Is the Tesla Model 3 Reliable?
2017–2026 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other hybrids — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Tesla Model 3? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Open NHTSA Investigation
fsd collisions in reduced roadway visibility conditions
Component: electrical system:adas
⚠ Historically, 50% of EA investigations became recalls.
An open investigation is NHTSA reviewing a potential defect — the earliest warning a recall may be coming. It is not a defect finding. See all vehicles under investigation →
Tesla Model 3 Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 24 | 1 | — | 38 | Poor |
| 2025 | 1 | 100 | 18 | — | 38 | Poor |
| 2024 | 2 | 180 | 17 | — | 38 | Poor |
| 2023 | 7 | 353 | 42 | 3 | 28 | Poor |
| 2022 | 13 | 766 | 37 | 1 | 13 | Poor |
| 2021 | 16 | 541 | 14 | 8 | 21 | Poor |
| 2020 | 16 | 374 | 30 | — | 28 | Poor |
| 2019 | 18 | 482 | 27 | 1 | 23 | Poor |
| 2018 | 15 | 902 | 42 | 2 | 13 | Poor |
| 2017 | 12 | 24 | — | — | 38 | Poor |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Model 3 Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Model 3 scores 37 points below the average hybrid. Consider checking years with lower complaint volumes.
Known Tesla Model 3 Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 3746 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tesla Model 3 reliable?+
The Tesla Model 3 scores 28/100 on our reliability index — rated "Poor." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 100 recall campaigns and 3746 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Model 3 is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2026 Model 3 achieved the highest reliability score of 38/100 with 0 recalls and 24 complaints.
How many miles does a Model 3 last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Tesla Model 3 owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Model 3 will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Tesla Model 3 Research
Check a Specific Tesla Model 3 VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
Run a Free VIN Report →