MODEL
Tesla Model Y 5-Seat Safety
NHTSA safety across every Tesla Model Y 5-Seat model year we cover.
Across the 2 model years of the Tesla Model Y 5-Seat we cover (2021 to 2022), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2022 at 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2021 at 89. No recalls are on record across those years.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that has quickly become one of the best-selling vehicles in America, targeting tech-forward families and commuters who want practicality without sacrificing performance. The five-seat configuration keeps the cabin focused and accessible, positioning the Model Y squarely against mainstream crossover rivals while carrying Tesla's signature software-driven approach to the segment.
The 2022 Tesla Model Y five-seat earns a rare perfect NHTSA Safety Index of 100 out of 100, rated Exceptional. This assessment is supported by five out of five stars across every crash-test category: frontal impact, side impact, and rollover. This clean sweep of NHTSA's published ratings is uncommon. Across the 2021 and 2022 model years, the Model Y has recorded zero recalls. This absence of recall notices is a significant achievement, particularly in an automotive landscape where even highly-rated vehicles frequently face such actions. However, the complaint data for these model years requires careful consideration. Owners filed 1,031 complaints with NHTSA for the 2021 and 2022 Model Y. These complaints include 85 allegations of crashes, 6 allegations of fires, 25 allegations of injuries, and 4 allegations of deaths. While these are unverified allegations and not confirmed incidents, the volume of complaints over a two-year period is notable. Prospective buyers should review these submissions directly on the NHTSA website. Ultimately, the Model Y's Exceptional safety rating is well-supported by its strong crash-test performance and an unblemished recall record. The volume of owner complaints, though unverified, represents a data point that merits thorough investigation by any potential purchaser.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Model Y as one of the most capable and well-rounded compact electric SUVs available, praising its acceleration, interior technology, and practicality. Most critics note that the software-centric experience sets it apart from conventional crossover competitors, though some reviewers flag inconsistent build quality and a polarizing minimalist interior as points worth considering.
- The 2022 Tesla Model Y five-seat earns a perfect NHTSA Safety Index of 100 out of 100 with five stars in every crash-test category, placing it among the safest vehicles in its class by federal testing standards.
- Neither the 2021 nor the 2022 model year carries any NHTSA recalls, which is an unusually clean record for a high-volume vehicle and reflects well on the manufacturing and safety-monitoring process during this period.
- Owner complaints filed with NHTSA total 1,031 across the two covered model years, including allegations of crashes, fires, injuries, and deaths. These are unverified allegations and have not been confirmed as defect-related, but the volume is significant and shoppers should review the complaint database directly before buying.
- The five-seat body configuration affects the vehicle's weight distribution and structural layout compared to the optional seven-seat version, so buyers cross-shopping between configurations should note that crash-test results apply specifically to the five-seat variant covered here.