Tesla Recall 2026
A comprehensive tracker of every Tesla recall and NHTSA investigation update. From Autopilot software fixes delivered over-the-air to massive hardware campaigns, here's what Tesla owners need to know in 2026.
Tesla Recalls: Key Facts
- →Tesla has 23 recalls in the NHTSA database, with 17 resolved via over-the-air software updates.
- →NHTSA has 1480 investigation records involving Tesla vehicles, spanning Autopilot, FSD, and other systems.
- →Tesla accounts for 3,214 of 6,450 total AV incidents — the largest share of any single manufacturer.
- →The 3.2 million vehicle Autopilot investigation (PE22-002) remains one of the largest NHTSA probes in history.
Tesla Recalls
23
OTA Recalls
17
Investigations
1,480
Total Incidents
3,214
The 3.2 Million Vehicle Investigation
In late 2022, NHTSA opened Preliminary Evaluation PE22-002, covering approximately 3.2 million Tesla vehicles equipped with Autopilot. The investigation focused on whether Autopilot's driver monitoring safeguards were sufficient to prevent foreseeable misuse. This led to a landmark recall in December 2023 covering 2 million vehicles, requiring an OTA update to strengthen driver attention warnings.
In 2024, NHTSA reopened a related inquiry after determining the initial recall remedy was insufficient. The agency found that post-recall crash rates had not meaningfully declined. As of 2026, this investigation continues with additional corrective actions under review.
How Tesla Recalls Work
Unlike traditional automakers, Tesla resolves most software-related recalls through over-the-air (OTA) updates. This means owners typically don't need to visit a dealership. However, hardware-related recalls still require in-person service. Of Tesla's 23 recalls in our database, 17 were resolved via OTA updates.
Tesla's OTA recall approach is both praised and criticized. Supporters say it allows rapid deployment of fixes to millions of vehicles simultaneously. Critics argue that calling software patches "recalls" obscures the severity of the underlying defects and that some issues should have been caught before deployment.
Timeline of Major Tesla Recalls
Tesla's recall history reflects the evolving challenges of deploying driver-assistance technology at scale:
- 2021: Recall of 285,000 vehicles in China for unintended acceleration concerns related to cruise control.
- 2022: Multiple FSD Beta recalls addressing phantom braking, failure to stop at stop signs, and improper speed adjustments in school zones.
- 2023: The massive 2-million vehicle Autopilot recall (23V-838) to strengthen driver monitoring after the PE22-002 investigation.
- 2024: Follow-up recall after NHTSA found the 2023 remedy insufficient; additional FSD recalls for traffic control device violations.
- 2025–2026: Ongoing investigation into FSD red-light running behavior (PE25-012) and continued monitoring of recall effectiveness.
Affected Models
Most Tesla Autopilot and FSD recalls affect the entire lineup: Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y. Some recalls also cover the Cybertruck. Because Autopilot and FSD are software-based systems deployed across the fleet, a single defect can affect millions of vehicles simultaneously.
What Tesla Owners Should Know
- Check your VIN: Visit NHTSA.gov/recalls to see if your vehicle has any open recalls.
- Keep software updated: Most Tesla recalls are delivered via OTA. Ensure your vehicle is connected to Wi-Fi and updates are enabled.
- Understand the limitations: Autopilot and FSD are Level 2 systems. You must remain attentive and ready to take over at all times.
- Report issues: File a complaint with NHTSA if you experience unexpected behavior from Autopilot or FSD.