2021 Tesla Model Y Electrical Problems

I am reporting a potential safety defect in my 2021 Tesla Model Y, currently showing 47,582 miles, involving electrical, software, and driver-assistance systems. Problems began around August 2026. By September 10, 2026, automatic high beams were malfunctioning. Diagnostic alerts dated October 15–16, 2026, indicated Autosteer unavailable and adaptive-headlight failures. Autopilot becomes unavailable, nighttime visibility is affected, and software updates repeatedly stall at approximately 50%. On October 16, 2026, Service Mode showed a CRITICAL Secondary Autopilot ECU fault. Tesla Sterling subsequently identified computer reboot-loop faults and recommended approximately $2,700 in computer replacement without conclusively establishing whether software or hardware caused the failure. Tesla Tysons also reviewed vehicle logs but reported that existing faults prevented further remote diagnosis. An independent former Tesla technician indicated that typical computer failures can involve overheating or camera malfunctions. Neither symptom is present, and cameras function while parked. I am concerned that these safety-related failures may be associated with an incomplete software update. Tesla has been notified, but the root cause remains unresolved. The vehicle is available for inspection. I request that NHTSA investigate potential systemic software and Autopilot computer defects, examine similar complaints, and determine whether a safety recall or manufacturer-funded corrective action is warranted.

NHTSA ID

11776462

Incident

Aug 15, 2026

After installing a Tesla software update, my blind-spot warning and lane-departure warning systems stopped working. this can cause bad accident. I took my vehicle to Tesla Service, where I was informed that the car's computer was defective and needed to be replaced at a cost of $2,518, not including labor and diagnostic fees. I have never been involved in a collision, and my vehicle has not experienced any other issues that could explain this failure. Both safety features were working properly before the software update. I strongly believe this problem was caused by Tesla's software update, yet Tesla is refusing to take responsibility and is asking me to pay for the replacement computer, labor, and diagnostic charges. I find it unfair that I am being asked to pay thousands of dollars to fix a problem that appeared immediately after a Tesla software update. I believe Tesla should take responsibility and repair the issue at no cost to me.

NHTSA ID

11776295

Incident

Nov 5, 2026

On XXX (4:59 PM and 5:47 PM) and XXX (7:49 AM), while driving, my 2021 Tesla Model Y (approx. 41,500 miles) displayed "Steering assist reduced" (UI_a020), each followed within about a minute by "Lane Departure Avoidance unavailable" (APP_w264). [Add if true: The steering felt noticeably heavier when the alert appeared.] The vehicle's 12V system tested healthy in Service Mode (13.32 V, DC-DC output normal). Tesla Service ([XXX]; service SV02F94980) diagnosed an Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) rack motor control error with limited power output from overheat or overload protection. On XXX, at 41,788 miles, Tesla replaced the steering gear (part 1188832-00-B), along with the front lower compliance and lateral links, and performed an alignment. I paid $4,522.27 out of pocket; Tesla declined goodwill. Losing power steering assist while driving is a safety hazard. The failed rack belongs to the same Mando-manufactured family (XXX) named in recall 25V-092 and investigation EA24001, which covered only 2023 Model 3 and Model Y. NHTSA's complaint database shows a growing number of 2021 Model Y complaints describing the same UI_a020 alert and the same rack replacement, many filed in 2026. I ask NHTSA to evaluate whether the defect and remedy should extend to 2021 Model Y vehicles. Invoice attached. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11774496

Incident

Oct 12, 2026

This vehicle presents a safety risk because it can lose power unexpectedly while driving in traffic. The 2021 Tesla Model Y Long Range currently displays alert BMS_a074 and will not charge above approximately 32%. This is a recurring high-voltage battery failure. The car has already required two battery replacements under warranty (June 2025 at 90,707 miles and February 2026 at 92,077 miles). Only months after the second replacement, the same issue returned. Tesla Service has quoted $17,550.18 for a fourth battery and has not offered further investigation into the root cause, despite three batteries being needed within roughly 16 months on a 2021 vehicle. The car has been charged exclusively at Tesla Superchargers and is otherwise well maintained.

NHTSA ID

11772174

Incident

Oct 15, 2026

On XXX, my 2021 Tesla Model Y displayed a low-voltage warning. Approximately 15 minutes later, the vehicle became completely inoperable and we could not open its doors. Our children's car seats were inside and inaccessible. We were stranded with two young children, ages [XXX].[XXX] and [XXX]. My wife ultimately had to transport the children without their car seats because we could not retrieve them. This loss of vehicle and door access after such limited warning created a serious safety risk. Tesla Roadside Assistance was dismissive, including after escalation to [XXX], who was described as part of its senior leadership team. The vehicle was serviced at Tesla's [XXX] center. We incurred $364 for towing and $139 for transportation and lost more than five hours. Please investigate the electrical and door-access failure. It may be relevant to NHTSA investigation PE25010, but I do not know the underlying cause or whether it is the same issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11770393

Incident

Oct 10, 2026

COMPONENT: The car computer (Tesla HW3 / "Full Self-Driving Computer 3," which houses the Autopilot computer and GPS) failed during a scheduled overnight over-the-air software update from version XXX in early XXX. The update failed to install, and from that point all cameras were black including the backup camera, navigation was frozen, and every driver-assistance feature was unavailable: Autopilot, FSD, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keeping, and blind spot monitoring. The failed unit was returned to the owner and is available for inspection. SAFETY RISK: The vehicle remained drivable with crash-avoidance systems and the federally required backup camera disabled. The only indication was a camera-unavailable message; there was no clear warning that AEB and collision warning were off. The vehicle was driven about three weeks in this condition while awaiting parts. CONFIRMED BY MANUFACTURER: Yes. Tesla remote diagnosis determined the car computer required replacement. Tesla remotely cancelled and re-pushed the update on XXX; the download stalled at 0 B/s and never installed. Tesla Service in [XXX] replaced the car computer on XXX at owner expense ($2,489.48; outside basic warranty, goodwill declined). Tesla's repair notes state the loss of all camera images and Autopilot capability occurred "after a failed software update." PRIOR WARNINGS: None. No warning lamps or messages before the update; the vehicle operated normally on XXX Owner resets, power-off, and 12V disconnect did not restore function. ASSESSMENT: The Autopilot computer failed during a manufacturer-pushed software update. Owner forums and automotive press reported numerous similar HW3 computer failures in summer 2026 following Tesla software releases. No crash, fire, or injury. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11768791

Incident

Sep 7, 2026

On October 1, 2026, immediately after my 2021 Tesla Model Y installed Tesla software update 2026.32.7, the driver-assist computer entered a continuous boot loop. All eight vehicle cameras went black (confirmed in the vehicle's Service Mode), the rear camera displays 'camera temporarily unavailable,' Autosteer will not engage, and the vehicle shows alert UI_a114 for degraded driving visualization. All camera-dependent driver-assist and safety features are inoperative. The vehicle had zero driver-assist or camera issues before the update. I performed a scroll-wheel reboot, a driver-assist system reset, and a full Service Mode software reinstall, none of which resolved the issue. Tesla's remote service diagnosed a 'hardware failure' of the Full Self-Driving computer and quoted $2,701.32 for replacement, without explaining how firmware corruption from their own update was ruled out. A manufacturer software update disabling all cameras and driver-assist safety systems is a safety defect.

NHTSA ID

11768773

Incident

Oct 1, 2026

I would like to report a serious safety incident involving Full Self-Driving (Supervised) in a 2021 Tesla Model Y. Vehicle Safety Complaint – Tesla FSD Wrong-Way Entry / Near Head-On Collision Vehicle: 2021 Tesla Model Y VIN: [XXX] Date: XXX Time: Approximately 7:30 PM Location: [XXX] I was leaving a public parking area near the Crystal Gateway Marriott in [XXX], traveling toward [XXX]. Navigation was set to avoid tolls, and Tesla Full Self-Driving (Supervised) was engaged. At the intersection of [XXX] and [XXX], the vehicle should have proceeded toward the appropriate XXX entrance/on-ramp. Instead, FSD directed and drove the vehicle onto the southbound XXX off-ramp in the wrong direction. The vehicle was therefore traveling against the legal direction of traffic on a one-way highway ramp, and I was suddenly facing oncoming traffic traveling toward me. This created an immediate risk of a head-on collision. I had to intervene to prevent a collision. This was not simply an incorrect navigation route or missed turn. The automated driving-assistance system entered a one-way highway ramp against oncoming traffic. I am attaching map and satellite images identifying the intersection and road configuration. I am reporting this incident because I believe this FSD behavior presents a serious vehicle safety risk and could potentially result in a severe or fatal collision. I am also reporting the incident directly to Tesla and requesting that Tesla preserve and investigate the associated FSD, telemetry, navigation, location, intervention, and available camera/safety-event data. Please let me know if you require additional information, including the vehicle VIN, Tesla software/FSD version, or additional details regarding the incident. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11767433

Incident

Sep 20, 2026

Shortly after I purchased and activated Tesla Full Self-Driving (Supervised), my vehicle's driver-assistance system stopped functioning. Autopilot and FSD became unavailable, the vehicle cameras stopped functioning properly, GPS/navigation positioning stopped functioning properly, and the vehicle could no longer communicate normally with the Driver Assistance System (DAS). Service Mode testing showed DAS Ethernet communication failure. I attempted multiple troubleshooting procedures, including vehicle reboots and resets. The low-voltage battery was also replaced, but the driver-assistance failure remained. I cancelled my FSD subscription on July 13, 2026 because the purchased feature was not functioning and sought assistance from Tesla. I subsequently had a Tesla Service appointment on July 16, 2026. Tesla advised that the Autopilot computer would need to be replaced and quoted approximately $3,000 for the repair/replacement. The failure occurred after the FSD purchase/activation and associated software changes. I am concerned that a Tesla software update or FSD-related software may have contributed to the HW3 Autopilot computer failure, but I do not know the definitive technical cause. This is a safety concern because multiple driver-assistance and camera-dependent functions became unavailable simultaneously. The vehicle is available for inspection. I am requesting that NHTSA review this failure and compare it with similar HW3/Autopilot computer failures reported by other Tesla owners.

NHTSA ID

11767070

Incident

Jul 13, 2026

On or about XXX my Tesla Model Y downloaded FSD version 14 Lite. One day after downloading the software, I used FSD and the new software caused the computer to overheat. This killed the car computer and made FSD, adaptive, cruise control, lane keep assist, reverse camera, and many other functions, including GPS and navigation inoperable. My car’s warranty expired in January of this year and Tesla will not cover the replacement car computer. There are hundreds of other complaints of this issue reported online on [XXX], Reddit, Facebook, etc. In the 2nd quarter Tesla Earnings Call, [XXX] declared that hardware 3 equipped Tesla vehicles would not be able to support autonomous driving with full self driving. He stated every hardware 3 vehicle will need to be updated with a hardware 4 computer and cameras. Since my hardware 3 computer failed, I requested the hardware 4 computer and cameras to be installed, but Tesla denied this service even though [XXX] said it was a requirement. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11764580

Incident

Jul 23, 2026

Rear passenger door is impossible to open. On using the exterior latch, the window retracts partly and the door opens 1/2 inch only. From inside, nothing works and a passenger would be trapped. Please have Tesla fix this - a very known problem, there are youtubes videos complaining about this door problem - always the same door too - so Tesla knows this is a problem.

NHTSA ID

11760625

Incident

Aug 12, 2026

On August 27, 2026, the 12V/low-voltage battery in my Tesla completely failed without any prior low-voltage warning displayed on the screen or sent to the mobile app. After placing my infant/toddler in their car seat in the rear and closing the door, the vehicle's electronic systems shut down entirely. The electronic door handles and key access became completely inoperative from the outside, locking my child inside the vehicle with no way for me to open the doors or retrieve them. The manual override releases are inaccessible to a young child buckled in a car seat, and the vehicle provided zero advance warning that the low-voltage battery was at critical failure. This severe design flaw creates an immediate, life-threatening entrapment hazard.

NHTSA ID

11760101

Incident

Aug 27, 2026

On XXX, while driving southbound on XXX from [XXX] toward [XXX], my vehicle’s center display (MCU) crashed and rebooted at highway speed, leaving me with no screen for approximately 5–10 minutes. Sequence of events: 1.Earlier in the drive, while using Full Self-Driving (Supervised) v14 Lite, the vehicle exhibited phantom braking and speed oscillation (repeatedly cycling between approximately 73, 70, and 72 mph without cause). I disengaged FSD and switched to standard Autopilot. 2.During this portion of the drive, three alert codes appeared: UI_a111, APP_w207, and DI_a175 (the latter twice). 3.I stopped to Supercharge in [XXX] at 1:17 PM (33-minute session ending approximately 1:50 PM), then resumed driving on XXX [XXX]. 4.Shortly after resuming the drive, at approximately 1:53 PM, I tapped on one of the displayed alerts on the touchscreen to view details. The screen opened an in-car help/browser page, then the entire MCU crashed and went dark. 5.The display remained black for approximately 5–10 minutes while I was traveling at highway speed. During this time I had NO speedometer, NO navigation/GPS, NO touch controls, and NO visibility into vehicle alerts or state. In a Tesla Model Y, the center display is the ONLY instrument display — there is no separate gauge cluster. 6.The MCU eventually rebooted on its own and the display returned. The incident time is corroborated by a text message my wife sent me from inside the vehicle at 1:53 PM at my request, specifically to create a contemporaneous timestamped record. Safety concern: A driver-initiated tap on a safety alert — an action the interface invites — triggered a total display failure at highway speed. Loss of the sole speedometer and all vehicle status information while traveling at approximately 70+ mph is an unreasonable safety risk. This occurred on the same drive as continued phantom braking and speed oscillation events previously reported in ODI #XXX, o INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11757562

Incident

Aug 16, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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