2026 Tesla Model 3
Only 21 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 21 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 26 |
| 2018 | 1016 |
| 2019 | 612 |
| 2020 | 449 |
| 2021 | 660 |
| 2022 | 764 |
| 2023 | 422 |
| 2024 | 216 |
| 2025 | 114 |
| 2026 | 21 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 21 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
8 of 21 total reports mention: forward collision avoidance, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
Incident involving my 2026 Tesla Model 3 equipped with HW4 hardware and the latest FSD (Supervised) software.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260711
Also filed under LANE DEPARTURE and BACK OVER PREVENTION
The vehicle's FSD system malfunctioned and initiated an unintended reverse toward a closing garage door. To prevent a total-loss event (the door crushing the glass roof and trunk), I was forced to perform an emergency manual takeover.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260116
Also filed under STRUCTURE
5 of 21 total reports mention: lane departure, most commonly citing blind spot detection and assist.
CRASH4 of 21 total reports mention: steering.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
On August 26, 2026, at approximately 8:56 AM, I entered a public parking garage in Washington, DC. Full Self-Driving (Supervised) was engaged and controlling the vehicle during a reversing maneuver.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260831
Also filed under BACK OVER PREVENTION and UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 of 21 total reports mention: back over prevention, most commonly citing warnings.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
On February 5, 2026, at 12:21 PM PST, my 2026 Tesla Model 3 (Hardware 4) collided with a 5-inch wooden pillar while using the Autopark feature. The system failed to provide any audio chimes or visual warnings prior to the impact.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260410
2 of 21 total reports mention: vehicle speed control.
CRASHSAFETY TIMELINE
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2026 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The fasteners attaching the seat back to the seat bottom may have been improperly tightened.
Remedy: Tesla Service Centers will inspect and tighten or replace the seat assembly fasteners as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 16, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752.
Campaign 25V410000 — check if this car was fixed
Compliance with Standing General Order 2021-01 Reporting Requirements
Traffic safety violations while Full Self Driving ("FSD") is engaged
FSD Collisions in Reduced Roadway Visibility Conditions
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2026 Tesla Model 3 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for forward collision avoidance issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for lane departure issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 25V410000 (seats) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2026 Tesla Model 3 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2026 Tesla Model 3?
The most-reported component is forward collision avoidance, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2026 Tesla Model 3 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.