2018 TESLA MODEL 3 VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF018326

TBD
Condition
Run & Drive
Damage
Collision
Title
Salvage

VIN 5YJ3E1EA7JF018326 Decoding Tesla Vin Decoder

Error Text

0 - VIN decoded clean. Check Digit (9th position) is correct

Make

TESLA

Manufacturer Name

TESLA, INC.

Model

Model 3

Model Year

2018

Plant City

FREMONT

Vehicle Type

PASSENGER CAR

Plant Country

UNITED STATES (USA)

Plant State

CALIFORNIA

Base Price ($)

46000.00

Body Class

Sedan/Saloon

Doors

4

Wheel Base (inches) From

113.20

Bed Type

Not Applicable

Cab Type

Not Applicable

Trailer Type Connection

Not Applicable

Trailer Body Type

Not Applicable

Number of Wheels

4

Steering Location

Left-Hand Drive (LHD)

Number of Seats

5

Number of Seat Rows

2

Transmission Style

Automatic

Transmission Speeds

1

Axles

2

Fuel Type - Primary

Electric

Electrification Level

BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)

Other Engine Info

Single Motor - Standard

Seat Belt Type

Manual

Other Restraint System Info

Type 2 manual seatbelts (FR, SR*3), PODS

Front Air Bag Locations

1st Row (Driver and Passenger)

Knee Air Bag Locations

1st Row (Driver and Passenger)

Side Air Bag Locations

1st Row (Driver and Passenger)

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Standard

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Standard

Traction Control

Standard

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Type

Direct

Auto-Reverse System for Windows and Sunroofs

Standard

Automatic Pedestrian Alerting Sound (for Hybrid and EV only)

Standard

Keyless Ignition

Standard

SAE Automation Level From

1

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Optional

Crash Imminent Braking (CIB)

Standard

Blind Spot Warning (BSW)

Standard

Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

Standard

Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Standard

Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA)

Standard

Backup Camera

Standard

Parking Assist

Standard

Bus Floor Configuration Type

Not Applicable

Bus Type

Not Applicable

Custom Motorcycle Type

Not Applicable

Motorcycle Suspension Type

Not Applicable

Motorcycle Chassis Type

Not Applicable

Dynamic Brake Support (DBS)

Standard

Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking (PAEB)

Standard

Daytime Running Light (DRL)

Standard

Semiautomatic Headlamp Beam Switching

Standard

Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB)

Standard

2018 TESLA MODEL 3 Crash Test Score

5

Overall Rating

Overall Front Star Rating

Combines Driver and Passenger star ratings into a single frontal rating. The frontal barrier test simulates a head-on collision between two similar vehicles, each moving at 35 mph.

Front Driver Side
Front Passenger Side

Overall Side Star Rating

Combines Driver and Passenger star ratings into a single frontal rating. The frontal barrier test simulates a head-on collision between two similar vehicles, each moving at 35 mph.

Combined Side Barrier and Pole Ratings

Combines Driver and Passenger star ratings into a single frontal rating. The frontal barrier test simulates a head-on collision between two similar vehicles, each moving at 35 mph.

Front Seat
Rear Seat

Side Barrier

Combines Driver and Passenger star ratings into a single frontal rating. The frontal barrier test simulates a head-on collision between two similar vehicles, each moving at 35 mph.

Driver
Rear Passenger

Overall Side Pole Star Rating

Combines Driver and Passenger star ratings into a single frontal rating. The frontal barrier test simulates a head-on collision between two similar vehicles, each moving at 35 mph.

Rollover Star Rating

Combines Driver and Passenger star ratings into a single frontal rating. The frontal barrier test simulates a head-on collision between two similar vehicles, each moving at 35 mph.

Rollover Risk:
6.6%

2018 TESLA MODEL 3 Safety Features

Seat Belts and Head Restraints

Dynamic Head Restraints Not Available
Head Restraint Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat
Advanced Belt Feature Standard
Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage Driver, Front Passenger
Seat Belt Reminder System Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat

Air Bags

Frontal Air Bag Driver, Front Passenger
Curtain Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat
Torso/Pelvis Driver, Front Passenger
Knee Driver, Front Passenger
Additional Air Bags Not Available
Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements Yes

Child Passenger Features

LATCH Locations Rear Seat
Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) Standard
Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat

Complaints Assosiated with VIN 5YJ3E1EA7JF018326

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

April 09, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11407314
Consumer Location: THOUSAND OAKS, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

I DISCOVERED A FLAW IN THE MODEL 3 HORN MECHANISM THAT YOU PRESS ON THE STEERING WHEEL. I HAVE SEEN THE MECHANISM AND WHEN YOU PRESS ON THE LEFT OR THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE HORN BUTTON, YOU CAN HEAR THE MECHANISM CLICK, BUT IT'S NOT ACTIVATING THE HORN, YOU NEED TO APPLY ALOT OF PRESSURE ON THE SIDES FOR THE HORN TO ACTIVATE. I HAVE ALREADY HAD THE MECHANISM REPLACED ONCE WITH TESLA AND IT'S THE SAME ISSUE. I HAVE HEARD ABOUT OTHER MODEL 3 OWNERS HAVE THE SAME ISSUE AND TESLA NEEDS TO COME OUT WITH A BETTER HORN MECHANISM LIKE IN THE MODEL S OR MODEL X WHERE SERVICE CENTERS CAN ADJUST SENSITIVITY OF THE MECHANISM. NORMALLY IN OTHER CARS YOU CAN USE YOUR THUMB TO PRESS THE HORN ON THE LEFT OR RIGHT SIDE OF THE HORN MECHANISM, BUT IT'S TAKES ALOT OF PRESSURE EVEN IN THE MIDDLE. THE PHOTO I ATTACHED IS THE MECHANISM I AM TALKING ABOUT IN THE STEERING WHEEL.

Components: POWER TRAIN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

April 01, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11406279
Consumer Location: KEY WEST, FL
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

I WAS DRIVING MY MODEL 3(IN MOTION) IN THE LEFT LANE OF A 3 LANE LOCAL ROAD (3 LANES EACH DIRECTION). THE CAR SUDDENLY DISPLAYED 2 WARNING LIGHT, "UNABLE TO DRIVE" AND ANOTHER WARNING ABOUT VEHICLE POWERING DOWN, MOVE TO A SAFE LOCATION. THE CAR STOPPED A FEW SECONDS AFTER DISPLAYING THESE WARNINGS. I DID NOT HAVE ENOUGH TIME TO MANEUVER THE CAR TO A SAFE LOCATION. I WAS STUCK ON THE LEFT OF THE BUSY ROADWAY. I WAS OFFERED HELP BY A POLICE OFFICER AND A PEDESTRIAN TO HELP PUSH THE CAR TO SAFETY. I WAS UNABLE TO ENGAGE THE CAR IN NEUTRAL TO ALLOW THE FOLKS HELPING ME TO PUSH THE CAR. THE 2 MAIN MAJOR SAFETY CONCERNS WAS THE VEHICLE SHUTTING DOWN COMPLETELY AND THEN BEING UNABLE TO SHIFT THE VEHICLE TO NEUTRAL TO MOVE IT TO SAFETY. PLEASE INVESTIGATE THIS. MY FAMILY COULD HAVE BEEN IN THE VEHICLE WITH ME AND WE COULD HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED IN AN ACCIDENT. THANKS.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

February 16, 2020
NHTSA ID Number: 11398918
Consumer Location: SAN FRANCISCO, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

THE REAR CAMERA DOES NOT WORK. AT FIRST IT WAS INTERMITTENT, NOW IT IS PERMANENT. I HAVE DOCUMENTATION OF MANY INSTANCES WITH PHOTOS. I COULD UPLOAD ONLY ONE.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

February 18, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11397025
Consumer Location: SAN FRANCISCO, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

WHEN PUTTING THE CAR IN REVERSE THE SCREEN IS BLACK AS THE REARVIEW CAMERA DOES NOT WORK PROPERLY. I HAVE HAD THIS ISSUE APPEAR AND DISAPPEAR INTERMITTENTLY FOR AS LONG AS I HAVE OWNER THIS CAR, SINCE JULY 2018. TESLA HAS NOT REPAIRED THIS ISSUE. THE REARVIEW CAMERA IS UNRELIABLE AT BEST. I CAN SEND MORE IMAGES IF NEEDED TAKEN AFTER MULTIPLE OCCURRENCES OF THE SAME ISSUE.

Components: SUSPENSION

November 19, 2020
NHTSA ID Number: 11383115
Consumer Location: EL DORADO HILLS, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

THE CONTROL ARMS AND LINKS FOR THE CAR KEEPS FAILING. I HAVE TAKEN IT INTO TESLA ON 3 TIMES NOW TO HAVE THESE REPAIRS MADE AND THE CAR IS ONLY 2 YEARS OLD WITH 40K MILES.

Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

December 17, 2019
NHTSA ID Number: 11306614
Consumer Location: SAN JOSE, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

WHEN I TURNED INTO PARK SPACE AND STOPPED, MY CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, HIT TWO POLES A FEW FEET IN FRONT OF MY CAR, AND DAMAGE THE CAR BUMPER. THIS IS A FAMILIAR PARK SPACE WHICH I PARKED MANY TIME PREVIOUSLY. THE MIGHT ACCELERATE ITSELF. I ASKED TESLA FOR MY DRIVING DATA LOG BUT I HAVE NOT RECEIVED IT YET. I DON'T REMEMBER EXACTLY IF I PRESS ACCELERATOR OR NOT WHEN THE CAR ACCELERATED. IF I DID PRESS THE ACCELERATOR, THE NEW STOPPING MODE AND POSSIBLY MY TURNED STEERING WHEEL MIGHT FORCE ME TO EXERT UN-PROPORTIONAL PRESSURE ON THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. I EXPECT THAT TESLA CORRECT THIS DEFECT IF IT IS ROOT CAUSE OF THIS ACCELERATION.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM UNKNOWN OR OTHER

July 25, 2019
NHTSA ID Number: 11252602
Consumer Location: INLET BEACH, FL
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

ABOUT 6 WEEEKS AGO THE HORN ON MY TESLA MODEL 3 STOPPED WORKING. I HAVE HAD ONE VERY CLOSE CALL WHERE I ALMOST GOT IN A WRECK BECAUSE THE OTHER DRIVER WAS MAKING A U TURN IN FRONT OF ME WHO DID NOT SEE ME COMING. I COULD NOT GET THEIR ATTENTION BECAUSE MY HORN DID NOT WORK. I HAD TO GO INTO THE LANE OF ON COMING TRAFFIC TO AVOID A SERIOUS WRECK. I HAVE MADE MULTIPLE EFFORTS TO GET TESLA TO GET THIS REPAIRED. THEY HAVE FAILED EVERY SINGLE TIME TO TAKE CARE OF THIS OR EVEN SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT. COMMUNICATION HAS BEEN VERY LITTLE AND NOW THEY ARE NOT RESPONDING AT ALL. I HAVE EMAILED THEM AND TEXTED THEM. EVEN TRIED TO GET THEM TO HELP THRU THEIR TWITTER ACCOUNT. PLEASE HELP !!

Components: STRUCTURE WHEELS

May 07, 2019
NHTSA ID Number: 11207693
Consumer Location: Unknown
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 TESLA MODEL 3. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH IN THE RAIN, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND NOTICED THAT THE REAR BUMPER AND REAR WHEEL HUBCAP ON THE PASSENGER SIDE HAD FALLEN OFF. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO AN ACT OF GOD AND THEY WOULD CHARGE FOR TOWING THE VEHICLE TO A CERTIFIED COLLISION CENTER. THE CONTACT CALLED HER INSURANCE COMPANY AND THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN AT THE CERTIFIED COLLISION CENTER FOR OVER A WEEK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER REITERATED THAT AN OUTSIDE INFLUENCE CAUSED THE PARTS TO FALL OFF AND THEY WOULD NOT PAY FOR THE REPAIRS. THE CONTACT WANTED THE MANUFACTURER TO COVER THE COSTS WITH THE INITIAL WARRANTY SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS JUST PURCHASED IN JULY OF 2018. THE CONTACT SUSPECTED THAT THE PARTS BEING USED WERE OF INFERIOR QUALITY. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. *AS

Components: STRUCTURE

May 06, 2019
NHTSA ID Number: 11206155
Consumer Location: ATLANTA, GA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

I TURNED INTO MY DRIVEWAY AND WAS GOING TO PULL INTO MY GARAGE TO PARK THE CAR, WHEN THE CAR ACCELERATED SUDDENLY AND VIOLENTLY AND CRASHED INTO THE FRONT STONE WALL OF OUR HOUSE. THE STONE WALL IS DAMAGED AND THE FRONT RIGHT SIDE OF THE TESLA HAS SIGNIFICANT DAMAGES.

Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

August 20, 2018
NHTSA ID Number: 11202909
Consumer Location: PLACITAS, NM
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 TESLA MODEL 3. WHILE DRIVING WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL SET AT APPROXIMATELY 67 MPH, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED TO 75 MPH. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DISENGAGE THE CRUISE CONTROL. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND AN ENGINEER WAS SENT TO DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE. THE ENGINEER WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE A CAUSE FOR THE INDEPENDENT ACCELERATION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,000. *BF CONSUMER STATED VEHICLE EITHER SLOWS DOWN SUDDENLY OR SPEEDS UP. THIS HAS HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES.*JB

Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER

January 17, 2019
NHTSA ID Number: 11170990
Consumer Location: OCEANSIDE, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

WHEN WIPERS ARE SET TO 'AUTO' MODE, THEY ARE FAR TOO SLOW TO REACT. DO TO THE MANUAL MODE REQUIRING THE TOUCH SCREEN TO CHANGE, A NOVICE TO THE SYSTEM WOULD HAVE A VERY HARD TIME CHANGING TO THE WIPERS TO WORK MUCH FASTER. THIS WOULD CAUSE A VERY UNSAFE AND HAZARDS CONDITION. AS IT IS NOW, I DO NOT FEEL SAFE LETTING ANYONE ELSE DRIVE THIS CAR IN THE RAIN.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

September 01, 2018
NHTSA ID Number: 11124067
Consumer Location: RIVERSIDE, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

I WAS PULLING INTO A DRIVEWAY WHEN MY FOUR WEEK OLD TESLA MODEL 3, UNEXPECTEDLY ACCELERATED FOR NO OBVIOUS REASON. IT FELT LIKE CAR WAS FLYING AT A HIGH SPEED AND I HAD NO CONTROL. IN A BLURR, WE WERE SURROUNDED BY INFLATED AIRBAGS ON ALL SIDES IN A SMOKE FILLED CAR AND I REALIZED CAR HAD CRASHED INTO THE GARAGE DOOR AND NOW WAS PINNED UNDER A CRUMPLED GARAGE DOOR. IN SECONDS, AN EVERYDAY INSTANCE OF PULLING INTO THE DRIVEWAY HAD SUDDENLY CHANGED INTO A NIGHTMARE.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

July 24, 2018
NHTSA ID Number: 11113490
Consumer Location: NEWARK, DE
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA7JF****

Summary of Complaint

WHILE DRIVING IN AUTONOMOUS MODE IT SUDDENLY VEERED TO THE RIGHT WHERE AN 18 WHEELER WAS IN THE NEXT LANE. IT ALMOST HIT THE TRUCK. I WAS ATTENTIVE ENOUGH TO TAKE CONTROL. AFTER A FEW MINUTES SOMETHING HAPPENED AGAIN.

Components: LANE DEPARTURE

May 17, 2020
NHTSA ID Number: 11440658
Consumer Location: PACIFIC PALISADES, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EAXJF****

Summary of Complaint

Tesla auto pilot does not stay in lane under certain conditions. On the freeway, it failed to recognize plastic reflective stanchions while driving on freeway interchange. The car was making left turn from 101 to 5 north. the car hit the stanchions while making the left turn. I took over the left turn as soon as the car hit the stanchion. The car did not recognize the stations because some stations were missing . The car can make very difficult left tuns on the freeway interchanges. It can make 270 degrees turns. It can make 90 degrees turn at 65 mph and slow down at the last minute to 45 and make the turn without any problem. But it does not recognize stanchion on a left turn. Another problem is AutoSteer in the streets. When passing through an intersection with no traffic , it steers in the Opposition direction lane.This happened about three times. The Autosteer does not recognize the lane in the intersection when the divider lines are missing or there are no other cars to use as a lane reference.

Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

November 03, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11440459
Consumer Location: SAN RAMON, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA1JF****

Summary of Complaint

Over the last several weeks there have been numerous phantom braking events when on autopilot. These seemingly happen out of nowhere, various conditions, and for no apparent reason. Some of the braking events are very light and others are harder. I estimate in the last 4-6 weeks I have 2-3 per week while commuting. One almost caused the person behind me to rear end me. I am on software version 2021.32.22 on a 2018 Model 3

Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

November 14, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11440466
Consumer Location: SAN JOSE, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB2JF****

Summary of Complaint

Multiple "phantom braking" events while using Tesla's Auto Pilot system. Vehicle, while in Auto Pilot mode, will suddenly aggressively brake for no reason (no road hazards or other imminent dangers). Occurs about once every 50 miles driven with Auto Pilot on. The last incident occurred on 11/14/21

Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

November 08, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11440469
Consumer Location: MASON, OH
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB4JF****

Summary of Complaint

I was driving on interstate, using adaptive speed control but not autopilot. Middle lane. Car suddenly applied brakes. A car was ahead of me but not very close, there was no reason to apply brakes. Slowed down from 65 to 45 very fast, (seatbelt tightened) before I resumed acceleration myself. Lucky I wasn’t rear ended because traffic is usually heavy in that area. I had one passenger who was as surprised as I was. Yes, the car can be inspected. Not reported to Tesla. No warning messages, including didn’t make the loud sound Tesla makes with normal city driving if a car ahead is turning right and I start to accelerate before it has completely left the lane I am in. Tesla cameras are also not seeing cars traveling in my driver side blind spot. They used to show up on the screen but haven’t for months. Tesla cameras also do not see low flat bed trailers (such as empty car carriers) pulled by pickup trucks, common in Ohio. Screen shows the truck but does not show the trailer. I don’t use autopilot because of the blind spot issue, now I’m afraid to use cruise control too.

Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

September 26, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11439713
Consumer Location: ORLANDO, FL
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA8JF****

Summary of Complaint

On enhanced auto pilot highway speeds, the vehicle suddenly breaks, also known as phantom breaking. Extremely dangerous! Tesla service notified, their response “software is in beta, with a recent software update addressing the matter”. 35,000 of driver miles experienced, the auto pilot is extremely glitchy. When the algorithm is to complicated the vehicle well transfer the liability back to the operator with little warning. Their vehicle safety claims are highly overstated. Software updates cannot keep up with outdated hardware.

Components: SUSPENSION

May 01, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11438767
Consumer Location: ATLANTA, GA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA6JF****

Summary of Complaint

Every time I make a turn or go over a bump, there is a loud squeaky noise and the tire pressure goes down from 44 to 36 psi. Even when driving straight without anything like a stop or a bump, the squeaky noises happens. The noise comes from the front passenger side.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

August 01, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11438307
Consumer Location: MERRITT ISLAND, FL
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB6JF****

Summary of Complaint

Car backup camera has been unavailable for use for months. Originally the issue was intermittent and only happened after Tesla alarm system active so Tesla service could not reproduce issue at dealer. They had me perform full factory reset and now issue is constant. Tesla has been unable to fix the issue stating that it is a software problem and engineers will need to create a software patch to correct. Unable to see safely out of back window to backup creating hazardous condition every time car is put into reverse. Have already taken car in for service, performed complete factory software reset, and uploaded all new software per Tesla instructions. They claim there is no fix for my backup camera so I am driving a car with no ability to see when I am in reverse.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

November 18, 2018
NHTSA ID Number: 11437904
Consumer Location: RENO, NV
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB1JF****

Summary of Complaint

Power Conversion System was defective when car brand new and replaced under 50k mile warranty. Now out of 50k mile warranty and Power Conversion System is failing again. Manufacturer service center says this item is customer pay and is just a defective item that is out of warranty for the 1-year replacement warranty, and refuses to cover this repair under the battery warranty where the Power Conversion System is located. Service center states there is nothing the customer did wrong or could do to cause this problem, acknowleges it is a defective part, and insists it is customer pay with no indication of an updated part. What happens when the Power Conversion System fails is the car is stranded and cannot recharge or operate its safety systems. This should be a recall item if it was updated to a newer part correcting defective design. The manufacturer should replace this high voltage and core functionality of the vehicle under its battery warranty where the part is located. It would be highly dangerous for the vehicle owner to replace this part and requires specialist tools to diagnose and replace or repair.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

October 21, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11437608
Consumer Location: Unknown
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA4JF****

Summary of Complaint

car caught on fire drove aobut 10 min in the morning average speed was about 10-20mph start smog and car doesn't work anything i got out of the car when smog getting bigger and started burn

Components: AIR BAGS VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL VISIBILITY/WIPER

July 16, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11436720
Consumer Location: DUBLIN, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA0JF****

Summary of Complaint

VIN: [XXX] I had an accident driving my Tesla model 3 on July 16th. Here is what happened: Driving autopilot at highway speed at ~65 mph Stray wheel/tire came and hit the front center hood/bumper of the car headon The hood flipped open tearing the hinges/struts on both sides of hood; hood lay flat on the front windshield With hood laying flat covering the whole windshield, front visibility became ZERO, also covering front windshield cameras Airbags popped on driver side (steering and below steering), and DEFLATED right away Autopilot did NOT disengage even after airbags deflated; car continued to drive ~65 mph on autopilot Not been able to see anything in the front, with both airbags deflated, and car still on autopilot at ~65mph, I found myself in a very life-threatening situation Eventually pulled the car to the shoulder on the left after changing one lane (still not been able to see anything through the windshield at ~65mph). Requesting: 1. Review and identify what Tesla auto-pilot could have done different and make improvements (since car had data on both sides of the car and front and back, as a computer, it should have at the very least slowed down or braked; or better yet avoid the on-coming wheel all together in that split second) 2. Why didn't the autopilot dis-engage and continued driving? 3. Front hood needs to have two front latches as in other cars - i.e., one main, one backup for situations like these (e.g., like Mercedes); single latch is not enough; both hinges holding the hood are very weak and broke within a second with just the wind. Hinges/struts need to be stronger. Just a wheel and here we are with a totally broken hood? 4. Autopilot is wrongly advertised as auto-pilot INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING

September 24, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11434278
Consumer Location: Unknown
VIN: 5yj3e1ea6jf****

Summary of Complaint

In a heavy Florida rain this afternoon about 3:30pm EDT I noticed my automatic headlight with windshield wiper function was inop. The lights normally go on with windshield wipers in the past. Upon investigation Tesla has removed this function at least on Model 3 and Y cars for some regulatory reason. It is unsafe to have to go to the touch screen to turn on headlights in this situation. Owners are complaining on forums but i think more drastic action is required.

Components: LANE DEPARTURE

September 16, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11434008
Consumer Location: WESTMINSTER, CO
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB6JF****

Summary of Complaint

The contact owns a 2018 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated while driving at 40 MPH in auto-pilot, the vehicle inadvertently veered into the left turn lane but continued straight into oncoming traffic. The contact stated that the vehicle collided head-on with the other vehicle. The contact was unaware of any warning lights or audio warnings. The contact stated that the front driver side and the knee air bags deployed. The contact stated that he sustained chest injures and a scrape on the right wrist and left knee. The contact declined transportation by ambulance so no medical attention was required. The contact stated that the other driver was complaining of pain but also denied transportation by ambulance but informed the contact that she would seek medical attention later. Both divers were seen on the scene by emergency personal. The contact stated that a police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an impound lot. The vehicle failure cause was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was awaiting to hear from the insurance company to determine if the vehicle would be a total loss. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact inquired of the Event Data Recorder (EDR) information from the manufacturer, however, was informed that it would take several weeks for that information to be retrieved and provided. The failure mileage was approximately 16,115.

Components: SUSPENSION

August 27, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11431995
Consumer Location: HENDERSON, NV
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB6JF****

Summary of Complaint

Driver front lower control arm bolt backed themselves out

Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE LANE DEPARTURE

September 01, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11431479
Consumer Location: LAKE FOREST PARK, WA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB9JF****

Summary of Complaint

The Tesla Model 3 manual is unclear on what situations it is appropriate to use various ADAS functions of the car. For instance, on page 86, it says to never use autosteer on city streets or construction zones. Then on page 87 it says "if you choose to use it on residential roads" which should never be acceptable. Then, on page 94, it discusses the use of Traffic Light and Stop Sign control, and how the vehicle will detect and stop for these controls when using autosteer. These are controls which only exist on city streets. It is impossible to utilize this advertised feature while obeying the manual's other limitations. The same conflicts exist in areas such as page 87, where it first says that the vehicle may steer out of a lane to avoid an object, but then immediately warns that that the car will not do this in the very next paragraph. Page 93 warns you to "be ready to assist" as approaching construction zones, not to disable AP like the warning on page 86 requires. With inconsistencies in the manual such as these, it is expected that a user would be confused as to what the capabilities and limitations of the system are, posing a safety hazard. Additionally, the vehicle is capable of enforcing these warnings itself. As described on page 87, the vehicle is aware of the road type it is currently on. Rather than expecting the user to not use it on prohibited city streets, the system should enforce this limitation if it is one the manufacturer actually expects the user to obey.

Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL SERVICE BRAKES

August 31, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11431424
Consumer Location: SAN FRANCISCO, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA4JF****

Summary of Complaint

Car was totaled after uncontrollable acceleration. Air bags were deployed

Components: AIR BAGS

August 10, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11430672
Consumer Location: SUNNYVALE, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA3JF****

Summary of Complaint

Had an alert show up: Front Passenger safety restraint system fault | Contact Tesla Service First time was in July 20, 2020; Tesla service added a part under warranty: SERVICE KIT - OCS REWORK(1479982-00-C) Second time was on August 10, 2021; Tesla service wanted to replace the whole seat out of warranty: NA-M3 PASS SEAT ASSY LHD RH PRM PUR BLK No Lumbar(7654324-01-D)

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

July 29, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11430202
Consumer Location: SAN JOSE, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA4JF****

Summary of Complaint

Within the first day, my 2018 Tesla Model 3 lost all instruments, safety indicators, and touchscreen controls while driving on the freeway. The car did this *multiple* times, without warning. Each incident lasted several minutes. It was alarming, and there was no way to tell what systems in the car were working (such as automatic emergency braking or cruise control), and no way to change settings, or even know if the turn signals were working as I tried to exit the highway. The Model 3 has only one screen where everything (including basic instruments) is displayed and most controls are accessed. When the screen freezes, we lose access to basics like speedometer, collision safety or system failure warnings or even speedometer readings, as well as control of headlights, wipers, climate control, lock / unlock, navigation, and many other essential functions. During these failures, we do not know what if any safety systems are still operating. Typically when this problem occurs, the screen "freezes" while driving, without warning or any indication of trouble. The screen remains unresponsive for a lengthy period (typically minutes) until the screen goes completely black for a time, and then eventually a Tesla logo appears, followed by instruments and controls gradually being restored. The car was delivered from the factory to my home in this state, with other obvious defects—Tesla did not permit us to test-drive it. The next night a Tesla technician saw the failure happening in real time, through Tesla's remote diagnostics. He said the car was probably not safe to drive. I asked to return the car under Tesla's satisfaction policy, and he agreed to start the refund process. Tesla refused to take the car back, and the car has continued to exhibit these failures. This has been happening since the car was delivered in October of 2018.

Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

April 13, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11429394
Consumer Location: SEATTLE, WA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB9JF****

Summary of Complaint

When driving on 1-5, which is The major Expressway connecting San Diego all the way to The Canadian border near Bellingham on a number of occasions when I have had the driving assistance system on, the car has suddenly and rapidly slowed down when there is a gentle incline. This is not a a gradual slowdown but one that is rapid, and one that requires me to push the accelerator so that I am not endangering the occupant of the car behind me,( the car has never come to a complete standstill) this in spite of there being no cars in front. Further this occurs at multiple speeds. This has occurred on a National expressway and as you can imagine there are no steep inclines on 1-5. I read yesterday that there is an investigation on Tesla’s autopilot system and as much as I am appreciative of technology, glitches such as this can be life threatening and my hope is you investigate this feature of Tesla’s autopilot system as well. Please note that the date I wrote below is a random date as this has occurred multiple times. And further, the car did not give me any warning of a malfunctioning component.

Components: LANE DEPARTURE FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

August 16, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11429342
Consumer Location: WALNUT CREEK, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA9JF****

Summary of Complaint

I bought the standard autopilot for 2 model 3sI find it highly useful. It keeps me in the middle of my lane. Warns me with loud signal and bright red car marking of cars in my blind spot if it is dangerous to change lanes. Allows me to see clearly all cars around me. It will not allow me to drive without my hands putting active pressure on the steering wheel. I feel that it makes driving much much safer. Driver still needs to pay attention with active pressure on steering wheel.I drive 30,000 miles per year. I paid $3000 extra to buy the autopilot after not having it for the first 6 months. It was well worth the cost.Should be a standard feature on all new cars!!! My wife who drives my other model 3 has had the same experience.

Components: SUSPENSION WHEELS

July 22, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11428944
Consumer Location: WALNUT CREEK, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB4JF****

Summary of Complaint

Bolt that held holds the control and subframe came loosened over time. Tesla is saying it is my fault but there are multiple people with the same issue on the internet. https://insideevs.com/news/509767/tesla-model3-control-arm-fix/ https://insideevs.com/news/438005/upper-control-arm-chronic-defect-model-3/ https://teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/suspension-rattling-sound-turned-out-to-be-a-loose-bolt.185958/ https://teslaownersonline.com/threads/suspension-bolt-not-torqued-tesla-roadside-a-joke.15115/ https://www.insideevsforum.com/community/index.php?threads/another-extremely-poor-tesla-model-3-quality-and-experience.8247/

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM STRUCTURE

August 08, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11428766
Consumer Location: CARLSBAD, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA1JF****

Summary of Complaint

The 12V auxiliary battery failed around 6:45pm PST on Aug. 8, 2021, causing the car to be unresponsive - Tesla acknowledged this. There was no warning prior to the battery failure. The driver (my wife) was trapped in the car because the electronic door latch would not open and the windows would not retract. My wife was panicked, crying and kicking at the window. I had to break the window to get her out. Tesla replaced the 12V battery as an item under warranty. They believe that I/we should have know about the manual door release to avoid breaking the window. This manual release is unmarked and inconspicuous. Tesla claims that the manual door release is described in the car's user manual; however, the car's user manual is electronic (no hard copy provided) and was not accessible because the car was unresponsive. The user manual can only be accessed from the car's display screen. There is no telephone number to call a Tesla representative and no way to access the user manual via the iPhone application. I had no choice but to break the window. Tesla is aware that their 12V batteries are failing prematurely and are not doing anything to prevent drivers from being trapped inside vehicles. The tow truck driver said he picked up four Tesla cars on Aug 9th for the same battery issue. I spoke to multiple other Tesla owners and none were aware of the manual door release. This includes one of my neighbors who received his Tesla a few months ago. It was not explained during the delivery process. The driver must rely on an electronic user's manual that can only be accessed when the car is operational. The faulty battery creates a condition that renders the car non-operational, so the contents of the user manual are irrelevant. Furthermore, the unmarked door release is an insufficient safety feature. Airplanes, buses, trains all have emergency exits marked. Apparently Tesla chose not to do this. Tesla created an unsafe situation where people can be trapped.

Components: SEAT BELTS

July 28, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11427825
Consumer Location: WESTON, FL
VIN: 5yj3e1ea8jf****

Summary of Complaint

I hadn't used the middle seat belt for a couple years. When I had a visitor I tried to use the middle belt, and it pulled right out if the seat. Upon further inspection I found that the back seat (drivers side) latch was also not connected to the vehicle and was only being held in place by the seat cushion. This was only apparent if you lifted up the rear seat cushion. My 5 year old daughter had been riding in this seat for tens of thousands of miles, and had we been in an accident she would have had no protection. I cannot be sure if the belt was never installed at the factory, or was removed during service and not reinstalled by a negligent technician, but a quick Google search showed that I wasn't the only person with this issue. Consumer stated vehicle has been repaired.

Components: SUSPENSION

December 13, 2020
NHTSA ID Number: 11427390
Consumer Location: MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA2JF****

Summary of Complaint

Approximately two months before the incident, I started having occasional clicks/clunks/creaking noises when turning the steering wheel at low speeds. By the time I got an appointment and took it to a Tesla service center (Nov 4, 2020), they couldn't reproduce and didn't care to check the suspension beyond a test drive. The noise gets worse, and I schedule another appointment for Dec 16, 2020. During this time, the noise gets even worse, and the car suffers from occasional suspension vibration & shaking. Additionally, the symptoms start to manifest at higher and higher speeds. On Dec 13, 2020, the entire front suspension started to shake at around 35 mph which continued for ~10 seconds until I slowed down. This was just as I left home. I pull over and see the bolts attaching the lower control arm to the subframe on the front passenger side completely loose. Photos attached. If the front suspension had detached where there was more traffic and/or at higher speeds, I could have been in a terrible accident.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

July 23, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11426173
Consumer Location: YORBA LINDA, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB0JF****

Summary of Complaint

The AC system seems to build up moisture in the evaporator or filter every year, and an unbearable smell eventually occurs every time the AC turns on (usually in the warm summer months). While tesla does say they recommend AC system maintenance (cleaning and filter replacement) every two years, the smell should not be the trigger or a symptom. I actually had my car serviced last year for this and paid $180, and the smell is already coming back almost exactly one year later. They are saying this is not a defect, it is something that i will have to pay for each time it occurs.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

June 27, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11424278
Consumer Location: MONROE, NY
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB1JF****

Summary of Complaint

https://youtu.be/Q74d_rK5aKk Please find the above YouTube link that has the front camera video at the time crash. Issues: ======= 1.) Tesla auto emergency brake didn't alert or stop. 2.) Obstacle awareness didn't alert or stop the vehicle 3.) Lane keeping assistant didn't alert/warn. All autopilot basic safety settings were enabled.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

June 24, 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 11422239
Consumer Location: FONTANA, CA
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB3JF****

Summary of Complaint

Computer Box, chip or BRAIN OF THE CAR THAT CONTROLS EVERYTHING. We bought the car in palm spring Tesla Brand New & paid in full amt.. After 5 MONTHS, GLITCH & BLACK SCREEN IS ONE OF THE MANY PROBLEMS. I brought my car to Tesla & told then personally the GLITCH & BLACK SCREEN problem & they said they will RECORD IT IN THEIR SYSTEM. THIS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES WITHIN 2YRS OWNING THE CAR. Every time I brought my car to Tesla I always tell TESLA TO CHECK THE BLACK SCREEN & GLITCHING that always happen. All they said IT'S A MINOR PROBLEM JUST REBOOT IT. Sometimes the car SHUTOFF AUTOMATICALLY WITHOUT A WARNING & COME BACK AFTER 10 MINS. TWICE HAPPENED WHEN I WAS DRIVING HIGHWAY 10 IN CA THE CAR SHUTOFF & ALL WENT GONE, NO HAZARD LIGHT, NO LEFT & RIGHT TURN SIGNAL LIGHT, NO BREAK LIGHT, NO HEADLIGHT & BLACK SCREEN APPEARED, MORE.ON JUNE 21, 2021 IT HAPPENED AGAIN WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I was SCARED & I drove my car to the nearest service center in Rancho Cucamonga when it happened. They checked the car & THE PROBLEM WAS COMPUTER OF THE CAR. They told me my car was over 50K MILES & is out of warranty & I have to PAY OUT of POCKET. They told me my car history DOESN'T show record in their system reporting black screen or glitch & they WANT AT LEAST AN EVIDENCE that I SUBMITTED A REPORT to Tesla. I looked at my phone & I FOUND AN EVIDENCE WITH A VIDEO REPORTING TO TESLA BY EMAIL. After they saw STILL DENYING ALWAYS GIVING ME THE RUN AROUND. UNTIL THE MANAGER IN RANCHO CUCAMONGA TOLD ME IF I WILL NOT AGREE TO FIX MY CAR AND PAY OUT OF POCKET, THEY WILL RELEASE THE CAR WITHOUT FIXING IT & THEY WILL TAKE BACK MY RENTAL CAR. HAVING ME DRIVE MY CAR TO HOME WITHOUT BREAK LIGHT,.HEADLIGHT, TURN SIGNAL LIGHTS, HAZARD LIGHT, BLACK SCREEN & MORE. TESLA PALM SPRING DENIED & Rancho Cucamonga WILL NOT FIX IF I WILL NOT PAY OUT OF POCKET. EVEN MY BUG REPORT THEY TOLD ME THEY DIDN'T SEE MY REPORT. I HAVE NO CHOICE, I ended up paying $2k plus to fix the computer box that controls the car.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

October 01, 2020
NHTSA ID Number: 11420547
Consumer Location: LOUISVILLE, KY
VIN: 5YJ3E1EB8JF****

Summary of Complaint

The contact owns a 2018 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated while using driving and with the Full self-driving feature activated, the vehicle nearly crashed into other parked vehicles. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and the contact was awaiting a response. The failure mileage was approximately 21,389.

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