What owners reported to NHTSA about the 2023 Tesla Model Y, its recalls, and what to check before you buy one.

It has been on the road 3 years, so complaints are still coming in. So far it has fewer than a typical older Model Y year, which is normal for a newer car. The area owners report most so far is the driver assist systems, which half of owners reported by about 4,000 miles.
Based on owner complaints to NHTSA, compared with other Model Y years from 2020 to 2024. A good year can still be a bad car, so check the one you are looking at.
Owners have filed 1,197 complaints with NHTSA about the 2023 Tesla Model Y. The most reported problem area is the driver assist systems (549, 46% of complaints), followed by the steering and the cruise control and acceleration. That is the most complaints of any Model Y year from 2020 to 2024. It has 17 recalls.
11 of these complaints came from Utah owners.
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Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 4,000 miles. Parts named most: Adaptive cruise control (306), Automatic emergency braking (235), Warnings (119).
The vehicle experienced a hardware failure of its primary Autopilot computer module (Hardware 3) while parked overnight. Upon starting the vehicle, all advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) were disabled, including Autosteer, Traffic-Aware Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring.…Owner complaint, filed 2026
On October 7, 2026 at about 5:01 PM, on I-75 near Acworth, Georgia, in clear daylight, my 2023 Tesla Model Y was operating with Full Self-Driving (Supervised) engaged at about 76 mph. The vehicle moved from a general traffic lane into an express lane that was closed, and continued toward physical barricades and an impact attenuator at…Owner complaint, filed 2026
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 10,000 miles.
On September 18, 2026, at approximately 7:30 PM, I was driving a 2023 Tesla Model Y with approximately 31,187 miles. While traveling at low speed and making a slow right-hand turn on a winding, heavily trafficked, single-lane section of roadway, the steering suddenly became functionally unusable and I could no longer safely steer the…Owner complaint, filed 2026
The contact owns a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in Self-Driving Mode and driving approximately 5-8 MPH, the vehicle suddenly turned towards the left into oncoming traffic. The contact immediately manually started steering the vehicle. The contact stated that there was an abnormal popping and snapping…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 10,500 miles
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 7,000 miles.
I have a 2023 Tesla Y. The Curvature Assist function has nearly caused a half dozen rear end collisions. When in cruise control, it kicks in on (1) highways, near exits when I'm not taking the exit (2) regular roads with no curve or intersection, (3) regular roads with departure lanes that I'm not using. The car behind me only see's a…Owner complaint, filed 2025
The contact owns a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked and attempting to reverse, the vehicle independently accelerated. The contact depressed the brake pedal, and the vehicle stopped. The contact regained control of the vehicle on the curb. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic but was not…Owner complaint, filed 2024, at 30,000 miles
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 8,000 miles.
Purchased used 2023 Tesla Model Y from Tesla on April 17, 2026 at ~16,300 miles. Pre-delivery, Tesla notified me by text that the vehicle failed state safety inspection due to front upper ball joint play (a known Tesla Model 3/Y defect). Tesla repaired it at its own service center and certified it as passing on April 8, 2026. No warning…Owner complaint, filed 2026
When driving on slippery surfaces, if I release the accelerator pedal, even slightly, the vehicle automatically activates regenerative braking to recapture energy. On ice, this sudden deceleration mimics applying the brakes, which can cause an immediate loss of traction and control. This happened to me recently while driving in snowy and…Owner complaint, filed 2025
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 36,000 miles.
While driving normally, the vehicle experienced a sudden mechanical failure without any prior warning or dashboard alerts. We heard a loud clunking noise followed immediately by a very loud "pop" or banging sound. Upon pulling over safely, we discovered that two large bolts had completely detached and fallen out from the front suspension…Owner complaint, filed 2026
The contact owns a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that upon pulling out of the driveway, there was an abnormal screeching sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that extra effort was need to steer the vehicle to the left. After turning the steering wheel to the right, the vehicle dipped several inches. Upon exiting the…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 29,000 miles
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 5,000 miles. Parts named most: Adas: autonomous / self driving (16).
The contact owns a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH with Full Self-Driving (FSD) engaged, fog and mist obstructed the cameras, causing the FSD feature to disengage. A message to "Take Full Control of the Vehicle" was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the failure was recurring. The…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 75,000 miles
Tesla on autopilot crossed over the double yellow line and hit our red jeep head on. Both vehicles were totaled and all passengers were injured.Owner complaint, filed 2026
The car is providing an error message while driving with FSD that the glass in-front of the forward-looking cameras used for full self driving have become obstructed by a film building up between the interior glass and the camera housing. I have opened a repair ticket with Tesla and they replied that they expect this area will need to be…Owner complaint, filed 2026
I am filing a complaint regarding the low-beam headlights on my Tesla. The headlights emit an excessively bright glare that impairs the visibility of oncoming traffic and surrounding motorists, creating a hazardous driving condition. This issue corresponds to federal safety non-compliance under FMVSS No. 108 and NHTSA Recall Campaign No.…Owner complaint, filed 2026
Three of my TPM batteries went out so I had all 4 replaced. The tires were almost brand new with absolutely no issues besides the warning light from the faulty TPM’s. When I got my car back, all 4 tires were leaking air and caused me to have to refill them daily. I have been trying for 3 weeks to have Tesla fix it and they only give me…Owner complaint, filed 2026
I am reporting a catastrophic structural wheel failure involving my 2023 Tesla Model Y, VIN [XXX], with approximately 78,439 miles. On XXX at approximately 9:30pm, while heading home at approximately 35-40 mph, the front passenger-side wheel fractured and separated into two major pieces. The vehicle was being operated normally on a…Owner complaint, filed 2026
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 14,000 miles.
I lease a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The rear passenger side seat belt/buckle assembly had previously experienced issues involving unexpected disengagement/unlatching. The vehicle was previously brought to Tesla for service regarding the restraint system/rear passenger buckle area and Tesla represented that the issue had been addressed. On…Owner complaint, filed 2026
Rear seat belt latch won't latch. This becomes a problem because dirt and debris fall into the seat belt latch since the seat belts latches are lower than the seat cushions. Child eats something with crumbs and the crumbs fall into the seat belt latch. Over time these build up to the point the seat belt won't click in.Owner complaint, filed 2026
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 29,000 miles.
The contact owned a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact experienced a medical emergency and the vehicle crashed into a tree. The air bags deployed as needed. The contact and wife who was seated in the front passenger seat, were transported to the local medical center. The contact…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 28,000 miles
The contact owned a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated while driving at approximately 58 MPH, the vehicle hydroplaned and the front passenger side crashed into a lamp pole however, the air bags were not deployed. The air bag warning light was illuminated. No injuries were sustained and no medical attention was sought. The vehicle was…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 57,577 miles
Parts named most: Body (26).
The contact's dad owned a 2023 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated the owner opened the liftgate, attempting to unload the vehicle after a trip, when the liftgate inadvertently fell on the head near the left ear area, fracturing his skull on the left side, causing him to fall backwards and hit his head on the asphalt. As a result, the…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 17,273 miles
REAR LIFT GATE: When the rear lift gate opens fully, it immediately and unexpectedly closes within a few seconds with force. This could strike someone standing behind the vehicle. The issue occurs every time the liftgate is opened, even on level ground. I used the pinch button to open the lift gate, and while it was opening I started to…Owner complaint, filed 2025
Vehicle's rear drive unit failed suddenly while traveling on a highway. Rapid deceleration with only seconds to react has created a hazardous conditions for the driver and those around him. Throttle was unresponsive. Tesla confirmed the failure and replaced the rear drive unit with a "remanufactured" part. Follow warning/fail codes were…Owner complaint, filed 2023
Vehicle displayed alert “Powertrain requires service - vehicle speed and power may be limited” at 1664 odometer miles. Vehicle had to be towed to the service center and the cause was a faulty oil pump.Owner complaint, filed 2023
This vehicle radiator protection is defective where rocks are able to hit the radiator and at some point the Tesla notified me that the radiator had leaked and it is safe to continue driving. I continue to drive and monitor the radiator level as I waited for a scheduled appointment. When I brought my vehicle to the appointment, they said…Owner complaint, filed 2024
Charging system has become defective over last month. Two weeks ago, gave error that charging cover was open when it wasn't. Couldn't get it to charge for a while. Eventually, it worked. Yesterday, would not charge at all on any charger. Being towed to service center tomorrow.Owner complaint, filed 2024
I am writing to formally escalate the recurring and increasingly serious technical and safety issues with my Tesla Model Y. Since July 2026, my vehicle has experienced multiple system malfunctions despite three service appointments, including the replacement of the vehicle computer during the most recent service. The frequency, severity…Owner complaint, filed 2026
A 2023 Tesla Model Y experienced a sudden electrical failure while parked/being prepared for use. Multiple warnings appeared on May 26, 2026, including high-voltage system service required, low-voltage electrical system power reduced/vehicle shutting down, cabin climate control limited, and steering/braking/parking brake functions…Owner complaint, filed 2026
Compare the 2023 with other years before you choose one. Tap a year to see its problems.
Each car is rated against its own other years, since popular models always get more complaints than rare ones.
| Car | Vs. its other years | Recalls |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 Tesla Model Y | Too new to judge | 17 |
| 2023 Tesla Model 3 | Too new to judge | 12 |
| 2023 Toyota RAV4 | Too new to judge | 3 |
| 2023 Honda CR-V | Too new to judge | 3 |
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. The headlight low beams may be too bright and exceed the maximum light output. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017, 2021-2023 Model 3, 2020-2023 Model Y, 2021-2023 Model S, and Model X vehicles operating software version 2026.8.6. The rearview camera image may be delayed when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles operating software prior to 2023.38.4. The printed circuit board for the electronic power steering assist may experience an overstress condition, causing a loss of power steering assist when the vehicle reaches a stop and then accelerates again.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Model 3, Model S, 2023-2025 Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The computer circuit board may short, resulting in the loss of the rearview camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024 Cybertruck, 2017-2025 Model 3, and 2020-2025 Model Y vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light may not remain illuminated between drive cycles, failing to warn the driver of low tire pressure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck vehicles. An incorrect font size is displayed on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model S, X, and Y vehicles equipped with full self-driving computer 4.0 and running a software release version 2023.44.30 through 2023.44.30.6 or 2023.44.100. Software instability may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autosteer leading up to the version(s) that contains the recall remedy. In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature's controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse of the SAE Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model S, Model X, and Model Y vehicles. The forward-facing camera may be misaligned, causing some of the active safety features such as emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane assist to become unavailable without alerting the driver.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The pyrotechnic battery disconnect may be defective.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Model Y vehicles. The steering wheel fastener may be loose.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Model Y vehicles. The bolts securing the second-row seat back frames may not have been securely tightened.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2023 Model S, Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving Beta (FSD Beta) software or pending installation. The FSD Beta system may allow the vehicle to act unsafe around intersections, such as traveling straight through an intersection while in a turn-only lane, entering a stop sign-controlled intersection without coming to a complete stop, or proceeding into an intersection during a steady yellow traffic signal without due caution. In addition, the system may respond insufficiently to changes in posted speed limits or not adequately account for the driver's adjustment of the vehicle's speed to exceed posted speed limits.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model Y vehicles. The front suspension lateral link fasteners may not have been properly attached to the sub-frame.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. One or both taillights may intermittently fail to illuminate.
The most reported problem areas on the 2023 Tesla Model Y are the driver assist systems (549 complaints), the steering (219 complaints) and the cruise control and acceleration (168 complaints). Within the driver assist systems, owners most often name the adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking and warnings.
Too new to judge fully. It has been on the road 3 years, so complaints are still coming in. So far it has fewer than a typical older Model Y year, which is normal for a newer car. The area owners report most so far is the driver assist systems, which half of owners reported by about 4,000 miles. Based on owner complaints to NHTSA, compared with other Model Y years from 2020 to 2024. A good year can still be a bad car, so check the one you are looking at.
NHTSA lists 17 recalls for the 2023 Tesla Model Y. The most recent, from Aug 2026, covers the headlights. Recalls cover the whole model year, so check the VIN of the car you are looking at to see which are still open.
Half of the owners who reported a problem with the driver assist systems gave a mileage of about 4,000 miles or less. Half of the owners who reported a problem with the steering gave a mileage of about 10,000 miles or less. Plenty of cars have these problems later or never, so ask for service records.
Years with clearly fewer complaints are 2020. Years from 2022 on are too new to rate fairly yet.
These problems are for the model year as a whole. Here is how to find out about the one you are looking at.
We inspect the car with a scan tool and paint gauge, read the history report and tell you whether it is worth the asking price, before you hand over any money.