MODEL
Tesla Model Y
NHTSA safety across every Tesla Model Y model year we cover.
Across the 5 model years of the Tesla Model Y we cover (2020 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2025 at 92 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2020 at 80. 53 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that has become one of the best-selling vehicles in the United States, targeting tech-forward families and commuters who want zero-emission driving without sacrificing cargo space or practicality. Offered in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, it sits at the center of Tesla's lineup and competes directly against the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and traditional compact SUVs.
From a pure crash-test standpoint, the Tesla Model Y is genuinely impressive. Its best NHTSA Safety Index across our covered 2020-to-2025 window reaches 94 out of 100 in the 2023 model year, a score that lands in the Exceptional band. Federal star ratings back that up, with five stars across frontal, side, and rollover categories in its strongest year. That is about as clean a crash-test sweep as this segment offers. The recall picture, however, demands honest attention. Across these six model years, the Model Y has accumulated 26 recalls. That is a notable volume for a relatively young nameplate, and shoppers should check NHTSA's recall database regularly to confirm their specific VIN is clear. Many Tesla recalls have been addressed via over-the-air software updates, which is a meaningful distinction from traditional dealers, but the frequency itself is worth flagging. Owner complaints total 1,729 across covered years, with 277 crash allegations, 161 injury allegations, and 2 death allegations among them. These are unverified allegations, not confirmed incidents, and complaint volume partly reflects the Model Y's enormous sales numbers. Still, no shopper should ignore a complaint record of this size. Bottom line: the Model Y earns its Exceptional crash-test credentials, but the recall count and complaint volume mean ongoing ownership vigilance is not optional, it is necessary.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Model Y for its spacious, practical interior, strong real-world range, and the seamless integration of Tesla's technology ecosystem. Performance across trim levels draws consistent approval. Critics tend to point to inconsistent build quality and the unconventional ownership experience as areas where the Model Y trails more established rivals in overall polish.
- The 2023 Model Y achieved a 94 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index with five stars in every crash-test category, making it one of the stronger performers in the compact SUV segment on pure crash metrics.
- Twenty-six recalls have been issued across the 2020-to-2025 model years. Tesla frequently resolves recalls through over-the-air software updates, but owners should verify their VIN against the NHTSA recall database to confirm all remedies have been applied.
- Owner complaints total 1,729 across covered years, including 277 crash allegations and 161 injury allegations. These are unverified, but the volume is high enough that prospective buyers should review the specific complaint categories relevant to their model year before purchasing.
- The Model Y's rollover rating of five stars is notable for an SUV body style, where rollover risk is traditionally elevated. Its low center of gravity, a structural benefit of its underfloor battery pack, contributes directly to that result.
Most-recalled year on record: 2020 Tesla Model Y with 23 recalls.