NHTSA lists 22 safety recalls and 623 owner complaints for the 2019 Tesla Model 3. Most complaints involve forward collision avoidance (170) and electrical system (94). The EPA rates it 116–133 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall.
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. The headlight low beams may be too bright and exceed the maximum light output. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
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."
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."
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“Every time I press, my horn and error pops up that my cameras are unavailable, and that features may be restored on the next drive also it sends an error that my regenerative brakes are also out and will be restored on the next drive. It does this consistently every day which causes a safety hazard when driving my vehicle.”
“Sold a lemon vehicle from dealer and contract fraud, Total loss accident left emergency life threatening surgery Tesla lost control driver side driving fsd package FAiled tire steering front control battery failed hardware updates seatbelt lossed, lost control, hit medium and another total vehicle, this is one of a few complaints to several cyclists a Including Tesla can’t get a lawyer no matter hard I try, no one is helping, car is sitting in my backyard until someone helps us. Lives ruined and no one is helping”
“2019 Tesla Model 3. In September 2022, Tesla Service Jacksonville replaced the entire front passenger seat assembly after a front passenger restraint fault alert; invoice 3000S0005274914. In October 2026, the same front passenger restraint fault returned. Tesla's estimate is $1,608.94 for diagnostics, airbag compatibility update, and occupant classification sensor replacement. Goodwill was denied on October 26, 2026, and on November 4, 2026, customer support said the goodwill decision is automated and cannot be overridden. No crash or injury related to this fault. The front passenger seat is not being used until repaired because the restraint/airbag system may not function correctly.”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model 3 Standard Range Plus Auto (A1) · Rear-Wheel Drive | 140 | 124 | 133 | $550 | — |
| Model 3 Standard Range Auto (A1) · Rear-Wheel Drive | 138 | 124 | 131 | $600 | — |
| Model 3 Long Range Auto (A1) · Rear-Wheel Drive | 136 | 123 | 130 | $600 | — |
| Model 3 Mid Range Auto (A1) · Rear-Wheel Drive | 128 | 117 | 123 | $600 | — |
| Model 3 Long Range AWD Auto (A1) · All-Wheel Drive | 120 | 112 | 116 | $650 | — |
| Model 3 Long Range AWD Performance Auto (A1) · All-Wheel Drive | 120 | 112 | 116 | $650 | — |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire rotation | 6,000–8,000 mi | 6–12 months | EVs wear tires faster (weight, torque) |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–4 years | Regen braking spares the pads, not the fluid |
| Battery coolant | Per manual | Per manual | Intervals vary widely by maker |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years |
22 safety recalls as of Nov 7, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 623 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are forward collision avoidance (170), electrical system (94), air bags (89). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2019 Tesla Model 3 at 116–133 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (6 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2019 Tesla Model 3 5 out of 5 stars overall.