Recent inspections by German safety authority TÜV reveal a concerning trend for the world’s best-selling electric vehicle, the Tesla Model Y. The latest report indicates a considerably higher failure rate for the Model Y – 17.3% – than any other vehicle in its age group, raising questions about the automaker’s quality control as competition in the EV market intensifies. The findings, based on analysis of over 9.4 million inspections,mark a notable departure from TÜV’s typically consistent results and suggest a potential reliability issue for the popular SUV.
Rollende Mangelware: Schon nach drei Jahren entspricht die Mängelquote des Model Y dem Wert eines acht- bis neunjährigen Autos.Bild: keystone
The Tesla Model Y, a global sales leader, is facing scrutiny over quality control issues, according to recent data from the German inspection agency TÜV. The findings highlight potential concerns for the automaker as it navigates increasing competition in the electric vehicle market.
20.11.2025, 11:5620.11.2025, 11:56
Markus Abrahamczyk / t-online
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TÜV inspectors, known for their methodical approach, typically remain unfazed. They follow strict checklists, document deficiencies, and conduct follow-up inspections with a professional detachment. However, the Tesla Model Y is proving to be an exception.
Nearly one in five Model Y vehicles fails its initial inspection. With a failure rate of 17.3%, the electric SUV ranks last among 110 models in its age group, according to the latest TÜV report. This data suggests a potential decline in reliability as the vehicle ages.
“Highest defect rate in ten years,” the inspectors stated, based on an analysis of over 9.4 million vehicle inspections.
Issues with Suspension and Brakes
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Technical defects were the primary concern, with inspectors noting problems with front lighting, worn brake discs, and issues with the axle suspension. Worn suspension and steering components were also frequently identified. Concerns also extend to build quality, with reports of inconsistent panel gaps and water leaks into the vehicle’s interior.
A Success Story with Caveats
The Model Y has been available in Switzerland and Germany since 2021. Initially, vehicles were manufactured in China, but Tesla now produces the Model Y at its Gigafactory in Grünheide, Berlin, since March 2022. The Model Y has, at times, been the world’s best-selling car. Despite improvements in manufacturing and features, quality remains a key challenge for the company.
Still a Popular Choice
Despite the reported issues, the Model Y continues to appeal to consumers due to its practicality, spacious interior, efficient powertrain, and access to a widespread charging network. Many owners praise the vehicle’s roomy cabin and user-friendly controls.
TÜV inspectors express hope that future model years will perform better in subsequent inspections, a sentiment likely shared by many vehicle owners.
And the Winners?
According to a press release, the Mazda 2 emerged as the overall winner of the 2026 TÜV report (see Sources). TÜV experts reported only 2.9% of 2- to 3-year-old vehicles exhibited significant defects, representing the lowest defect rate among all vehicles tested.
“In the various vehicle classes (age: 2-3 years), the electric Fiat 500e wins in the mini class, the overall winner Mazda 2 in the small car class, and the BMW 1 Series in the compact class. In the mid-size class, the Mercedes C-Class is in the lead, the VW T-Roc among SUVs, and the Mercedes B-Class among vans.”
Sources
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