2021 Tesla Model 3 body problems

Filed Oct 8, 2026 · Body, Visibility · IL

The power liftgate strut failed in normal use and bent the trunk liftgate, which now strikes the rear glass every time the trunk opens or closes. The vehicle has not been in a crash and the trunk was not obstructed or misused. The driver-side power strut stopped operating and the trunk would not open or close properly. On XXX Tesla Service ([XXX]) inspected the vehicle. The service record states the liftgate power strut was stuck in the closed position because the liftgate is bent to the right, hitting the glass on opening and closing. Tesla installed a new power strut, then removed it. A service message stated the hinge was replaced and the liftgate remains far out of alignment; the service record does not list a hinge replacement. The visit was marked resolved. The power trunk no longer functions. The bent liftgate contacts the rear glass on every cycle, so the glass can break on anyone standing at the rear of the vehicle while the trunk is opened or closed. Tesla referred the vehicle to a collision center, classified the repair as body damage, and stated its Extended Service Agreement does not cover it. No repair date or loaner was provided, and Tesla gave no guidance on whether the trunk is safe to use in the meantime. Other owners of 2021-2023 Model 3s with the factory power trunk have reported the power strut bending the hinge and liftgate in normal use. I am reporting this as a potential defect in the power liftgate strut and hinge design. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jul 20, 2026 · Body · CA

I am reporting a safety concern regarding the glovebox fascia on my Tesla Model 3. The material on the glovebox trim is peeling and separating, which appears to be caused by prolonged exposure to heat inside the vehicle. The peeling fascia creates concerns about the durability and integrity of the interior component, as the material may continue to deteriorate over time. Loose or damaged trim could potentially interfere with the proper use of the glovebox, create sharp edges, or become a distraction while driving. I am requesting that Tesla inspect the affected area and determine the appropriate repair or replacement to ensure the vehicle remains safe and maintains proper interior component quality.

Filed Feb 4, 2026 · Body · CA

I wrote several months ago about my 2021 tesla model 3 that the rear doors do not have any mechanical door handle release and is a big safety concern also how can a manufacturer get away with this and also not informing the consumer that anyone sat in the back may perish if involved in a accident and can't get out.

Filed Dec 22, 2025 · Body · AZ

There is no manual door release for the rear doors. Thus rear passengers are at risk should the electrical system fail in a crash. Tesla should be required to provide a modification that allows rear passengers to manually open the rear doors.

Filed Nov 3, 2025 · Body · CA

We were not able to open the door after the 12 V battery died; fortunately we were not inside the car else this could have been catastrophic. There was no way for anyone trapped inside to come out.

Filed Oct 6, 2025 · Body · CA

This car is dangerous to rear passengers there's no mechanical door release cable so if there's a loss of electrical power and the car is involved in an accident the rear people or children are trapped

Filed Sep 17, 2025 · Body · CA

The passenger door handle is inoperable . The door handle is stucked open.

Filed Nov 19, 2024 · Body · TX

Tesla doors are opened from the inside of the vehicle by pressing a button. In the event of a power failure, the buttons will not open the doors. The front doors have an additional manual release to open the door. However, the rear doors do not. In a power failure mode, rear seat passengers will be unable to open their doors to exit the vehicle. Newer model Teslas contain the manual release for the rear doors. However, I have contacted Tesla and they have no plans to address my vehicle. I consider this a life threatening issue. Tesla should be required to retrofit any of their vehicles that have no way to manually open the rear doors.

Filed Apr 5, 2024 · Body, Brakes · CA · crash

I was driving in the street at 10 miles, I turned to the right and I push the break but the car didn't break and I crashed with the car in front of me.

Filed Apr 4, 2024 · Body · GA

Automatic Trunk (Lift Gate) Guillotine Problem: The convenience of the trunk (lift gate) is a helpful feature to the driver and/or passengers of the vehicle, but this feature can be deadly at the wrong place and wrong time, for example: The driver/passenger presses the open/close trunk (lift gate) and a child’s hand, head, and/or body part is against/leaning/underneath/over that opening while the child is blocking/obstructing the opening/closing which can cause injury and/or death. That child’s body part can be crushed/trapped in between the closing/opening between the truck (lift gate) vehicle frame, for example: While a young child spontaneously darts in/around the vehicle during the opening/closing of the trunk (lift gate) and looks/sees/wants an item and instinctively runs to and grabs the item not knowing or forgetting about the opening/closing of the trunk (lift gate) and at that moment the trunk (lift gate) strikes and/or traps the child’s extremities causing injury, amputation, and/or death. * There should be an audible noise and sensors notifying the vehicle occupants about the opening/closing of the trunk/door/lift gate and 2 detection sensors. Audible Noise - A beeping noise or gentle soft song during the opening/closing of the trunk (lift gate). * Trunk (lift Gate) Opening/Closing Motor and Motion Detection Sensor. Trunk (lift Gate) motion motor freeze and stop - If there is an opening/closing abnormality the trunk (lift gate) would immediately freeze operation until the button is pressed to open/close. * Trunk (lift Gate) Opening/Closing Sensor. Trunk (lift Gate) that would make sure the trunk (lift gate) is completely open and/or completely closed.