⌘K
Your vehicleHome›Tesla›Model X› 2021
Tesla · Large SUV

2021 Tesla Model X

Electric
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
3 EPA-rated configurations
Data refreshed 2026-10-26
F
Safety Signal
51 / 100 from the NHTSA recall record
Counts recalls, not crash safety — this vehicle earned 5 of 5 stars from NHTSA. A much-recalled best-seller scores low here; see the methodology.
RecallsNHTSA campaigns 24
Complaints3 crash · 2 injured reported 41
Crash ratingNHTSA overall 5★
EV rangebest configuration, EPA 371 mi
20262025202420232022202120202019201820172016

The 2021 Tesla Model X is sold in the U.S. as an electric large SUV with 3 EPA-rated configurations. Its longest-range version, the Model X Long Range Plus, is EPA-rated at 371 miles with 105 MPGe combined efficiency. NHTSA lists 24 recall campaigns for this model year, which gives it a Safety Signal grade of F. Owners have filed 41 complaints, most often about the steering. NHTSA crash-tested it at 5 stars overall.

Tesla Model X — photograph via Wikimedia Commons
Tesla Model X (2012 generation) · Photo: Alexander Migl · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Specs & fuel economy

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov
ConfigurationPowertrainDriveEngine / motorCityHwyCombRangekWh/100miCharge (240V)Annual fuel*
Model X Long Range PlusElectricAWD180 and 189 kW AC 3-Phase109101105 MPGe371 mi32.015 h$700
Model X Performance (20in Wheels)ElectricAWD151 and 273 kW AC 3-Phase1009597 MPGe341 mi34.615 h$800
Model X Performance (22in Wheels)ElectricAWD151 and 273 kW AC 3-Phase898386 MPGe300 mi39.315 h$900

*EPA estimate at 15,000 miles/year at EPA reference fuel and electricity prices. fueleconomy.gov record ids: 43403, 43404, 43405.

Emissions & certification

Source: EPA emission certificates
ConfigurationSmog ratingEmission standardWhere it can be sold newSmartWay
Model X Long Range Plus, Model X Performance (20in Wheels), Model X Performance (22in Wheels)10 / 10Federal Tier 3 Bin 0 / California ZEVAll 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standardsSmartWay Elite

Certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S.

The smog rating scores tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, 1 (worst) to 10 (best), and is comparable only within a model year. The standard is the federal bin or California tier the configuration was certified to. Both come from the EPA certificate behind the window sticker.

Specifications filed with NHTSA

Source: NHTSA vPIC

Dimensions Exterior

Body styleSport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Doors5
GVWR classClass 2E: 6,001 - 7,000 lb (2,722 - 3,175 kg)

Fuel Economy

FuelElectric

Filed by the manufacturer with NHTSA under the federal vehicle-identification rule and decoded from the VIN pattern — not a manufacturer press kit, so it describes the configurations we could identify rather than every trim. Figures for the trim you are looking at may differ.

Dimensions & weight

Source: Transport Canada
Length198.0 in
Width (body, without mirrors)79.1 in
Height66.1 in
Wheelbase116.9 in
Track, front65.4 in
Track, rear66.9 in
Curb weight5,269 lb
Weight distribution, front/rear49/51

Measured by Transport Canada for its Canadian Vehicle Specifications database, which covers the North American versions of each model — here one configuration: 4-door SUV AWD. Where a range is shown, those versions differ. Width is the body without mirrors, which is why it can read narrower than a brochure figure. Before we used it we checked it against the US manufacturer press kits we hold (27 Sep 2026): wheelbase agreed within 1% on every vehicle we could compare, length on 98%, and the curb weight fell inside the manufacturer's range on 96%. Source dataset. Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Licence.

Advertisement

Factory warranty running out?

The 2021 Tesla Model X is in the years where high-voltage electronics and module repairs land on the owner. What an extended plan does and does not cover is worth reading before a dealer quotes you one.

What to check before you buy →

Affiliate disclosure: some links on this page are affiliate links. If you request a quote or buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Nothing on this page changes because of it.

Recalls (24)

Source: NHTSA recall database
○minor

Back Over Prevention

SB-26-00-001
218,868 vehicles built Aug 18, 2021 – Aug 7, 2022
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017, 2021-2023 Model 3, 2020-2023 Model Y, 2021-2023 Model S, and Model X vehicles operating software version 2026.8.6. The rearview camera image may be delayed when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk A delayed rearview image reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2026. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-26-00-001.
NHTSA campaign 26V283000 reported May 4, 2026 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Electrical System

SB-25-20-001
91 vehicles 73% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model S and 2021-2025 Model X vehicles. An air bag with the incorrect horn pad may have been installed, preventing the horn from sounding. Risk An inoperative horn may prevent the driver from alerting other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla service will inspect and install an air bag with the correct horn pad as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-20-001.
NHTSA campaign 25V172000 reported Mar 19, 2025 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

SB-24-20-001
487 vehicles 75% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Model S and Model X vehicles. The driver's air bag could tear during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 212, "Windshield Mounting." Risk A torn air bag may not adequately protect an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Fix Tesla service will replace the air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 21, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-20-001.
NHTSA campaign 24V967000 reported Dec 23, 2024 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Latches/Locks/Linkages

SB-24-00-012
1,849,638 vehicles 99% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened. Risk An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-012.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDF
NHTSA campaign 24V554000 reported Jul 24, 2024 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Seat Belts

SB-24-00-008
125,233 vehicles 90% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection." Risk A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash. Fix Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-008.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDF
NHTSA campaign 24V376000 reported May 28, 2024 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Electrical System

SB-24-00-006
6,557 vehicles 99% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2013, 2018-2021 Model S, 2020-2021 Model X, 2018-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A factory reset muted the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles." Risk Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are muted, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, release 2023.44.30.14, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-006.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 24V153000 reported Feb 27, 2024 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Electrical System

SB-24-00-003
2,193,869 vehicles
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck vehicles. An incorrect font size is displayed on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems." Risk Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla began releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-003.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 24V051000 reported Jan 30, 2024 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Electrical System

SB-23-00-008
2,031,220 vehicles 99% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autosteer leading up to the version(s) that contains the recall remedy. In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature's controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse of the SAE Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature. Risk In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, and the driver does not maintain responsibility for vehicle operation and is unprepared to intervene as necessary or fails to recognize when Autosteer is canceled or not engaged, there may be an increased risk of a crash. Fix Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-008.
NHTSA campaign 23V838000 reported Dec 12, 2023 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

SB-23-20-005
194 vehicles 76% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model S and Model X vehicles. An incorrect air bag may have been installed when the steering yoke or round steering wheel was replaced with a different style of yoke or steering wheel. Risk An air bag that is not designed to function with the replacement steering yoke or wheel may deploy incorrectly, increasing the risk of injury during a crash. Fix Tesla Service will inspect and replace the driver air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-20-005.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 23V743000 reported Nov 3, 2023 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Electrical System

SB-23-00-005
54,676 vehicles 99% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model X vehicles. The vehicle controller may fail to detect low brake fluid and will not display a warning light. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems." Risk Without a warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, which can reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-005.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 23V679000 reported Oct 11, 2023 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Seat Belts

SB-23-20-004
15,869 vehicles 93% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model S and Model X vehicles. The front-row seat belts may not be connected properly to the pretensioner anchors, which can cause the seat belts to detach. Risk A detached seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Fix Tesla Service will inspect the front-row seat belts and connect the seat belts to pretensioner anchors, or replace the seat belt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 12, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-20-004.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 23V488000 reported Jul 14, 2023 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Steering

SB-23-00-001
362,758 vehicles 96% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2023 Model S, Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving Beta (FSD Beta) software or pending installation. The FSD Beta system may allow the vehicle to act unsafe around intersections, such as traveling straight through an intersection while in a turn-only lane, entering a stop sign-controlled intersection without coming to a complete stop, or proceeding into an intersection during a steady yellow traffic signal without due caution. In addition, the system may respond insufficiently to changes in posted speed limits or not adequately account for the driver's adjustment of the vehicle's speed to exc Risk FSD Beta software that allows a vehicle to exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge.  Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2023.  Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752.  Tesla's number for this recall is SB-23-00-001.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 23V085000 reported Feb 15, 2023 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

SB-22-00-015
29,348 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Model X vehicles. The restraint control module (RCM) calibration may cause the front passenger air bag to deploy incorrectly during certain low speed crashes. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection." Risk A passenger air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury during a crash. Fix Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update to recalibrate the RCM, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-015.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V843000 reported Nov 15, 2022 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Steering

SB-22-00-014
40,168 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S and Model X vehicles. The electronic power assist steering (EPAS) system may experience a loss of power steering assist when driving on rough roads or after hitting a pothole. Risk A loss of power steering assist can require greater steering effort, especially at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update to recalibrate the EPAS system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 31, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-014.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V818000 reported Nov 1, 2022 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Visibility

SB-22-00-013
1,096,762 vehicles 99% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3, 2020-2022 Model Y, and 2021-2022 Model S and Model X vehicles. The window automatic reversal system may not react correctly after detecting an obstruction. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems." Risk A closing window may exert excessive force by pinching a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury. Fix Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update of the automatic window reversal system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 31, 2032. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-013.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V702000 reported Sep 19, 2022 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Back Over Prevention

SB-22-00-009
129,960 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S, Model X, and 2022 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles operating certain firmware releases. The infotainment central processing unit (CPU) may overheat during the preparation or process of fast-charging, causing the CPU to lag or restart. Risk A lagging or restarting CPU may prevent the center screen from displaying the rearview camera image, gear selection, windshield visibility control settings, and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will improve CPU temperature management, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-009.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V296000 reported May 3, 2022 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Electrical System

SB-22-00-003
594,894 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y, Model X, Model S, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles." Risk Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, including Summon and Smart Summon, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall supersedes recall 22V-063. Vehicles configured with Summon or Smart Summon and already remedied under 22V-
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V235000 reported Apr 12, 2022 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

SB-22-20-003
7,289 vehicles 94% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model X vehicles. The left or right front-row side curtain air bags may not deploy as intended when the windows are lowered. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 226, "Ejection Mitigation." Risk Improper side curtain air bag deployment can increase the risk of injury during a crash. Fix Tesla Service Centers will replace the left and right front-row side curtain air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 16, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-20-003.
NHTSA campaign 22V233000 reported Apr 8, 2022 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Electrical System

SB-22-00-003
578,607 vehicles
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model S, Model X, Model Y, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles." Risk Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-003. Note: This recall has been superseded by Recall 22V-235. Tesla's number for the new recall is SB-22-00-003.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V063000 reported Feb 4, 2022 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Visibility

SB-22-18-002
26,681 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A software error may cause a valve in the heat pump to open unintentionally and trap the refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting in decreased defrosting performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems." Risk Decreased defrosting performance may reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-18-002.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V050000 reported Feb 2, 2022 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Electrical System

SB-22-00-002
817,143 vehicles 98% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The audible chime may not activate when the vehicle starts and the driver has not buckled their seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection." Risk The driver may be unaware that their seat belt is not fastened, increasing the risk of injury during a crash. Fix Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-002.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V045000 reported Feb 1, 2022 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Steering

SB-22-00-001
53,822 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The "rolling stop" functionality available as part of the Full Self-Driving (Beta) software may allow the vehicle to travel through an all-way stop intersection without first coming to a stop. Risk Failing to stop at a stop sign can increase the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that disables the "rolling stop" functionality, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-00-001.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V037000 reported Jan 27, 2022 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

SB-21-20-007
7,600 vehicles 94% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021 Model X and Model S vehicles. The driver's air bag cushion may tear during deployment. Risk A torn air bag may not adequately protect an occupant in a crash, increasing their risk of injury. Fix Tesla Service will replace the driver's air bag, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 7, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-20-007.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 21V868000 reported Nov 9, 2021 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Forward Collision Avoidance

SB-21-00-004
11,728 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S, Model 3, Model X, and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles operating software version 2021.36.5.2. A communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB) system. Risk Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004.
NHTSA campaign 21V846000 reported Oct 29, 2021 Tesla, Inc. the full filing, and every vehicle covered →

These are vehicle campaigns — the ones the automaker filed against this model. NHTSA also records equipment recalls, filed by a parts maker against a component (a tyre, a child seat, an aftermarket part), and those are not listed here or counted above. nhtsa.gov/recalls shows both for a VIN.

NHTSA defect investigations

Electrical System:Adas — FSD Collisions in Reduced Roadway Visibility Conditions open

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is opening this Engineering Analysis to evaluate Tesla’s Full Self Driving Beta and Full Self Driving (Supervised) (collectively, FSD) degradation detection system. The focus of this investigation will be to assess the system’s ability, when encountering reduced roadway visibility conditions, to detect degradation and alert the driver with sufficient time to respond. ODI will evaluate the performance of FSD in degraded roadway conditions and the updates or modifications by Tesla to the degradation detection system, including the timing, purpose, and capabilities of the updates, and Tesla’s assessment of their safety impact. Tesla’s FSD is an advanced

Opened Mar 18, 2026 · action EA26002 · the investigation’s page →

Electrical System:Adas — Traffic safety violations while Full Self Driving ("FSD") is engaged open

The Office of Defects Investigation (“ODI”) is opening this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) to assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety consequences of FSD executing driving maneuvers that constitute traffic safety violations. This investigation concerns versions of FSD that Tesla has labeled as "FSD (Supervised)" and "FSD (Beta)." Tesla characterizes FSD as an SAE Level 2 partial automation system requiring a fully attentive driver who is engaged in the driving task at all times. Level 2 partial automation systems are designed to support and assist the driver in performing certain aspects of the driving task, requiring a driver to supervise and intervene as necessary.  The driver remains

Opened Oct 7, 2025 · action PE25012 · the investigation’s page →

Electrical System:Adas — Compliance with Standing General Order 2021-01 Reporting Requirements open

The Office of Defects Investigation (“ODI”) has identified numerous incident reports submitted by Tesla, Inc. (“Tesla”) in response to Standing General Order 2021-01 (the “SGO”), in which the reported crashes occurred several months or more before the dates of the reports. The majority of these reports involved crashes in which the Standing General Order in place at the time required a report to be submitted within one or five days of Tesla receiving notice of the crash. When the reports were submitted, Tesla submitted them in one of two ways. Many of the reports were submitted as part of a single batch, while others were submitted on a rolling basis. Preliminary engagement between ODI and T

Opened Aug 20, 2025 · action AQ25002 · the investigation’s page →

Electrical System:Adas:Autonomous/Self Driving — Actually Smart Summon sessions resulting in low-speed impacts. closed

On January 6, 2025, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation 24003 (PE24033) to investigate Actually Smart Summon (Summon) sessions resulting in crashes during active sessions. According to Tesla, Summon is a short-distance SAE Level 2 system, controlled by the user from a cell phone within a certain distance and intended for use in parking lots and on private property. ODI analyzed complaint data provided by Tesla as well as complaints submitted to ODI from consumers to identify Summon incidents resulting in crashes. ODI's analysis indicates that almost all Summon reported crashes involved minor property damage claims with no reported incidents involving a vu

Opened Jan 6, 2025 · closed Apr 3, 2026 · action PE24033 · the investigation’s page →

Electrical System:Adas — FSD Collisions in Reduced Roadway Visibility Conditions closed

On October 17, 2024, NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE24031) of Tesla’s Full Self Driving Beta and Full Self Driving (Supervised) (collectively, FSD) to assess: the ability of the FSD system to detect and respond appropriately to reduced roadway visibility conditions; whether any other FSD crashes had occurred under degraded roadway visibility conditions that are similar in nature to the four SGO-reported crashes identified in the opening document, and if so, the contributing circumstances for each of those crashes; and any updates or modifications by Tesla to the FSD system that may affect the performance of FSD in degraded roadway visibility

Opened Oct 17, 2024 · closed Mar 18, 2026 · action PE24031 · the investigation’s page →

Electrical System:Adas:Driver Monitoring:Software — Recall 23V838 Remedy Effectiveness open

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is opening a Recall Query to assess the remedy adequacy of Recall 23V838. On December 12, 2023, Tesla filed a Defect Information Report (Recall 23V838) applicable to all Tesla models produced and equipped with any version of its Autopilot system, which Tesla described as an SAE Level 2 (L2) Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). Autopilot is the simultaneous engagement of Tesla’s Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC) and Autosteer. In describing the safety defect, Tesla’s Defect Information Report (DIR) explained that “the prominence and scope of the system’s controls may be insufficient to prevent driver misuse,” and Tesla committed to the deployme

Opened Apr 25, 2024 · action RQ24009 · the investigation’s page →

Vehicle Speed Control — Sudden Unintended Acceleration open

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a petition requesting that ODI reevaluate its decision to deny DP20-001 on the basis that intermittent high electrical current demands on the vehicles' 12VDC systems may have caused some or all of the incidents examined by ODI in DP20-001. The petitioner bases this information on a review of open-source research and the DP20-001 denial. The petition and related materials can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under the following ODI number: 11528471.

Opened Jun 29, 2023 · action DP23002 · the investigation’s page →

Unknown Or Other — Defect Petition Interlock Request closed

On March 21, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a petition requesting a “recall of all Tesla cars” produced from 2013 to the date on which the petition was filed due to what Petitioner considers to be the increased likelihood of pedal misapplication. Attached to the Petition is a paper authored by Petitioner. According to Petitioner, the differences in the operator controls between the subject Tesla vehicles and internal combustion engine powered vehicles promote driver pedal misapplication, leading to sudden unintended acceleration (SUA) incidents. To fix this alleged defect, Petitioner argues that the subject vehicles should be equipped with measures that require: (i)

Opened Apr 7, 2023 · closed Mar 18, 2026 · action DP23001 · the investigation’s page →

Seat Belts — Front seat belt anchor detachment closed

On March 24, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) after receiving 2 consumer complaints alleging the front seat belts had suddenly detached from the outboard lap pretensioner anchor while in motion in model year (MY) 2022-2023 Tesla Model X vehicles. In its June 19, 2023 response to ODI’s May 4, 2023 Information Request letter of the PE, Tesla reported that its review of field repair data identified 12 additional warranty claims of the subject condition in the affected vehicles. On July 14, 2023, Tesla filed a safety recall (NHTSA No. 23V-488) of 15,869 MY 2021 - 2023 Tesla Model S and Model X vehicles. The recall remedy is an inspection of

Opened Mar 24, 2023 · closed May 16, 2024 · action PE23006 · the investigation’s page →

Electrical System:Propulsion System — Pedestrian alert sounds closed

NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after March 1, 2021. On January 27, 2023, NHTSA opened Defect Petition (DP) 22-005 to evaluate the subject mat

Opened Jan 27, 2023 · closed Aug 7, 2023 · action DP22005 · the investigation’s page →

Electrical System — Autopilot System Driver Controls closed

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) upgraded PE21020 to EA22002 on June 8, 2022, to extend work and deepen the PE21020 crash analysis, to supplement that analysis with additional data, and to perform vehicle evaluations to understand how Tesla’s Autopilot system may exacerbate human factors or behavioral safety risks by undermining the effectiveness of the driver’s supervision. To support this work, ODI collected additional crash information and assessed vehicle control authority, driver engagement technologies, and related human factors considerations associated with partial automation via analysis of peer vehicle data and hands-on vehicle evaluation, assessments from NHTSA human fact

Opened Jun 8, 2022 · closed Apr 25, 2024 · action EA22002 · the investigation’s page →

Equipment:Recreational Vehicle/Trailer:120/240 Vac Electrical System:Receptacle — Tesla Passenger Play closed

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation (PE21-023) on December 21, 2021, to evaluate the driver distraction potential and use frequency / circumstances of in-vehicle game-play functionality referred to as ?Passenger Play? in certain model year (MY) 2017-2022 Tesla Model 3, S, X, and Y vehicles. Distracted driving can result in an increased risk of a crash. PE21-023 was prompted by the receipt of Vehicle Owners Questionnaire (VOQ) 11439598 from the owner of a 2021 Model 3 on November 6, 2021. ODI sent an Information Request (IR) letter to Tesla on January 20, 2022 and received Tesla?s response on March 4, 2022. On December 24, 2020, Tesla introduced Passenger P

Opened Dec 21, 2021 · closed May 26, 2023 · action PE21023 · the investigation’s page →

Electrical System:Adas — Autopilot & First Responder Scenes closed

On August 13, 2021, NHTSA?s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE21-020) to assess the performance of Tesla?s Autopilot system (a system characterized by Tesla as an SAE Level 2 driving automation system designed to support and assist the driver in performing the driving task) available in Tesla vehicles. The investigation opening was motivated by an accumulation of crashes in which Tesla vehicles, operating with Autopilot engaged, struck stationary in-road or roadside first responder vehicles tending to pre-existing collision scenes. Upon opening the investigation, NHTSA indicated that the PE would also evaluate additional similar circumstance crashes of

Opened Aug 13, 2021 · closed Jun 8, 2022 · action PE21020 · the investigation’s page →

Whether any of this applies to one specific Model X

A campaign covers a build range, not a model year, so two identical-looking cars from 2021 can differ. Both of these check a VIN against the manufacturer’s own list, free, in about ten seconds. Tesla publishes its own lookup because federal rule 49 CFR 573.15 requires it to, and to keep it current to within seven days.

Hear about a recall before the letter does

The manufacturer’s letter is the last step of a recall: it has up to 60 days after filing to mail owners, at the address on the registration. We email you the day NHTSA posts a recall on the 2021 Tesla Model X, with what to do next. Nothing else, ever — no newsletter, no marketing, one-click unsubscribe in every message.

Advertisement

Parts & accessories for the 2021 Tesla Model X

Search by fitment on eBay Motors — OEM take-offs, aftermarket, and the trim pieces dealers no longer stock. The listing and the price are the seller's.

Find parts for this Model X →

Owner complaints

Source: NHTSA complaint database
41complaints filed

3 involved a crash · 0 a fire · 2 injuries · 0 deaths reported

74 per 10,000 built · Tesla reported 5,505 Model X built (its Early Warning production report to NHTSA)

Filed per year: 2021: 12 · 2022: 3 · 2023: 3 · 2024: 9 · 2025: 11 · 2026: 3

Most-cited components

Steering 13
Unspecified 9
Electrical System 7
Forward Collision Avoidance 7
Lane Departure 7
Suspension 6

In owners' own words

Filed with NHTSA by the people who own these cars, one per problem area. Quoted as written, with anything identifying removed.

Steering assist error code. Car has less than 25,000 miles and Tesla is reporting this is common and the steering rack needs to be replaced and the steering gear left hand drive. Tesla Temecula also said there was a system malfunction that caused it but they do not dig into that they just do the service for $5100.
Steering Jun 2, 2025 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11664453
My 2021 Tesla Model X has a serious safety issue with the driver’s door. When opened, the door swings freely with no support or soft-close resistance and can slam shut or fling wide open unexpectedly. This poses a danger to passengers and nearby people or property.
Structure May 6, 2025 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11659206
Windshield cracked due to defrosting; yes available for inspection upon request. If the windshield shatters due to defrosting this is serious safety risk and what can happen while driving is limited less.
Visibility/Wiper Feb 3, 2025 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11640531
It is commonly known that the drive shafts on the Model X fail. This is not a wear component and should be a recall. The suspension is also part of this issue and there are after market solutions to fix the suspension that is causing the failure of the half shafts
Power Train Mar 14, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11577342
On May 23, 2023the car went into the shop for an unrelated issue at that time the tires were checked and found to be needing replacement on front, nothing in notes about back tires. Tires we're filled with air at tesla service.
Suspension Jan 2, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11563163
Compressor fails causing cooling of the battery to fail and AC in the car not to work. System sais AC reduced charging reduced. No Air at all. It seems to be a very common issue. This seems unsafe and is a major expense to fix. $2300+
Electrical System Aug 2, 2023 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11536030

Complaint counts are raw owner reports to NHTSA, not verified defects, and scale with how many were sold. Use them to spot patterns, not to rank.

Reported by Tesla itself: 1 death-or-injury claim on this model year in its quarterly Early Warning reports to NHTSA (49 CFR 579.21): 1 injured, as claimed, not verified — about 18 per 100,000 built. Every Model X model year, by year and system → Dated and by system, they are exhibit F of the defect dossier.

Crash ratings

Source: NHTSA NCAP
ConfigurationOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★9%
SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★9%
SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★9%
SUV AWDnot ratednot ratednot rated★★★★★—
SUV AWDnot ratednot ratednot rated★★★★★—
SUV AWDnot ratednot ratednot rated★★★★★—

NHTSA New Car Assessment Program. Standard driver-assist: forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking.

Driver-assist crash reports (7)

Source: NHTSA Standing General Order 2021-01
7reports filed

1 minor · 6 severity unknown

Jan 2023 to Jul 2026 · 6 with an air bag deployment · 1 towed

What was engaged, and what was hit

System named: not named in the filings

Crash partner: Passenger Car 2 · SUV 2 · Unknown 2 · Other 1

Filed by: Tesla, Inc.

IncidentSystemStruckInjury allegedStateSpeedReport
Jul 2026Level 2Passenger CarunknownMO1 mph13781-16105
Jul 2025Level 2OtherunknownNV24 mph13781-11349
Jan 2025Level 2UnknownunknownWA50 mph13781-9716
Dec 2023Level 2UnknownminorFL48 mph13781-7031
Aug 2023Level 2SUVunknownCA67 mph13781-6197
Apr 2023Level 2SUVunknownIL3 mph13781-5246
Jan 2023Level 2Passenger CarunknownWA35 mph13781-4611

A report under the General Order is a notice the manufacturer or operator must file within days of hearing of a crash in which a Level 2 driver-assist or automated-driving system was engaged within 30 seconds of impact. It is filed before anything is verified, and entities with telematics hear of far more crashes than entities that rely on complaints, so counts say as much about the reporting as about the car and are not comparable across makes. Nothing is normalised by fleet size. Every report on file, by make and year → · NHTSA’s page and files

Service bulletins & campaigns

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications
Communicationsfiled with NHTSA 87
Most recentmanufacturer date 2026-02-04
Kindsas classified by NHTSA 45 service bulletins, 40 over-the-air updates, 2 others

Most often about: Unknown Or Other, Equipment, Electrical System, Steering, Engine.

  • SB-26-18-001 Service bulletin
    2026-02-04 · Unknown Or Other
  • On some Model S and Model X vehicles, the compression gap of the HVAC drain funnel seal is wider than intended, which may cause water ingress. Inspect the sponge area of the HVAC drain funnel for water ingress. If water ingress is present, rework the HVAC drain funnel seal.
  • SB-25-16-004 Service bulletin
    2025-09-03 · Electrical System
  • On certain Model S and Model X vehicles, the HV battery umbrella valves, over time, may become damaged due to road debris. Replace all 5 umbrella valves with updated parts. This new revision, R1, updates the affected Countries/Regions.
  • SB-25-16-002 Service bulletin
    2025-09-02 · Electrical System
  • On certain Model S and Model X vehicles built between approximately January 2021 and September 22, 2022, the High Voltage (HV) battery ports’ plungers intended for internal water leak egress (also known as flood ports) can be replaced with plungers that are more robust against external ingress due to submersion during flooding or other similar high-severity abuse instances. Replace all 5 flood por
  • SB-21-20-007 Service bulletin
    2025-05-02 · Air Bags
  • Certain Model S and Model X vehicles were equipped with driver airbags that do not meet internal quality standards.
  • SB-24-17-005 Service bulletin
    2025-04-03 · Electrical System
  • On certain Model S, Model X and Model Y vehicles, the interior camera requires replacement to mitigate reduced driver attentiveness detection performance in low-light conditions.
  • SB-24-21-002 Service bulletin
    2025-03-21 · Electrical System
  • Some Model S and Model X vehicles with 1st Generation Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) antennas might suffer from lower-than-expected navigation signal strength under certain circumstances.
  • SB-25-17-004 Service bulletin
    2025-02-28 · Electrical System
  • Some Model S and Model X vehicles with revision D interior cameras might suffer from lower-than-expected navigation signal strength under certain circumstances.
  • SB-24-21-001 Service bulletin
    2024-10-01 · Electrical System
  • On certain Model S and Model X vehicles built before November 1, 2021, the vehicle may lack Bluetooth headphone hardware support for the rear touchscreen audio.

A service bulletin is the manufacturer telling its dealers how to diagnose or repair a known condition. It is not a recall, not a finding that the vehicle is defective, and the work is not automatically free — though a bulletin is often what a dealer works from when you describe a symptom, so quoting the document number can save a diagnosis. The count is every communication filed; the list shows the most recent, one entry per campaign, because a single campaign is usually filed as several documents on the same day. The summaries are NHTSA's; the full documents come from the manufacturer.

Common questions about the 2021 Model X

Source: EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer press kits

Does the 2021 Tesla Model X have any recalls?

NHTSA has posted 24 recall campaigns for the 2021 Tesla Model X. The most serious on file is 24V967000, covering Air Bags. Check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls; a recall applies to specific build ranges, not every car.

How safe is the 2021 Tesla Model X?

NHTSA gave the 2021 Tesla Model X 5 stars overall in its New Car Assessment Program tests — 5-star frontal crash, 5-star side crash, 5-star rollover. WhichTrim also grades it F (51/100) on its recall record, which is a different question from crash protection.

What is the fuel economy of the 2021 Tesla Model X?

Across the 3 EPA-rated configurations of the 2021 Tesla Model X, the longest EPA range is 371 miles on a charge. Figures are the EPA's own, per configuration, and every one is listed above.

What are the dimensions of the 2021 Tesla Model X?

Transport Canada measured it at 198.0 in long, 79.1 in wide (body, without mirrors), 66.1 in tall, on a 116.9 in wheelbase. Curb weight: 5,269 lb. Those are its measurements of the North American versions; every figure is in the table above.

What do owners complain about on the 2021 Tesla Model X?

Owners have filed 41 complaints with NHTSA about the 2021 Tesla Model X, most often about steering, unspecified, electrical system. Of those, 3 involved a crash, 2 reported injuries. Complaints are unverified owner reports, so treat the pattern as a signal and the individual report as an anecdote.

How clean is the 2021 Tesla Model X?

The EPA smog rating for the 2021 Tesla Model X is 10 out of 10. That score covers tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, and it only compares vehicles within the same model year. It is certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S. Its configurations were certified to different standards — California ZEV, Federal Tier 3 Bin 0 — which the table above lists per configuration.

Are there service bulletins for the 2021 Tesla Model X?

The manufacturer has filed 87 service bulletins and related communications with NHTSA for the 2021 Tesla Model X, most often covering unknown or other, equipment, electrical system. The most recent is dated 2026-02-04. A bulletin is not a recall: it is the repair procedure a manufacturer sends its dealers for a condition it knows about, and the work is not automatically paid for. It is still worth knowing — if the symptom matches, quoting the bulletin number at the service desk can save a diagnosis. The document numbers and summaries are listed above.

What we hold, and what an empty row means

Paid vehicle-history reports will not tell you the difference between “nothing happened to this car” and “we never received that record” — both of the big two say as much in their own help pages. Most of what is on this page comes from complete federal registers, so we can tell you which is which, row by row.

DataHeldSourceWhat it covers — or what empty means
Fuel economy & configurations3 configurationsEPA certification recordsEvery configuration the EPA certified for sale, with its own test figures.
Emission certificates3 configurationsEPA emission certificatesSmog rating, standard and the sales area that decides where the car can be sold new.
Recalls24NHTSA recall campaignsA complete federal register: every campaign covering this model year, with severity and advisory flags.
Owner complaints41NHTSA complaint databaseAlso complete, but unverified: these are reports owners filed, not findings. Counts scale with how many were sold.
Crash ratings6 testedNHTSA NCAPOnly the configurations NHTSA chose to crash-test, which is never all of them.
Service bulletins87NHTSA manufacturer communicationsEverything the manufacturer told its dealers about a defect or malfunction, short of a recall.
Investigations13NHTSA Office of Defects InvestigationOpen and closed defect investigations, with the agency's own narrative.
Driver-assist crash reports7NHTSA Standing General Order 2021-01Crashes the manufacturer or operator reported with a Level 2 or automated-driving system engaged. Notices, filed before verification; not comparable across makes.
Specifications filed with NHTSA4 fieldsNHTSA vPIC, decoded from VIN patternsWhat the manufacturer filed under the federal VIN rule — a configuration, not the full trim ladder.
Measured dimensions7 fieldsTransport Canada, Canadian Vehicle SpecificationsLength, width, height, wheelbase, track and curb weight, measured on the North American versions.
Trims, pricing & equipmentnoneManufacturer press kitWe have not transcribed a press kit for this model year yet. This is our gap, not the manufacturer's — the one row here where an empty cell means we are behind.

Rebuilt nightly; this page was generated 2026-10-26. Every figure above is traceable to the source named beside it, and the JSON for this page carries the same values with their identifiers.

Sources & method

Safety Signal starts every model-year at 100 and subtracts points per open NHTSA recall campaign by severity: critical 15 (fire risk, park-outside or do-not-drive advisories), high 8 (brakes, steering, airbags, loss of drive power, structure, battery), moderate 6, minor 3 (software, labels, lighting fixed by an update). The most serious recall counts in full and each further one counts 85% of the one before, because a vehicle sold in millions is recalled more often than a rare one without being more dangerous — and because a flat subtraction bottomed the scale out, scoring a vehicle with 22 recalls within a point of one with six. A ≥ 90, B ≥ 80, C ≥ 70, D ≥ 60, otherwise F. Read it as what it counts: recall campaigns on the federal record, weighted by severity. The damping reduces the sales bias by roughly 40% but does not remove it: like our complaint counts, this is not normalized by how many were sold, so a best-seller still scores somewhat worse than an obscure model with the same real risk. NHTSA crash ratings, do-not-drive and park-outside advisories, and the crash, fire, injury and death counts in owner complaints are reported separately on every page and never blended into the letter — a vehicle can hold five stars and a poor letter at once, and where that happens we say so rather than leave you to notice. Because the scale subtracts from a clean sheet, a model year too new to have been recalled, complained about or bulletined scores full marks on an empty record; we label those grades provisional rather than present them as earned.

EPA figures come from fueleconomy.gov vehicle records. Recalls, complaints, investigations and crash ratings come from NHTSA's public flat files, refreshed nightly.

JSON for this page · API