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Buying a used 2021 Tesla Model S? Check these 24 recalls first

24 NHTSA recalls · 176 owner complaints on file

The 2021 Tesla Model S has 24 recalls in this group. Airbag tearing, deployment problems, incorrect airbag installation, and an airbag defect affecting the horn stand out alongside seat belt and power steering concerns. Hood latch, driver assistance, defrosting, screen, and camera issues broaden the record; mirror warning etching is another listed item. The 176 NHTSA owner complaints are unverified reports, including 47 concerning forward collision avoidance, 43 classified as unknown or other, 29 involving steering, and 25 concerning electrical systems.

Before you buy

1. Get the 17-character VIN from the seller and run it at nhtsa.gov/recalls. It shows which recalls are still unrepaired on that exact car.
2. Request VIN-specific completion records for airbag and seat belt campaigns.
3. Check horn operation and ask about power steering interruptions.
4. Verify hood latch remedies and check screen, camera, and defroster operation.
5. Open recalls are repaired free at any Tesla dealer, whoever owns the car — an open recall is a to-do item, not a bill.

Recalls covering the 2021 Tesla Model S

What owners have reported to NHTSA

176 complaints filed for this model year, including 13 mentioning a crash, 2 a fire and 4 injuries. Complaints are unverified owner reports, and popular models collect more of them simply because more are on the road.

When the complaints were filed

Complaints by the year they reached NHTSA. The current year is incomplete, and counts usually fall as fewer of these cars stay on the road.

Other model years

• All Model S recalls