Incident
Mar 19, 2026
Electrical
Filed Mar 20, 2026
While on my way to run an errand, I opened up the back door to strap my 2 year old in, when i closed the door, the car would not open whatsoever, after trying for a few minutes with the phone key app for tesla and the physical key fob, nothing would work. I had to end up calling 911 and firefighters came out and had to physically open the door, which broke the window. The car was completely unresponsive and would not turn on. After researching what happened, it turns out the 12v battery had died. I was able to jumpstart the car with jumpers and that was able to open up the rest of the car's doors. However, during the time my son was stuck inside with the over 95 degree weather, the had no safety mechanism in place to open it physically like a traditional key fob would. It is very disheartening knowing my son could have potentially lost his life over something so simple that could be resolved with a physical keyhole on the outside like almost every traditional vehicle has. This is something that should not occur, ever. The fact that the car was able to open up once more before completely dying and perfectly at the wrong time after closing the door while my son was trapped in there in complete heat was very disappointing.
NHTSA ID
11725975
Incident
Mar 19, 2026
Body & structureElectrical
Filed Feb 4, 2026
On [XXX], after placing my young child in my Tesla and closing the door, the 12V battery failed suddenly and the vehicle became inaccessible. I was unable to unlock or enter the car. I did not receive any warning or alert that the 12V battery was about to fail. The vehicle was in my garage, and the window automatically cracked, which allowed me to monitor my child while I sought help. I called Tesla Roadside Assistance at 8:59 AM. During the call, the representative reassured me that help was being dispatched and at times described the service provider as “on the way” (timing details such as “within ~45 minutes” and the length of the initial call are my best estimates). After continued waiting with my child confined inside the vehicle, I contacted emergency services due to the safety risk. I called 911 at 10:03 AM. I later had the 12V battery replaced at my own expense. This incident involved a sudden electrical failure without warning that resulted in a child being trapped inside a disabled vehicle, and I am also concerned about the accuracy and effectiveness of roadside assistance dispatch communications during the incident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA ID
11715486
Incident
Jul 9, 2025
Electrical
Filed Jan 23, 2026
Crash reportedFire reported1 death reported
The contact's client owned a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while his client was driving at an undisclosed speed under 60 MPH, the vehicle caught fire in an unknown location. The origin of the fire was unknown. The contact stated that his client attempted to unlock the vehicle doors, but the driver's handle did not work as intended, trapping the contact's client in the burning vehicle. The contact stated that the police and fire department arrived, but were not able to get close enough to the vehicle due to the inferno. The contact's client succumbed to the fire. The fire department extinguished the fire after approximately 40 minutes. The vehicle was destroyed but towed to a tow yard. The manufacturer was notified of the fatality. No further information was available as of yet. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA ID
11712905
Incident
Oct 30, 2024
ElectricalFuel system
Filed Jan 15, 2026
After charging the vehicle threw error code “BMS_a079 Unable to charge - Maximum charge level reached Reduced maximum charge level - Schedule service”. The car would no longer charge and had to be taken in for service. Tesla advised the High Voltage battery needed to be replaced. Replacing the High Voltage battery resolved the issue.
NHTSA ID
11711113
Incident
Nov 22, 2025
ElectricalEngine
Filed Jan 12, 2026
I parked my Tesla vehicle in a friend’s driveway. When I returned and opened the driver’s door, I entered the vehicle and attempted to put it into Drive. At that point, the vehicle display went completely blank and the vehicle became inoperable. I then attempted to open the door from inside the vehicle, but the door would not open and I was unable to exit the car. I was effectively locked inside the vehicle. I contacted Tesla customer support and remained on the call for approximately 1.5 hours before receiving assistance. Tesla customer support confirmed that the issue was caused by failure of the 12-volt battery. At the time of the incident, the outside temperature was below 0 degrees centigrade. The incident occurred in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. There was no prior warning or notification from the vehicle or the Tesla mobile app indicating that the 12-volt battery was at risk of failure. The failure resulted in loss of vehicle function and inability to exit the vehicle, creating a serious safety concern.
NHTSA ID
11710416
Incident
Dec 1, 2025
Electrical
Filed Jan 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact observed the code BMSA079 on the computer, and messages "Vehicle Unable to Charge to Maximum Charge Level" and “Maximum Charge Level Reached - Reduced Maximum Charge Levels" were displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and it was determined that one coil in the battery was inoperative, and the dealer reduced the charge and refused to increase the battery charging level. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 155,000.
NHTSA ID
11708424
Incident
Oct 14, 2025
Mileage
155,000 mi
Electrical
Filed Dec 31, 2025
The vehicle’s high-voltage battery and charging system experienced repeated failures, preventing charging while the vehicle was parked. This issue occurred three times: January 2024: Charging error “BMS_a079. Unable to charge” appeared. Vehicle was stranded and required service intervention. Mileage ~28,125. November 2024: Same charging error during winter travel, vehicle stranded mid-trip, creating safety risk for passengers. Mileage ~38,744. September 2025: Charging error recurred mid-trip, vehicle had to be left at a service location. Mileage ~48,918. All incidents were reported to Tesla under battery warranty. Repairs were attempted each time, but the problem recurred. A repurchase request was submitted after the third incident and was denied, with only a goodwill service credit offered. Safety concerns include the risk of being stranded, particularly during long trips or in winter conditions, which could affect passengers and other road users. The battery and charging system were inspected by Tesla service personnel after each incident, and the failure was confirmed each time.
NHTSA ID
11708023
Incident
Jan 12, 2024
ElectricalVisibility
Filed Dec 15, 2025
In May 2025, Tesla pushed an over-the-air (OTA) software update overnight while the vehicle was parked. When the vehicle was started the following morning, the update had failed mid-process and stalled at approximately 50%. Immediately upon startup, the backup camera and navigation/maps stopped functioning. The vehicle has been unable to complete subsequent software updates since. Tesla service later inspected the vehicle and indicated that the main computer/ECU was stuck in a loop and required replacement. The backup camera and navigation loss occurred immediately following the OTA update and persisted for several months despite multiple service attempts. Due to the vehicle’s rear design and limited rear window visibility, operating the vehicle in reverse without a functioning backup camera significantly impairs visibility. Even when using mirrors or physically turning to look backward, rearward visibility is restricted. As a result, the loss of backup camera functionality presents an ongoing, daily safety hazard during normal vehicle operation.
NHTSA ID
11705202
Incident
May 28, 2025
ElectricalEngine
Filed Dec 9, 2025
I am filing this complaint regarding a high-voltage battery defect in my 2021 Tesla Model Y. The vehicle has been diagnosed by Tesla Service, and both the technician and service advisor confirmed that the high-voltage battery has an internal short. This is a critical failure involving the primary energy/storage system of the vehicle. Despite acknowledging the internal failure, Tesla is denying warranty coverage for the battery replacement. They have stated that failure is internal, and is not caused by anything external The failure was not caused by an accident, environmental exposure, or improper use. This appears to be a component-level defect within the 2021 Tesla Model Y battery packs Considering Tesla has issued prior service bulletins for Model Y high-voltage battery quality issues in adjacent model years, this may indicate a broader pattern of battery defects. They are trying to charge people over $12,000 for battery replacements that should be covered by tesla due to poor workmanship and materials used. Many have had to have multiple battery packs replaced.
NHTSA ID
11704000
Incident
Nov 10, 2025
Driver assistanceElectricalPowertrain (other)
Filed Nov 19, 2025
Detailed Description of the Defect: Friday Incident: While picking up my son from school, the vehicle abruptly disabled multiple safety and driver-assist features. The car rolled backward on a slight incline, failed to display any surrounding vehicles on the FSD visualization, and retained accelerator input even after I removed my foot from the pedal. The vehicle continued to speed up slightly in Drive and Reverse without my input. Soft resets did not resolve the issue. Monday Incident (Collision Caused by Malfunction): On Monday morning, the same malfunction occurred. As I reversed into my garage with the door opening, the car again held the accelerator input after I lifted my foot, causing the vehicle to continue moving backward unexpectedly. The vehicle struck my garage door, causing property damage and a dent to the trunk. This was not driver error. It was unexpected propulsion after pedal release — an extremely dangerous condition.
NHTSA ID
11700358
Incident
Nov 14, 2025
ElectricalInterior & seats
Filed Nov 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving uphill at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally loud pop coming from the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle lost automotive power and rolled away in reverse downhill towards oncoming traffic. The contact was able to avoid oncoming traffic and reverse onto the shoulder of the road; however, the driver’s side rear driver’s door failed to unlatch or open as intended while using the interior door handles. A local tow truck arrived on scene, and the passenger’s side door failed to open as intended with the exterior door handle. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the 12-Volt battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but remained at the local dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
NHTSA ID
11697715
Incident
Oct 4, 2025
Mileage
60,000 mi
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Other components reported on this vehicle
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