2021 Tesla Model Y — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $28,000–$45,000. There is 1 high-severity known issue you need to know before handing over a check.
Kestrel Take
The best-selling EV in the world for good reason — practical, fast, long range. Build quality is better than earlier Teslas. Battery health and recall status are the two things to check.
Known Issues for the 2021 Tesla Model Y
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
At this mileage, range degradation is the key variable. Get the battery report — expect 85-92% on a well-used 2021.
Repair cost range: $10,000-$18,000 for replacement
The glass roof can develop condensation between layers. Tesla replaces under warranty — verify if covered.
Repair cost range: $0 warranty to $2,000
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Battery below 80% range retention
- ✗Condensation visible in glass roof layers
- ✗Open NHTSA recalls not addressed via OTA
Good Signs
- ✓Long Range dual motor — best range, best buffer as battery ages
- ✓Battery health report above 85%
- ✓All OTA updates current
Found a specific Tesla Model Y?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2021 Tesla Model Y in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.
Get My Verdict — $7.99No account required. Delivered to your inbox, usually within minutes.
Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.
More from Tesla
Similar suvs & crossovers