IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2022 Tesla Model Y

We've identified 6 known issues that can affect the 2022 Tesla Model Y. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

6
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
3
Minor

The 2022 period has 4 more issues than the Tesla Model Y average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Heat Pump / Sensor Failure (SB-22-18-002)

SeriousCooling System

A batch of faulty sensors (Recall SB-22-18-002) can cause the heat pump to fail, leaving the car with no cabin heating or defrost capability during UK winters. In some cases, the compressor itself may also require replacement.

Most affected: All Model Y variants

Estimated cost: £0–£1,500 (often warranty)Affects: 2022–2022Often appears around: 5,000–20,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •No cabin heat
  • •VCFRONT_a447 error code
  • •Loud noise from front of car

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test heating on max setting
  • ✓Check for climate-related alerts
  • ✓Verify if recall SB-22-18-002 has been completed

Upper Control Arm Failure

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Sharing its front suspension with the Model 3, the Model Y is also prone to squeaking upper control arms as water ingress degrades the ball joint grease.

Most affected: All Model Y variants

Estimated cost: £300–£600Affects: 2022–2024Often appears around: 15,000–40,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •High-pitched squeaking when turning
  • •Creaking over bumps

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen for noises during slow-speed steering maneuvers
  • ✓Inspect for the updated 2023 design if buying used

Rear Trunk Water Leak

ModerateBodywork & Rust

Water can enter the rear trunk through the liftgate assembly or tail light seals due to inadequate sealant application during manufacturing.

Most affected: All Model Y variants

Estimated cost: £0–£400Affects: 2022–2023Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Water pooling in the lower trunk well
  • •Condensation in rear lights
  • •Wet boot carpet

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Lift the trunk floor and check for water in the deep well
  • ✓Look for Service Bulletin SB-23-10-003 record
  • ✓Check for dampness around tail light internal covers

Tailgate "Booming" Noise

MinorBodywork & Rust

Some owners report a low-frequency pressure or booming noise when driving, often traced to the rear hatch vibrating or not being seated correctly on its stops.

Most affected: All Model Y variants

Estimated cost: £0–£100 (adjustment)Affects: 2022–2024Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Ear pressure sensation
  • •Low frequency thrumming
  • •Tailgate rattle

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Adjust rubber stops on tailgate
  • ✓Check seal contact patches
  • ✓Test drive on varying road surfaces

Rear Light Condensation

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Moisture ingress into the rear tail light units is common, particularly in the UK's damp climate, which can eventually damage internal circuitry.

Most affected: All Model Y variants

Estimated cost: £250–£450Affects: 2022–2024Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Water droplets or fogging inside lights
  • •Dim or failed LED segments

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check lights after rain or car wash
  • ✓Look for standing water inside the lens

Harsh Suspension Ride

MinorSuspension & Chassis

Early UK Model Y examples were criticized for an overly firm and "crashy" ride, which was particularly noticeable on poor UK road surfaces.

Most affected: Mostly 2022 models and Performance variants

Estimated cost: £1,000–£2,000 (Dampers)Affects: 2022–2022Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Unsettled ride over bumps
  • •Cabin vibration on rough roads
  • •Passenger discomfort

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test drive on B-roads
  • ✓Check if car has "Comfort Suspension" (late 2022 onwards)
  • ✓Verify tyre pressures are correct (not over-inflated)

Buying Tips for the 2022 Tesla Model Y

  • ✓Check for "booming" or buffeting noise at speed, which can be caused by an incorrectly adjusted tailgate
  • ✓Verify the operation of the heat pump, especially on cars produced in late 2021/early 2022
  • ✓Inspect the large glass roof for any stress cracks, particularly near the edges
2023 Tesla Model Y

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Other Tesla Model Y Year Periods

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