general problems of the 2018 Tesla Model 3 - part 1

My Tesla Model 3 has a persistent rcm_a056 alert indicating a problem with the front passenger occupancy detection system. The unresolved fault affects the operation of the front passenger airbag system. I paid Tesla approximately $1,000 for a repair intended to resolve this problem. Tesla replaced multiple components associated with the passenger seat/occupancy detection system, including the sensor, wiring, and other safety-system components. The repair did not resolve the problem. The rcm_a056 alert remained unchanged after the repair. I returned the vehicle to Tesla for further diagnosis. Tesla tested the individual components and documented that they found “no issues present,” but the rcm_a056 alert remained. Tesla then recommended replacing the entire passenger seat assembly at a cost of approximately $3,000. When I asked what diagnostic evidence indicated that the seat assembly was defective, I was told that they had no specific evidence that replacing the seat would resolve the problem. They were unable to identify a failed component and indicated that replacing the entire seat was the only remaining repair they could suggest. I am concerned that this represents an unresolved safety-system defect. I have already paid approximately $1,000 for a repair that did not resolve the fault, and Tesla is now recommending another $3,000 repair without identifying the cause of the failure. The vehicle remains unavailable for normal use because of the unresolved passenger restraint/airbag-system fault. I am requesting that NHTSA document and investigate this potential safety defect, particularly if other Tesla Model 3 vehicles are experiencing the same persistent occupancy-detection failure.

The vehicle displays a critical 'front passenger safety restraint system fault' warning on the dashboard, indicating that the airbag system may not function as designed in a crash. After googling the error code, it appears to be isolated to either frayed wiring harness under the seat or the faulty occupant classification system sensor. The issue occurred on June 11 and again on Aug 11 while driving the car. The warning appeared intermittently and I tried to "reset" the car computer. Tesla service has diagnosed the issue as wiring harness failure/sensor failure and quoted $3000 for repairs, claiming it is out of warranty. This is a safety-critical system failure that poses a significant risk of injury or death to front-seat passengers due to potential airbag non-deployment. Given the high frequency of this specific failure across the Model 3 fleet, this appears to be a design or manufacturing defect rather than normal wear and tear. I am requesting an investigation into this safety defect.

Front passenger safety restraint error this seems to be a faulty component on many Teslas and therefore is a design or manufacturing flaw. Several of my personal vehicles of different models and years have had the same issue so it's not just something that has worn out or been damaged by myself. As this involves the action of the airbag, it is an extreme safety concern and Tesla should recall this part and replace. Also, in attempting a critical safety repair, I had to drive for weeks without an airbag before they would fix.

My 2018 Tesla Model 3 displayed alert rcm_a056, “front passenger safety restraint system fault. ” the warning may affect correct detection of a passenger and operation of the passenger restraint/airbag system. Tesla quoted approximately $705 but has not identified the failed component or explained whether the condition is related to known front-seat wiring or occupant-classification failures. Tesla repair bulletin sb-21-17-005 recognizes that electrical harnesses in 2017–2019 Model 3 front seats can be damaged through repeated seat movement and trigger restraint-system alerts, although that bulletin specifically lists codes rcm_a021 and rcm_a022. I am reporting rcm_a056 because it affects the same general front-passenger safety-restraint system and appears to be reported by other early Model 3 owners. I am concerned that an occupant may not be properly classified or protected in a collision.

Vehicle displayed a “safety restraint system issue - service required” alert (fault codes rcm_a056 and rcm_a032). Tesla diagnosed an open circuit between the driver-side curtain airbag and the left airbag controller, requiring replacement of the left body harness. Tesla quoted approximately $1,800–$2,200 for the out-of-warranty repair. This is a known, recurring pattern — multiple other 2018 Tesla Model 3 owners report experiencing this identical fault at nearly the same mileage (~78,000 miles), suggesting a design or component wear issue rather than isolated damage, similar to a prior Tesla trunk-harness recall (NHTSA campaign 21v-00d) that also stemmed from a wiring/harness defect on this same vehicle. I am requesting NHTSA investigate whether this represents a safety-defect trend warranting a recall.

Component/system: the front passenger occupant classification system (OCS) in my 2018 Tesla Model 3. The vehicle is available for inspection on request. Description of the failure: the vehicle intermittently displays "front passenger safety restraint system fault — service required]" on the center touchscreen. The alert first appeared on or about 4 years ago and has recurred approximately ~50 times since. The failure is strongly correlated with cabin temperature. It appears after the vehicle has been parked in direct sun in warm weather, and clears on its own once the cabin cools. It has not occurred in cooler ambient conditions. Safety risk: on this vehicle the front passenger seat uses a capacitive occupant classification system rather than a simple occupant-detection pad. The restraint control module uses OCS output to determine both whether the passenger airbag deploys and at what force. When the system faults, I have no way to know whether the passenger airbag is suppressed, will deploy at an inappropriate force for the occupant, or will deploy at all. This directly compromises frontal crash protection for anyone in that seat. I have been avoiding seating passengers there as a result. Inspection and confirmation: the vehicle is outside the basic warranty. Per Tesla's own service documentation, the passenger-side OCS sensor is not individually serviceable; the remedy requires replacing the seat cushion assembly and running a proprietary calibration routine that requires a cabin temperature near 68°f. The vehicle has not been inspected by police, insurance, or any independent shop. Prior warning symptoms: the touchscreen alert described above is the only symptom. There was no prior indication. There is no open recall for this condition on my VIN. Given the number of similar owner reports and the cost of the remedy, I believe many affected vehicles remain unrepaired and in service.

In the last 18 months I have had 8 service visits relating to electrical issues. In the last 30 months: - I had my car computer replaced after it shorted out, and then had to have it replaced again the next week. - I had the same taillight short out twice in a row. - I have had the 12v battery replaced three times. - I have had multiple low voltage controllers short out over multiple service visits. - the sound system has shorted out once as well. - one time, I was unable to shift to drive because a heater had shorted out. Now, I have to replace my right headlight and passenger airbag occupancy sensor due to shorts as well. The right headlight goes out intermittently and the passenger airbag alert fires sometimes. Tesla corte madera submitted a buyback request on my behalf after witnessing all these issues, but Tesla corporate denied it. I am sure the electrical issues will continue to affect the safety and drivability of my car. Thank you for your help.

I have received a dashboard warning from telsa that there is a “front passenger safety relevant safety issue”. Upon follow-up with the Tesla service team, I’ve learned that the sensor has failed and since they can only replace it with a new and different type of sensor, they also need to replace the air bag. The initial cost was estimated at some $2,100. I bought the “2018” Tesla Model 3 in 2019. I’ve never had to replace an air bag in my some 40 years of owning a car. I hope this is helpful info for NHTSA to have. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Within the last 7 days, my 2018 Tesla Model 3 long range awd began displaying active alerts for two separate safety system failures: (1) alert code ui_a020 / gtw_w075 — steering assist reduced, stating steering may require increased effort, and (2) alert code rcm_a056 — front passenger safety restraint system issue, requiring service. The steering alert appeared intermittently, firing at consistent times of day suggesting a possible electrical or sensor fault rather than mechanical failure. On one occasion during startup, the steering system briefly locked up before resuming normal function. No noticeable change in ongoing steering feel has been observed while driving. The passenger restraint system alert indicates the front passenger airbag and occupant classification system (OCS) may not function properly in the event of a collision, directly endangering any front passenger. Both issues have been confirmed by the manufacturer via remote diagnostic review, and two separate service estimates totaling approximately $4,784 have been issued recommending replacement of the steering rack, front passenger airbag, occupant classification sensor, seat harness assembly, and seat cushion assembly. Notably, the manufacturer has not physically inspected the vehicle — both estimates were generated solely based on alert codes read remotely and "ai" according to a representative. The manufacturer's own customer support system indicated these repairs may qualify for goodwill coverage, yet no formal commitment has been made. The passenger airbag and restraint system failure is of particular concern as it represents a potential inability of a primary safety system to deploy correctly in a crash event. The component is available for inspection upon request. The vehicle has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives. Warning alerts remain active and ongoing.

Safety restraint warning appeared on a 50k miles Tesla Model 3. We are a used electric vehicle dealer in California. This warning has been appearing on parked vehicles repeatedly. Meaning, many of the Model 3's we have listed for sale (over 30 units for sale at any given time) will suddenly have a "safety restraint warning" appear. Tesla is not taking responsibility for this. They always charge the customer. The airbag system is inoperable with this warning. It's a problem on every Model 3 on the road between the year of 2017 to 2020.

I received a safety alert on my car screen: front passenger safety restraint system issue. Service is required. The front passenger safety restraint system fault typically involves a malfunctioning occupant weight sensor in the passenger seat, which controls whether the airbag activates or deactivates evgoer. This is a serious safety concern because the airbag may be disabled at that seat location in the event of a crash. The issue is often caused by loose, broken, or unplugged harnesses or connectors under the seat, particularly related to the occupant classification system (OCS) Tesla owners onlinedigital ev doctor. Many owners report this happens because wires under the seat get crimped over time due to Tesla's "easy entry" feature that automatically moves seats. Since this a widespread Tesla Model 3 problem, I believe this should be a recall.

The contact owns a 2018 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 mph through an intersection, another vehicle t-boned the driver's side from the driver's side front bumper to the rear passenger door. The contact stated that the air bags did not deploy as intended. Medical attention was needed after the contact sustained lower back, left shoulder, neck, tailbone, and internal bleeding injuries were sustained. A police report was filed. The vehicle was taken to a collision center, where it was currently pending an inspection. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,894.

The "front passenger safety restraint system" is prone to errors because the wiring for it beneath the seat is prone to getting knocked loose and electrical interference.

I have an active alert on the drive side safety restraint system. Alert code rcm_a021. I have noticed this appears to be a common problem. A recall should be issues as this a a safety issues and lives could be at stake.

The car's dashboard display shows an alert "front passenger safety restraint system issue". This puts the front passenger at risk.

Passenger restraint fault message randomly comes on.

My 2018 Tesla Model 3 began showing a "front passenger safety restraint fault" alert within the last week or so. I scheduled service and then received an estimate of almost $1000. When I corresponded with Tesla through their app, they told me the diagnostic code rcm_a056_passengerfrontocs, indicating failure of the passenger occupant classification system (OCS). The OCS controls whether and how the airbag deploys; failure could prevent deployment or cause improper deployment in a crash, creating a serious safety risk. Tesla acknowledges the fault but told me the repair (replacing the OCS and passenger airbag) will not be covered since the car is out of warranty. Tesla has issued service bulletins (sb-19-20-003 r1, sb-23-20-002 r7) for known OCS issues, and many Model 3 owners have reported the same fault. This appears to be a widespread safety defect and should be investigated as a potential recall.

Driving a 2018 Tesla Model 3, driver seat shows message "front left safety restraint system issue. Service is required". This occurs when the driver is in the seat with the seat belt fastened and the vehicle is in motion. This issue refers to the possible seat belt, seats and/or air bags failure. This is a threat for drivers as these are the front line of defence in case of any collisions or accidents. This issue has been reported by multiple Tesla car drivers and their posts are available on online forums. Message appears on the Tesla screen driven. Tesla does not cover this out of warranty. My appeal to nhsta is this is hazardous to drivers and cars should be recalled and repairs should be covered.

Getting a notification for "front left safety restraint system fault" which disengages the airbags. Seems like a very common fault with Teslas but no recall has been made.

This is a large scale problem with Tesla due to their "easy entry" which automatically moves the front seats to fit the drivers saved positions. Due to Tesla not properly securing the wires under the seat, they get crimped over time causing an error of "safety restraint system issue. " there have been thousands of reported Teslas with a simple google search. The service center also stated to me this is a large scale issue but a recall has not been issued. This is very dangerous as this disables the airbags due to a seat belt or wire crimp under the seat issue. Please investigate and issue a mandatory recall for the safety issue as Tesla wants $1000 to rectify the issue. Many have reported this issue to be fixed by the service center multiple times only to come back months later.

Vehicle is displaying an error message "front passenger safety restraint system fault" and "front passenger safety restraint system fault. Service is required. " this has the result of "the restraint system may not function as designed. " according to an internet search, this is a very common fault, caused by "interference" and necessitates an occupancy sensor, wiring harness and airbag module exchange.

Vehicle is displaying an error message "front passenger safety restraint system fault" and "front passenger safety restraint system fault. Service is required. " this has the result of "the restraint system may not function as designed. " according to an internet search, this is a very common fault, caused by "interference" and necessitates an occupancy sensor, wiring harness and airbag module exchange.

Tesla is aware of a common regarding an occupancy sensor in the passenger seat of their vehicles that impacts functionality of airbags and the restraint system. The error code is rcm_a056. A simple search of the code will show a myriad of ongoing issues with their vehicles.

I just traded in my vehicle for a Tesla from 3rd party dealership on [xxx] a light came on once I reached my home. I called right away before the dealership closed but no one answered. So I took it upon myself to make a service call to Tesla to get my vehicle checked come to find out my vehicle has extensive damages from my unit drive, my subframe and the battery pack is severe punctures and needs to be replaced. Choice automotive llc in honolulu hawaii didn’t disclose anything to me before purchasing this vehicle. Also they didn’t disclose that this vehicle was in a car accident, but they carried on with the sale. I have pictures of what needs to be repaired. Tesla said, I will need $20,000 to repair these damages. So I’m trying to take legal action against choice automotive llc for selling me a vehicle that needs a lot of repair to drive normal again. I need them to pay for these repairs immediately. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Rcm_a021 alert: front left safety restraint system fault. Seems like an issue caused by seat movement back & forth.

I received and indicator noting that my front passenger safty system has a fault. They indicated that they will have to replace the seat sensor and the airbag. I believe this to be an innate fault of the cars construction. It is dangerous and should be fixed by Tesla and not charged to the customer.

This is a widespread safety issue that requires a recall! this is not isolated. Model 3 passenger airbags are at risk of not deploying. Car alert: update front passenger airbag to maintain compatibility with front passenger seat remedy: “replace front passenger airbag and update vehicle configuration”.

The driver side seatbelt/presence sensor intermittently fails due to faulty wiring. This causes a warning stating 'front left safety restraint system fault' and the driver side airbag to turn off when the warning is present causing a severe safety issue. This is a well documented common safety failure of these vehicles.

Passenger safety restraint system fault. Faulty wiring under the seat. Cost of repair is $1000. Passenger airbag requires replacement.

The error popped up randomly and states "front left safety restraint system fault. " this has been a common problem with Tesla and should be a recall as it's a manufacture defect with a safety system.

Error code rcm_a021 front left safety restraint system fault. An issue that arises purely due to poor seat design. It is the fault of the seat pinching a wire from moving back and forth. This safety issue is an inevitability and not a one off chance. This issue is publicly noted on forms throughout all the years of this car’s production. This error results in airbags not being properly deployed in the event of an accident and the car not properly reading the passenger occupancy.

Front passenger safety restraint system fault error. Tesla is indicating this is out of warranty but seems this is a very pervasive issue with an important safety mechanism on the car.

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? “front left safety restraint system fault” error code “rcm_a021” how was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? it appears as though the seatbelt or airbag may not function properly when needed. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? no but it has been on every time I drive. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? no, upon requesting inspection, I was quoted 400$ were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? no, it appeared periodically before but now it’s constant as of 9/29/2024.

I have an error on my car, have had this for almost a year now, front left safety restraint system fault. This seems to be a safety issue that Tesla should recall. I have seen thousands of online posts related to this same issue. .

Got warning about front drivers safety restraint failure on screen. Airbag warning began to display on the side showing if an accident occurred, they would not deploy. Talked with Tesla representatives and was told this is a known issue but would not be covered. Seems to be faulty wiring from chair moving over time based on what I was able to read. Error code was rcm_a021.