2018 Tesla Model 3 power train problems
26 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2018 Tesla Model 3 — 3% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The front upper control arms on my 2018 Tesla Model 3 have failed multiple times, producing loud clunking, popping, and binding noises during steering. The issue has worsened and poses a serious risk of loss of control while driving. Tesla replaced these parts under goodwill in the past, but the…”
filed Oct 21, 2025
“I just traded in my vehicle for a Tesla from 3rd party dealership on [XXX] A light came on once I reached my home. I called right away before the dealership closed but no one answered. So I took it upon myself to make a service call to Tesla to get my vehicle checked come to find out my vehicle has…”
filed Apr 30, 2025
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Power Train problems in other Model 3 years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Model 3 | 2 | 2% |
| 2024 Model 3 | 3 | 1% |
| 2023 Model 3 | 9 | 2% |
| 2022 Model 3 | 13 | 2% |
| 2021 Model 3 | 17 | 3% |
| 2020 Model 3 | 8 | 2% |
| 2019 Model 3 | 10 | 2% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2018 Tesla Model 3
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.