What 1,087 owners told NHTSA about the 2023 Tesla Model Y

While making a left turn at normal turning speed, the steering system became unresponsive. The steering wheel was able to move; however, there was no corresponding movement of the front tires/wheels. The front wheels appeared to remain stuck at approximately a 45-degree left position and did not return toward the straight-ahead position despite steering input. It is also possible that the steering wheel itself became locked or partially locked during this event. As a result, the vehicle could not be corrected and collided with the median and a pillar. The collision caused the airbags to deploy and resulted in severe front-end damage, with an estimated repair cost exceeding $40,000. This steering failure occurred without warning and resulted in a sudden loss of vehicle control, creating a serious safety hazard to the occupants and surrounding traffic. The vehicle was subsequently declared a total loss.

NHTSA ODI 11714718

It was raining on I-287 North bound in Bridgewater Township, NJ. I was driving my Tesla Model Y well below the posted speed as it was raining. Suddenly my car took a spin, i lost control of the steering. Car took a 360 degree turn from right most lane on 3-lane highway and ended up on the side of the left most lane, rear ended into the bushes, hit the trees and damaged the back of the car. My car is all wheel drive, still i lost the control. I was so lucky to be alive.

NHTSA ODI 11692288

1. Front Passenger side wheel and auto steering system malfunctioned. Yes it is available for inspection. 2. My car was not drivable and I was stuck on the leftmost lane of highway with fast traffic passing by. Had to call 911 to move myself to safety. 3. Not yet 4. Vehicle has been inspected by the police 5. No warning lamps or message prior to failure

NHTSA ODI 11649052

I am lodging a formal complaint about recurring safety issues with my Tesla Model Y Long Range Dual Motor AWD, purchased on June 8, 2023. These issues have led to multiple skidding incidents under normal conditions, vehicle damage, and concerns about its safety and reliability. Incidents: Sept. 23, 2023 (6,279 miles): Suspension noise reported to Tesla Service Center, Clarkston, MI. Service concluded suspension was operating as intended (Invoice No. 3000S0008134598). Dec. 4, 2024 (29,425 miles): Skidding on a highway caused minor contact with another vehicle. Repairs (two rear tires and parking lamp) cost $1,007.28 at Grand Rapids Service Center (Invoice No. 3000S0011836159). Dec. 24, 2024: At 9 mph near a stop sign, the vehicle skidded, colliding with a cement pole, damaging the bumper and parking lamp. Jan. 9, 2025: During a service appointment at Ann Arbor, technicians experienced skidding during a road test. Inspection revealed worn rear tires (recently replaced), damaged suspension, and subframe assembly. Repair costs totaled $10,022.69, but Tesla denied warranty coverage. Concerns: Safety and Reliability: The AWD system consistently fails to prevent skidding, unlike older vehicles from other manufacturers like Hyundai and Toyota. Service Negligence: Tesla Grand Rapids provided worn rear tires. Previous services overlooked suspension and alignment issues, contributing to recurring incidents. Warranty Denial: Despite being under warranty, Tesla refused coverage, advising an insurance claim, which is unjustified given the defects and poor maintenance. Request for NHTSA Action: Investigate potential defects in the braking, traction control, and suspension systems. Recommend a recall if defects are confirmed. Hold Tesla accountable for repairs under warranty and ensure improved service practices. Seek compensation for emotional distress and service deficiencies. I hope NHTSA will act promptly to ensure public safety and uphold Tesla’s commitment to safety measures.

NHTSA ODI 11636850

Front right side wheel disengaged from the steering wheel. It was very scary situation to deal with and luckily it happened while I was on alley. I was not sure what was going as suddenly car was not under my control and acting weirdly. I hit a parked car and came out of the car safely. When parked the car then realized right wheel was disengaged. Called the Tesla insurance and they are not responding for over a month now since the incident happened. Tesla is saying I need to facilitate all this with the tesla authorized facility. Bottom-line, car is with tesla insurance and nothing is happened for over a month.

NHTSA ODI 11615511

Tesla suddenly accelerated forward from a complete stop at very rapid pace and hit a wall

NHTSA ODI 11580239

The car suddenly crossed the double yellow line on a local road and hit another car coming from the opposite direction on a local road (Adams Lane, North Brunswick, NJ). The wheel joint was faulty that broke (see attached pictures) and pull the car to the other side of the road without warning. Even the airbag in this car is not deployed. The vehicle was towed by police to a garage (Coppa's Service Center & Towing, 1 Moore Road, North Brunswick, NJ 08902. ph. 732-297-7530). The vehicle has been declared as a total loss by the insurance company. Because my car crossed the yellow line and hit the other car, I got tickets (crashdocs.org; Police Report # [XXX]; Date: 06/20/2023). I and the lone person the other care are lucky to survive this accident. I feel that such a fault might put other Tesla Model Y drivers/passengers and others in danger on the road. Please investigate to keep people safe. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

NHTSA ODI 11529103