NHTSA opens preliminary probe into about 1.2 million Tesla Model 3 and Model Y over suspension

NHTSA opened a preliminary evaluation covering about 1.2 million Tesla vehicles, 2018 to 2020 Model 3 and 2021 to 2023 Model Y, reported on July 31, 2026. The agency cites 156 complaints of a front lower lateral link detaching and says it knows of no crashes, injuries or deaths tied to the defect. The probe is at an early stage and could lead to a recall.

• About 1.2 million vehicles: 2018-2020 Model 3 and 2021-2023 Model Y
• 156 complaints of a front lower lateral link detaching while driving
• NHTSA is not aware of any crashes, injuries or fatalities
• Early-stage preliminary evaluation; could lead to a recall