The problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S, Model 3, Model X, and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles operating software version 2021.36.5.2. A communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB) system.
The risk
Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 21V-846 (21V846000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SB-21-00-004 |
| Manufacturer | Tesla, Inc. |
| Component | Forward collision avoidance › Software |
| Report date | October 29, 2021 |
| Owners notified | October 25, 2021 |
| Vehicles affected | 11,728 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
- 2017 Tesla Model 3
- 2018 Tesla Model 3
- 2019 Tesla Model 3
- 2020 Tesla Model 3
- 2021 Tesla Model 3
- 2017 Tesla Model S
- 2018 Tesla Model S
- 2019 Tesla Model S
- 2020 Tesla Model S
- 2021 Tesla Model S
- 2017 Tesla Model X
- 2018 Tesla Model X
- 2019 Tesla Model X
- 2020 Tesla Model X
- 2021 Tesla Model X
- 2020 Tesla Model Y
- 2021 Tesla Model Y
Owner complaints about the driver assistance
- 2017 Tesla Model 3 collision avoidance problems 10
- 2018 Tesla Model 3 collision avoidance problems 246
- 2019 Tesla Model 3 collision avoidance problems 219
- 2020 Tesla Model 3 collision avoidance problems 193
- 2021 Tesla Model 3 collision avoidance problems 430
- 2017 Tesla Model S collision avoidance problems 98
- 2018 Tesla Model S collision avoidance problems 53
- 2019 Tesla Model S collision avoidance problems 14
- 2020 Tesla Model S collision avoidance problems 25
- 2021 Tesla Model S collision avoidance problems 52
- 2017 Tesla Model X collision avoidance problems 47
- 2018 Tesla Model X collision avoidance problems 34
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 21V-846 repair free?
Yes. Tesla dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-00-004.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 11,728 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.