general problems of the 2021 Tesla Model Y - part 1

I own a 2021 Tesla Model Y. During a [xxx] safety inspection in xxx, the vehicle was found to have deteriorated front suspension components. Tesla documented torn bushings in the front lower suspension links, including the lateral links and compliance links, and the vehicle failed the [xxx] safety inspection. Tesla recommended replacement of the affected front suspension components. I subsequently took the vehicle to an independent repair facility experienced with Tesla vehicles, auto scandia in [xxx]. The technician confirmed the suspension problems and replaced the affected front lower suspension links. The repair was completed xxx, and I paid $1,807. 44, including the suspension repair and alignment-related work. I am reporting this because I understand NHTSA is investigating front lower lateral-link failures involving 2021–2023 Tesla Model Y vehicles. My vehicle experienced deterioration of components in this same area of the front suspension and required replacement. My lateral link did not detach while driving, and I did not experience a crash. The problem was discovered during inspection before a more serious failure occurred. I have Tesla’s original diagnosis and estimate as well as the paid independent repair invoice and can provide both if requested. I am concerned that these suspension components may be failing prematurely and could present a safety risk if the deterioration progresses to separation or loss of wheel control. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

On xxx my 2021 Tesla Model Y, VIN [xxx], was taken to Tesla service in west covina, California, at 69,097 miles. While turning, a front suspension bolt fell out and the car knocked. Tesla estimate 3000-009-0039917905, service sv02f26ab8, dated xxx, quotes replacement of both front lower lateral links, part 2188341-00-d, and four nylon-patch lateral-link bolts, part 1109912-00-b, plus the front subframe, both front halfshafts, both lower compliance links, the front valance, and the front aero shield. The estimate is $8,237. 58 with tax and is marked customer-pay. I have not signed it. This is the same joint as NHTSA recall 21v-835, Tesla sb-21-31-003: the front lower lateral-link fastener can loosen and let the link separate from the subframe. My VIN is not in that campaign. A Tesla manager said a recall letter was mailed to me in xxx, he said I did not bring the car in, and I am therefore liable. I have no such letter. No xxx NHTSA campaign covers this 2021 VIN for this bolt. I asked him to provide to proof of that letter. He said he doesn't have proof because he doesnt work in that department but he told me the date and that's his proof. The failed part is the recalled bolt. The estimate does not show that the subframe, both axles, both compliance links, and the fascia were damaged by it. I am reporting this for the open lower-lateral-link investigation, pe26006. The car had a sudden suspension separation while turning, which can cause a loss of control. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

My garage-kept 2021 Tesla Model Y experienced a premature failure/tearing of the front lower lateral link and compliance bushings at only 31,930 miles under normal driving conditions. The service center identified severe degradation requiring immediate replacement. This component failed prematurely without any severe impact or road hazards, posing a potential safety hazard regarding vehicle control and alignment. This issue appears to be part of the ongoing suspension defect under NHTSA investigation (pe26006). Funny thing is that my dad's Model Y also has the similar issues on the rear suspension. Sigh. . .

I brought the vehicle to a Tesla service center for a front suspension noise. During the alignment portion of that repair, the technician found a crack in the left side of the rear subframe casting, the structural member that locates the rear suspension links and supports the rear drive unit. The subframe required full replacement. There was no impact event. The vehicle has never struck a curb, pothole, or object, and Tesla's own written finding confirmed there was no evidence of any side impact. Tesla attributed the crack to stress transmitted from failed front lower control arm bushings, which were replaced at the same visit. The front lower lateral links and their subframe fasteners were also replaced during this repair. The Tesla technician stated he had not seen this subframe crack so severely at this mileage, and that he normally sees this failure only on vehicles over 100,000 miles, or vehicles that have hit severe potholes or fallen off steep curbs, none of which applies here. A rear subframe cracking under normal driving loads at 68,000 miles is a structural failure with safety implications. The subframe controls rear wheel alignment and retains the drive unit. Progressive or sudden failure could cause loss of alignment, instability, or loss of vehicle control. I am reporting this so NHTSA can determine whether premature rear subframe cracking, potentially linked to front suspension link failure, represents a defect trend on these vehicles.

I am submitting this safety complaint regarding premature suspension failure on my 2021 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [xxx]), specifically concerning the front lower suspension links. During a dealer inspection at a Tesla service center on xxx, with 72,758 miles on the odometer, technicians diagnosed that the vehicle’s front lower lateral links and front lower compliance links suffered from severely torn factory air-gap rubber bushings. The degradation of these critical structural components required immediate, full replacement of the entire arm assemblies to ensure safe operational handling, resulting in an out-of-pocket repair quote of $1,976. 57 (Tesla invoice #xxx). A compromised or torn bushing in the lower lateral link assembly compromises structural integrity, increasing the risk of mechanical detachment or fracture while in motion, which poses a severe loss-of-control safety risk at highway speeds. This issue directly correlates to the high failure rates and premature degradation profiles currently being investigated by the office of defects investigation under active NHTSA probe pe26006. I request that this case data point be reviewed as further evidence to transition this active preliminary evaluation into a mandatory, formal safety recall for the protection of all affected owners. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Creaking noise when turning at low speed or going over a bump.

Vehicle can become difficult to steer in certain situations.

Noises started coming from suspension and I had an independent shop verify the issue. The lower control arm had separated from bushing and rubbing against subframe.

My vehicle falls within the 2021–2023 Model Y population identified in NHTSA preliminary evaluation pe26-006. The vehicle is a 2021 Model Y and current mileage is 73,350 miles. I am experiencing progressively worsening front suspension squeaking/creaking when turning the steering wheel in either direction, which can now be heard both inside and outside the vehicle. The vehicle also feels noticeably bouncier than normal. I first noticed a faint creaking sound in July and it has gotten worse over time. So I have concerns regarding the lower lateral-link/control-arm suspension failure. Additionally, I have experienced unusual wear on my tires and alignment issues in the last couple of years. There was also a previous recall from 2021 , 21v-835 / sb-21-31-003, that involved certain 2020–2021 Model Ys where the front lower lateral-link fasteners could loosen and allow the lateral link to separate from the subframe. Nhtsa specifically described the potential consequence as changed wheel alignment, instability, and increased crash risk. I have reached out to Tesla about my concerns and they stated there were no open recalls and quoted me for repairs. I have screenshots of the Tesla correspondence if needed. I have an upcoming appointment with Tesla on 9/24/26 for diagnostic testing.

2021 Tesla Model Y suffered a complete failure of the front lower lateral links, compliance links, and upper control arms at only 29,103 miles. The vehicle has been inspected by the manufacturer. It is currently being repaired at my cost. There was no warning lights or messages. I had noticed a creaking sound upon turning, especially while in reverse. I believe this mirrors the exact mechanical failures seen in NHTSA campaign 21v835000. However, my VIN number was not listed in this recall.

Failure of the front lower lateral link and compliance link assembly. A creaking noise when steering at low speeds prompted me to take the vehicle to be checked out at a Tesla repair shop. The vehicle required a complete replacement of these parts at an independent cost of $1,900. I have the line-item proof of parts and labor.

I own a 2021 Tesla Model Y with approximately 51,300 miles. Beginning in June 2026 I noticed a persistent creaking noise from the front suspension, most audible when accelerating and when turning at low speed. The vehicle had been rear-ended in June 2026 and repaired at a body shop; the noise was reported to the shop at that time and persisted after the repair was completed. On September 2, 2026 I brought the vehicle to a Tesla service center for diagnosis. The technician test drove the vehicle, verified the noise, and performed an inspection on a lift. The written findings were that both front upper control arm ball joints were partially seized, both front lateral link bushings were torn, and both front compliance link bushings were torn. Tesla recommended replacement of the front upper control arms, front lower lateral links, and front lower compliance links, quoted at approximately $2,610 at my own expense. Tesla further stated that a four-wheel alignment could not be accurately performed in the vehicle's current condition because of the torn bushings. No crash, fire, or injury has resulted. The vehicle remains in service. I am filing this complaint because these are the same front suspension components identified in NHTSA's open investigation into front suspension link separation in model 3 and Model Y vehicles, and my vehicle falls within the Model Years under review. The failure is bilateral and occurred with no impact to the front of the vehicle and no off-road or track use. I am concerned that degraded bushings and seized ball joints across all three component types create a risk of link separation and loss of steering control without meaningful warning beyond the creaking noise.

I purchased a 2021 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [xxx] ) used directly from Tesla. I am the first retail owner outside of Tesla. I am currently experiencing a knocking noise from the driver side suspension. I have requested that Tesla inspect and complete the following federally mandated safety recalls and service bulletins, none of which appear in my vehicle’s service history: • NHTSA recall 21v-835 / sb-21-31-003 — front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen and separate from the sub-frame, causing instability and crash risk • NHTSA recall 21v-912 — suspension knuckles may fracture • sb-20-31-006 — front upper control arm ball joint reseal Tesla service has refused to perform these repairs free of charge, citing expired warranty (warranty expired April 5, 2025). Tesla’s response does not address that these are federal safety recalls, not warranty repairs. Federal law requires recall repairs to be performed free of charge regardless of warranty status, age, or mileage. Tesla has also failed to provide written documentation confirming whether these recalls were completed prior to selling me the vehicle. Instead, I have been redirected to a self-service VIN lookup tool and a general data privacy request form — neither of which confirms when, where, or whether the recall work was actually performed. I am requesting NHTSA investigate Tesla’s failure to complete these safety recalls prior to selling this vehicle to a retail customer, and their refusal to honor federal recall obligations. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Component that failed: front lower lateral link and compliance link suspension bushings. Failed components were removed by Tesla service and are no longer available for inspection. Safety risk: failed suspension bushings directly compromise steering precision, vehicle stability, and handling — particularly at highway speeds. A driver unaware of this failure could experience loss of steering control or unpredictable handling without warning. Confirmed by dealer: yes. Tesla florida (tampa, 11945 north florida avenue) confirmed the failure in writing on may 22, 2026. Technician repair notes state: “inspection failed due to worn suspension bushings in the front. ” Tesla confirmed this was the first time these original components had ever been serviced. Invoice #[xxx]. Manufacturer inspection: yes, repaired by Tesla service center. Cost: $1,669. 58. Warning lamps or prior symptoms: none. No warning lights, no alerts through the Tesla app, and no prior symptoms communicated to the owner. Failure was discovered only because vehicle was brought in for an extended service agreement inspection. Assessment: original factory suspension bushings completely disintegrated at 56,258 miles on a 2021 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [xxx] ). This is not normal wear — photographic evidence shows full structural disintegration of rubber bushing material. Other Model Y owners may be driving with identical failures without knowledge. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

A 2021 Tesla Model Y experienced steering/suspension warnings followed shortly by a steering-assist reduction event. On or around may 21, 2026, the vehicle displayed: “steering alignment service recommended — ok to drive, schedule service soon. ” the vehicle was brought to Tesla because the owner was concerned the car had detected a steering, alignment, suspension, or safety-related condition. The Tesla invoice from that visit appears inconsistent. It states that “a wheel alignment check was completed,” but also states “no labor performed — customer did not authorize repairs or inspection,” with 0. 00 labor hours and no charge. A documented steering/suspension diagnostic inspection, alignment report, alert-log review, or safety assessment was not performed by Tesla or inspected. The owner was advised to replace tires and return later. Approximately 90 miles later, during a low-speed three-point turn, the vehicle made a loud pop/clunk from the front area and displayed: “steering assist reduced — steering may require increased effort. ” a related alert also stated lane departure avoidance features were unavailable. This created a safety concern because steering effort may unexpectedly increase during low-speed turns or parking maneuvers. Tesla later inspected the vehicle and documented torn front lower lateral/compliance link bushings and vehicle log data showing steering gear alerts. Tesla replaced the front lower lateral links and front lower compliance links and performed alignment work. After those repairs, Tesla stated a steering gear alert was still present and recommended steering gear/steering rack replacement with additional alignment work. The concern is that a steering/alignment warning occurred shortly before the physical front-end failure and reduced steering-assist event, but the earlier Tesla visit does not clearly document that the warning was meaningfully inspected or safety-assessed. Vehicle is currently unsafe to drive and is in Teslas possession.

Component: suspension: front — lower lateral and compliance link assemblies; missing and backed-out lateral-link-to-subframe fasteners; torn bushings beginning in xxx, the vehicle produced a reproducible knocking noise from the front end when reversing and turning at parking-lot speeds, with no dashboard warnings. Tesla service ([xxx], invoice xxx) verified the noise and documented on the invoice that the cause was: 1. A front left lateral-link-to-subframe mounting bolt missing entirely; 2. A second lateral-link fastener significantly backed out; 3. Torn bushings in both front lower compliance links. The technician replaced both front lower lateral link assemblies and both front lower compliance link assemblies with new hardware (invoice line items: xxx lateral links; xxx and xxx compliance links). Total customer cost for the suspension work: $1,539, out of warranty; goodwill and defect coverage were denied in writing as "wear and tear. " a structural fastener missing entirely from a primary front suspension link is not ordinary wear. It is the precursor condition to the lateral-link separation investigated under pe26006, which covers this vehicle by year and model. With one bolt absent and the second backed out at under 30,000 miles, this vehicle was effectively one fastener away from the detachment event the investigation documents. The contemporaneous torn bushings in both compliance links reinforce premature component failure, not age-related degradation. No crash, fire, or injury occurred, and the vehicle remained drivable. However, the failure occurred without warning on a safety-critical steering and suspension load path. Evidence retained by owner and referenced in this complaint: -pre-repair inspection photographs & post-repair invoice information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Backed-out lh rear lower fore link bolt causing structural elongation damage to the rear subframe mounting hole, requiring full subframe replacement. Vehicle had been serviced exclusively by Tesla. Tesla issued service bulletin sb-25-31-004 on April 17, 2026 covering this exact condition. Tesla declined to perform the repair under the bulletin citing out-of-warranty status. A touchscreen alert directing me to service was active at the time of denial.

Front suspension makes creaking noises for a few months now. The car only makes noises when steering wheel is turned while reversing and sometimes when turning. Took the car to Tesla and they told me since the sound is not that loud and not really reproducible, then to bring it back when it gets worse. My car only has 34k miles on it.

My 2021 Model Y has about 24,500 miles began squeaking when turning the steering wheel or hitting bumps. I read online that many Tesla owners had the same issue. The design on these weren't great allowing water to penetrate these parts and cause them to ware down faster. I already paid for the replacement of the upper and lower control arms.

Squeaking (lubrication failure) of the front suspension components, prematurely, are a common and widespread issue with Tesla vehicles. I have approximately 60k miles on my Model Y and the front control arms are making noises. Tesla wants to replace a significant amount of suspension components at a high cost, instead of a recall (or creating serviceable lubrication points on these components). The NHTSA needs to hold Tesla accountable for faulty suspension design and lack of maintainability leading to premature failure.

The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that the suspension on the undercarriage of the vehicle was separating from the vehicle. The contact stated that a year prior to the failure, the half shaft used to attach the wheel to the vehicle subframe was fractured and was falling off the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a Tesla service center to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the battery was very heavy and was possibly the cause of the failure. The vehicle was being repaired out of pocket. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 64,811.

Within four months my car has suspension problems and I didn't know until my tires got bad there was a noise and I didn't know that was the suspension. I bought four brand new tires and I took it to the Tesla dealer and I told the attendant that my car was wearing the tire inside really bad. After I bought 4 brand new tires I took it to the Tesla for an alignment and when you left the car was even worse with the noise so bad. I am barely driving my car and I don't really know what to do if I have to take it to Tesla. I tried to get an appointment with Tesla and they are so full and my car feels like a rocking chair sometime. The Tesla has only 31,000 miles.

The vehicle suffered severe, premature suspension control arm degradation resulting in loud creaking/squeaking, forcing an emergency out-of-pocket replacement costing over $1,000. This is a known systemic defect noted in Tesla TSB sb-20-31-006. This first occurred in February and then again in July this year.

Both torn bushing and broken links at 29k miles.

The upper control arm bolt came loose on its own.

Vehicle experienced front suspension lateral link failure. The links separated from the sub-frame due to improperly secured fasteners. This is the exact defect described in existing recall sb-21-31-003 / NHTSA campaign 21v835000. The existing recall states 'front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen, allowing the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame. ' this vehicle has this identical manufacturing defect but was not included in the recall database. Tesla service confirmed the links 'fell out' and separated from the sub-frame at approximately 65,000 miles. Technician notes indicate a 'speed mismatch between wheel and motor' caused by the link separation - this is the symptom of the underlying fastener defect. The failure resulted in loss of steering control and made the vehicle undriveable (vor - vehicle off road). This is a safety-critical manufacturing defect affecting front suspension, creating crash risk due to sudden loss of vehicle stability and control. Owner is being charged for repair of a known manufacturing defect that should have been covered under the existing recall. This suggests the recall scope was too narrow and did not capture all affected vehicles with this defect. Request investigation into whether recall should be expanded to include additional affected vehicles.

There is a rip in the lower control bushing making steering difficult to control. I see that this is a common issue but no recall yet. My car has only 28k miles.

Lateral link bolt was broken causing damage to subframe.

The front suspension on my 2021 Tesla Model Y developed progressive creaking and groaning noises during low-speed turning, especially in parking lots or when maneuvering. The noise began intermittently around 45,000 miles and became much louder by around 86,000 miles, which made me concerned about a potential safety issue before a long family trip. The sound comes from the front lower suspension area and indicates that something may be loose or failing. I am worried about the possibility of losing steering control if the suspension components separate or shift while driving, especially with my children in the car. The Tesla service center in lisle, illinois inspected the vehicle and informed me that both front lower lateral links and both front lower compliance links must be replaced (all four front suspension links). The repair estimate is about $1,600. This problem appears identical to the condition described in Tesla’s campaign/recall sb-21-31-003 / NHTSA 21v835, which involves improperly torqued front lower lateral link fasteners on 2020–2021 Model Y vehicles. My vehicle shows identical symptoms and identical components, but my VIN does not appear in the recall. I contacted Tesla corporate support by email requesting a safety/goodwill review, but I have not received any response. I believe this issue is safety-related and may indicate that more vehicles should be included in the existing recall. I am attaching the Tesla service diagnosis confirming the required replacement of all four front suspension links.

My 2021 Model Y at 49,865 miles had a safety-critical failure of the "front lower compliance and lateral links. " the Tesla technician confirmed it was a "safety issue. ".

The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a loud clunking sound coming from the rear driver’s side of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. After the failure had occurred, the mechanic who towed the vehicle informed the contact that the failure could be related to a detached axle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the front suspension lateral link had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. After researching, the contact discovered NHTSA campaign number: 21v835000 (suspension). The contact expressed concerns that the vehicle should be included in the recall due to the similarities between the reported failure and the recall summary. The approximate failure mileage was 45,483.

The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model Y. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the front end of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the front suspension lateral link fasteners were loosened. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 21v835000 (suspension), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 22,000.

Front suspension upper control arm makes loud creaking/squeaking noises when turning at low speeds. This is a known and widespread issue affecting Tesla Model Y and model 3 vehicles, caused by premature ball joint wear. This poses a safety risk, as the upper control arm is a critical suspension component and could fail while driving, potentially leading to loss of steering control. Tesla has acknowledged the issue through service bulletins, but they do not cover the repair outside the 4yr/50k mile warranty, leaving many owners with the same premature failure. Some repairs may be offered under goodwill, but this is inconsistent and not guaranteed.

Both front half shafts failed and had to be replaced by Tesla. I did research and this part is known to be substandard, was recalled in china, and remains a problem in the us.

The vehicle lost steering at 10 mph as a bolt from the front suspension's upper control arm and lateral link fasteners became loose and detached rom the vehicle. The wheel was completely misaligned, and the vehicle was not drivable. The vehicle could not be moved to the side of the road, putting my safety and the safety of other drivers at risk. I fear that this could have been a fatal accident had I been on the highway. This issue has been confirmed by Tesla service center, and they acknowledged that this is a known issue. There were no warning indicators or recall notices sent to warn of this known issue. My vehicle should have been recalled. Tesla is making me pay $3,000 for repairs despite knowing this is a manufacturer defect, and they are continuing to put lives at risk by not issuing a wider recall.