More recall homework
2021 Tesla Model 3has more recalls listed.
Compare two vehicles
Spot recall, complaint, investigation, and fuel-cost differences before you trust the listing. No VIN required to start.
More complaint activity
2021 Tesla Model 3has more complaint records.
Open investigation signals
Similar activityOpen investigation counts are similar.
Lower estimated fuel cost
2021 Tesla Model 3may cost less to fuel.
Short answer: Model 3 needs more recall homework, Model 3 has more complaint activity, Model 3 has more severity reports and Model 3 has the lower fuel-cost estimate. Confirm the exact VIN before buying.
Public-record comparison
Rows show model-year records, not exact VIN status.
| Record | 2021 Tesla Model 3 | 2020 Tesla Model 3 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total recalls | 21 | 20 | Model 3 has 1 more recalls |
| Total complaints | 650 | 434 | Model 3 has 216 more complaints |
| Crash / Fire / Injury / Death reports | 45 / 5 / 16 / 5 | 51 / 2 / 26 / 2 | Model 3 has 10 more severity reports |
| Defect investigations | 29 | 29 | Similar |
| Open investigations | 5 | 5 | Similar |
| Manufacturer communications | 85 | 112 | Model 3 has 27 more communications |
| Recall completion reports | 128 | 132 | Model 3 has 4 more reports |
| Warranty programs | 0 | 0 | Similar |
| Service campaigns | 0 | 0 | Similar |
| Software notices | 40 | 40 | Similar |
| Canadian recall records | 0 | 0 | Similar |
| Latest recall | May 5, 2026 | Dec 17, 2024 | Model 3 has newer activity |
| Latest complaint | Jul 15, 2026 | Jul 14, 2026 | Model 3 has newer activity |
| Top complaint categories Top 3 |
|
| Similar focus |
| Fuel type | Electric | Electric | Same |
| Efficiency | 25.109 kWh / 100 mi | 25.8779 kWh / 100 mi | Different |
| Estimated annual fuel cost 15,000 miles / year | $550 | $600 | Model 3 about $50 less |
| Safety-rating records | 4 | 2 | Different availability |