Recalls · problems · safety

2021 Tesla Model S: recalls and problems

24 recalls and 178 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is forward collision avoidance.

24recalls
178complaints
13crashes reported
2fires reported
5injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Forward Collision Avoidance47 · 26%
  • Unknown Or Other45 · 25%
  • Steering29 · 16%
  • Electrical System25 · 14%
  • Service Brakes16 · 9%
  • Vehicle Speed Control15 · 8%
  • Suspension15 · 8%
  • Wheels10 · 6%
  • Tires9 · 5%
  • Structure9 · 5%

What owners report

Unknown Or Other

I was driving to work this morning and engaged fsd mode in standard when suddenly the vehicle began to speed towards traffic and did not slow down while approaching a stopped semi truck. when i tried to brake, the fsd mode did not disengage and the car skidded a bit before i swerved out of the way to avoid the truck. fsd was still engaged for another minute or two before i was finally able to get it to turn disengage

Wheels,Unknown Or Other

I am filing this complaint regarding a potential safety issue involving a 22-inch forgiato ev001 forged wheel installed on my 2021 tesla model s. the affected wheel is the front passenger-side wheel. i discovered a crack/hairline fracture on one of the rim spokes of the wheel. the wheel is a 22-inch forgiato ev001 (ev-001) forged wheel. i am concerned that the crack in the rim spoke may represent a potential struct

Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes

The contact owns a 2021 tesla model s. the contact stated that while driving at various speeds with the cruise control feature engaged, the brakes independently activated without the brake pedal being depressed. no warning light was illuminated. the local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was approximately 65,0

Unknown Or Other

Front hood popped open during a tow, while the car was on the hood. this damaged the hood.

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2021 Tesla Model S 5 HB AWDNot ratedNot ratedNot rated★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering Model S. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.