Skip to content
KickTyres
Tesla2020–2025 Critical issues documented

Tesla Model Y: common faults & what to check

Thinking about buying a used Tesla Model Y (2020–2025) in New Zealand? We've documented 15 known faults for this model spanning electrical, cooling, suspension, and transmission. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Every one is listed below with its symptoms and repair cost, and each has its own page with where to look and what to ask the seller. Free, no account needed.

Check this exact Tesla Model Y

  • Odometer history
  • Money owing
  • Reported stolen
  • Ownership history
  • Official NZ vehicle register data
  • NZ owned and operated

Type the plate for the free basics. The full record is a paid check from $13.49, one car at a time, no subscription.

No NZ plate yet, or buying in Australia? Pick the generation and engine and start a free check below. New to KickTyres? How the check works →

15

Documented faults

Critical

Most serious

$400–$1,400

Typical repair

9

Service milestones

Which Tesla Model Y are you looking at?

4 generation variants documented. Pick the shape you recognise: the faults, the servicing and the timeline below all narrow to it. Free, no account needed.

Now narrow it to the engine

A 1.8 and a 2.4 of the same car do not fail the same way, so the faults below narrow to the engine as well as the year. Free, no account needed.

Start your free check on this Tesla Model Y

No plate needed. You get the risk score, the buyer's checklist and the guided inspection for the exact car you picked above — not the whole nameplate.

Tesla Model YEngine not picked yet

Pick the engine above first: the Model Y came with 4, and without it the report has to show all of their faults. Pick the engine

Free. The paid plate check is separate, and stays optional.

Can't confirm for this car

Tesla Model Y

Nothing has been narrowed yet, so nothing below is a claim about a particular car. Pick a year and an engine to see which faults apply.

Tell us the engine, or check the engine code on the car, before relying on this.

matched on no vehicle context

What to look out for

The checks worth doing on a Tesla Model Y before you hand over any money. Every documented fault is listed below, each with its own page.

  • Serious issue

    Locate and inspect the 12V battery date code in the frunk.

    See why

    12V auxiliary battery failure — no-start condition

    Model Y shares the same 12V auxiliary battery architecture as Model 3. The small lead-acid (or early lithium variant) battery powers all low-voltage control circuits including the HV contactors. Battery failure leaves the car completely inert — the HV pack is isolated and inaccessible. Failure typically occurs between 3–5 years of age and is accelerated by the car's frequent self-waking events (Sentry Mode, app polling, software updates) which cycle the 12V battery hundreds of times more than a conventional car battery. Early replacement is strongly recommended as preventive maintenance on any used Model Y.

    What you would notice

    • Vehicle completely dead with no response to key card, phone, or door touch
    • App shows car as offline or unreachable
    • Unable to unlock, charge, or start the vehicle
    • Touchscreen flickering or randomly rebooting before full failure
    • Repeated 12V low battery notifications via Tesla app

    Typically $350–$950 to put right.

  • Costly issue

    Run climate on heat in cool conditions and verify outlet air temperature.

    See why

    Heat pump refrigerant line fitting corrosion

    Identical mechanism to the Model 3 fault but more prevalent on Model Y because the heat pump is standard across all variants. Aluminium refrigerant line fittings corrode at the firewall bracket connection, causing gradual refrigerant loss and eventual loss of cabin heating. NZ coastal and high-humidity environments accelerate corrosion at the dissimilar-metal joint. Tesla has replaced fittings under warranty on affected vehicles. This is the single most reported Model Y mechanical fault in NZ and AU owner communities.

    What you would notice

    • No cabin heat in cold weather despite climate set to heat
    • Noticeably reduced driving range in winter
    • HVAC blowing ambient or cold air on heat setting
    • Thermal management or climate warning on touchscreen

    Typically $1,200–$3,500 to put right.

  • Costly issue

    Infrared temperature check of all four wheels immediately after a 10-minute mixed-speed test drive is the most reliable diagnostic.

    See why

    Rear brake caliper seizure from infrequent use

    The Model Y shares the Model 3's regen-priority brake architecture and suffers the same rear caliper seizure failure mode. The heavier kerb weight of the Model Y (approximately 2,003 kg vs 1,847 kg for Model 3 LR) places greater thermal stress on the calipers during the infrequent hard-braking events that do engage friction brakes, accelerating piston and seal degradation once initial seizure begins. NZ/AU fleet data from independent Tesla workshops indicates rear caliper service is the single most common workshop job on Model Y vehicles past three years of age.

    What you would notice

    • Rear wheels noticeably hotter than fronts after normal driving
    • Vehicle yaws or pulls under moderate brake application
    • Uneven rotor wear — one rear rotor deeply scored, other lightly used
    • Electronic parking brake warning or failure to release cleanly

    Typically $550–$1,600 to put right.

  • Costly issue

    Inspect frunk floor and firewall for oily UV-fluorescent residue indicating refrigerant loss.

    See why

    Heat pump refrigerant leak — range and heat loss

    The Model Y has used a heat pump and octovalve system since launch in 2020, making it susceptible to refrigerant leaks at the octovalve rotary seals, compressor shaft seal, and high-pressure line unions. Failed heat pumps revert to inefficient PTC resistive heating, cutting real-world range by up to 25% in cold weather. The octovalve is a complex 8-port valve unique to Tesla and expensive to source outside the Tesla service network. Australian and South Island NZ deliveries have generated the highest complaint volumes due to colder operating conditions revealing the fault earlier.

    What you would notice

    • Cabin fails to reach set temperature in weather below 10°C
    • Range display shows large penalty in cold mornings before driving
    • HVAC fan runs on maximum but little warmth produced
    • Oily staining or refrigerant smell in frunk area
    • Tesla service alert for thermal management fault

    Typically $2,500–$6,000 to put right.

  • Costly issue

    Check ball joint boot integrity visually — any cracking or missing boot means replacement is imminent.

    See why

    Front lower control arm ball joint premature wear

    Identical ball joint failure mode to Model 3 but more prevalent on Model Y due to the higher kerb weight (2,003–2,207 kg). The non-serviceable press-fit ball joint within the lower control arm wears out prematurely, requiring full control arm replacement. NHTSA opened a preliminary investigation PE22-008 into Model Y front suspension following multiple complaints of ball joint separation events. Tesla Australia and NZ workshops have seen elevated rates on vehicles used in urban stop-start conditions where repeated tight steering cycles accelerate boot wear. Buyers should treat any vehicles over 60,000 km as candidates for inspection.

    What you would notice

    • Knocking from front suspension particularly over speed humps
    • Steering pulling to one side under braking
    • Cupping or feathering wear on front tyres
    • Clunk felt through floor when turning in car parks
    • Squeaking from front end when suspension is compressed slowly

    Typically $1,100–$3,200 to put right.

  • Costly issue

    Open the frunk and locate the condensate drain exit point near the passenger-side firewall.

    See why

    Heat pump condensate drain blockage

    The octovalve-based heat pump system introduced on 2021+ Model Y routes refrigerant through the front underhood heat exchanger. The condensate drain port at the base of the heat pump module can block with debris, biological growth, or ice in humid/cool climates. Blocked drainage causes water to accumulate inside the HVAC plenum and can overflow into the frunk cavity where high-voltage contactors and 12V electronics are mounted, risking corrosion and component damage. New Zealand coastal humidity accelerates biological fouling of the drain port.

    What you would notice

    • HVAC blowing ambient-temperature air despite climate settings
    • Water pooling or damp carpet in front trunk (frunk)
    • Musty or mildew odour from cabin vents
    • Touchscreen alert: 'Climate control unavailable'

    Typically $280–$750 to put right.

Tesla Model Y service schedule

What falls due, and at what distance, for each generation of the Tesla Model Y. These are the model’s intervals — the car’s own service book is the only thing that can tell you what has actually been done to it.

Tesla Model Y (First Generation) · 2020–2026 · Standard Range RWD - 60kWh Battery

Electric

Due by distance

  1. 40,000 km

    Depending on how it has been driven, the original tyres may be wearing by now - check all four for even tread.

  2. 80,000 km

    Inspect the cabin air filter and think about a professional air conditioning sanitisation to keep the interior smelling fresh.

  3. 120,000 km

    Get a specialist to check the suspension bushings and steering components for play, which is normal at this sort of mileage.

Tesla Model Y (First Generation) · 2020–2026 · Long Range AWD - 75kWh Battery

Electric

Due by distance

  1. 40,000 km

    Inspect the cabin air filter and budget for a new set of tyres - instant torque wears rubber a little faster than a petrol car does.

  2. 80,000 km

    Worth a professional alignment check and an inspection of the suspension, control arm bushings included, given how heavy the car is.

  3. 120,000 km

    Have the battery health assessed through the service menu or an independent diagnostic tool, so you know the range is holding up.

Tesla Model Y (First Generation) · 2020–2026 · Performance AWD - High Output Dual Motor

Electric

Due by distance

  1. 40,000 km

    The original performance tyres often need replacing by this point, thanks to the dual motors' torque.

  2. 80,000 km

    Standard interval for a new cabin air filter and a moisture test on the brake fluid.

  3. 120,000 km

    The cooling system is normally flushed here, along with a general look over the suspension.

See all 15 documented issuesEverything researched for the Tesla Model Y, including 1 rated critical.
Depends on which engine this Tesla Model Y has — 15Each of these is documented for one particular engine. Pick the year and engine above to see which of them apply.
Engine, transmission & cooling5

01Heat pump refrigerant leak — range and heat loss

Inspect frunk floor and firewall for oily UV-fluorescent residue indicating refrigerant loss.ev2020 onwardCoolingRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

02Heat pump system faults — loss of heating or air conditioning

Run the climate to full hot and then full cold during the viewing and confirm both extremes arrive quickly.ev2022–2024Cooling
OccasionalCooling $2,000–$4,500 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

All Model Ys use the heat pump and Octovalve thermal system. The EXV software fault behind US recall 22V-050 (valve left open, refrigerant trapped, compressor shuts down, no cabin heat in cold weather) was fixed over the air in early 2022, before most NZ deliveries, but confirm firmware is current. Hardware failures of the compressor, Octovalve cartridge or refrigerant sensors still occur occasionally and are expensive because the system is Tesla-specific. Symptoms are no heat in winter, no AC in summer, or a climate fault alert.

Symptoms to notice

  • No warm air on a cold morning
  • AC blows warm in summer
  • Climate system alert on screen
  • Unusual droning or clicking from the front of the car

What to check

  1. Run the climate to full hot and then full cold during the viewing and confirm both extremes arrive quickly.
  2. Check the alerts list for any thermal system faults.
  3. Look for compressor or supermanifold work in the service history.

Where to look: Heat pump / Octovalve assembly under the front boot tub

Ask the seller

  • “Any climate system faults or repairs?”
  • “Does the heater work properly on frosty mornings?”
  • “Is the firmware up to date?”

03Heat pump refrigerant line fitting corrosion

Run climate on heat in cool conditions and verify outlet air temperature.ev2021 onwardCoolingRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

04Rear half-shaft CV joint wear and clicking

Drive at low speed in full lock while applying moderate throttle and listen for clicking.ev2020 onwardTransmission
OccasionalTransmission $750–$1,900 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Model Y Long Range and Performance share the same rear motor and half-shaft architecture as the Model 3. The heavier vehicle weight (approximately 200 kg more than Model 3 LR) imposes greater drivetrain loading on the CV joints during torque application, and the higher centre of gravity increases lateral joint loading during cornering under power. Inboard tripod CV joint wear produces clicking from approximately 60,000 km in Performance variants and 80,000 km+ in LR variants. CV boot failure is an earlier and more frequent issue, with the boot rubber degrading from motor heat in the confined rear motor bay.

A concertina rubber constant-velocity joint boot fitted to a car driveshaft.Example of the part — not this vehicle

The rubber CV boot on a driveshaft — this is the part that splits and throws grease.

Ildar Sagdejev ( Specious ) · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Symptoms to notice

  • Clicking or knocking from rear drivetrain during low-speed acceleration
  • Grease deposits on inner rear wheel arch or trailing arm
  • Vibration felt in seat or floor under hard acceleration
  • Noise increases when cornering under power in carpark manoeuvres

What to check

Drive at low speed in full lock while applying moderate throttle and listen for clicking. Check service history for any drivetrain work. For Performance variants, treat any example over 50,000 km as requiring CV boot inspection regardless of reported symptoms. If a workshop inspection is possible: Inspect both rear CV boots on a hoist for integrity and grease condition.

Where to look: Rear axle — both half-shaft CV joints (inboard and outboard)

Parts involved: CV joint and boot.

Ask the seller

  • “Have the rear CV boots or half-shaft assemblies been inspected or replaced?”
  • “Has the car been used for frequent hard-acceleration or track driving?”

05Heat pump condensate drain blockage

Open the frunk and locate the condensate drain exit point near the passenger-side firewall.ev2021 onwardCoolingRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller
Electrical3

0112V auxiliary battery failure — no-start condition

Locate and inspect the 12V battery date code in the frunk.ev2020 onwardElectricalRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

02Traction battery degradation — reality check and how to verify

Charge to 100% (RWD/LFP) or 90% (Long Range) and compare indicated range against the original figure for that variant.ev2022 onwardElectrical
RareElectrical $15,000–$30,000 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

Model Y packs (LFP in RWD, NMC in Long Range/Performance) show the same durable pattern as Model 3: a 5-10% capacity dip early, then a long plateau; outright failure is rare and warranted for 8 years/160,000 km to 70% capacity. A nervous buyer's best defence is measurement: a state-of-health check or a full-charge range comparison takes minutes and removes the guesswork. Out-of-warranty full pack replacement is the worst case, but module-level and contactor repairs by NZ EV specialists are increasingly available at a fraction of that.

Symptoms to notice

  • 100% indicated range well below original rated figure
  • Sudden step drops in range
  • Battery alerts on screen
  • Slower than normal DC fast charging

What to check

  1. Charge to 100% (RWD/LFP) or 90% (Long Range) and compare indicated range against the original figure for that variant.
  2. Ask for a service-mode or third-party SoH report.
  3. Verify remaining battery warranty from first registration and the odometer.

Where to look: Traction battery under the floor; capacity via charge screen or SoH test

Ask the seller

  • “What does it show at 100% charge?”
  • “Can we run a battery state-of-health check before purchase?”
  • “How was it charged day to day?”
  • “How much of the 8-year battery warranty is left?”

03Tow hitch wiring connector corrosion

Inspect the 7-pin tow hitch connector for corrosion on pins and socket body.ev2021 onwardElectrical
OccasionalElectrical $200–$800 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

Model Y vehicles fitted with the Tesla tow hitch show wiring connector corrosion at the 7-pin trailer socket, particularly in NZ coastal and high-humidity environments. Corrosion causes trailer light faults, failure of the tow hitch power circuit, and intermittent tow functionality loss. Dielectric grease is often omitted on installation, accelerating oxidation of the pin contacts.

Symptoms to notice

  • Trailer light warnings or failures on the dashboard
  • Intermittent or complete loss of tow hitch power outlet
  • Green or white oxidation residue visible at trailer socket pins
  • Trailer lights not functioning or flickering when connected

What to check

  1. Inspect the 7-pin tow hitch connector for corrosion on pins and socket body.
  2. Check for moisture or oxidation residue.
  3. Test connector continuity if possible.
  4. Confirm tow mode activates correctly via vehicle settings.

Where to look: Rear tow hitch 7-pin electrical connector, underside rear of vehicle

Parts involved: Body corrosion.

Ask the seller

  • “Is the tow hitch Tesla original or aftermarket?”
  • “Has the hitch wiring been treated with dielectric grease or inspected for corrosion?”
  • “Any trailer light fault warnings appeared on the dashboard?”
Body, brakes, suspension & interior7

01Front lower control arm ball joint premature wear

Check ball joint boot integrity visually — any cracking or missing boot means replacement is imminent.ev2020 onwardSuspension
CommonSuspension $1,100–$3,200 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

Identical ball joint failure mode to Model 3 but more prevalent on Model Y due to the higher kerb weight (2,003–2,207 kg). The non-serviceable press-fit ball joint within the lower control arm wears out prematurely, requiring full control arm replacement. NHTSA opened a preliminary investigation PE22-008 into Model Y front suspension following multiple complaints of ball joint separation events. Tesla Australia and NZ workshops have seen elevated rates on vehicles used in urban stop-start conditions where repeated tight steering cycles accelerate boot wear. Buyers should treat any vehicles over 60,000 km as candidates for inspection.

The front wheel of a car splayed outward with the lower control arm hanging down after a ball joint separation.Example of the part — not this vehicle

A separated lower ball joint: the control arm has dropped and the wheel has splayed out under the guard.

Elfix · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Symptoms to notice

  • Knocking from front suspension particularly over speed humps
  • Steering pulling to one side under braking
  • Cupping or feathering wear on front tyres
  • Clunk felt through floor when turning in car parks
  • Squeaking from front end when suspension is compressed slowly

What to check

  1. Check ball joint boot integrity visually — any cracking or missing boot means replacement is imminent.
  2. Request wheel alignment print-out from service history; excessive camber or toe corrections suggest prior ball joint wear.
  3. Test drive over a known rough surface at low speed listening for suspension knock.
  4. If a workshop inspection is possible: Raise vehicle on hoist and perform a four-direction wheel rock test on each front wheel.

Where to look: Front suspension — lower control arm ball joint, driver and passenger sides

Parts involved: Ball joint.

Ask the seller

  • “Has either front lower control arm been replaced?”
  • “Any clunking or knocking sounds from the front of the car?”
  • “Is there a full Tesla service history confirming suspension inspections?”

02Rear brake caliper seizure from infrequent use

Infrared temperature check of all four wheels immediately after a 10-minute mixed-speed test drive is the most reliable diagnostic.ev2020 onwardBrakesRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

03Front subframe loose mounting bolts causing suspension clunk

Check all front subframe mounting points for any detectable movement.ev2021Suspension
OccasionalSuspension $300–$900 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

A Tesla TSB documented that front subframe mounting bolts on the Model Y can be insufficiently torqued from the factory. Bolts loosen in service and produce a pronounced clunking noise from the front of the vehicle. If not corrected, loose subframe bolts alter steering geometry and produce unsafe handling characteristics. Workshop correction involves re-torquing or replacing bolts with thread-lock compound applied.

Symptoms to notice

  • Clunking or banging from the front of the vehicle over bumps
  • Steering feeling vague or wandering at highway speed
  • Noise that changes or worsens after striking a pothole

What to check

  1. Check all front subframe mounting points for any detectable movement.
  2. Inspect torque on accessible subframe bolts.
  3. Ask whether any TSBs relating to front suspension noise have been applied in service history.

Where to look: Front subframe mounting bolts, underside front of vehicle

Ask the seller

  • “Has a front suspension clunk ever been investigated or repaired?”
  • “Any Tesla TSBs applied relating to front subframe or steering noise?”
  • “Has the front subframe been inspected by a Tesla-authorised workshop?”

04Control arm creaks and suspension knocks (front upper arms, fore links, rear links)

Turn the wheel lock to lock while stationary and listen at the front arches.ev2022–2024Suspension
CommonSuspension $400–$1,400 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Model Y shares the Model 3's front suspension and inherits the same faults: front upper control arm ball joints creak once water washes out the grease, and fore-link bushings knock over bumps. Being heavier, the Y also wears rear suspension links and stabiliser end links sooner, giving clunks from the back on rough roads. Tesla's urethane reseal bulletin (SB-20-31-006) applies, and arms are cheap aftermarket parts fitted easily by any competent independent workshop.

The front wheel of a car splayed outward with the lower control arm hanging down after a ball joint separation.Example of the part — not this vehicle

A separated lower ball joint: the control arm has dropped and the wheel has splayed out under the guard.

Elfix · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Symptoms to notice

  • Creak from the front when turning slowly or loading the suspension
  • Clunks front or rear over potholes
  • Squeak when passengers get in and out

What to check

  1. Turn the wheel lock to lock while stationary and listen at the front arches.
  2. Bounce each corner of the car by hand.
  3. Drive over speed bumps slowly with windows down, listening front and rear.
  4. Ask for invoices for any suspension work already done.

Where to look: Front upper control arms and fore links; rear suspension links and end links

Parts involved: Ball joint.

Ask the seller

  • “Have any control arms or suspension links been replaced?”
  • “Any outstanding suspension noise the seller knows about?”

05Door and tailgate seal water ingress

ev2020–2023Body & Rust
CommonBody & Rust $200–$700 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

Model Y shares the frameless window design and early production seal quality issues of the Model 3, with the additional failure point of the large panoramic glass tailgate. The tailgate seal perimeter — particularly the lower corners — can separate from its adhesive channel, allowing water ingress into the rear cargo area and the underfloor storage well. Water pooling in the rear cargo floor well sits directly above the HV battery rear module junction, and prolonged water accumulation can accelerate corrosion of the floor pan sheet metal and battery cover fasteners.

Symptoms to notice

  • Water pooling in rear cargo floor well after rain
  • Damp or mildewed smell from rear cargo area
  • Wind noise from tailgate at motorway speeds
  • Corrosion or rust blush on rear floor pan or tailgate hinge hardware

What to check

  1. Open the tailgate and inspect the full perimeter seal for lifted corners, cracks, or sections where the rubber has hardened and pulled away from the channel.
  2. Run a hose across the tailgate seal while checking the rear cargo floor for drips.
  3. Check tailgate hinge area and lower corners of the glass for seal compression quality.
  4. If a workshop inspection is possible: Lift the rear cargo floor liner and inspect the storage well for water staining or active moisture.

Where to look: All four door seals plus tailgate panoramic glass perimeter seal and B-pillar junctions

Parts involved: Body corrosion.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the tailgate or door seals ever been replaced or reseated?”
  • “Has the rear cargo area ever had water ingress or a damp smell?”

06Road noise, wind noise and panel fit niggles (cosmetic)

Motorway-speed test drive with the audio off; listen for wind whistle at the A-pillars and door tops.ev2022–2024Body & Rust
CommonBody & Rust $0–$1,200 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

NZ/AU Model Ys are Shanghai-built, so panel fit is better than early US Model 3s, but the Y is known for high road noise on NZ chip seal, wind whistle around the front doors and glass roof, and occasional misaligned boot lids or doors that rub. Paint remains prone to stone chips. All cosmetic — use it to negotiate, and check misalignment isn't hiding crash repair. The 2025 Juniper facelift specifically targeted noise suppression and ride quality.

Symptoms to notice

  • Loud tyre roar on coarse chip seal
  • Wind whistle from door seals at motorway speed
  • Uneven gaps around the tailgate
  • Stone chips on bonnet and sills

What to check

Motorway-speed test drive with the audio off; listen for wind whistle at the A-pillars and door tops. Sight down panel lines and check the powered tailgate closes flush. Check paint for chips and any resprayed panels (colour mismatch, overspray on rubbers).

Where to look: Door seals, glass roof edges, tailgate alignment, bonnet leading edge

Ask the seller

  • “Any panel or paint repair history?”
  • “Have door seals or trim been adjusted under warranty?”

07Juniper: early-build trim and software teething issues

Drive on coarse chip seal with audio off, listening for trim noise.ev2025 onwardInterior
OccasionalInterior $0–$400 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Juniper facelift (NZ from mid-2025) so far has a clean mechanical record — suspension, NVH and ride were specifically reworked. Early-build owner reports centre on minor items: trim rattles around the new light bar and rear screen, occasional software glitches with the new front camera and parking views, all addressed under the 4-year vehicle warranty or via OTA updates. On a near-new car the main check is simply that all warranty coverage transfers and no accident repair has occurred.

Symptoms to notice

  • Rattle from front light bar or dash trim
  • Buzz from rear screen surround
  • Occasional camera or parking-view glitches

What to check

  1. Drive on coarse chip seal with audio off, listening for trim noise.
  2. Cycle the cameras and parking views.
  3. Confirm the car is on current firmware and check panel alignment as with any Tesla.

Where to look: Front light bar, dash and door trim, rear screen surround

Ask the seller

  • “Any warranty visits so far?”
  • “Any trim or software issues outstanding?”

Tesla Model Y faults in detail

Each of these has its own page: the symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller and what the repair costs. Free, no account needed.

12V auxiliary battery failure — no-start conditionCritical · ElectricalHeat pump condensate drain blockageMajor · CoolingHeat pump refrigerant leak — range and heat lossMajor · CoolingHeat pump refrigerant line fitting corrosionMajor · CoolingRear brake caliper seizure from infrequent useMajor · Brakes

What these repairs cost on other cars

Some of the Tesla Model Y’s documented faults are repairs other models share. Each page lists the documented NZ cost for every model it affects.

Other Tesla models

Tesla Model 319 documented faultsTesla Model S11 documented faults

Tesla Model Y buyer questions

Is the Tesla Model Y reliable?

Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 15 documented faults for the Tesla Model Y, the recurring problem areas are electrical, cooling, and suspension. A Tesla Model Y with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.

What are the most common problems with a used Tesla Model Y?

We've catalogued 15 known faults for the Tesla Model Y, covering electrical, cooling, and suspension. All 15 are written out in full on this page, with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each. Free to read, no account needed.

How much do repairs cost on a Tesla Model Y?

Most single repairs on the Tesla Model Y fall between $400–$1,400 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 15 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.

Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Tesla Model Y?

Yes. A Tesla Model Y inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $24.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.