What 175 owners told NHTSA about the 2021 Tesla Model S Bev

Front hood popped open during a tow, while the car was on the hood. This damaged the hood.

NHTSA ODI 11748878

I noticed it happened before but I couldn't quite figure out what happened! I was driving down the local road and got ready to go under a overpass and next thing u know my EV just slammed on brakes like I was about to hit someone! Seatbelt choked me and made me gag! But when I came through this time It caught me off but after that I realized there's a problem,especially going under that overpass! This couldn't been very dangerous to anyone! This is a VERY DANGEROUS and IMPORTANT SAFETY CONCERN! I STRIVE SAFETY AND THIS COULD BE FATAL!! I NEED TO REACH SONEONE IN SAFETY! ASAP

NHTSA ODI 11737492

I was in full self driving mode and was travelling North bound 110 freeway transitioning to 405 freeway Northbound. In the right lane. Transition curved left. looked at my speed for a split second and as i looked up we were a split second from hitting freeway barrier head-on. We crashed through the barrier and ended on the embankment of the freeway. My car front end was totally demolished, front airbags went off. I was ok, but my wife suffered a L1 vertebrae fracture and was taken to Harbor UCLA Hospital for treatment. She was released 9 hours later with a back brace and pain meds. The accident occured at 8:34 am Sunday April 5th, Easter sunday while on our way to church. Its been over a month and my wife is still in a back brace, but healing slowly. USB Drive taken out of the glove box showed that all cameras cut off about 10 seconds before the crash. Not sure if the whole system turned off.

NHTSA ODI 11737104

The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model S. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V045000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SEAT BELTS); and requested to be removed from the recall distribution list. The local dealer and manufacturer were contacted.

NHTSA ODI 11722975

I have started receiving airbag & seat safety issue alert but recieved appointment after a month even considering major safety concern. Some of 2021 vehicles are serviced under the recall Tesla sent. But told me mine doesn’t qualify for same issue for same year, same model cars. It seems like issue is with all Tesla Model S 2021 but Tesla charging big dollar amount to repair the safety concern. They have also mentioned there is on going concern with air suspension and all Tesla starts giving problem between 60,000 miles to 90,000 miles. It costs around $6000 to fix that issue and told me these are not safety concerns.

NHTSA ODI 11711634

7/30/2025 The vehicle experienced a confirmed TOTAL loss of function to include steering, restraint, and braking functionality at approximately 60 to 65 miles per hour. This catastrophic failure placed myself and and others at severe risk. Although Tesla’s service notes confirm the event occurred, no corrective repair was performed. The vehicle was completely inoperative with a matter of seconds with no prior warning. At this point in time the car has continued to not operate the same steering and noises has been in the shop 5 times still no answer or repairs in regard to it shutting down or any other issues that continue to return. The last visit I was asked to purchase new tires because maybe that’s why, I did. I continue to be told nothing is wrong with the vehicle making me feel extremely defeated when I know the vehicle is not the same as it was.

NHTSA ODI 11706190

Vehicle: 2021 Tesla Model S Long Range VIN: [XXX] I am reporting multiple safety-related defects that existed at delivery or developed shortly thereafter, and Tesla has refused to diagnose or repair them under warranty. These defects create an unsafe driving condition and risk of loss of control or collision. Defect Summary: 1.Alignment Defect at Delivery: On the day I bought the car, the steering wheel pulled to the left and felt unstable. I reported this immediately to Tesla. They dismissed it as “normal.” 2.Premature Tire Wear: Within months, the left tire wore down to the steel belts on the left side while the right side had normal wear. An independent shop confirmed this was caused by suspension/bushing issues, not road damage. 3.Suspension/Bushing Failure: A third-party Tesla-certified shop confirmed that the suspension components are bent/tweaked and require replacement for safe driving. Tesla refused to inspect these components properly. 4.Unlatched Rear Seat at Delivery: The rear seat was delivered unlatched, which is a major safety hazard during braking or collision. 5.Broken Glass Under Rear Seat: Broken glass was found under the rear seat cushion at delivery, raising concerns about vehicle history and delivery inspection standards. 6.New Defect While in Tesla’s Custody: On Nov 17, 2025, moisture accumulated inside the left taillight while the vehicle was parked outdoors at Tesla’s Stockton facility. This can cause electrical shorting or lighting malfunction. Tesla’s Response: Tesla has repeatedly refused to inspect the suspension properly, dismissed my complaints, and produced an inaccurate service invoice that did not reflect what was discussed. They told me we are “at an impasse.” These defects pose a serious safety risk (tire blowout, loss of control, lighting malfunction). I request NHTSA investigate these issues as they may indicate broader problems with Tesla’s suspension, alignment, and delivery inspection processes. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11700002

Certified pre-owned 2021 Tesla Model S delivered on October 21, 2025 with worn Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires (255/35ZR21 front, 295/30ZR21 rear). Tread depth measured approximately 2/32" on the outer tread shoulders of all four tires, below Tesla’s published 5/32" delivery standard. Within the first week of ownership, the vehicle hydroplaned multiple times in wet conditions at normal speeds. Tesla service declined to replace the tires, stating measurements were “taken in the wrong location” and that only the inner grooves count, despite Tesla’s public documentation and national tire safety standards defining tread depth across the full width of the tire. Vehicle was returned in same condition without correction, leaving a continued safety risk from inadequate tread and summer tires unsuited for Ohio’s cold and wet seasonal conditions.

NHTSA ODI 11697026

On October 17, 2025, while using Full Self-Driving (FSD) mode on my 2021 Tesla Model S Plaid, the car failed to stop at two red lights within a three-hour period. In each case, the car attempted to drive through the intersection even though the signal was solid red. I intervened manually and applied the brakes to prevent a potential collision. There were no prior warnings or alerts, and I have not modified the vehicle. This behavior endangers my safety and the safety of others. I am willing to provide the vehicle and any available data logs for inspection if requested.

NHTSA ODI 11694506

Tesla Model S 2021 Long Range: Upon closing the rear trunk close button from the app or close button on the hatch, the hatch goes down but won’t lock. It gives 3 beeps. Upon pressing open, it won’t go up and gives 3 beeps.

NHTSA ODI 11692785

The reverse lights are incredibly insufficient and pose a safety risk when backing up. The lights are so dim, they are virtually ineffective to the point that they illuminate nothing that may be behind the car. This is not a bulb issue as they came from the factory, new, in this condition and the service center said there is nothing they can do. Other owners I have spoken with report the same issue.

NHTSA ODI 11691415

The wrap on the steering yoke is peeling, already had a steering yoke replacement 18 months ago under warranty, and this replacement steering yoke exibiting same peeling issue. Could be a safety grip issue as the yoke portion is more slippery at the peeled section. Tesla refuses to replace this faulty yoke as a covered safety item.

NHTSA ODI 11680563

Premature tire wear. Inside edges of rear tires wore out in 10k miles

NHTSA ODI 11680711

The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle was connected to the charging port and independently went into Race mode. The contact stated that the charge increased from 0 to 60 instantly. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a software failure. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that while the vehicle was charging, the charging stopped intermittently, and the vehicle completely stopped charging. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with battery corrosion and failure. The contact was informed that the battery contained water and was corroded. The contact questioned whether the vehicle had been in a flood. The contact was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer several times due to the persistent failure. Additionally, the contact received an unknown recall notification with a similar description of the failure; however, the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the unknown recall due to indications that the vehicle had been in a flood. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1,000.

NHTSA ODI 11678451

GETTING WARNING ONDASH THAT SAYS "Adaptive ride control unavailable. Vehicle speed limited - Proceed with caution". On the internet many reports are noted of the same problem w Tesla vehicles, especially Model S cars. These have occurred soon after to taking delivery of after 20-30 K miles. Mine occurred at about 31,000 miles in my Model S 2021. Tesla says the need "diagnostics done first " at $275 and then the fix for another $300. This does not seem right.

NHTSA ODI 11670103

4 months after warranty and only 42,774 miles, I am being hit with a massive bill of almost $2,700 from Tesla service in Lyndhurst, OH. This to correct right and left front end basic suspension issues that should not occur. Clearly the front end is not designed to handle the weight of car. The service manager told me that he sees this every day!! The car is not safe to drive until repairs are made. There was no trauma to the front end only normal wear and tear. The front end started making noise which had me take it to the dealer.

NHTSA ODI 11660683

I am the owner of a 2021 Tesla Model S Plaid (VIN# [XXX] ). At approximately 12,000 miles—well within the 4-year/50,000-mile Basic Vehicle Warranty—I began experiencing peeling on the yoke steering wheel. I reported this issue verbally at the time, but Tesla staff failed to document the concern, and the Tesla app provided no suitable method to submit the issue. Since then, I have made multiple good-faith attempts to schedule service for this defect. However, each time I have been met with out-of-pocket charge demands, including being told I must approve a $2,000 charge before Tesla would even address a basic light repair—effectively blocking my ability to have the steering wheel defect evaluated under warranty. When I explained that this issue is clearly a manufacturing defect and should be covered, I was told I did not complete the appointment. In reality, I was unable to proceed because of Tesla's unjust demand for payment for something that is not my fault. I have already reached out via email regarding this issue and received no meaningful resolution. I was also dismissed by Kennesaw store manager Hunter Moss during attempts to escalate. Public customer feedback suggests I am not alone—numerous Tesla owners have reported similar experiences with yoke steering defects and customer service dismissals. It’s frustrating and embarrassing to have friends and family see a visibly defective steering wheel in a premium vehicle like the Model S Plaid. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (15 U.S. Code § 2301 et seq.), Tesla is legally obligated to honor express warranties and cannot deny warranty coverage due to internal miscommunication, technical limitations of the app, or improper handling of service requests. I am formally requesting a warranty-covered replacement of the yoke steering wheel without delay. Tesla has 7 days from receipt of this message to confirm a service appointment and warranty approval. If this matter is not resolved promptly, I will INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11653427

Front license plate holder is required in California. The bracket that holds the plate on the car is secured to the bumper with adhesive tape only. My bracket became loose, and thankfully we were able to retrieve the plate and bracket upon parking. This would have been an obvious hazard to us and other motorists if it fell off while on the street or highway. Tesla does not have any alternative solutions to fix or repair this issue and advised we purchase an aftermarket bracket. The front bracket on my car must be attached to meet NTSB safety standards.

NHTSA ODI 11652414

I have a 2021 Tesla Model S Long Range with rear tire size 295 / 30 ZR 21. Both rear tires are worn so bad on the insides that the cords are showing. These tires were purchased and installed by Tesla along with a wheel alignment under 10,000 miles ago. The tires still look like new on the center and outside of the tire so I had no clue this was happening. The only way I became aware was because the low tire pressure warning kept coming on I started losing air slowly over the last month and thought maybe I had a puncture. The damage to the tire isn’t easily visible when just looking under the vehicle. I urge anyone with these tires to check them as it can easily result in a blow out.

NHTSA ODI 11645675

I purchased my Tesla in September 2021. At 12000 miles, I had to replace both rear tires due to severe inside wear. I replaced them and continued driving, but at 22000 miles, the same issue occurred. Each time, I performed service exclusively at Tesla, where they checked the alignment and assured me everything was fine. At 39,000 miles, the issue repeated. Tesla performed another alignment and TOE adjustment, assuring me it was resolved. However, after another 10,000 miles, the same problem occurred, with the inner tread worn down to the cords, while the rest of the tire had adequate tread. The car is currently at the dealership again, and I’ve been advised to do another alignment and replace the tires, with an estimated cost of $3,300. Despite repeated services and assurances, the underlying issue remains unresolved, and I’m unsure how to proceed.

NHTSA ODI 11636646

The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model S. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the message “Climate Control System Service Required” was displayed. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the local Tesla Service Center however, the vehicle was not repaired due a lack of available Service Techs. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 59,000.

NHTSA ODI 11630460

On [XXX] at approximately [XXX] I was driving down a small back alley/street in Baltimore when my Tesla Model S Plaid sedan stopped operating. It would not restart, including with the emergency restart bar. Since I was unable to restart it, I left it there while I ran into an appointment. About maybe 20 minutes later it started up like nothing was wrong. I did not receive any warnings on the dash from the car that there was an issue, and I thought it must have been a computer glitch. Unfortunately, sometime between 10:30 and 11:30 am I was driving the Tesla on a major feeder multi lane feeder branch to a highway. I was on [XXX] merging onto [XXX] when the car just stopped with no warning. It is a miracle that I didn’t get hit, but it caused a truly dangerous situation with horns blaring, cars and trucks going around me. It was very unsafe. This time I was able to start the car with the emergency start bar Tesla has available. I was then able to drive the car to my office where the car was picked up and towed to the dealership. To make a long story short, apparently, they (service department) drove the car around the parking lot, trying to reproduce the problem but they said they were not able to. The only thing they were able to tell me about the car was that it had two high-voltage spikes and possibly that’s what caused the problem, but they didn’t know how to fix that problem. I did talk to the lead tech on my car, but at one point he said they were out of resources and would refer this to his general manager. The service manager told me that since they can’t reproduce the problem, that my car is drivable, I should pick it up and drive it. I refused. A car that stops dead with no notice in moving traffic is not a safe car. I was astounded that they would expect me to drive the Tesla. I told the manager that I would not drive it until it was fixed. It is still there. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11629856

I bought my car used last year! I have almost been involved in many accidents with this car! There is only 1 small button for the horn mixed in with other buttons on the right side of the steering wheel! When stress hits because somebody is heading right for you and you are frantically looking for a small button to lay in the horn it’s almost too late! It’s a MAJOR safety issue and they are offering a new steering wheel for almost 1900.00!!!! I already replaced the yoke wheel it came with! This is a total safety hazard and people are going to end up dead because of it if they don’t fix it!

NHTSA ODI 11629578

The horn button on the yoke steering wheel is a safety hazard. In a situation that requires quick responsiveness immediate reaction is to press the center of the steering wheel. Tesla has come out with a retro fit and the new yoke has it in the center. I am paying $1,000 for the retro fit for my safety and the safety of others. I expect the NHS to also look at this concern and address to assist with the prevention of accidents.

NHTSA ODI 11629404

I have the yoke steering wheel. To activate the horn, you press on the right side of the steering wheel. I was driving at freeway speeds and a car did not see me and started to move into my lane. Due to the placement of the horn on the side next to windshield wipers, the wipers went on but not the horn. You have to take your eyes off the road to look down for the horn. Tesla is aware of the dangers of the placement of the horn and has a new yoke steering wheel with the horn in the traditional position, center of wheel. Unfortunately, Tesla has not on its own recalled the older model yoke although they have taken remedial steps to improve the design. I believe a formal recall should be initiated on this steering wheel.

NHTSA ODI 11628853