2022 Tesla Model 3 Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors) Problems
- Complaints
- 23about this part
- Share
- 3%of 773 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 3,812miles
- Trend
- RisingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% higher than in the 3 years before.
NHTSA recorded 23 complaints about the visibility of the 2022 Tesla Model 3, 3% of the 773 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 3,812 miles. 1 recall campaign on record is filed under a similar system.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Tesla model 3 2022 rear side windows shattered all of a sudden with no other accidents. My 6 year old girl was sitting in the car next to it and we are all in a shock . We are trying to find the right way to report to Tesla . We checked online and saw more blog posts with same issue . Please help.”
NHTSA complaint #11460286, filed 2022-04“Shortly after purchasing my 2022 Tesla Model 3 RWD in February 2025, I began noticing a persistent musty, mold-like odor coming from the HVAC vents whenever the air conditioning or defrost was on. The odor worsens when driving with the windows down. I reported this issue to Tesla multiple times between May and October 2025. Tesla replaced the cabin filters but refused to perform a full evaporator or HVAC disinfection, stating the odor was “normal.” Despite the filter changes, the smell always returns within a few weeks. …”
NHTSA complaint #11697649, filed 2025-11“Dear NHTSA, I am filing a formal complaint regarding Tesla's refusal to properly address a critical safety recall on my vehicle (Recall Number 24V554). This recall involves a significant safety issue that Tesla is legally obligated to remedy free of charge under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. The required over-the-air software update associated with this recall repeatedly fails to install, getting stuck at 50% completion. I scheduled a service appointment and took the vehicle to Tesla for assistance. …”
NHTSA complaint #11636379, filed 2025-01“When cruise is turned on the wipers turn on. This was their response. Hello Dominic, This is Ken from Tesla virtual service center. We have been getting some push back on the most recent update doing what you are saying regarding autopilot/autowipers. Our auto wipers and sensors with our windshields need improvement and is still in beta. I am not sure why the factory has decided to lock in the auto wipers function during autopilot for that reason on last months firmware update. …”
NHTSA complaint #11452699, filed 2022-02“At approximately 32,916 miles, the powered trunk lift strut on my 2022 Tesla Model 3 separated from its mounting ball stud during normal use. There was no collision or external impact. When the strut separated, it struck the rear glass and caused the glass to break. Tesla inspected and repaired the vehicle. Tesla’s final service invoice states: “Strut failure was responsible for breaking back glass.” I am concerned that failure of the powered trunk strut attachment on a relatively low-mileage vehicle can cause broken glass and may create a safety risk.”
NHTSA complaint #11762112, filed 2026-09Related recalls
- 22V702000Sep 19, 2022Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3, 2020-2022 Model Y, and 2021-2022 Model S and Model X vehicles. The window automatic reversal…Covers: Tesla Model 3 2017–2022, Model Y 2020–2022, Model S 2021–2022 +1 more
Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors): other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 | 3% |
| 2025 | 3 | 2% |
| 2024 | 6 | 3% |
| 2023 | 13 | 3% |
| 2022 | 23 | 3% |
| 2021 | 34 | 5% |
| 2020 | 28 | 6% |
| 2019 | 34 | 5% |
| 2018 | 61 | 6% |
| 2017 | 4 | 15% |
Other parts of the 2022 Tesla Model 3
535 complaintsVehicle speed control
171 complaintsBrakes
169 complaintsOther or unknown
94 complaintsElectrical system
60 complaintsLane departure
45 complaintsSteering
39 complaintsAir bags
13 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
13 complaintsWheels
13 complaintsSeat belts
12 complaintsSeats
10 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2022 Tesla Model 3
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology