2021 Tesla Model S vehicle speed control problems
15 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the vehicle speed control on the 2021 Tesla Model S — 8% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2021 Tesla Model S. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds with the cruise control feature engaged, the brakes independently activated without the brake pedal being depressed. No warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle…”
filed Aug 12, 2026
“On October 17, 2025, while using Full Self-Driving (FSD) mode on my 2021 Tesla Model S Plaid, the car failed to stop at two red lights within a three-hour period. In each case, the car attempted to drive through the intersection even though the signal was solid red. I intervened manually and…”
filed Oct 20, 2025
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Vehicle Speed Control problems in other Model S years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 Model S | 6 | 5% |
| 2022 Model S | 9 | 7% |
| 2020 Model S | 8 | 10% |
| 2019 Model S | 3 | 7% |
| 2018 Model S | 27 | 16% |
| 2017 Model S | 35 | 8% |
| 2016 Model S | 81 | 13% |
| 2015 Model S | 40 | 6% |
| 2014 Model S | 22 | 6% |
| 2013 Model S | 25 | 5% |
| 2012 Model S | 1 | 2% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2021 Tesla Model S
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.