Recall 23V235 covers 422 2018-2019 Tesla Model 3 vehicles for loose front suspension lateral link fasteners. Tesla Service fixes it free.
Tesla is recalling 422 2018-2019 Model 3 vehicles because front suspension lateral link fasteners can loosen and let the lateral link separate from the sub-frame. That separation can shift wheel alignment, cause instability, and increase the risk of a crash; Tesla service will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The front suspension lateral link on the 2018-2019 Tesla Model 3 helps locate the front wheel and hold the suspension geometry where Tesla designed it. The link is secured to the subframe by a bolt, or fastener. That connection has to stay tight so the wheel can move up and down with the road while staying properly positioned.
On affected vehicles, the fastener that holds the lateral link to the subframe can loosen as the vehicle is driven. Tesla traced the concern to certain build characteristics, even though the measured torque and angle values were within its production limits. If the fastener loosens enough, the lateral link can separate from the subframe and the front suspension no longer holds the wheel in its intended position.
Before separation, owners can notice an abnormal noise from the front suspension. Listen for new clunking, knocking, or unusual movement from the front of the vehicle, especially while turning, braking, or driving over uneven pavement.
Who's affected?
The scope centers on the front lateral link to subframe bolt, with NHTSA classifying it under critical suspension fasteners and front suspension.
| 2018 Tesla Model 3 | suspension component |
|---|---|
| 2018 Tesla Model 3 | front suspension |
| 2019 Tesla Model 3 | suspension component |
| 2019 Tesla Model 3 | front suspension |
| Units affected | 422 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged 27 field incidents to date. |
The year and model narrow the scope, but the VIN decides. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific sedan is included.
What's the safety risk?
If a lateral link separates, wheel alignment can shift, causing instability and increasing the risk of a crash. Listen for abnormal noise from the front suspension and schedule the repair soon if your VIN is included. Tesla Service will tighten or replace the fasteners as needed. Repair is free at any franchised Tesla dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2018-2019 Tesla Model 3 is included in this recall.
- Contact Tesla Service to schedule the free inspection and lateral-link fastener repair that keeps the front suspension link secured to the sub-frame.
- Bring the recall notice if you have it. If not, reference recall number 23V235 and Tesla recall SB-23-31-001 when you call.
- Drive cautiously until the repair is complete, and contact Tesla Service before driving farther if the car feels unstable.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Tesla technician tightens the front suspension lateral link fasteners or replaces the fasteners if inspection shows replacement is needed. The repair is available now, and parts and labor are covered under the recall. If you paid out of pocket before the recall notice for lateral link fasteners or related components tied to this issue, Tesla's General Recall Reimbursement Plan covers eligible documented expenses. Bring prior repair paperwork to Tesla Service or contact Tesla customer service to start the reimbursement request.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| March 31, 2023 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| April 4, 2023 | Dealer notification began |
| April 4, 2023 | Dealer notification ended |
| May 30, 2023 | Owner notification mailed |
| May 30, 2023 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| May 30, 2023 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 23V235?
Recall 23V235 covers 422 2018-2019 Tesla Model 3 vehicles with front suspension lateral link fasteners that can loosen and let the lateral link separate from the sub-frame. That separation can shift wheel alignment, cause instability, and increase crash risk. Tesla Service will tighten or replace the fasteners for free.
What should I do if my 2018-2019 Tesla Model 3 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific Model 3 is included in recall 23V235. If it is, contact Tesla Service to schedule the lateral link fastener inspection and repair. Reference Tesla recall number SB-23-31-001 when you call or book service. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires manufacturers to repair safety defects at no cost, and Tesla Service will tighten or replace the lateral link fasteners free of charge. Parts and labor are covered for vehicles included in recall 23V235.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is vehicle instability from a front suspension lateral link separation. If the fasteners loosen and the link separates from the sub-frame, wheel alignment can shift and increase crash risk. Tesla Service fixes the fasteners for free.
What if I bought my Tesla Model 3 used?
The free recall repair still applies. Recall eligibility follows the VIN, not the first owner. If Tesla did not mail you the May 30, 2023 owner notice, check your VIN and contact Tesla Service with recall number 23V235 if your vehicle is included.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/23V235000 |
|---|---|
| Tesla customer service | 1-877-798-3752 |
| NHTSA recall # | 23V235 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 23V235000 |
Source documents
-
Download Quarterly Report (PDF) - Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 20, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →