Last updated: 2026-04-20

2022 Tesla Model 3
RELIABILITY SCORE: 50/100 (MIXED)

2022 Tesla Model 3 Reliability Report

The 2022 Tesla Model 3 scores 50/100 ("Mixed"). With 16 recalls and 729 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.

Recalls

16

Complaints

729

Complaint Rate

37.3per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$832

EV Range

272–358 mi

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity50/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs40/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact49/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity73/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Caution

Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.

Top Issues to Watch

  • FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (275)
  • VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (153)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (91)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2022 is 1 year after the 2020 styling changes refresh.

  • Year 6 in the First generation (2017–2023).
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • 1st generation Model 3 (US).

What this means for buyers

Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.

2017: First generation Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2021: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2022: This Model Year

2022 is 1 year after the 2020 styling changes refresh.

Should You Buy the 2022 Tesla Model 3?

A 50/100 score puts the 2022 Tesla Model 3 in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. 2022 is 1 year after the 2020 styling changes refresh.

Complaint volume sits above average at 729 owner complaints alongside 16 recalls. Issues in forward collision avoidance (275) tend to be the costly ones.

Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put forward collision avoidance (275) at the top of the inspection checklist.

Compared to the 2023 Tesla Model 3, which scored 7 points higher. See also the 2021 Tesla Model 3 for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +5-star NHTSA crash rating
  • +Well-established generation

Cons

  • Below-average reliability score
  • Above-average recall count
  • Above-average complaint rate for Sedan
  • FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: Phantom braking and overly sensitive collision warnings (275 complaints)
  • 1 fatality report in owner complaints
  • 3 fire incidents reported in owner complaints

Compare 2022 Tesla Model 3 With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 16 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (275)
  • VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (153)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

16

recalls on record

The 2022 Tesla Model 3 has 16 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

37.3

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 17.9

LowAvgHigh
High

Safety Incidents

51

Crashes

3

Fires

42

Injuries

1

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2022 Tesla Model 3 Recall Details

16 recalls have been issued for the 2022 Tesla Model 3. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

24V9350002024-12-17

TIRES

Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024 Cybertruck, 2017-2025 Model 3, and 2020-2025 Model Y vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light may not remain illuminated between drive cycles, failing to warn the driver of low tire pressure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."

Consequence

Driving with improperly inflated tires increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-24-00-018.

24V5540002024-07-24

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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.

Consequence

An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

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.

24V3760002024-05-28

SEAT BELTS

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."

Consequence

A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

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.

Showing 10 of 16 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2022 Tesla Model 3? Check its history first

Every 2022 Tesla Model 3 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2022 Tesla Model 3 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 6.6%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Tesla Model 3Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$832

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

2022 Tesla Model 3 Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated Cost
Tire Pressure Monitor Lamp Diagnosis$122 – $179
General Diagnosis$122 – $179
Noise Diagnosis$122 – $179
Vibration Diagnosis$122 – $179
No Start Diagnosis$122 – $179
Pre-Purchase Car Inspection$183 – $269
Engine Oil Light Diagnosis$122 – $179
Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing$122 – $179
AC Diagnosis$122 – $179
Air Conditioning System Leak Inspection$122 – $179

Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Electric

272–358 mi range

Fuel cost: $550–$650/yr

Fuel only

25.493–29.957 kWh/100mi · 10–11.5 hrs @ 240V

Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2022 EPA label cycle.

Electric trims
TrimDriveTrans.RangekWh/100miFuel Cost
Model 3 RWDRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic (A1)272 mi25.5$550
Model 3 Long Range AWDAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (A1)358 mi25.8$600
Model 3 Performance AWDAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (A1)315 mi30.0$650

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2022 Tesla Model 3.

  • Inspect tires for air bubbles or uneven wear

  • Test adaptive cruise control for phantom braking

  • Check for suspension noises or instability

  • Verify power steering functionality

  • Ensure seat belt sensors and airbags function properly

  • Test infotainment system for responsiveness

  • Check for any unusual odors indicating mold

2022 Tesla Model 3 Common Problems by Component

729 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

275
153
91
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (275)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (153)SERVICE BRAKES (91)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (59)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (37)STEERING (29)POWER TRAIN (10)AIR BAGS (10)Other (65)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

275 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report frequent issues with the forward collision avoidance system in the 2022 Tesla Model 3, primarily involving phantom braking and overly sensitive collision warnings. Complaints often describe the vehicle abruptly applying brakes without clear obstacles, sometimes triggered by objects such as roof-mounted straps or glare from other vehicles. These incidents occur across various mileage ranges and can lead to dangerous situations, including near-misses and three reported crashes, with two injuries linked to these events. Additionally, multiple owners mention that the automatic emergency braking reactivates by default after each restart, requiring manual deactivation on every trip. Used car buyers should be aware of these reported issues, as they may affect driving experience and safety.

275 complaints total3 crashes2 injuries

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

153 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report frequent issues with the 2022 Tesla Model 3's vehicle speed control, notably "phantom braking" where the vehicle unexpectedly applies brakes without apparent obstacles. Complaints frequently mention this occurring during cruise control, causing abrupt deceleration from highway speeds, often from around 70 mph to 30-40 mph, which poses a risk of rear-end collisions. Some reports involve the Full Self-Driving mode, where unexpected lane changes or acceleration occur, sometimes leading to crashes, including incidents with injuries. Additionally, some owners describe failures of safety features in low-speed scenarios, such as when a vehicle accelerates unintentionally. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, indicating they may not be limited to a specific usage period.

153 complaints total7 crashes9 injuries

SERVICE BRAKES

91 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 frequently report issues with phantom braking, where the vehicle abruptly brakes without any apparent obstacles, often when using autopilot or cruise control. Symptoms typically include sudden deceleration, sometimes from highway speeds, which can be alarming and potentially dangerous if other vehicles are following closely. Complaints often describe these incidents occurring across various mileage ranges and timelines, with some owners experiencing multiple occurrences over short periods. Safety implications are significant, with seven reported crashes and three injuries linked to these braking issues. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns, as they suggest potential risks associated with the vehicle's automated driving features.

91 complaints total7 crashes3 injuries
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (59 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

59 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 frequently report issues related to the HVAC system, with complaints about moldy or musty odors causing health concerns like headaches and allergies. Additionally, there are multiple reports of failures in the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, leading to unintended acceleration and loss of control, with some incidents resulting in crashes and injuries. Complaints also highlight software-related issues, such as the vehicle stalling or slowing unexpectedly, which can pose safety risks in traffic. These problems often emerge early in the vehicle's life, with some owners noting persistent issues despite repeated service visits. Safety implications are notable, with several complaints involving crashes and injuries linked to these failures.

59 complaints total8 crashes5 injuries
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (37 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

37 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 frequently report failures in the vehicle’s computer and electrical systems, with symptoms including complete loss of safety and driver-assistance features, blacked-out center displays, and malfunctioning cameras. Complaints often involve incidents where the vehicle’s Autopilot or self-driving features fail to operate correctly, leading to crashes and injuries. Reports also mention issues with the HVAC system, such as chemical fumes entering the cabin and persistent musty odors suggestive of mold. Some complaints describe incidents of fire, both while driving and when the vehicle is parked, with significant safety implications including entrapment due to electronic door failures. These issues appear across varying mileages, with some occurring shortly after purchase and others at higher mileages, such as 79,000 miles.

37 complaints total5 crashes2 fires5 injuries
STEERING (29 complaints)

STEERING

29 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report intermittent power steering failure and unexpected steering wheel lock-ups in the 2022 Tesla Model 3, often leading to difficulty in maintaining lane control. Typical symptoms include heavy steering, steering wheel pulling sharply to one side, and multiple alert messages indicating reduced steering assist or disabled traction control. These issues frequently occur without warning and have been reported at various mileages, with some incidents leading to crashes and injuries. Several complaints involve the vehicle unexpectedly veering off course or losing control entirely, which has resulted in collisions and, in one case, a fire. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring steering issues and the associated safety implications.

29 complaints total10 crashes1 fire7 injuries
POWER TRAIN (10 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

10 complaints

Owners of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 frequently report issues with the vehicle's power train, particularly involving unexpected disengagement of drive units and free rolling when both pedals are accidentally pressed. Complaints often describe the car entering a neutral-like state, leading to uncontrolled rolling on inclines, or the vehicle suddenly stopping and becoming immovable, sometimes on highways or busy roads. These incidents typically occur without prior warning, and some owners mention these issues persisting for several years, suggesting no resolution through software updates. Safety implications are evident, as multiple reports describe scenarios where the car's unexpected behavior could lead to potential accidents, especially in traffic or on inclines. Used car buyers should be aware of these recurring power train complaints and their potential safety risks.

10 complaints total
AIR BAGS (10 complaints)

AIR BAGS

10 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report frequent issues with the airbag system in the 2022 Tesla Model 3, particularly related to the passenger safety restraint system fault. Complaints commonly mention warning lights for both the driver and passenger sides, with some owners experiencing these issues intermittently starting from as low as 15,000 miles. A significant concern is the failure of airbags to deploy during crashes, as evidenced by multiple incidents resulting in injuries, including a collision with a school bus and another involving a high-speed impact. These reports indicate potential safety risks, particularly if airbags and seatbelt tensioners do not function properly in an accident. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring airbag system faults and the associated safety implications.

10 complaints total3 crashes8 injuries
SEAT BELTS (9 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

9 complaints

Owners of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 report several issues with the seat belt and safety restraint systems. Common problems include passenger safety restraint system alerts and sensor malfunctions, which may cause airbags to not deploy properly. Complaints frequently mention front passenger seat sensors failing intermittently, often after service visits, and some reports indicate these issues persist beyond the warranty period, leading to costly repairs. Multiple owners also describe problems with seat belts not latching or locking, with some issues occurring as early as 35,400 miles. Safety implications include potential risks related to airbag deployment and seat belt functionality, which are critical for occupant protection.

9 complaints total
ENGINE (3 complaints)

ENGINE

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 report issues related to engine performance and control. One complaint describes a significant safety incident where the vehicle lost control and crashed into a concrete divider without any warning lights, indicating a potential issue with vehicle stability or control systems. Another owner reports a sudden reduction in speed to a maximum of 50 mph, accompanied by a yellow turtle icon, which suggests a fault in the vehicle's power management system; this issue was resolved under warranty. Additionally, there is a mention of excessive noise while driving, though details are sparse. These reports do not specify mileage, but the presence of a crash highlights potential safety implications for prospective buyers.

3 complaints total1 crash

When Do 2022 Tesla Model 3 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

2,000–6,000 milesSuspension issues
Up to 5,000 milesPhantom braking

Best & Worst Tesla Model 3 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Tesla Model 3 Years to Buy

The best Tesla Model 3 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 67/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (62/100) and 2023 (57/100).

Tesla Model 3 Years to Avoid

The worst Tesla Model 3 year is 2018 with a score of 46/100, primarily due to electrical system (139) issues. Also avoid 2021 (48/100).

Tesla Model 3 Reliability Score Trend

Tesla Model 3 reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 59/100 compared to 49/100 for older years.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Tesla Model 3 reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201846/100Mixed
201949/100Mixed
202054/100Mixed
202148/100Mixed
202250/100Mixed
202357/100Mixed
202462/100Good
202567/100Good

Tesla Model 3 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202662/100 (predicted)Predicted11
202567/100+5Good387
202462/100+5Good4183
202357/100+7Mixed10386
2022(selected)50/100+2Mixed16729
202148/100-6Mixed20626
202054/100+5Mixed20416
201949/100+3Mixed21569
201846/100Mixed18951

2022 Tesla Model 3 Common Questions

2 questions from 2022 Tesla Model 3 owners.

wipers are not working

my tesla Y wipers are not working and water is coming from bottom

VisitorMay 27, 2025

Can you tell me if you can switch the 3 antennas in your old side mirrors to your new side mirrors that don't come with them?

2018 Tesla model 3 Can you tell me if you can switch the 3 antennas in your old side mirrors to your new side mirrors that don't come with them? Comes with blue connector but not the 2 antenna connectors in the RH mirror and the 1 antennas connector in the LH mirror. Wanting to use these antennas on new mirror. Are they easy to switch to new mirrors that do not come with the antennas?

VisitorAug 7, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2022 Tesla Model 3 reliable?
The 2022 Tesla Model 3 has a "Mixed" reliability rating (50/100) and may present some ownership challenges. With 16 recalls and 729 complaints, buyers should research known issues carefully.
What are the most common problems with the 2022 Tesla Model 3?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2022 Tesla Model 3 include: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (275 complaints), VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (153 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (91 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (59 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (37 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2022 Tesla Model 3 have?
The 2022 Tesla Model 3 has 16 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2022 Tesla Model 3 expensive to maintain?
The 2022 Tesla Model 3 may have above-average maintenance costs. Its reliability score of 50/100 and 729 owner complaints suggest that unexpected repairs are more likely.

Don’t buy a 2022 Tesla Model 3 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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