Things to consider when insuring one
5-star overall crash rating
NHTSA’s top crash rating. Crash protection affects injury claims, which make up a large share of what auto insurance pays out.
Driver-assist sensors come standard
They can help avoid crashes, but a windshield or bumper repair often needs the cameras and radar recalibrated, which costs more. Check what your comprehensive and collision deductibles would mean for a glass claim.
Battery repairs and specialist shops
Damage near the battery pack can be expensive to repair and fewer shops are certified. Ask how a policy handles battery damage and whether it covers charging equipment at home.
Most owner complaints are about the forward collision avoidance
6 of 17 complaints to NHTSA mention it. Worth a look in a pre-purchase inspection.
1 recall
- NHTSA 25V410000 · Jun 18, 2025
seats: critical fasteners
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2026 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The fasteners attaching the seat back to the seat bottom may have been improperly tightened.
- The risk
- The seat may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- The fix
- Tesla Service Centers will inspect and tighten or replace the seat assembly fasteners as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 16, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-13-003.
Crash test ratings
2026 TESLA MODEL 3 4 DR BEV AWD
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
Rollover risk in a single-vehicle crash: 7%
2026 TESLA MODEL 3 4 DR BEV RWD
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
Rollover risk in a single-vehicle crash: 7%
2026 TESLA MODEL 3 EARLY RELEASE 4 DR BEV RWD
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
Rollover risk in a single-vehicle crash: 7%
What owners report
17 complaints to NHTSA, 4 involving a crash.
- Forward collision avoidance6
- Unknown or other6
- Steering4
- Back over prevention3
- Electrical system1
- Lane departure1
- Service brakes1
- Vehicle speed control1
Insuring a 2026 Tesla Model 3?
An independent broker compares several insurers for you and can explain what matters for this car. Find one who writes auto where you live.
Other 2026 Tesla models
Recalls, crash ratings and owner complaints are from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), last checked Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are owners’ reports and aren’t verified by NHTSA. This page is general information, not advice about a specific vehicle or policy.