2021 Tesla Model 3
VIN: 5YJ3E1EA5MF006261 | 2021 | Tesla, Inc. | FREMONT, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES (USA)
2021 Tesla Model 3 — Electric Drive Unit (inferred), Automatic. Sedan/Saloon.
D
45/100
Safety & Recall Score: Caution
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 22 recall campaigns (very high)
⚠ 673 owner complaints (high)
✓ 5-star NHTSA crash ratings
✓ VIN fully verified
✓ Zero tailpipe emissions (EV)
✓ Excellent GHG score (10/10)
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: PASSENGER CAR
- Body: Sedan/Saloon
- Plant: FREMONT, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES (USA)
NHTSA Recalls
22 Recall Campaigns- Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Model S...
- Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021, 2023 Model...
- Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Model Y...
Owner Complaints
673 filed with NHTSA- Immediately following the installation of over-the-air software version 2026.32.3,...
- 2021 Tesla Model 3 with approximately 110,000 miles. Loud...
EV Economy
134 MPGe Combined- Range: 353 mi
- City: 141 MPGe
- Hwy: 127 MPGe
- Combined: 134 MPGe
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
5YJ3E1EA5MF006261
Model Year
2021
Make
Tesla
Model
Model 3
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Doors
4
Seats
5
Seat Rows
2
Fuel Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Engine
Electric Drive Unit (inferred)
Manufacturer
Tesla, Inc.
Plant Location
FREMONT, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES (USA)
Country of Origin
UNITED STATES (USA)
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — WMI Region
5 → United States
Position 2 — Manufacturer
Y → Tesla, Inc.
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
J → PASSENGER CAR
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
3E1EA → Model 3 Not available
Position 9 — Check Digit
5 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
M → 2021
Position 11 — Plant Code
F → FREMONT, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial
006261 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Transmission Style
Automatic
Transmission Speeds
1
Electrification
BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)
Fuel Type Primary
Electric
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Electric
Combined MPGe
134 MPGe
EPA Range
353 mi
City MPGe
141 MPGe
Hwy MPGe
127 MPGe
Annual Charging Cost
$550
5-Yr Charging Cost
$2,750
GHG Score
10/10
CO₂ Emissions
0 g/mi
Barrels/Year
0.06
EV & Battery System
Electrification
BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)
EPA Electric Range
353 mi
kWh/100mi
25.1 kWh
Annual Cost
$550
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Included
ESC
Included
Traction Control
Included
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Included
Lane Departure Warning
Included
Lane Keep System
Included
Blind Spot Monitoring
Included
Blind Spot Intervention
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Included
Adaptive Cruise Control
Included
Parking Assist
Not reported in manufacturer data
Dynamic Brake Support
Included
Pedestrian AEB
Included
Rear Auto Braking
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto Reverse System
Included
Daytime Running Lights
Included
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not reported in manufacturer data
Keyless Ignition
Included
Auto High Beams
Included
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Curtain Airbags
Not reported in manufacturer data
Knee Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not reported in manufacturer data
Brake System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Steering Location
Left-Hand Drive (LHD)
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
Curb Weight
4,250 lbs
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Doors
4
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Axles
2
Wheels & Tires
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
Tesla, Inc.
Manufacturer ID
955
Make ID
441
Model ID
17834
Plant City
FREMONT
Plant State
CALIFORNIA
Plant Country
UNITED STATES (USA)
Vehicle Descriptor
5YJ3E1EA*MF
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
22
Recall Status
Recall campaigns found
Recall Campaigns
22 recall campaigns identified
VIN repair status unknown — verify open recalls with NHTSA or a Tesla dealer.
ABS
Included
ESC
Included
Traction Control
Included
EV Energy Metrics
🔋
353 mi
EPA Range
⚡
134 MPGe
MPGe Combined
📊
25.1 kWh
kWh / 100 mi
💰
$550
Est. Annual Cost
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
📋
Get a Vehicle History ReportUnlock accident history, title status & odometer records with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to get it.
🔔
Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Tesla dealer with this VIN to confirm all 22 recalls are resolved.
🔒
NICB Stolen Vehicle CheckFree check at nicb.org to confirm no theft, salvage, or total-loss history.
💰
Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 22 recall campaigns as leverage for a lower price.
📝
Review Title & Lien StatusEnsure no outstanding liens before transfer. Your state DMV can verify title.
Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$16,200–$23,300
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
5 Stars
Front Crash Rating
5 Stars
Side Crash Rating
5 Stars
Rollover Risk
5 Stars
Safety Recalls
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The "rolling stop" functionality available as part of the Full Self-Driving (Beta) software may allow the vehicle to travel through...
Risk: Failing to stop at a stop sign can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that disables the "rolling stop" functionality, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28,...
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021, 2023 Model 3 vehicles. The left and/or right side curtain air bag may have been improperly secured to the roof rail, which could result in a twisted air bag. As such, these vehicles...
Risk: A twisted side curtain air bag may improperly deploy, increasing the risk of injury or occupant ejection during a crash.
Remedy: Tesla Service will inspect and realign the left and right side curtain air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed...
SUSPENSION:CRITICAL FASTENERS
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Model Y and 2019-2021 Model 3 vehicles. The front suspension lateral link fasteners may loosen, allowing the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame.
Risk: A lateral link separation could shift the wheel alignment, causing instability and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla Service will tighten or replace the lateral link fasteners as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2021. Owners...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model S and Model X, 2017-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The audible chime may not activate when the vehicle starts and the driver has not buckled their seat belt. As...
Risk: The driver may be unaware that their seat belt is not fastened, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer...
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Model 3 and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles. The brake caliper bolts may be loose, allowing the brake caliper to separate and contact the wheel rim.
Risk: Contact with the rim may cause a loss of tire pressure, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla Service will inspect and tighten, or replace the caliper bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2021....
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Model S, Model 3, Model X, and 2020-2021 Model Y vehicles operating software version 2021.36.5.2. A communication error may cause false forward-collision warning (FCW) or unexpected activation of the automatic emergency brake (AEB)...
Risk: Unexpected activation of the AEB system may cause the car to stop suddenly, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla Service has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2021. Owners may contact Tesla customer service...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A software error may cause a valve in the heat pump to open unintentionally and trap the refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting...
Risk: Decreased defrosting performance may reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 1, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model S, Model X, Model Y, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the...
Risk: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes,...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y, Model X, Model S, and 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The Boombox function allows sounds to be played through an external speaker while the vehicle is in motion, which may obscure the...
Risk: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are obscured, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will disable the Boombox functionality when the vehicle is in Drive, Neutral and Reverse modes,...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Model 3 Performance vehicles. The unit of speed (mph or km/h) may fail to display on the speedometer while in Track Mode. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of...
Risk: The driver may not know how fast the vehicle is traveling without the mph or km/h unit display, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 17, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla customer...
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Model 3 and 2021 Model Y vehicles. The fisheye and narrow camera cable terminals were incorrectly installed in the cable harness connector, resulting in swapped camera views.
Risk: Swapped camera views can prevent the vehicle's cameras from detecting crossing objects and high-curvature lane lines, impairing the Autosteer and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)...
Remedy: Tesla Service will correct the swapped terminals and recalibrate the cameras, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owners may...
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3, 2020-2022 Model Y, and 2021-2022 Model S and Model X vehicles. The window automatic reversal system may not react correctly after detecting an obstruction. As such, these vehicles fail to comply...
Risk: A closing window may exert excessive force by pinching a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update of the automatic window reversal system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 31,...
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:ANCHORAGE
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Model 3 vehicles. The second-row left seat belt buckle and second-row center seat belt anchor may have been incorrectly reassembled during vehicle service.
Risk: An incorrectly reassembled seat belt anchor can impair the performance of the seat belt during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Tesla Service will inspect and reassemble the seat belt anchors as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 20, 2022. Owners...
STEERING:AUTOMATED/ADAPTIVE STEERING
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016-2023 Model S, Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving Beta (FSD Beta) software or pending installation. The FSD Beta system may allow the vehicle to act...
Risk: FSD Beta software that allows a vehicle to exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk...
Remedy: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2023. Owners may contact Tesla customer...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:AUTONOMOUS/SELF DRIVING:SOFTWARE
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autosteer leading up to the version(s) that contains the recall remedy. In certain circumstances when Autosteer...
Risk: In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, and the driver does not maintain responsibility for vehicle operation and is unprepared to intervene as necessary...
Remedy: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck vehicles. An incorrect font size is displayed on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System...
Risk: Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a...
Remedy: Tesla began releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall...
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS:EXTERNAL/PEDESTRIAN ALERT
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2013, 2018-2021 Model S, 2020-2021 Model X, 2018-2022 Model 3, and 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. A factory reset muted the Pedestrian Warning System (PWS) sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the...
Risk: Pedestrians may be unaware of an approaching vehicle if the PWS sounds are muted, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, release 2023.44.30.14, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla...
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WARNING LIGHT/DEVICES
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. In the event of an unbelted driver, the seat belt warning light and audible chime may not activate as intended....
Risk: A seat belt warning system that fails to alert occupants of an unbelted seat belt can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Tesla will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752....
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-2024 Model Y vehicles. The hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood condition after the hood has been opened.
Risk: An unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver's view and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2024. Owners may contact Tesla customer...
TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2024 Cybertruck, 2017-2025 Model 3, and 2020-2025 Model Y vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light may not remain illuminated between drive cycles, failing to warn the driver of low tire pressure....
Risk: Driving with improperly inflated tires increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service...
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017, 2021-2023 Model 3, 2020-2023 Model Y, 2021-2023 Model S, and Model X vehicles operating software version 2026.8.6. The rearview camera image may be delayed when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such,...
Risk: A delayed rearview image reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2026. Owners may contact Tesla customer...
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. The headlight low beams may be too bright and exceed the maximum light output. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal...
Risk: Headlight low beams that are too bright can reduce visibility for oncoming drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla Service will replace the headlights, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were be mailed October 3, 2026. Another...
Service bulletins and open investigations aren't part of this report. You can search them for free on NHTSA's site.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2021 Tesla Model 3
$2,490/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$12,450
Maintenance (5yr)
$5,000
5-Yr Charging Cost (EPA)
$2,750
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$11,650
⚡ Federal EV Tax Credit Eligibility
Check Required
New Vehicle Credit (IRS §30D)
$4,000
Used Vehicle Credit (IRS §25E)
This vehicle may qualify if final assembly is in North America. Verify at fueleconomy.gov. IRS Details →
🏢 Find Tesla Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Tesla dealer.
Find Tesla Dealers →NICB VINCheck is a free federal database. Run a check to confirm this VIN has no theft, salvage, or insurance total-loss history.
Run Free NICB Check for 5YJ3E1EA5MF006261 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
Select any state to see its current emissions testing requirements and lemon law protections.
Select a state above to view its requirements.
OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
Enter a code from your OBD-II scanner, pick from the dropdown, or tap a common code chip below.
Common:
Owner Complaints
Immediately following the installation of over-the-air software version 2026.32.3,...
Immediately following the installation of over-the-air software version 2026.32.3, the vehicle's center touchscreen lost all driving visualization capabilities. The backup camera now displays a black/non-responsive screen, removing federally...
2021 Tesla Model 3 with approximately 110,000 miles. Loud...
2021 Tesla Model 3 with approximately 110,000 miles. Loud creaking/squeaking noise from the front suspension (primarily passenger side) when driving at low speeds over bumps and during slow...
During a Tesla over-the-air software update, while the vehicle...
During a Tesla over-the-air software update, while the vehicle was charging at a Tesla V4 Supercharger, the Hardware 3 Autopilot/car computer failed and entered a permanent boot loop....
Multiple watchdog daemon failures triggering every ADAS system to...
Multiple watchdog daemon failures triggering every ADAS system to become unavailable at random. in one instance I had FSD enabled, mid turning a corner to freeway onramp FSD...
High Voltage battery BMS error.
High Voltage battery BMS error.
The owner reported a grinding noise coming from the...
The owner reported a grinding noise coming from the front of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the Tesla Service Center in [XXX], where it was diagnosed...
The power liftgate strut failed in normal use and...
The power liftgate strut failed in normal use and bent the trunk liftgate, which now strikes the rear glass every time the trunk opens or closes. The vehicle...
Urgent Safety Concern — Uncommanded Braking During Manual Driving....
Urgent Safety Concern — Uncommanded Braking During Manual Driving. On October 2, 2026, while driving my 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range manually at approximately 45 mph and...
Showing 8 of 673 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000 mi
Affects HVAC and range efficiency
Current
Tire Rotation
Every 7,500–10,000 mi
EVs are heavier — tires wear faster
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Even with regen braking, fluid absorbs moisture over time
Due Soon
Battery Health Check
Every 12 months
Check state of health and charging patterns
Due Now
Coolant System Flush
Every 5 years
EV battery thermal management system
Due Now
Suspension Inspection
Every 30,000 mi
Heavier EVs stress suspension components more
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2021 TESLA Model 3 based on vehicle class and age. These are projections from today’s general estimate, not past sale prices. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
Now
$19,800
+1 yr
$17,400
-12%
+2 yr
$15,400
-22%
+3 yr
$13,500
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$2,490/yr
38%
Maintenance
$1,000/yr
15%
Fuel/Energy
$550/yr
8%
Depreciation
$2,330/yr
35%
Registration
$250/yr
4%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$6,620/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
5.8
/ 10
Rank #20 overall
65 issues / 100 vehicles
Tesla Reliability
Tesla scores poorly in traditional reliability surveys (fit/finish, paint, trim) but drivetrain reliability is strong. OTA updates resolve many issues.
General editorial reference for this manufacturer, not a live or VIN-specific measurement — see the sources below for detailed, current data.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
Jan 27, 2022
Oct 25, 2021
Oct 25, 2021
Jan 2, 2022
May 25, 2021
Oct 29, 2021
Feb 2, 2022
Apr 2, 2022
Dec 4, 2022
Apr 18, 2022
Sep 5, 2022
Sep 19, 2022
Oct 21, 2022
Feb 15, 2023
Dec 12, 2023
Jan 30, 2024
Feb 27, 2024
May 28, 2024
Jul 24, 2024
Dec 17, 2024
May 5, 2026
May 8, 2026
Vehicles in a similar class to the 2021 TESLA Model 3 and their approximate current price range:
Private Party
$14,300–$21,400
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$17,000–$25,600
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$17,500–$26,800
Manufacturer-backed limited warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle model has 22 recall campaigns on file. Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm this specific VIN's recalls are resolved, or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Rear Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI (typical)
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 7,500–10,000 miles. EVs are heavier and wear tires faster — check tread monthly.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ EV range drops 20–40% in cold — plan charging stops accordingly
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Pre-condition battery cabin before long highway drives
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Tesla Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
4yr/50k
Has likely ended
Powertrain
8yr/150k
May still be covered
Corrosion / Rust
12yr/unlimited
May still be covered
Estimated from the model year only. Factory coverage runs from the vehicle's original sale date, which this report can't confirm, and mileage limits can end coverage sooner. Verify remaining coverage with a Tesla dealer using the VIN.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2021 TESLA Model 3.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2021 TESLA Model 3:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
Listings with 20+ high-quality daylight photos get 3x more inquiries than listings with poor photos.
🗂 Vehicle history report link
Proactively share a VIN Pro Plus or Carfax report link to build instant buyer confidence.
🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Check recall status first
This vehicle model has 22 recall campaigns on file. Confirming this specific VIN's recalls are resolved before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 673 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
🔔 NHTSA SaferCar Alerts
Official government recall notifications. Free, direct from NHTSA. Covers safety recalls, investigations, and bulletins.
Sign Up Free →🔌 Carfax Recall Alerts
Free recall tracking through Carfax. Notifies you about new recalls and tracks which ones have been repaired.
Check Free →
VIN 5YJ3E1EA5MF006261:
22 recall campaigns currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $2,490/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN 5YJ3E1EA5MF006261 decode to?
VIN 5YJ3E1EA5MF006261 decodes to a 2021 TESLA Model 3, assembled in FREMONT, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 2021 TESLA Model 3 have?
NHTSA shows 22 recall campaigns associated with the 2021 TESLA Model 3. This reflects campaigns issued for this model/year — it does not confirm whether this specific VIN's repairs have already been completed. Contact a TESLA dealer with this VIN to check.
Is it safe to buy a 2021 TESLA Model 3 with recall campaigns on file?
A recall campaign doesn't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but any unresolved recall should be addressed promptly. Contact a TESLA dealer with this VIN to confirm which specific recalls apply and whether they've already been completed — repairs are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2021 TESLA Model 3?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2021 TESLA Model 3 is estimated at $16,200–$23,300. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2021 TESLA Model 3 get?
According to EPA data, the 2021 TESLA Model 3 gets approximately 134 MPG combined (141 city / 127 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $550.
❤ Support VinForFree
VinForFree offers a free VIN check with no signup required. If this report helped you, consider supporting the site.
Bitcoin (BTC) Address:
3JjL1STPyfyhiQk1E91Xss8FSa5brW8LG3
Ethereum (ETH) Address:
0x962Efcc84463D599beC4F5F0575D1ebF60c83745
Litecoin (LTC) Address:
MUZk3ZDrpM4KmQjAZsnd5t12bYKqfhNtx4
Cardano (ADA) Address:
addr1vy8zgurtrdxyq4lyz9wzgpguj3eraxl79shu2hgh9r2ux6cdgmjc5
Free VIN Check — No Signup Required
Decode any 17-character VIN instantly. Recalls, specs, fuel economy, crash ratings, and market value.
🔍 Search Another VIN