Our client experienced a series of significant issues shortly after delivery of their new 2022 Tesla Model Y, including repeated mechanical and electrical failures. Despite being almost brand new, with only 15 miles on the odometer, the vehicle was plagued by problems ranging from battery and structural malfunctions to issues with the electrical system. These persistent defects ultimately led the owner to pursue a lemon law claim under California law.
The first problem arose shortly after the purchase, when the vehicle went offline with the key locked inside. To address this, Tesla performed a jump-start, completed a 12V reset, and verified normal operation. Additionally, the vehicle’s tire pressure was topped off to 42 psi. However, this initial issue was only the beginning of a series of persistent problems.
In mid 2022, the Model Y experienced further complications. During a road trip, the vehicle broke down and displayed multiple error codes. Tesla replaced the high-voltage battery, but after installation, the vehicle’s firmware failed to install. Upon inspection, a technician diagnosed overheating in the vehicle’s computer, caused by a coolant leak in the newly replaced coolant hose.
This issue caused the vehicle to shut down during the firmware update. Tesla quickly replaced the rear drive unit-to-HV battery coolant line, refilled the coolant system, and successfully completed the firmware installation.
The issues did not end there, days following that visit the vehicle required a replacement washer fluid cap, and the tire pressure was checked and corrected. By September 12, 2022, the client reported that the front passenger seat back was coming loose. Tesla replaced the washer fluid cap once again, checked the tire pressure, and fixed the seat back.
Additional issues doon arose. After a rim replacement at Tesla’s Reno service center, the customer reported a strong vibration from the front left wheel. Upon inspection, three of the remaining rims were found to be bent, and it was recommended that they be replaced. A validation test drive was performed to ensure the vehicle was safe to drive.
Some months later in 2023, the client reported that the key cards had stopped working. Tesla programmed new key cards and inspected the vehicle’s tire tread depth. Nearly a month later, the customer noticed condensation in the left rear taillight, which impacted the autopilot system. The technician confirmed the condensation but clarified that it did not affect the camera. Tesla replaced the left rear taillight repeater to resolve the issue with the autopilot system. Additionally, the front passenger seat’s occupant classification system (OCS) was found to be faulty, leading to a replacement of the ECU.
By early 2024, the issues persisted. Our client reported a noisy and loose headrest in the back seat, along with the ongoing condensation problem in the driver-side taillight. Tesla addressed the headrest issue by fixing the mechanism, replaced the left rear taillight repeater once again, and performed a software update to integrate additional autosteer controls.
Given the extensive history of repairs and unresolved issues, the vehicle was deemed eligible for a buyback under California’s lemon law. After engaging the assistance of the Lemon Law Experts, a successful buyback agreement was negotiated with Tesla. The client received a full refund for the defective vehicle, as well as reimbursement for legal fees and expenses.
If your vehicle is suffering from similar ongoing issues, it’s important to understand your legal rights. The Lemon Law Experts specialize in guiding clients through the process of securing a buyback under California’s lemon law. Since 2009, our team has been assisting clients in similar situations; we have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for those facing persistent vehicle defects. If you’re dealing with ongoing issues with your vehicle, contact the Lemon Law Experts today for a free consultation. We’ll help you explore all your options for a resolution and work toward securing a favorable outcome for your defective vehicle.
