Air Bag Problems of Tesla Model 3 - part 1

My Tesla repeatedly displayed a “passenger safety restraint” warning related to the front passenger restraint/airbag system. Tesla service center in los gatos, California attempted multiple repairs over several visits. The first repair identified a pinched and improperly routed passenger seat harness associated with the restraint system. Tesla stated the issue was repaired and tested. The warning later returned. Tesla then replaced the front right seat harness assembly and lap pretensioner. The warning later returned again. Tesla subsequently proposed and/or performed additional repairs involving the passenger airbag, occupant classification system (OCS), occupancy sensor components, and additional seat harness components at significant customer expense. Despite multiple repair attempts and approximately $2,100 in repair costs, the same safety restraint warning still exists today. Because this issue involves the supplemental restraint system (srs), airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, and occupant classification systems, I am concerned the passenger restraint system may not function properly during a collision.

See all problems of the 2017 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

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.

See all problems of the 2018 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

I am submitting a complaint regarding a “front passenger safety restraint system fault” warning that recently appeared on my Tesla vehicle. My vehicle currently has approximately 45,000 miles. This warning indicates a potential issue with the passenger airbag or related restraint system components, which is a critical safety feature. A malfunction in this system raises serious concerns about whether the passenger airbag would deploy properly in the event of a crash. I contacted Tesla service, and I was informed that the repair would cost over $1,500 out of pocket. Given the relatively low mileage and the importance of the safety system involved, I am concerned that this may represent a broader defect rather than normal wear and tear. Additionally, I have found similar reports online from other Tesla owners experiencing the same warning, which suggests this may not be an isolated incident. A failure or malfunction of the passenger restraint system presents a significant safety risk to occupants. I believe this issue warrants further investigation to determine whether there is a systemic defect affecting Tesla vehicles. I am requesting that NHTSA review this issue and consider whether further action, including a potential recall or manufacturer responsibility, is appropriate. Vehicle details (VIN, model, year, etc. ) can be provided as needed.

See all problems of the 2019 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

I was involved in a rear-end collision while stopped at an intersection. The impact was significant. During the crash, the front airbags did not deploy. More importantly, the seat belts in both front seats (driver and front passenger) failed to function as expected. Instead of tightening during impact, the seat belts appeared to loosen, allowing excessive forward movement of the occupants. As a result, I was thrown forward and struck the steering wheel. The lack of seat belt pretensioning raises serious concerns about a potential failure of the vehicle’s restraint system. This incident suggests that the seat belt pretensioners and/or related crash detection systems may not have activated properly under a significant collision event. I am concerned that this represents a safety defect that could increase the risk of injury in a crash. I request that this incident be investigated as a possible failure of the restraint system, including seat belt pretensioners and crash sensing mechanisms.

I received a notice onscreen (photo attached) that says "front passenger safety restraint system issue, service is required. " I did some research online and a number of other owners of 2019 Tesla Model 3 vehicles have received this warning, which involves a malfunction that is a combination of the front passenger seat belt, air bag, and seat sensor for the air bag. A number of people with this year and make have gone to Tesla, and Tesla service workers have said "this a known issue" for this year and make. Since this issue involves a number of safety components, and is a known issue, Tesla should be required to fix this as a product defect recall. Instead, they quoted multiple owners, including myself, approximately $2,000 to fix.

Our seatbelts and airbags required replacement as Tesla stated safety equipment on a Tesla is only guaranteed until 60,000 miles and after that they often need repairs. It was quite expensive. The seatbelts and airbags total cost was $1296. 40 and already the Tesla says the front passenger airbag needs to be replaced again.

The components involved are the automatic emergency braking (aeb) system and the airbag system. During the collision, the aeb system did not activate, and the airbags did not deploy. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. I was driving on a main roadway with no stop signs or traffic controls in my direction when another driver entered from a side street with a stop sign and pulled directly in front of me. I was unable to avoid the collision, and my vehicle was struck the other vehicle. The failure of the aeb system to engage and the airbags not deploying increased the risk of injury to myself and could have posed a risk to others involved. The issue has not been reproduced, and it has not yet been confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. The vehicle has been inspected by police and insurance representatives. The other driver was determined to be at fault. I am in the process of addressing the incident with the manufacturer. There were no warning lights, messages, or prior symptoms indicating any issue with the braking or airbag systems before the collision.

See all problems of the 2021 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

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.

System error code rcm_a021 "front left safety restraint system issue" the wiring under the front seat may be damaged due to the "easy entry" function which raises, lowers and moves the seat backward and forwards for easier entry and exit of the car. Safety restraint system or airbags may be compromised in the event of a collision if wiring or controls are damaged. Warning code rcm_a021 appeared every time the easy entry function was automatically started.

The car was giving me a warning "front left restraint system fault" (rcm_a021) approximately for 4 months (Jan 2026?) - I brought the car in for service April 2026 and after researching, the technician found that there was a failure in the wiring harness - this is the wiring harness that is responsible for the seatbelt pretension mechanism that activates in a accident. The technician had to replace the harness for the issue to resolve. However, it's my understanding that, had an accident occurred prior to the repair, that the safety system would not have operated properly.

There's a problem with the airbags, and the steering wheel is hard to turn.

See all problems of the 2023 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

Warranty alignment: this failure occurred at 47. 7k miles, well under the 60,000-mile threshold of the supplemental restraint system limited warranty. Known defect: this repair is the subject of a specific service bulletin (rcm_a078), confirming it is a known manufacturing issue and not standard wear-and-tear. Safety criticality: the srs is a primary safety system. Forcing a customer to pay for a known defect on a life-saving system at such low mileage is inconsistent with Tesla’s safety mission. I have already paid the high invoice to ensure the vehicle was safe to drive. Tesla did not consider the goodwill repair request for known manufacturing defect that puts passenger at risk. Such safety related repair should be part of safety recalls.

I received an error about the occupant classification system and a safety restraint fault. These are due to known manufacturing defects. Addressing these concerns was expensive and also required a replacement of the front passenger airbag.

Air bags did not deploy during crash. It is available for inspection upon request my face smashed into the steering wheel resulting in black eyes, swollen nose, cuts on my face and a concussion. Yes, the airbags clearly did not deploy during crash no no.

See all problems of the 2020 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

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.

During a major car accident the airbags for my Tesla, Model 3, 2023 did not deploy airbags although other impacted cars had full airbags deployed. This posed a risk to my safety as a driver due to not having the proper equipment deployed during a major accident. This was noticed by the emergency personnel on the scene who stated that based on my impact the airbags should have been activated from my collision. According to the safety records associated with my car to date there are no safety reports regarding the airbags for my car. There was no warning of my airbags not being able to be fully functioning at the time of impact. This incident happened on November 1st and is in the process of being investigated by the harris county sheriff's department.

Nhtsa complaint narrative (copy & paste) critical safety defect: sale of vehicle with disabled airbags incident: 10/24/2025 | dealer: braman Cadillac (miami, FL) | VIN: [xxx] braman Cadillac sold me this 2024 Tesla Model 3 representing it as "clean/no accidents. " in reality, they released a vehicle with a disabled airbag system resulting from a crash that occurred in their inventory. 1. Disabled restraint system (rcm): Tesla service mode diagnostics confirm the restraint control module (rcm) is in "post replacement" state, displaying the prompt: "post replacement tasks - routine requires service mode plus authentication. " this proves the airbag computer was replaced following a crash/electrical trauma but never calibrated. Consequently, the srs is disabled and will not deploy. The vehicle explicitly warns: "the safety restraint system may not perform as designed. " the dealer released a non-roadworthy vehicle. 2. Evidence of dealer knowledge: internal logs show critical crash fault codes (vcfront_a059 & rcm2_a003) logged on oct 15, 2025. Dealer records confirm the car was in their exclusive inventory on this date (listed since sept 23). These faults were active 9 days before sale. The dealer ignored active safety warnings to facilitate the transaction. 3. Concealed damage: inspection by classic collision confirmed hidden structural damage requiring $9,676. 69 in repairs, consistent with the uncalibrated module. Conclusion: braman Cadillac knowingly sold a vehicle with a lethal safety defect. I demand an investigation into their release of vehicles with uncalibrated safety modules. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2024 Tesla Model 3 🔎.

Supplement to previous complaint (VIN: . . . Xxx): critical new evidence of multi-point safety failure. On Dec 10, 2025, Tesla service performed a full diagnostic and repair of the airbag safety system. In addition to the previously reported "damaged wires" in the passenger seat (OCS module), the technician also had to replace the steering column control module (sccm) to resolve the active safety faults. Safety implication: the vehicle was sold with simultaneous hardware failures in both the passenger occupant sensing system and the driver's steering column airbag controls. This confirms widespread physical/electrical trauma to the vehicle's supplemental restraint system (srs) that was concealed at the time of sale. The dealer released a vehicle with compromised safety hardware in both the driver and passenger zones. I have attached the official Tesla invoice confirming these replacements. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Supplement to odi # 11702355 and 11698467: validated proof of physical defect: Tesla service diagnosis (Dec 10, 2025) confirms "damaged wires at the OCS module" caused the airbag failure. This finding indicates the vehicle suffered physical trauma that was concealed prior to sale. The presence of damaged internal safety wiring is inconsistent with a factory-condition vehicle and suggests the vehicle was released to the public after substandard repairs to a prior wreck. The airbag system was disabled due to this physical damage.

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 Model 3 was t-boned in an intersection, hitting both the front and rear doors, as a result of a vehicle running a red light. The driver that hit us was speeding and didn’t hit brakes. The impact pushed the Tesla almost in a complete 360 on an adjacent street where the driver side of the car jumped a curb and stopped after hitting a pole slightly on the driver side. Red light etc all substantiated by police report. Airbags deployed on the passenger side from the seat and upper panels. Front airbags failed on both sides. There was also a delayed airbag deployment from the back of the driver seat that only ripped the seat but never deployed fully. The smell of fire / burning and debris was all that happened from the driver seat. I requested a crash report from Tesla which outlines the speed and airbag deployment. The report says that knee level airbags deployed but they never did. I crossed referenced crash test speed data and various complaints about Tesla airbags. The data reviewed seems to indicate that I experienced failed equipment which is currently under review. I’ve also reviewed various sources of information about 7 2024 Model 3 driver side airbag known issues, where Tesla only recalled one vehicle. I’ve been told that other recalls for this issue are u see evaluation and to keep checking my VIN for details. I share this because serious injuries can be caused by this failure, especially when hit by an SUV. The vehicle was totaled, not drivable and towed from the scene. Please be cautious if you have a 2024 Model 3 and demand that Tesla look into the airbag manufacturing issues promptly and issue relative recalls. The collision alert also failed.

My Tesla displayed fault code rcm-a056 (front passenger safety restraint system fault). This error disables or compromises the front passenger airbag/occupant restraint system. The fault appeared without accident or damage, and Tesla has declined to cover the repair because my basic vehicle limited warranty has expired. This is a critical safety defect because it prevents the front passenger airbag system from functioning properly in a crash. Tesla has issued recalls and service campaigns related to restraint control module calibration, and many owners have reported the same fault code. I am filing this complaint so NHTSA can investigate whether this is part of a broader safety defect trend and ensure Tesla repairs these failures regardless of warranty status.

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.

Front left safety restraint. Airbags won’t deploy due to this issue.

I have been getting an alert: front passenger safety restraint system issue/service is required. It has come on when there is no one in the seat and goes away shortly after I start to drive. I contacted Tesla and they sent an estimate to repair it which includes a bunch of different bolts, passenger airbag, airbag harmiss retaining clip. Also replacing occupant classification system (OCS) of front passenger seat while servicing supcomponents. List of parts for that is first row seat harness assembly-right hand, first row - seat belt reminder sensor box clip, first row occupancy. All of this will cost over $700 . Aren't these items required safety equipment that they should responsible to maintain? I have seen that there are a lot of other people having the same issue, I think that there should be a recall on this that they shoud have to pay for.

Front passenger safety restraint system fault - this seems to be very common issue on Tesla Model 3 where I'm told some wires or sensor is pinched on the seat when the seat is reclined too far back or forward. It could cause an issue with the airbag misfiring or not firing at all during an accident, leading to death. I think this needs to be investigated immediately - this is a common issue and Tesla is not repairing for free. They're quoting people with a "filter" fix which is a band-aid fix only for about 300$ (Tesla says there is 50% change this will fix it) or they want us to replace the whole seat with the sensors that cost close to 1500$. Even with the new seat, the issue has come back few times for many people.

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.

Safety restraint warning in car, unsure of actual issue but warning keeps popping up. Presumed that the seatbelts or airbags would not properly work in event of a crash. Dealer/company says it's a known issue, with other cars needing a fix too, however they aren't able to specify exactly the issue or issue a timeframe on repair. Issue first started appearing in late August of this year, and has become more frequent as of recent. Potentially this is a critical safety issue regarding airbag/seatbelt's potentially failing to work as designed for all similiar models.

There is an error with my car's occupant classification system (OCS) which is giving me an alarm of "front passenger safety restraint system fault". Tesla only "fix" is to replace the OCS with what seems to be a newer version. You can tell it is a new version because they are also telling me I need to replace my airbag as my current airbag is not compatible with the new OCS.

Driving as normal when an alert for a front passenger safety restraint system fault appeared. It went away on its own. I thought it was a software glitch. It would periodically reappear, then go away after a driving session. Last week it persisted between sessions. I learned that if the seat was moved slightly forward or back, then the alert would go away. I scheduled a service with Tesla. Tesla advised that the entire car seat and airbag would have to be replaced for $1800. This is a ~50,000 mile car with no collision history. It's just out of warranty. Tesla refuses to tell me if the car will safety function in an accident or not. The alert is gone, but I have a service estimate that says the car has all of these problems. Major safety concern.

Vehicle information: 2023 Tesla Model 3 VIN: [xxx] incident date: [xxx] location: [xxx] summary of the problem: on [xxx], while autopilot was active, my 2023 Tesla Model 3 suddenly accelerated without driver input. I was pressing the brake pedal, but the vehicle surged forward uncontrollably, struck a fence and a tree, and caused major property damage. Both I and my wife (passenger) required urgent care treatment after the crash. Details / safety defect evidence: •Tesla’s own raw logs show the accelerator spiked to 100% immediately before impact. •brake pressure was recorded prior to impact, proving the brake pedal was applied. •despite this, Tesla’s official vehicle data report falsely states “manual brake not applied. ” •autopilot did not disengage when the brake was pressed, contrary to Tesla’s design claims. •the vehicle logged a “near-deploy collision” at ~27 mph, yet the airbags did not deploy. Why this is a safety defect: this incident reflects multiple critical failures: 1. Sudden unintended acceleration. 2. Failure of brake-override safety design. 3. Airbag non-deployment in a crash severe enough to trigger “near-deploy. ” 4. Inaccurate Tesla reporting that conceals braking input. This defect created an extremely dangerous situation that could easily have resulted in fatalities. I am requesting NHTSA investigate Tesla vehicles for unintended acceleration, brake override failure, and airbag non-deployment. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).