MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2021 Tesla Model Y 5-Seat

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Tesla Model Y 5-Seat

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

0Recalls
1,031Complaints
14Investigations
ABOUT THE TESLA MODEL Y 5-SEAT

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.

VERDICT

The 2021 Tesla Model Y 5-Seat earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. No vehicle recalls are on file for this model year.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • families prioritizing rollover safety
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers 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.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 7.9%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 16054

Index breakdown

Crash protection70/70
Avoidance tech5/10
Defect record14/20
Forward collision warning: NoLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

No vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Tesla Model Y 5-Seat at NHTSA as of 2026-07-02. Equipment recalls, if any, are excluded from the safety score.

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

1,031 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

85reported crash
6reported fire
25reported injuries
4reported deaths
Most-reported systemsForward Collision Avoidance 567Service Brakes 182Vehicle Speed Control 158Electrical System 136Unknown Or Other 131Steering 81

Other Model Y 5-Seat years

Rivals in SUV (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 16054), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Tesla Model Y 5-Seat 2021. Class rank 33 of 118 in SUV 2021. Methodology · Disclosure