Checklist: Original Tesla Model Y 2020–2025

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

The inspection sheet: mark up every panel, what is underneath and how it drives.

Look for 7

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Cracked suspension knuckles 2020–2022Confirm with Tesla or NHTSA that recall 21V912000 was done. NHTSA
Loose front suspension fasteners 2020–2023Confirm that the recalls were done: 20V709000 for the upper arm bolts on 2020 cars, 21V835000 for the lateral links on 2020 and 2021 cars, and 22V895000 for the lateral links on 2023 cars. NHTSA
Creaking front suspension All yearsDrive slowly over speed bumps and turn the wheel to full lock, and listen for creaks or squeaks from the front. BGR, owners' reports (unofficial)
Heat pump failures 2021–2022Run the heat on high and make sure it blows hot, and that the windshield defrosts. Confirm that recall 22V050000 was done. NHTSA, BGR
Panel gaps, paint and leaks All yearsLook along every panel gap and over the paint in good light, and make sure the trunk floor is dry. BGR, Edmunds
Lead-acid low-voltage battery 2020–2022Ask whether the car has its lead-acid or lithium-ion low-voltage battery, and when a lead-acid one was last replaced. Tesla, Edmunds, BGR
Sudden braking with nothing ahead 2021–2025Try the cruise control on an open road and note any sudden, unneeded braking. BGR, a published reference

Recalls filed for these model years, newest first. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

Cars from before 2023 2020–2022CarGurus tells buyers who put reliability first to avoid any Model Y from before 2023, pointing to the recalls and complaints NHTSA lists for the early years and Consumer Reports' low reliability verdict. CarGurus
The Performance's stiff ride All yearsEdmunds lists an overly stiff ride among the Performance's cons, and for 2025 called its ride harsh. Edmunds

The boxes are for you: nothing you tick is sent or kept.