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2026 Tesla Model Y: safety, recalls and fuel economy

Tesla sells the Model Y through its own stores and website instead of independent franchised dealers. That means there's no group of dealers to put in competition, and our service doesn't apply. We'd rather tell you that than take a fee we can't earn.

What you can still control

Your trim and options, whether you buy a new or inventory unit the company is clearing, your financing rate, and whether you pay for delivery or pick it up. Get a credit union or bank pre-approval before you order. On a car this size, the loan rate can matter more than any other line on the bill.

2026 Tesla Model Y safety ratings

NHTSA gives the 2025 Tesla Model Y SUV AWD an overall rating of 5 of 5 stars in its 5-Star Safety Ratings program (NHTSA). These are NHTSA's ratings for the 2025 model; NHTSA usually carries ratings forward when a model isn't significantly changed, but check the current year before you buy.

TestRating
Overall5 of 5 stars
Frontal crash5 of 5 stars
Side crash5 of 5 stars
Rollover5 of 5 stars (7.9% rollover risk in NHTSA's model)

Safety technology NHTSA lists for this model: electronic stability control is standard, forward collision warning is standard, and lane departure warning is standard.

Recalls and owner complaints

NHTSA's recall database lists 8 recalls for the 2026 Tesla Model Y and 3 recalls for the 2025 model (NHTSA recalls). Recalls are repaired free at any franchised dealer, so ask the selling dealer to confirm in writing that every open recall on your VIN has been done before delivery.

CampaignReportedComponent
25V35900030/05/2025Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:linkages
25V41000018/06/2025Seats:critical Fasteners
25V49000028/07/2025Electrical System:horn
25V65800001/10/2025Electrical System:wiring

Owners filed 104 complaints with NHTSA about the 2025 Model Y, most often about forward collision avoidance, unknown or other, lane departure. Complaint counts rise with sales volume, so compare them between similar models rather than reading them on their own.

Fuel economy and powertrains

EPA figures for the 2026 Tesla Model Y range from 105 to 138 MPGe depending on the version, with up to 357 miles of rated range (fueleconomy.gov). It's offered with all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive.

VersionDriveEngineEfficiencyRange
Model Y Long Range AWD
Auto (A1)
All-Wheel DriveElectric123 MPGe327 mi
Model Y Long Range RWD
Auto (A1)
Rear-Wheel DriveElectric134 MPGe357 mi
Model Y Performance AWD
Auto (A1)
All-Wheel DriveElectric105 MPGe306 mi
Model Y Standard AWD
Auto (A1)
All-Wheel DriveElectric127 MPGe294 mi
Model Y Standard RWD (18in Wheels)
Auto (A1)
Rear-Wheel DriveElectric138 MPGe321 mi
Model Y Standard RWD (19in Wheels)
Auto (A1)
Rear-Wheel DriveElectric131 MPGe303 mi

Compare the Model Y side by side with other models on safety, recalls and fuel economy.

Other Tesla models

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Questions

Can dealers compete on a Tesla Model Y?

No. Tesla sells direct, so there aren't independent dealers setting their own prices. Your levers are trim, timing, any inventory discounts the company runs, financing and delivery cost.

Is the 2026 Tesla Model Y safe?

NHTSA rates the 2025 Tesla Model Y 5 out of 5 stars overall, with 5 of 5 stars in frontal crash, 5 of 5 stars in side crash and 5 of 5 stars for rollover. Ratings can differ by drivetrain and body style, so check the exact version you're buying on NHTSA's site.

How many recalls does the Tesla Model Y have?

NHTSA lists 8 recalls for the 2026 Tesla Model Y and 3 recalls for the 2025 model. Recall repairs are free at any franchised dealer. Before you take delivery, ask the dealer to confirm in writing that every open recall on your specific VIN has been completed.

What gas mileage does the 2026 Tesla Model Y get?

EPA ratings for the 2026 Tesla Model Y run from 105 to 138 MPGe, depending on engine and drivetrain, with up to 357 miles of rated range. Pick the powertrain before dealers bid, since it changes which cars on the lot qualify.