Tesla Model Y 2–3 years old: TÜV's worst reliability

The Tesla Model Y was ranked worst for reliability in the TÜV 2026 report for 2-3 year old vehicles, with a 17.3% defect rate. This is the highest in TÜV's 10 years and the first time the Model Y has been tested. The Model 3 also fared poorly, coming in second from the bottom with a 13.1% score, compared to the average for this age group of just 6.5%.

TÜV 2026: test data and scope

The TÜV 2026 report compiles data from 9.5 million vehicles, evaluating 216 popular models that are 2–3 years old. TÜV (Technischer Überwachungsverein) is a network of seven independent organizations based in Cologne, Germany, with nearly 150 years of experience in testing and certifying quality. The results therefore carry significant weight in the market.

Before the Model Y appeared on the list, the Model 3 was at the bottom. With the new data, the Model Y has taken its place at the bottom, pushing the Model 3 to the second-to-last position, creating a situation where both Tesla models are among the least reliable in terms of mechanical reliability.

Items that make Model Y fail inspection

The report indicates that TÜV focused on road adaptability and mechanical quality, not on evaluating smart features. The main issues noted in the Model Y include:

Suspension system: nearly 20% of vehicles fail the first inspection. The main problem relates to the "frame control unit." A major German auto parts company has developed reinforcing components to address this.
Braking system: the regenerative braking mechanism saves fuel but reduces the use of the brake discs, making them prone to rust and reduced performance – especially in Germany's humid climate.
Lighting system: detects misalignment of beam angle and reduces brightness, which may affect response in emergency situations.

The combination of these failures resulted in a significantly higher failure rate than the average for 2–3 year old vehicles.

Compared to other models in the same age group

Some other electric vehicles fared significantly better. The Mini Cooper SE and Audi Q4 e-tron had defect rates of 3.5% and 4.0%, respectively. Notably, the Mazda 2 led the pack in reliability with a 2.9% failure rate.

Car model	Disability rate	Note
Tesla Model Y (2–3 years)	17.3%	TÜV's highest in 10 years
Tesla Model 3 (2–3 years)	13.1%	Penultimate; last year 14.2%
Age group average	6.5%	References
Mini Cooper SE	3.5%	Tram
Audi Q4 e-tron	4.0%	Tram
Mazda 2	2.9%	Lowest in the table

German market impact

The German inspection results come with unfavorable market signals for Tesla. In November, Tesla's vehicle registrations reached 1,763 units, down more than 20% from the same period last year. Meanwhile, the total number of new electric vehicle registrations across the market reached 55,740 units, an increase of 58.5%.

Cumulatively, total electric vehicle sales in Germany reached 434,627 units, an increase of nearly 40%. Tesla alone sold 15,595 units, a 50% decrease compared to the previous year. A recent survey found that 94% of Germans have no intention of buying a Tesla, with only 3% willing to consider it. Besides factors related to statements from executives, word-of-mouth about product quality is a significant contributing factor.

Technical and maintenance perspective

The TÜV results highlight the mechanical foundation. In the context of “software-defined vehicles”, faults in suspension, braking and lighting remain the items that directly affect the experience and safety, leading to maintenance costs.

Brakes: with electric vehicles with strong energy regeneration, attention must be paid to operation and maintenance to limit brake disc rust in humid environments.
Suspension and linkages: Misalignment or wear at components such as the "frame control unit" can increase noise, vibration, steering misalignment, and affect stability.
Lighting: Failure to meet beam angle and intensity will result in failure of inspection; periodic calibration and inspection is required.

With the Model Y, the report suggests that improving mechanical durability and handling in European climates should be a priority, rather than simply adding software features.

Conclude

The 2-3 year old Tesla Model Y is showing lower reliability than the average in the TÜV 2026 test, with a defect rate of 17.3% – the highest in the last 10 years. The Model 3 scored 13.1% and is still at the bottom of the list. With rivals such as the Mini Cooper SE or Audi Q4 e-tron recording defect rates of 3.5% and 4.0%, the gap shows clear pressure on Tesla in Germany.

From a consumer perspective, reliability and long-term maintenance costs are becoming the deciding factors. For Tesla, prioritizing mechanical quality – especially in suspension, braking and lighting – could be the key to regaining momentum in this market.

Source: https://baonghean.vn/tesla-model-y-23-nam-tuoi-do-tin-cay-kem-nhat-tv-10314598.html