2021 Tesla Model Y Suspension Problems

I own a 2021 Tesla Model Y Performance with approximately 42,000 miles. On November 5, 2026, Tesla Service identified a suspension defect described in its official repair estimate as “lateral bushings torn out.” Tesla determined that both front lower lateral link assemblies require replacement. The estimated repair cost is $782.40. The vehicle has previously experienced persistent alignment problems, including pulling to the right and abnormal tire wear. A wheel alignment was performed approximately six weeks before this diagnosis. Tesla Service stated that the bushings would have been inspected during the previous alignment and suggested that the failures occurred within the intervening six weeks. However, I have not been provided documentation establishing that both bushings were undamaged during the earlier inspection. I am concerned about the potential safety implications of both front lower lateral link bushings failing at approximately 42,000 miles, particularly given the importance of these components in maintaining suspension geometry and vehicle stability. Tesla previously issued Recall 21V-835 involving front lateral link fasteners on certain 2020–2021 Model Y vehicles. Although Tesla informed me that my VIN is excluded from that recall, the affected suspension components are the same. Additionally, NHTSA opened investigation PE26-006 in July 2026 concerning front lower lateral link failures in Tesla vehicles, including 2021–2023 Model Ys. I recognize that the failure mechanism identified in my vehicle may differ from those previously investigated. Nevertheless, I request that NHTSA review this incident to determine whether premature front lower lateral link bushing failures represent an additional safety concern affecting these vehicles. I can provide Tesla’s written diagnosis and repair estimate documenting the condition of both front lower lateral link assemblies.

NHTSA ID

11775938

Incident

Nov 5, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, there was an abnormally loud popping and cracking sound, and the steering wheel became unstable. The contact pulled over to the side of the road. The contact resumed driving; however, the steering wheel was loose, causing the vehicle to fail to respond to steering input. The contact pulled over a second time and inspected the vehicle, discovering that the front driver’s side wheel was turned inward. The vehicle was towed to the residence, and later towed to Bimmer Rescue, where it was diagnosed that the axle bolts had backed out, the axle was fractured, and the lower control arm sustained damages and struck and cracked the sub frame. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Action Number: PE26006 (Suspension). A Tesla Service Center was notified of the failure in person, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 172,316.

NHTSA ID

11775597

Incident

Nov 1, 2026

Mileage

172,316 mi

Subject: Front suspension failure and wheel detachment — 2021 Tesla Model Y Vehicle: 2021 Tesla Model Y VIN: [XXX] My wife's 2021 Tesla Model Y experienced a serious failure involving the front-right suspension, resulting in the wheel detaching from the vehicle. Following the incident, we observed a disconnected suspension arm at its mounting point and recovered a loose fastener. We understand that another fastener associated with the connection was already missing. We have photographs documenting the detached suspension connection and the recovered fastener. We are concerned that this failure may involve a safety-related defect in the front suspension mounting hardware. We request that NHTSA investigate whether this incident is related to recall 21V-835 / Tesla campaign SB-21-31-003, or any other suspension defect or recall affecting this vehicle. Please review this incident for potential safety implications for other vehicles and determine whether further investigation is warranted. We can provide photographs, the failed hardware, repair records, and additional details about the circumstances of the incident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11773032

Incident

Nov 14, 2024

What failed: Front and rear suspension and drive components; the root cause is not resolved. Since at least June 2025, my 2021 Tesla Model Y Dual Motor (110,864 miles) has made a grinding, clunking and knocking noise, loudest at the front on the driver's side. It now happens on almost every drive, including on the highway, and the car sometimes shakes at speed. The vehicle is available for inspection on request. Safety risk: We drive this car with our young family, including on the highway. I am worried a suspension part could fail and cause loss of control. On XXX Tesla's technician wrote that the rear knuckles "have play and need to be replaced soon"; they have not been replaced. My car is also in the model years covered by NHTSA's XXX preliminary evaluation of front lower lateral link detachment on 2021–2023 Model Y. No crash or injury so far. Confirmed by a service center: Partly, by Tesla Service.XXX ([XXX]): confirmed front suspension noise and replaced both front lower lateral links and compliance links ($1,620.03); the noise continued. XXX [XXX]): verified a rear humming noise and a split rear drive unit bushing. XXX replaced the rear drive unit, verified front vibration on a test drive, and noted the rear knuckle play. XXX: verified front grinding, attributed it to brake wear, and did brake burnishing; no change. SXXX: unable to replicate. I also reported a noise on XXX Inspections: Tesla Service only. No police or insurance involvement. Warning lights: None related to this that I have noticed. I sent Tesla written notice on XXX THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11772502

Incident

Jun 11, 2025

I own a 2021 Tesla Model Y. During a [XXX] safety inspection in XXX, the vehicle was found to have deteriorated front suspension components. Tesla documented torn bushings in the front lower suspension links, including the lateral links and compliance links, and the vehicle failed the [XXX] safety inspection. Tesla recommended replacement of the affected front suspension components. I subsequently took the vehicle to an independent repair facility experienced with Tesla vehicles, Auto Scandia in [XXX]. The technician confirmed the suspension problems and replaced the affected front lower suspension links. The repair was completed XXX, and I paid $1,807.44, including the suspension repair and alignment-related work. I am reporting this because I understand NHTSA is investigating front lower lateral-link failures involving 2021–2023 Tesla Model Y vehicles. My vehicle experienced deterioration of components in this same area of the front suspension and required replacement. My lateral link did not detach while driving, and I did not experience a crash. The problem was discovered during inspection before a more serious failure occurred. I have Tesla’s original diagnosis and estimate as well as the paid independent repair invoice and can provide both if requested. I am concerned that these suspension components may be failing prematurely and could present a safety risk if the deterioration progresses to separation or loss of wheel control. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11770941

Incident

Oct 12, 2026

On XXX my 2021 Tesla Model Y, VIN [XXX], was taken to Tesla Service in West Covina, California, at 69,097 miles. While turning, a front suspension bolt fell out and the car knocked. Tesla estimate 3000-009-0039917905, service SV02F26AB8, dated XXX, quotes replacement of both front lower lateral links, part 2188341-00-D, and four nylon-patch lateral-link bolts, part 1109912-00-B, plus the front subframe, both front halfshafts, both lower compliance links, the front valance, and the front aero shield. The estimate is $8,237.58 with tax and is marked customer-pay. I have not signed it. This is the same joint as NHTSA recall 21V-835, Tesla SB-21-31-003: the front lower lateral-link fastener can loosen and let the link separate from the subframe. My VIN is not in that campaign. A Tesla manager said a recall letter was mailed to me in XXX, he said I did not bring the car in, and I am therefore liable. I have no such letter. No XXX NHTSA campaign covers this 2021 VIN for this bolt. I asked him to provide to proof of that letter. He said he doesn't have proof because he doesnt work in that department but he told me the date and that's his proof. The failed part is the recalled bolt. The estimate does not show that the subframe, both axles, both compliance links, and the fascia were damaged by it. I am reporting this for the open lower-lateral-link investigation, PE26006. The car had a sudden suspension separation while turning, which can cause a loss of control. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11768639

Incident

Sep 29, 2026

The vehicle suffered severe, premature suspension control arm degradation resulting in loud creaking/squeaking, forcing an emergency out-of-pocket replacement costing over $1,000. This is a known systemic defect noted in Tesla TSB SB-20-31-006. This first occurred in February and then again in July this year.

NHTSA ID

11768194

Incident

Feb 24, 2026

My vehicle falls within the 2021–2023 Model Y population identified in NHTSA Preliminary Evaluation PE26-006. The vehicle is a 2021 Model Y and current mileage is 73,350 miles. I am experiencing progressively worsening front suspension squeaking/creaking when turning the steering wheel in either direction, which can now be heard both inside and outside the vehicle. The vehicle also feels noticeably bouncier than normal. I first noticed a faint creaking sound in July and it has gotten worse over time. So I have concerns regarding the lower lateral-link/control-arm suspension failure. Additionally, I have experienced unusual wear on my tires and alignment issues in the last couple of years. There was also a previous recall from 2021 , 21V-835 / SB-21-31-003, that involved certain 2020–2021 Model Ys where the front lower lateral-link fasteners could loosen and allow the lateral link to separate from the subframe. NHTSA specifically described the potential consequence as changed wheel alignment, instability, and increased crash risk. I have reached out to Tesla about my concerns and they stated there were no open recalls and quoted me for repairs. I have screenshots of the Tesla correspondence if needed. I have an upcoming appointment with Tesla on 9/24/26 for diagnostic testing.

NHTSA ID

11766449

Incident

Jul 1, 2026

I brought the vehicle to a Tesla Service Center for a front suspension noise. During the alignment portion of that repair, the technician found a crack in the left side of the rear subframe casting, the structural member that locates the rear suspension links and supports the rear drive unit. The subframe required full replacement. There was no impact event. The vehicle has never struck a curb, pothole, or object, and Tesla's own written finding confirmed there was no evidence of any side impact. Tesla attributed the crack to stress transmitted from failed front lower control arm bushings, which were replaced at the same visit. The front lower lateral links and their subframe fasteners were also replaced during this repair. The Tesla technician stated he had not seen this subframe crack so severely at this mileage, and that he normally sees this failure only on vehicles over 100,000 miles, or vehicles that have hit severe potholes or fallen off steep curbs, none of which applies here. A rear subframe cracking under normal driving loads at 68,000 miles is a structural failure with safety implications. The subframe controls rear wheel alignment and retains the drive unit. Progressive or sudden failure could cause loss of alignment, instability, or loss of vehicle control. I am reporting this so NHTSA can determine whether premature rear subframe cracking, potentially linked to front suspension link failure, represents a defect trend on these vehicles.

NHTSA ID

11763484

Incident

Sep 4, 2026

My garage-kept 2021 Tesla Model Y experienced a premature failure/tearing of the front lower lateral link and compliance bushings at only 31,930 miles under normal driving conditions. The service center identified severe degradation requiring immediate replacement. This component failed prematurely without any severe impact or road hazards, posing a potential safety hazard regarding vehicle control and alignment. This issue appears to be part of the ongoing suspension defect under NHTSA investigation (PE26006). Funny thing is that my dad's model Y also has the similar issues on the rear suspension. sigh...

NHTSA ID

11763387

Incident

Sep 10, 2026

I own a 2021 Tesla Model Y with approximately 51,300 miles. Beginning in June 2026 I noticed a persistent creaking noise from the front suspension, most audible when accelerating and when turning at low speed. The vehicle had been rear-ended in June 2026 and repaired at a body shop; the noise was reported to the shop at that time and persisted after the repair was completed. On September 2, 2026 I brought the vehicle to a Tesla Service Center for diagnosis. The technician test drove the vehicle, verified the noise, and performed an inspection on a lift. The written findings were that both front upper control arm ball joints were partially seized, both front lateral link bushings were torn, and both front compliance link bushings were torn. Tesla recommended replacement of the front upper control arms, front lower lateral links, and front lower compliance links, quoted at approximately $2,610 at my own expense. Tesla further stated that a four-wheel alignment could not be accurately performed in the vehicle's current condition because of the torn bushings. No crash, fire, or injury has resulted. The vehicle remains in service. I am filing this complaint because these are the same front suspension components identified in NHTSA's open investigation into front suspension link separation in Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, and my vehicle falls within the model years under review. The failure is bilateral and occurred with no impact to the front of the vehicle and no off-road or track use. I am concerned that degraded bushings and seized ball joints across all three component types create a risk of link separation and loss of steering control without meaningful warning beyond the creaking noise.

NHTSA ID

11761709

Incident

Jun 11, 2026

Creaking noise when turning at low speed or going over a bump.

NHTSA ID

11760850

Incident

Aug 8, 2026

I am submitting this safety complaint regarding premature suspension failure on my 2021 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [XXX]), specifically concerning the front lower suspension links.During a dealer inspection at a Tesla Service Center on XXX, with 72,758 miles on the odometer, technicians diagnosed that the vehicle’s front lower lateral links and front lower compliance links suffered from severely torn factory air-gap rubber bushings. The degradation of these critical structural components required immediate, full replacement of the entire arm assemblies to ensure safe operational handling, resulting in an out-of-pocket repair quote of $1,976.57 (Tesla Invoice #XXX). A compromised or torn bushing in the lower lateral link assembly compromises structural integrity, increasing the risk of mechanical detachment or fracture while in motion, which poses a severe loss-of-control safety risk at highway speeds. This issue directly correlates to the high failure rates and premature degradation profiles currently being investigated by the Office of Defects Investigation under active NHTSA Probe PE26006. I request that this case data point be reviewed as further evidence to transition this active preliminary evaluation into a mandatory, formal safety recall for the protection of all affected owners. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11760460

Incident

Aug 28, 2026

In May 2025, my 2021 Tesla Model Y, with approximately 50,600 miles, developed a squeaking/groaning noise from the front suspension, especially while turning. I brought the vehicle to a Tesla Service Center because of the noise. Tesla inspected and road-tested the vehicle and confirmed the squeaking/groaning from the front suspension. According to the Tesla service invoice, the noise was caused by worn front suspension components. Tesla replaced both front lower lateral links, both front lower compliance links, and both front upper control arms. Tesla also replaced the associated lateral-link bolts/hardware and performed a four-wheel alignment. There were no warning lights or dashboard messages that I recall. The suspension noise was the symptom that caused me to seek service. The problem was confirmed by Tesla during its inspection and road test. I paid for the repair myself. I am reporting this because I recently learned that NHTSA is investigating front lower lateral-link failures in 2021–2023 Tesla Model Y vehicles under Preliminary Evaluation PE26006. My vehicle is within the model years under investigation, and Tesla replaced both of my front lower lateral links after confirming my front suspension symptoms. I do not know whether my lateral links would have eventually detached if they had not been replaced. The original components were removed by Tesla during the repair and are not available for inspection.

NHTSA ID

11758240

Incident

May 20, 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that the suspension on the undercarriage of the vehicle was separating from the vehicle. The contact stated that a year prior to the failure, the half shaft used to attach the wheel to the vehicle subframe was fractured and was falling off the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a Tesla Service Center to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the battery was very heavy and was possibly the cause of the failure. The vehicle was being repaired out of pocket. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 64,811.

NHTSA ID

11757712

Incident

Apr 1, 2026

Mileage

64,811 mi

Lateral link bolt was broken causing damage to subframe.

NHTSA ID

11757578

Incident

Dec 10, 2025

Component: Suspension: Front — lower lateral and compliance link assemblies; missing and backed-out lateral-link-to-subframe fasteners; torn bushings Beginning in XXX, the vehicle produced a reproducible knocking noise from the front end when reversing and turning at parking-lot speeds, with no dashboard warnings. Tesla Service ([XXX], invoice XXX) verified the noise and documented on the invoice that the cause was: 1. A front left lateral-link-to-subframe mounting bolt MISSING entirely; 2. A second lateral-link fastener significantly backed out; 3. Torn bushings in both front lower compliance links. The technician replaced both front lower lateral link assemblies and both front lower compliance link assemblies with new hardware (invoice line items: XXX lateral links; XXX and XXX compliance links). Total customer cost for the suspension work: $1,539, out of warranty; goodwill and defect coverage were denied in writing as "wear and tear." A structural fastener missing entirely from a primary front suspension link is not ordinary wear. It is the precursor condition to the lateral-link separation investigated under PE26006, which covers this vehicle by year and model. With one bolt absent and the second backed out at under 30,000 miles, this vehicle was effectively one fastener away from the detachment event the investigation documents. The contemporaneous torn bushings in both compliance links reinforce premature component failure, not age-related degradation. No crash, fire, or injury occurred, and the vehicle remained drivable. However, the failure occurred without warning on a safety-critical steering and suspension load path. Evidence retained by owner and referenced in this complaint: -Pre-repair inspection photographs & post-repair invoice INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11756800

Incident

May 1, 2026

Front suspension makes creaking noises for a few months now. The car only makes noises when steering wheel is turned while reversing and sometimes when turning. Took the car to Tesla and they told me since the sound is not that loud and not really reproducible, then to bring it back when it gets worse. My car only has 34k miles on it.

NHTSA ID

11755436

Incident

Apr 15, 2026

Noises started coming from suspension and I had an independent shop verify the issue. The lower control arm had separated from bushing and rubbing against subframe.

NHTSA ID

11755186

Incident

Jul 15, 2026

Vehicle can become difficult to steer in certain situations

NHTSA ID

11754876

Incident

Jul 25, 2026

Failure of the front lower lateral link and compliance link assembly. A creaking noise when steering at low speeds prompted me to take the vehicle to be checked out at a Tesla repair shop. The vehicle required a complete replacement of these parts at an independent cost of $1,900. I have the line-item proof of parts and labor.

NHTSA ID

11754492

Incident

Jun 15, 2026

I am reporting a safety defect involving a severe structural metallic "clank" or "clunk" under the vehicle's chassis during rapid acceleration and sudden braking. This vehicle was previously serviced by Tesla in 2023 for this identical issue (service invoice attached). While the repair initially suppressed the sound, the hazardous clanking noise subsequently returned, persisted for a period, and then went away on its own.The return and subsequent disappearance of the noise suggests that critical suspension or drivetrain components are shifting out of specification under load, binding, or experiencing intermittent mechanical failure. Given the active federal investigation into 2021–2023 Tesla Model Y front lower lateral link separations, I am deeply concerned that the underlying component remains structurally compromised despite the 2023 service. An intermittent or settling defect still poses an imminent safety risk of sudden component separation and total loss of steering control at driving speeds.

NHTSA ID

11754244

Incident

Dec 3, 2023

Within four months my car has suspension problems and I didn't know until my tires got bad there was a noise and I didn't know that was the suspension. I bought four brand new tires and I took it to the Tesla dealer and I told the attendant that my car was wearing the tire inside really bad. After I bought 4 brand new tires I took it to the Tesla for an alignment and when you left the car was even worse with the noise so bad. I am barely driving my car and I don't really know what to do if I have to take it to Tesla. I tried to get an appointment with Tesla and they are so full and my car feels like a rocking chair sometime. The tesla has only 31,000 miles.

NHTSA ID

11754046

Incident

Mar 17, 2026

2021 Tesla Model Y suffered a complete failure of the front lower lateral links, compliance links, and upper control arms at only 29,103 miles. The vehicle has been inspected by the manufacturer. It is currently being repaired at my cost. There was no warning lights or messages. I had noticed a creaking sound upon turning, especially while in reverse. I believe this mirrors the exact mechanical failures seen in NHTSA Campaign 21V835000. However, my VIN number was not listed in this recall.

NHTSA ID

11744359

Incident

Jun 15, 2026

Backed-out LH Rear Lower Fore Link bolt causing structural elongation damage to the rear subframe mounting hole, requiring full subframe replacement. Vehicle had been serviced exclusively by Tesla. Tesla issued Service Bulletin SB-25-31-004 on April 17, 2026 covering this exact condition. Tesla declined to perform the repair under the bulletin citing out-of-warranty status. A touchscreen alert directing me to service was active at the time of denial.

NHTSA ID

11744251

Incident

May 1, 2026