2020 Tesla Model Y Recall: A software error prevents the illumination of trailer brake lights
NHTSA campaign 20V609000 · Exterior Lighting · filed Sep 30, 2020 · verified Sep 13, 2026
The defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020 Model Y vehicles equipped with a global rear lamp and tow package configuration. A software error prevents the illumination of trailer brake lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
The risk
Trailer brake lights that fail to illuminate during braking increase the risk of a crash.
Check whether your specific vehicle is affected
Recall campaigns often cover only certain VIN ranges. Enter your VIN on the official NHTSA site to confirm whether your vehicle is included and whether the repair is still open.
Check VIN on NHTSA →The fix — what to do
Tesla will notify owners, and has released the firmware update over-the-air (OTA) to vehicles as of September 23, 2020. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-20-00-002.
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Affected vehicles
Related recalls
More Tesla Model Y recalls
- 2026 Tesla Model Y — One or more front suspension lateral link fasteners may not…
- 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 and 1 other model — Headlight low beams may be too bright and exceed the…
- 2024 Tesla Model 3 and 1 other model — Vehicles were originally built for a foreign market and do…
- 2025–2026 Tesla Model Y — Certification label may not have been installed
- 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 and 3 other models — Rearview camera image may be delayed when the vehicle is…
Other campaigns involving Tesla vehicles
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 20V609000 (manufacturer number SB-20-00-002). Data last verified Sep 13, 2026.