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2022 Tesla Model Y Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·4 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary concern for used 2022 Model Y buyers is the frequent occurrence of 'phantom braking' within the Forward Collision Avoidance system.
  • A high number of recalls, including critical ones for steering and suspension components, necessitate verification of completed repairs.
  • The vehicle's reliance on vision-based ADAS may contribute to misinterpretations of road conditions, leading to unexpected braking events.
  • While software updates are common fixes, persistent phantom braking suggests potential limitations in the system's hardware or logic.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2022 Tesla Model Y

The 2022 Tesla Model Y offers a glimpse into the electric future, but used car shoppers must navigate a complex reliability landscape. While its electric powertrain promises smooth, quiet operation, a significant number of recalls (33) and complaints (1443) point to potential ownership challenges. The dominant concern revolves around the Forward Collision Avoidance system, which frequently exhibits phantom braking. This abrupt, uncommanded deceleration can occur unexpectedly, posing a risk to occupants and other road users. Critical recalls related to steering and suspension also warrant careful consideration. Despite its advanced technology, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential.

Critical Failure Risk

The vehicle experiences unexpected, abrupt deceleration, often referred to as 'phantom braking'. This is frequently triggered by perceived hazards that are not present, such as oncoming vehicles or large trucks, particularly on two-lane roads. The reliance on vision-based ADAS appears to contribute to misinterpretations.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls33
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

1443
Forward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control328
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

3.1/ 10

Practicality

9.0/ 10

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Technologically inclined buyers willing to accept the risks associated with early-generation ADAS systems.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free, low-maintenance used car.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2022 Tesla Model Y Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2022 Tesla Model Y.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv

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See the full 2022 Tesla Model Y buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

Most reported

Usage: 328 reports

2. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING

Usage: 265 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation (Parts: Tire lubricant) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: HEPA Cabin Air Filter)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
33 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2022 Tesla Model Y reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Tesla Model Y is 3.1/10. Reliability score is 3.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 33. Owner complaints: 1,443.

How practical is the 2022 Tesla Model Y for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 9.0/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 854 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2022 Tesla Model Y?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2022 Tesla Model Y is 6.2/10. Overall score is 6.2/10 (Mixed). Confidence 38%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 9.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2022 Tesla Model Y?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation (Parts: Tire lubricant) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: HEPA Cabin Air Filter) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Forward Collision Avoidance System (Sensors/Cameras) (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What transmission does the 2022 Tesla Model Y use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Tesla Model Y, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2022 Tesla Model Y?▾

18 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2022 Tesla Model Y?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Tesla Model Y, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2022 Tesla Model Y?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Tesla Model Y, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2022 Tesla Model Y use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Tesla Model Y, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the most common forward collision avoidance: adaptive cruise control problems on the 2022 Tesla Model Y?▾

Top complaint category: forward collision avoidance: adaptive cruise control (328 reports, 22.7% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2022 Tesla Model Y?▾

This model year has 33 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2022 Tesla Model Y?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E and 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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