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
2022 Tesla Model 3has more complaint records.
Open investigation signals
2022 Tesla Model 3has more open investigations.
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, Model 3 has more open investigation signals 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 | 2022 Tesla Model 3 | 2021 Tesla Model 3 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total recalls | 17 | 21 | Model 3 has 4 more recalls |
| Total complaints | 748 | 650 | Model 3 has 98 more complaints |
| Crash / Fire / Injury / Death reports | 52 / 3 / 27 / 1 | 45 / 5 / 16 / 5 | Model 3 has 12 more severity reports |
| Defect investigations | 29 | 29 | Similar |
| Open investigations | 6 | 5 | Model 3 has 1 more open investigations |
| Manufacturer communications | 76 | 85 | Model 3 has 9 more communications |
| Recall completion reports | 109 | 128 | Model 3 has 19 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 | May 5, 2026 | Similar |
| Latest complaint | Jul 9, 2026 | Jul 15, 2026 | Model 3 has newer activity |
| Top complaint categories Top 3 |
|
| Similar focus |
| Fuel type | Electric | Electric | Same |
| Efficiency | 25.8238 kWh / 100 mi | 25.109 kWh / 100 mi | Different |
| Estimated annual fuel cost 15,000 miles / year | $600 | $550 | Model 3 about $50 less |
| Safety-rating records | 2 | 4 | Different availability |