2021 Tesla Model Y suspension problems

SUSPENSION

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 complaint #11758240 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Lateral link bolt was broken causing damage to subframe.

NHTSA complaint #11757578 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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 complaint #11757712 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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 complaint #11756800 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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 complaint #11755436 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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 complaint #11755186 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Vehicle can become difficult to steer in certain situations

NHTSA complaint #11754876 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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 complaint #11754492 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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 complaint #11754244 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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 complaint #11754046 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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 complaint #11744359 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

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 complaint #11744251 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

A 2021 Tesla Model Y experienced steering/suspension warnings followed shortly by a steering-assist reduction event. On or around May 21, 2026, the vehicle displayed: “Steering alignment service recommended — OK to drive, schedule service soon.” The vehicle was brought to Tesla because the owner was concerned the car had detected a steering, alignment, suspension, or safety-related condition. The Tesla invoice from that visit appears inconsistent. It states that “a wheel alignment check was completed,” but also states “No Labor Performed — Customer Did Not Authorize Repairs or Inspection,” with 0.00 labor hours and no charge. A documented steering/suspension diagnostic inspection, alignment report, alert-log review, or safety assessment was not performed by Tesla or inspected. The owner was advised to replace tires and return later. Approximately 90 miles later, during a low-speed three-point turn, the vehicle made a loud pop/clunk from the front area and displayed: “Steering assist reduced — Steering may require increased effort.” A related alert also stated Lane Departure Avoidance features were unavailable. This created a safety concern because steering effort may unexpectedly increase during low-speed turns or parking maneuvers. Tesla later inspected the vehicle and documented torn front lower lateral/compliance link bushings and vehicle log data showing steering gear alerts. Tesla replaced the front lower lateral links and front lower compliance links and performed alignment work. After those repairs, Tesla stated a steering gear alert was still present and recommended steering gear/steering rack replacement with additional alignment work. The concern is that a steering/alignment warning occurred shortly before the physical front-end failure and reduced steering-assist event, but the earlier Tesla visit does not clearly document that the warning was meaningfully inspected or safety-assessed. Vehicle is currently unsafe to drive and is in Teslas possession

NHTSA complaint #11742463 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

I purchased a 2021 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [XXX] ) used directly from Tesla. I am the first retail owner outside of Tesla. I am currently experiencing a knocking noise from the driver side suspension. I have requested that Tesla inspect and complete the following federally mandated safety recalls and service bulletins, none of which appear in my vehicle’s service history: • NHTSA Recall 21V-835 / SB-21-31-003 — Front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen and separate from the sub-frame, causing instability and crash risk • NHTSA Recall 21V-912 — Suspension knuckles may fracture • SB-20-31-006 — Front upper control arm ball joint reseal Tesla service has refused to perform these repairs free of charge, citing expired warranty (warranty expired April 5, 2025). Tesla’s response does not address that these are federal safety recalls, not warranty repairs. Federal law requires recall repairs to be performed free of charge regardless of warranty status, age, or mileage. Tesla has also failed to provide written documentation confirming whether these recalls were completed prior to selling me the vehicle. Instead, I have been redirected to a self-service VIN lookup tool and a general data privacy request form — neither of which confirms when, where, or whether the recall work was actually performed. I am requesting NHTSA investigate Tesla’s failure to complete these safety recalls prior to selling this vehicle to a retail customer, and their refusal to honor federal recall obligations. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11741805 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Component that failed: Front lower lateral link and compliance link suspension bushings. Failed components were removed by Tesla Service and are no longer available for inspection. Safety risk: Failed suspension bushings directly compromise steering precision, vehicle stability, and handling — particularly at highway speeds. A driver unaware of this failure could experience loss of steering control or unpredictable handling without warning. Confirmed by dealer: Yes. Tesla Florida (Tampa, 11945 North Florida Avenue) confirmed the failure in writing on May 22, 2026. Technician repair notes state: “inspection failed due to worn suspension bushings in the front.” Tesla confirmed this was the first time these original components had ever been serviced. Invoice #[XXX]. Manufacturer inspection: Yes, repaired by Tesla Service Center. Cost: $1,669.58. Warning lamps or prior symptoms: None. No warning lights, no alerts through the Tesla app, and no prior symptoms communicated to the owner. Failure was discovered only because vehicle was brought in for an extended service agreement inspection. Assessment: Original factory suspension bushings completely disintegrated at 56,258 miles on a 2021 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [XXX] ). This is not normal wear — photographic evidence shows full structural disintegration of rubber bushing material. Other Model Y owners may be driving with identical failures without knowledge. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11739778 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

My 2021 Model Y has about 24,500 miles began squeaking when turning the steering wheel or hitting bumps. I read online that many tesla owners had the same issue. The design on these weren't great allowing water to penetrate these parts and cause them to ware down faster. I already paid for the replacement of the upper and lower control arms.

NHTSA complaint #11734201 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Squeaking (lubrication failure) of the front suspension components, prematurely, are a common and widespread issue with Tesla vehicles. I have approximately 60k miles on my model Y and the front control arms are making noises. Tesla wants to replace a significant amount of suspension components at a high cost, instead of a recall (or creating serviceable lubrication points on these components). The NHTSA needs to hold Tesla accountable for faulty suspension design and lack of maintainability leading to premature failure.

NHTSA complaint #11730585 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Both torn bushing and broken links at 29k miles.

NHTSA complaint #11719252 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Vehicle experienced front suspension lateral link failure. The links separated from the sub-frame due to improperly secured fasteners. This is the exact defect described in existing recall SB-21-31-003 / NHTSA Campaign 21V835000. The existing recall states 'front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen, allowing the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame.' This vehicle has this identical manufacturing defect but was not included in the recall database. Tesla Service confirmed the links 'fell out' and separated from the sub-frame at approximately 65,000 miles. Technician notes indicate a 'speed mismatch between wheel and motor' caused by the link separation - this is the symptom of the underlying fastener defect. The failure resulted in loss of steering control and made the vehicle undriveable (VOR - Vehicle Off Road). This is a safety-critical manufacturing defect affecting front suspension, creating crash risk due to sudden loss of vehicle stability and control. Owner is being charged for repair of a known manufacturing defect that should have been covered under the existing recall. This suggests the recall scope was too narrow and did not capture all affected vehicles with this defect. Request investigation into whether recall should be expanded to include additional affected vehicles.

NHTSA complaint #11718296 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

The upper control arm bolt came loose on its own.

NHTSA complaint #11718136 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

There is a rip in the lower control bushing making steering difficult to control. I see that this is a common issue but no recall yet. My car has only 28k miles.

NHTSA complaint #11713129 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Both front half shafts failed and had to be replaced by Tesla. I did research and this part is known to be substandard, was recalled in China, and remains a problem in the US.

NHTSA complaint #11708542 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

The front suspension on my 2021 Tesla Model Y developed progressive creaking and groaning noises during low-speed turning, especially in parking lots or when maneuvering. The noise began intermittently around 45,000 miles and became much louder by around 86,000 miles, which made me concerned about a potential safety issue before a long family trip. The sound comes from the front lower suspension area and indicates that something may be loose or failing. I am worried about the possibility of losing steering control if the suspension components separate or shift while driving, especially with my children in the car. The Tesla Service Center in Lisle, Illinois inspected the vehicle and informed me that both front lower lateral links and both front lower compliance links must be replaced (all four front suspension links). The repair estimate is about $1,600. This problem appears identical to the condition described in Tesla’s campaign/recall SB-21-31-003 / NHTSA 21V835, which involves improperly torqued front lower lateral link fasteners on 2020–2021 Model Y vehicles. My vehicle shows identical symptoms and identical components, but my VIN does not appear in the recall. I contacted Tesla corporate support by email requesting a safety/goodwill review, but I have not received any response. I believe this issue is safety-related and may indicate that more vehicles should be included in the existing recall. I am attaching the Tesla service diagnosis confirming the required replacement of all four front suspension links.

NHTSA complaint #11700389 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

My 2021 Model Y at 49,865 miles had a safety-critical failure of the "front lower compliance and lateral links." The Tesla technician confirmed it was a "safety issue."

NHTSA complaint #11698390 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a loud clunking sound coming from the rear driver’s side of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. After the failure had occurred, the mechanic who towed the vehicle informed the contact that the failure could be related to a detached axle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the front suspension lateral link had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. After researching, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V835000 (Suspension). The contact expressed concerns that the vehicle should be included in the recall due to the similarities between the reported failure and the recall summary. The approximate failure mileage was 45,483.

NHTSA complaint #11696758 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the front end of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the front suspension lateral link fasteners were loosened. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V835000 (Suspension), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 22,000.

NHTSA complaint #11689987 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Front suspension upper control arm makes loud creaking/squeaking noises when turning at low speeds. This is a known and widespread issue affecting Tesla Model Y and Model 3 vehicles, caused by premature ball joint wear. This poses a safety risk, as the upper control arm is a critical suspension component and could fail while driving, potentially leading to loss of steering control. Tesla has acknowledged the issue through service bulletins, but they do not cover the repair outside the 4yr/50k mile warranty, leaving many owners with the same premature failure. Some repairs may be offered under goodwill, but this is inconsistent and not guaranteed.

NHTSA complaint #11689573 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

The vehicle lost steering at 10 mph as a bolt from the front suspension's upper control arm and lateral link fasteners became loose and detached rom the vehicle. The wheel was completely misaligned, and the vehicle was not drivable. The vehicle could not be moved to the side of the road, putting my safety and the safety of other drivers at risk. I fear that this could have been a fatal accident had I been on the highway. This issue has been confirmed by Tesla Service Center, and they acknowledged that this is a known issue. There were no warning indicators or recall notices sent to warn of this known issue. My vehicle should have been recalled. Tesla is making me pay $3,000 for repairs despite knowing this is a manufacturer defect, and they are continuing to put lives at risk by not issuing a wider recall.

NHTSA complaint #11675200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Upper control arms wear out and start making sounds

NHTSA complaint #11670740 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

The bolts connecting the front upper control arm and steering knuckle may not have been tightened properly, potentially leading to detachment.  This causes the car to have squeaky, leaking noises when going over bumps and making turns.

NHTSA complaint #11667991 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.