The problem
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A software error may cause a valve in the heat pump to open unintentionally and trap the refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting in decreased defrosting performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."
The risk
Decreased defrosting performance may reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-18-002.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 22V-050 (22V050000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SB-22-18-002 |
| Manufacturer | Tesla, Inc. |
| Component | Electrical system › Software |
| Report date | February 2, 2022 |
| Owners notified | April 1, 2022 |
| Vehicles affected | 26,681 |
| Initiated by | OVSC |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
- 2021 Tesla Model 3 electrical problems 80
- 2022 Tesla Model 3 electrical problems 60
- 2021 Tesla Model S electrical problems 25
- 2022 Tesla Model S electrical problems 17
- 2021 Tesla Model X electrical problems 7
- 2022 Tesla Model X electrical problems 16
- 2020 Tesla Model Y electrical problems 28
- 2021 Tesla Model Y electrical problems 152
- 2022 Tesla Model Y electrical problems 120
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 22V-050 repair free?
Yes. Tesla dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-22-18-002.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 26,681 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.