2018 Tesla Model 3 structure problems
59 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the structure on the 2018 Tesla Model 3 — 6% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2018 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated that while reversing approximately 5 MPH, there was a loud screeching sound coming from the vehicle without warning. Upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact became aware that a bolt had detached from the subframe. The vehicle was towed to…”
filed Sep 16, 2026
“The exterior door handles are made of a thin metal top cover over a plastic door handle. The exterior door handle metal begins to peel, and does so in a manner that isn't clear to see. This has resulted in me cutting my hand on the door handle. I had to remove the metal from the door handles to…”
filed Sep 9, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Structure problems in other Model 3 years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Model 3 | 2 | 10% |
| 2025 Model 3 | 6 | 5% |
| 2024 Model 3 | 5 | 2% |
| 2023 Model 3 | 22 | 5% |
| 2022 Model 3 | 10 | 1% |
| 2021 Model 3 | 16 | 2% |
| 2020 Model 3 | 19 | 4% |
| 2019 Model 3 | 22 | 4% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2018 Tesla Model 3
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.