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2020 Tesla Model Y problems, recalls and owner complaints

What the 2020 Tesla Model Y has been recalled for and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.

  • 24safety recalls
  • 283owner complaints
  • 48crash reports
  • 0fire reports
  • 26injuries reported

283 complaints, against an average of 718 for the other 5 Tesla Model Y model years.

Every Tesla Model Y model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.

What goes wrong with the 2020 Tesla Model Y?

The components named most often in the 283 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.

  1. Forward Collision Avoidance108 (38.2%)
  2. Service Brakes37 (13.1%)
  3. Vehicle Speed Control37 (13.1%)
  4. Lane Departure32 (11.3%)
  5. Suspension31 (11%)
  6. Electrical System28 (9.9%)
  7. Steering26 (9.2%)
  8. Air Bags17 (6%)

What symptoms do 2020 Tesla Model Y owners describe?

Found by reading the text of all 283 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.

Has the 2020 Tesla Model Y been recalled?

24 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.

Exterior Lighting: Headlights 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." NHTSA campaign 26V507000 · August 5, 2026 · Risk and fix

Risk: Headlight low beams that are too bright can reduce visibility for oncoming drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla Service will replace the headlights, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were be mailed October 3, 2026. Another notice will be sent once the repair becomes available. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-17-003.

Back Over Prevention: Software 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." NHTSA campaign 26V283000 · May 5, 2026 · Risk and fix

Risk: A delayed rearview image reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2026. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-26-00-001.

Tires: Pressure Monitoring And Regulating SystemsOver-the-air fix 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." NHTSA campaign 24V935000 · December 17, 2024 · Risk and fix

Risk: Driving with improperly inflated tires increases the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-018.

Latches/Locks/Linkages: Hood: LatchOver-the-air fix 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. NHTSA campaign 24V554000 · July 24, 2024 · Risk and fix

Risk: An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-012.

Seat Belts: Front: Warning Light/DevicesOver-the-air fix 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." NHTSA campaign 24V376000 · May 28, 2024 · Risk and fix

Risk: A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.

Fix: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-008.

Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings: External/Pedestrian AlertOver-the-air fix Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2013, 2018-2021 Model S, 2020-2021 Model X, 2018-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A factory reset muted the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles." NHTSA campaign 24V153000 · February 27, 2024 · Risk and fix

Risk: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are muted, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, release 2023.44.30.14, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-006.

Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/PanelOver-the-air fix 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." NHTSA campaign 24V051000 · January 30, 2024 · Risk and fix

Risk: Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla began releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-003.

Electrical System: Adas: Autonomous/Self Driving: SoftwareOver-the-air fix 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. NHTSA campaign 23V838000 · December 12, 2023 · Risk and fix

Risk: In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, and the driver does not maintain responsibility for vehicle operation and is unprepared to intervene as necessary or fails to recognize when Autosteer is canceled or not engaged, there may be an increased risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-008.

Steering: Automated/Adaptive SteeringOver-the-air fix 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. NHTSA campaign 23V085000 · February 15, 2023 · Risk and fix

Risk: FSD Beta software that allows a vehicle to exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-001.

Exterior Lighting: Tail LightsOver-the-air fix Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. One or both taillights may intermittently fail to illuminate. NHTSA campaign 22V844000 · November 15, 2022 · Risk and fix

Risk: A taillight that fails to illuminate may reduce the visibility of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-016.

Visibility: Power Window Devices And ControlsOver-the-air fix Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3, 2020-2022 Model Y, and 2021-2022 Model S and Model X vehicles. The window automatic reversal system may not react correctly after detecting an obstruction. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems." NHTSA campaign 22V702000 · September 19, 2022 · Risk and fix

Risk: A closing window may exert excessive force by pinching a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update of the automatic window reversal system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 31, 2032. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-013.

Electrical System: SoftwareOver-the-air fix Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y, Model X, Model S, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles." NHTSA campaign 22V235000 · April 12, 2022 · Risk and fix

Risk: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, including Summon and Smart Summon, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall supersedes recall 22V-063. Vehicles configured with Summon or Smart Summon and already remedied under 22V-063 will need to have the new remedy software installed.

Electrical System: SoftwareOver-the-air fix Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model S, Model X, Model Y, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles." NHTSA campaign 22V063000 · February 4, 2022 · Risk and fix

Risk: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall has been superseded by Recall 22V-235. Tesla's number for the new recall is SB-22-00-003.

Electrical System: SoftwareOver-the-air fix Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A software error may cause a valve in the heat pump to open unintentionally and trap the refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting in decreased defrosting performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems." NHTSA campaign 22V050000 · February 2, 2022 · Risk and fix

Risk: Decreased defrosting performance may reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-18-002.

Electrical System: SoftwareOver-the-air fix Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The audible chime may not activate when the vehicle starts and the driver has not buckled their seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection." NHTSA campaign 22V045000 · February 1, 2022 · Risk and fix

Risk: The driver may be unaware that their seat belt is not fastened, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-002.

Electrical System: Adas: Autonomous/Self Driving: SoftwareOver-the-air fix Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The "rolling stop" functionality available as part of the Full Self-Driving (Beta) software may allow the vehicle to travel through an all-way stop intersection without first coming to a stop. NHTSA campaign 22V037000 · January 27, 2022 · Risk and fix

Risk: Failing to stop at a stop sign can increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that disables the "rolling stop" functionality, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-001.

Suspension Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The front and rear suspension knuckles may fracture, causing the suspension links to separate. NHTSA campaign 21V912000 · November 21, 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: Suspension links that separate can reduce vehicle stability and control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla Service will inspect and replace the knuckles as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 18, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-31-004.

Forward Collision Avoidance: Sensing System: CameraOver-the-air fix Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S, Model 3, Model X, and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles operating software version 2021.36.5.2. A communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB) system. NHTSA campaign 21V846000 · October 29, 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004.

Suspension: Critical Fasteners Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Model Y and 2019-2021 Model 3 vehicles. The front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen, allowing the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame. NHTSA campaign 21V835000 · October 25, 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: A lateral link separation could shift the wheel alignment, causing instability and increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla Service will tighten or replace the lateral link fasteners as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-31-003.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Foundation Components: Disc: Caliper Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Model 3 and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles. The brake caliper bolts may be loose, allowing the brake caliper to separate and contact the wheel rim. NHTSA campaign 21V387000 · May 25, 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: Contact with the rim may cause a loss of tire pressure, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla Service will inspect and tighten, or replace the caliper bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service online by visiting www.tesla.com/support/contact or by calling 1-877-79-TESLA (or 1-877-798-3752). Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-33-002.

Seat Belts: Rear/Other: Retractor Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Model Y vehicles. One or both fasteners that secure the left and right second row seat belt retractors may not be properly attached. NHTSA campaign 21V388000 · May 25, 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: Improperly attached fasteners may prevent the seat belt retention system from performing as designed, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: Tesla Service will inspect and replace both fasteners if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service online by visiting www.tesla.com/support/contact or by calling 1-877-79-TESLA (or 1-877-798-3752). Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-002.

Seat Belts Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Model 3 and 2019-2021 Model Y vehicles. One or both fasteners that secure the front seat shoulder belt to the b-pillar may not be properly attached. NHTSA campaign 21V389000 · May 25, 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: An improperly attached fastener may prevent the seat belt system from performing as designed, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: Tesla Service will inspect and repair both fasteners if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service online by visiting www.tesla.com/support/contact or by calling 1-877-79-TESLA (or 1-877-798-3752). Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-001.

Suspension: Front: Control Arm Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020 Model Y vehicles. The bolts connecting the front upper control arm and steering knuckle may have not been properly tightened, allowing the upper control arm to detach from the steering knuckle. NHTSA campaign 20V709000 · November 17, 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: A detached upper control arm can cause the wheels to lean in or out, decreasing the driver's ability to steer and increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and as necessary, tighten the bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 15, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-20-31-012.

Exterior LightingOver-the-air fix Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020 Model Y vehicles equipped with a global rear lamp and tow package configuration. A software error prevents the illumination of trailer brake lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." NHTSA campaign 20V609000 · September 30, 2020 · Risk and fix

Risk: Trailer brake lights that fail to illuminate during braking increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: Tesla will notify owners, and has released the firmware update over-the-air (OTA) to vehicles as of September 23, 2020. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-20-00-002.

Is the 2020 Tesla Model Y recalled in the UK or Europe?

Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.

UK DVSAUpdate vehicle software to correct TPMS behaviour Recall R/2025/002 · Dec 31, 2024 · built May 2019 to Nov 2024 · Risk and fix

Risk: On affected vehicles upon detection of a malfunction with the tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) the TPMS tell tale does not persist between drive cycles where the vehicle is off or asleep between the drive cycles. Therefore the driver may not be adequately warned of potential under-inflation of the tyres increasing the risk of a collision.

Fix: Install modified software via an Over the Air (OTA) wireless update.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAA loss of low voltage system support may cause the audio subsystem to be unavailable Recall R/2022/131 · Apr 19, 2022 · built Jan 2018 to Nov 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: On certain vehicles that are running firmware release 2022.8 and that experience a loss of low voltage system support the audio subsystem may become unavailable including the use of eCall functionality.

Fix: Firmware release 2022.12.3 or later reverses the power management process introduced in firmware release 2022.8 and maintains eCall audio functionality.

Check on GOV.UK

UK DVSAThe front suspension lateral link may be insufficiently torqued Recall R/2022/006 · Dec 24, 2021 · built Jan 2019 to Jun 2021 · Risk and fix

Risk: The front suspension lateral link may be insufficiently torqued.

Fix: Inspect the connection of both front suspension lateral links to the sub-frame. Replace any related damaged components and ensure correct torque of fastening bolts.

Check on GOV.UK

EU Safety GateIncorrectly manufactured steering knuckles may break or become deformed or break and the suspension arms could become detached from them,…Incorrectly manufactured steering knuckles may break or become deformed or break and the suspension arms could become detached from them, resulting in reduced driving stability and loss of control and increasing the risk of an accident. Alert A12/00503/22 · reported by Germany · Apr 1, 2022 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe lateral control arm of the front suspension is attached to the sub-frame by means of two fasteners.If a fastener gets loose enough or detaches from the sub-frame, this can cause the wheel alignment to change. This cause instability, which could have a negative effect on vehicle control and increase the risk of a collision. Alert A12/01806/21 · reported by Germany · Dec 24, 2021 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe seat belt mounts may be defective.This could result in increased risk of injury in the event of an accident. Alert A12/01054/21 · reported by Germany · Jul 16, 2021 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

EU Safety GateThe fastening elements that secure the brake calipers to the stub axles may not have been tightened to the correct torque.As a result, the movement of the wheels can be restricted and subsequently the tyres may lose pressure, increasing the risk of an accident. Alert A12/01056/21 · reported by Germany · Jul 16, 2021 · Measures

Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown

View on EU Safety Gate

What do 2020 Tesla Model Y owners report?

12 of the 283 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.

I was driving a 2020 Tesla Model Y with Full Self-Driving (FSD) engaged when another vehicle unexpectedly turned into my path, resulting in a heavy initial collision. However, the most critical safety failures occurred immediately after this first impact: FSD Failure to Disengage: Despite the severe physical impact of the collision, the Tesla FSD system completely failed to detect the crash or automatically disengage. It did not apply the brakes. Instead, the system continued to actively propel the vehicle forward for approximately 5 to 10 meters, steering it directly into a concrete traffic…
Service Brakes, Lane Departure, Forward Collision AvoidanceCrashNHTSA complaint 11772864 · Oct 22, 2026
The front suspension bushing has torn prematurely at only 31099 miles. There is no history of external impact, accident, or modifications to the suspension assembly. This vehicle displays the exact premature structural breakdown targeted by the active NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation case number PE26006. It was found out during Tesla service inspection to replace 12 V battery.Tesla Service declined to offer a goodwill repair due to calendar age (6 years), forcing an out-of-pocket replacement. The mechanical part failed silently without triggering any electronic dashboard alerts or system…
SuspensionNHTSA complaint 11770576 · Oct 12, 2026
The vehicle is experiencing an active, recurring safety hazard caused by a manufacturer software bug that triggers unprovoked alignment parameter and steering angle plausibility resets. This defect directly compromises the vehicle’s primary handling characteristics and stability control systems. This specific firmware vulnerability is officially documented and acknowledged by the manufacturer under Tesla Internal Toolbox Article 8368100. The unprovoked resetting of steering and alignment parameters degrades the vehicle's driving stability, alters steering feedback, and can cause sudden…
Forward Collision Avoidance, Lane DepartureNHTSA complaint 11770016 · Oct 9, 2026
Critical FSD Lane Change - 2020 Tesla Model Y Software 2026.26.6.5 and FSD v14.1 Lite changed lanes suddenly and violently at freeway speed while entering an express lane with flexible lane delineators between the express lanes and the freeway. The automation made the lane change at the very last second, narrowly avoiding impact with the plastic posts, and swerving back into the left-most freeway lane. The action of the FSD could have caused a loss of control of the vehicle as it compensated for the weight shift caused by suddenly swerving. There was space between the Tesla and other vehicles…
Unknown Or Other, Forward Collision Avoidance, Lane DepartureNHTSA complaint 11766952 · Sep 25, 2026
2020 Model Y developed a parking-brake/braking system failure. Vehicle displayed "Steering & Braking - Parking brake functions degraded/parking brake may not apply or release." This resulted in the vehicle being unable to drive for extended periods of time. Tesla diagnosed a rear-right brake caliper failure and quoted approximately $886. Tesla acknowledged the condition is not normal wear and tear but declined coverage because the vehicle is outside of warranty and there is no open recall. I am concerned about premature failure of a safety-critical brake/parking-brake component.
Electrical System, Service BrakesNHTSA complaint 11766629 · Sep 24, 2026
On June 17, 2026, I experienced a severe and life-threatening entrapment inside my 2020 Tesla Model Y. The incident occurred immediately after I finished charging the vehicle for approximately two hours at a charging station under direct sunlight, which left the car extremely hot. After charging, I drove a short distance, parked, and left the vehicle for approximately 20 minutes. Upon my return, my card key failed to unlock the vehicle. After contacting my wife for assistance, I was briefly able to open the door, but I became securely locked inside the cabin as soon as the door closed. The 12V…
Power Train, Electrical System, Unknown Or OtherNHTSA complaint 11764144 · Sep 14, 2026
There was a grinding sound coming from the LF wheel. This was progressively getting worse. Car was shaking while driving so dropped it off with my mechanic due to safety concerns. Per the mechanic that fixed the issue: Inspection found LF wheel bearing is loose. A bolt backed out on inside rubbing through axel shaft. Allowed wheel bearing to damage to damaged from moving in place. Axle shaft damaged from rubbing on backed out bolt. Replace LF axle shaft and wheel bearing. Informed by mechanic that wheel could have fallen off while driving. No prior work. Mechanic believes most likely issue was…
Suspension, Wheels, Service BrakesNHTSA complaint 11732866 · Apr 21, 2026
A 2018 Ford Explorer, marked police vehicles, was operating with lights and siren when it proceeded through a red traffic light at an intersection. The subject vehicle, 2020 Tesla Model 3, was proceeding through a green traffic light at the intersection and struck the Ford.
SteeringCrashNHTSA complaint 11722999 · Mar 9, 2026
Car was on complete auto pilot on mayland highway 270 and car suddenly took exit with any command and notification. Car was very close , few feet away from the guardrail at 55 mile per hour. This could have been a life threatening event with such decisions made by car. I saved all the dash cam videos of such two occurrence. I no longer have any trust in auto pilot software after too many mishaps with recent updates.
Unknown Or Other, Lane DepartureNHTSA complaint 11707184 · Dec 26, 2025
On Tuesday, [XXX], around [XXX] returning home and in my driveway when the following happened. Pulling into the left side of the driveway because a utility van was parked on the right side of the driveway with the rear door and driver’s side door opened with no one in the vicinity. There was not enough room to go forward into the garage. I was almost at a complete stop with the intention of getting out of the car to shut the drivers side door. That was when the car sped up at full speed and turned to the right into the van and continued in the right direction into the garage. The car was…
Vehicle Speed Control, Forward Collision AvoidanceCrashNHTSA complaint 11656833 · Apr 25, 2025
On drives longer than 40 miles, camera faults cause cruise control systems to degrade in function and then when the faults are cleared, full functionality resumes without driver alerts. Side repeater camera feeds and rear camera feeds inconsistently load, or take an extended time period to load (10+ seconds). Tesla has confirmed that the autopilot computer (HW3) likely needs to be replaced, but this error/messaging is not directly accessible to the customer. The inconsistent failure behavior of the vehicle could easily lead less technical owners/drivers to incorrectly interpret how the car is…
Vehicle Speed Control, Forward Collision AvoidanceNHTSA complaint 11633239 · Dec 30, 2024
I am reporting a recurring Safety Restraint System Fault error in my 2020 Tesla Model Y. The issue manifests as an alert on the vehicle's dashboard, warning of a problem with the safety restraint system. This error began appearing at approximately 75000 miles. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The Safety Restraint System in my Tesla Model Y is giving errors. Yes, the component is still installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? This malfunction…
Air Bags, Seat BeltsNHTSA complaint 11615886 · Sep 23, 2024

2020 Tesla Model Y: questions owners ask

Is the 2020 Tesla Model Y reliable?

NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 283 complaints with NHTSA about the 2020 Tesla Model Y; the most common categories were forward collision avoidance (108, 38.2%), service brakes (37, 13.1%), vehicle speed control (37, 13.1%). There are 24 safety recalls. 48 complaints mention a crash, 26 injuries were reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2020 Tesla Model Y?

Across 283 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are forward collision avoidance (38.2% of complaints), service brakes (13.1% of complaints), vehicle speed control (13.1% of complaints), lane departure (11.3% of complaints), suspension (11% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.

Does the 2020 Tesla Model Y have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 24 recalls for the 2020 Tesla Model Y; the most recent (campaign 26V507000, 2026-08-05) concerns Exterior Lighting: Headlights. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Why does my 2020 Tesla Model Y brake suddenly for no reason?

30 of the 283 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Tesla Model Y (10.6%) describe sudden, unexpected automatic braking ("phantom braking"). 2 related recalls exist: campaign 24V153000 (forward collision avoidance: warnings: external/pedestrian alert). The fix: Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, release 2023.44.30.14, free of charge. One owner wrote: "I was driving with cruise control on and the car violently hit the brakes when there was no one in front of us. We have noticed this is more common when cresting a hill. This happens at least once every time we are on a road trip. This needs to be addressed." (NHTSA complaint 11548079, October 2023). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Why does adaptive cruise control not work properly on my 2020 Tesla Model Y?

24 of the 283 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Tesla Model Y (8.5%) describe adaptive cruise control disengaging, braking or not working. One owner wrote: "I was driving with cruise control on and the car violently hit the brakes when there was no one in front of us. We have noticed this is more common when cresting a hill. This happens at least once every time we are on a road trip. This needs to be addressed." (NHTSA complaint 11548079, October 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.

Check your own Model Y

Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.

Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2020 only.

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