Officials collect 156 reports on suspension problems in Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles.

August 2, 2026 - Nearly 1.2 million Tesla vehicles are now part of a federal inquiry into suspension failures.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched the review following 156 complaints involving suspension issues in 2018-2020 Tesla Model 3 and 2021-2023 Tesla Model Y vehicles.

Owners report that the suspension problems center on detachments of the front lower lateral links.

Drivers describe a sudden loss of directional control, with most noting no advance alerts. A few mentioned hearing noises just before the suspensions gave way.

No other signals appeared, such as warning lights or visual indicators. After stopping, many vehicles required towing since they could not be driven further.

One of the 156 complaints came from the owner of a 2023 Tesla Model Y.

While driving, the front left wheel partially detached without warning, causing an immediate loss of steering control. The wheel, control arm, and linkage had come loose or detached. Two major suspension bolts were extremely loose or had detached. A rotor screw detached easily during inspection.

The driver also noted that the vehicle was not part of prior recalls, even though Tesla had recalled other models for similar lateral link detachments. NHTSA indicates this probe examines different issues than those covered in earlier recalls.

My vehicle has not been included in any such recall, and I received no prior notification. This defect creates a severe danger to drivers, passengers, and the public. Tesla's lack of corrective action leaves many customers at risk. - Tesla Model Y owner

NHTSA will examine the Tesla suspension failures to decide if another recall is needed.

CarComplaints.com will provide updates on the Tesla investigation, which may last months or years.