IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2022 Tesla Model Y

The Model Y first arrived in the UK in February 2022, built exclusively in Shanghai (Gigafactory 3) which generally delivered better build quality than US cars. The defining issue of early Model Ys was boot water ingress through the liftgate assembly — Tesla issued service bulletin SB-23-10-003 in April 2023 acknowledging the problem. The harsh ride was also widely criticised on early 2022 cars.

What changed for 2022

  • •UK launch
  • •All Shanghai-built (Gigafactory 3)
  • •Heat pump and HEPA filter standard
  • •Ultrasonic sensors removed late 2022
  • •Boot water ingress issue on 2022–2023 builds

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Boot water ingress through liftgate assembly (SB-23-10-003)
  • !Harsh and "crashy" ride on early 2022 suspension
  • !Panel gap inconsistency on earliest deliveries
  • !Upper control arm squeak from ball joint water ingress
6
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
3
Minor

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£1,500 (often warranty)
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Test heating on max setting
  • Check for climate-related alerts
  • Verify if recall SB-22-18-002 has been completed
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£600
Warning Signs:

High-pitched squeaking when turning, Creaking over bumps

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for noises during slow-speed steering maneuvers
  • Inspect for the updated 2023 design if buying used
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£400
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • 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
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£100 (adjustment)
Warning Signs:

Ear pressure sensation, Low frequency thrumming, Tailgate rattle

What to Inspect:
  • Adjust rubber stops on tailgate
  • Check seal contact patches
  • Test drive on varying road surfaces
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£450
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Check lights after rain or car wash
  • Look for standing water inside the lens
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,000–£2,000 (Dampers)
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Test drive on B-roads
  • Check if car has "Comfort Suspension" (late 2022 onwards)
  • Verify tyre pressures are correct (not over-inflated)
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2022 Tesla Model Y

  • ✓Inspect the boot thoroughly — open it and press along the carpet edge and sub-trunk floor for dampness
  • ✓Check if service bulletin SB-23-10-003 has been applied
  • ✓Test drive on B-roads to check if the harsh ride is acceptable to you
2023
Check a 2022 Tesla Model Y by Registration