2021 Tesla Model Y electrical problems

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11757562 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11756565 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11755660 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11754296 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11753908 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11753772 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11752211 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11742219 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11741720 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11738762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11737674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11736560 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11736263 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

**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 complaint #11730990 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11727700 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11725975 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11715486 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11711113 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11710416 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11708424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11708023 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11705202 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11704000 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11700358 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 complaint #11697715 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

This incident appears to relate to NHTSA ongoing investigation at Tesla's low voltage battery system failure causing door handle malfunction. (September 26, 2025) 2021 Model Y front and rear doors (all four) was locked down with a seven years old child inside the car at home garage driveway. Mom unable to open up doors from exterior. A few hours later, left driver door was able to open but other passengers door remained locked down. (October 2, 2025) Sent Model Y to Tesla service center and identified low voltage battery and vehicle controller failure. Tesla technician replaced those electrical components with service fee charged.

NHTSA complaint #11697086 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

On October 2, my Model Y battery was replaced with a defective cell. Tesla service center replaced the battery. The vehicle could not charge or operate, making it unable to be driven. Today, November 2, while driving my car, my Tesla ABS system and other battery components experienced total failure while driving. For a brief period of time, I was unable to brake completely and my vehicle felt like it was skidding. At the time this occurred, my 1 year old daughter and pregnant wife were in the vehicle. This could have been much worse.

NHTSA complaint #11697063 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The driver rear left side door is unclear electrical control and broke so I cannot open the door from the outside. I have a child inside. This is an extreme safety hazard were an accident to occur.

NHTSA complaint #11696064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I was driving along one of the main highways in Orlando, Florida called [XXX], on Wednesday [XXX], in my Model Y Tesla. I was between the exits of [XXX], and [XXX]. I was in the middle lane. There was a software update issued the previous Sunday. The warning came on the display that the lane changing was not valid. At that point the car took over and accelerated. The brakes would not work, until I slammed on it after 3 times, and the car began to decelerate. The air conditioner went off, along with the electrical turn signals. I as able to get off at the [XXX] exit for it is a bit of a "hill" up in Florida, but knew I could coast into a lane hopefully no one would be in. I was able to at least coast into a parking lot, and bump the car into a concrete barrier, and a tree infront of the barrier. The car would not respond to park, neutral or the emergency brake. I tried re-booting the car 3 times and nothing. I had to call a tow truck to tow to the Tesla Service Center in Clermont, Florida. They could not get it in park either and had to drag the Tesla onto the flatbed. After 5 days of not responding to my text, I walked into another Tesla service center to plead my problem. Long story short, there is an unexplained anomaly that is in the CANBUS and cannot duplicate the error. More $ to have to tested for another week. They gave me a loaner to use, a Model S. After a few days driving it the loaner screen went blank and I was stranded. I had their loaner towed back to the service center. They will not 100% address the problem. They know it is in the CANBUS system, but now I definitely am scared to drive the car or get it back. How do I know if they will really tell me it is fixed? I fear if I get back in the car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11693127 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.