Vehicle 1

Tesla Model Y

6,657 complaints · 94 recalls

VS

Vehicle 2

FORD F 150

27,152 complaints · 135 recalls

📊 Based on NHTSA owner complaint & recall data
Which Should I Buy?

Tesla Model Y vs FORD F 150: The Model Y averages 951 complaints per year, far fewer than the F-150's 2715. However, Tesla's top issue is Forward Collision Avoidance (3424 complaints), while Ford's is Powertrain (9864). Both have similar crash complaint counts (720 vs 745). Source: NHTSA owner complaints.

Category Wins

Lower numbers are better for complaints, recalls, and crashes.

4
Tesla Model Y
wins all 4 categories
0
FORD F 150
no category wins
CategoryTesla Model YFORD F 150
Total Complaints
All years combined
6,657
✓ lower
27,152
Safety Recalls
Federal campaigns
94
✓ lower
135
Crash Reports
Crash-related complaints
720
✓ lower
745
Avg / Year
Complaints per model year
951.0
✓ lower
2715.2

Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records. Lower is better.

Top Problem Areas

Most frequently reported components across all model years.

Tesla Model Y

1. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE3,424
2. SERVICE BRAKES1,041
3. VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL997
4. UNKNOWN OR OTHER945
5. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM869

FORD F 150

1. POWER TRAIN9,864
2. ENGINE4,840
3. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM3,415
4. UNKNOWN OR OTHER3,136
5. STRUCTURE1,477
🤖
AI Buyer Analysis
DeepSeek interpretation of NHTSA data · cached result
The Verdict

The Tesla Model Y has fewer complaints per year (951) than the Ford F-150 (2715), suggesting lower overall issue frequency. However, the Model Y's complaints are heavily concentrated in forward collision avoidance and braking systems, which may indicate specific safety-related concerns.

💡 Buyer Recommendation

If you prioritize fewer overall complaints and lower recall frequency, the Tesla Model Y may be preferable. If you need a truck and can accept higher complaint volume, the Ford F-150 has more predictable mechanical issues like powertrain and engine problems. Check the specific systems that matter most to you.

Key Differences
  • Tesla Model Y has 951 complaints/year vs Ford F-150's 2715/year.
  • Tesla's top issue is Forward Collision Avoidance (3424 complaints); Ford's top is Powertrain (9864).
  • Tesla has 94 recalls; Ford has 135 recalls.
  • Tesla has 720 crash complaints; Ford has 745 crash complaints.
⚠ Watch on Tesla Model Y
  • Watch for Forward Collision Avoidance system malfunctions (3424 complaints).
  • Check Service Brakes (1041 complaints) and Vehicle Speed Control (997 complaints) issues.
⚠ Watch on FORD F 150
  • Watch for Powertrain problems (9864 complaints), especially transmission or drivetrain issues.
  • Check Engine (4840 complaints) and Electrical System (3415 complaints) reliability.
✓ Before You Buy — Checklist
  • Check NHTSA recall status for the specific model year.
  • Test drive and verify Forward Collision Avoidance and braking on Tesla.
  • Inspect powertrain and engine condition on Ford F-150.
  • Review service history for electrical system repairs on both.
  • Consider independent mechanic inspection before purchase.

Complaints by Model Year

Years available for both vehicles (lower is better).

Tesla Model YFORD F 150
2026
255
3
2025
85
294
2024
279
559
2023
1071
1396
2022
1624
3161
2021
3072
4782
2020
271
2530
Tesla Model Y vs FORD F 150 — comparison facts
Comparison
Tesla Model Y vs FORD F 150
Tesla Model Y total complaints
6,657
FORD F 150 total complaints
27,152
Tesla Model Y total recalls
94
FORD F 150 total recalls
135
Tesla Model Y avg complaints/year
951.0
FORD F 150 avg complaints/year
2715.2
More reliable overall
Tesla Model Y
Tesla Model Y top complaint area
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
FORD F 150 top complaint area
POWER TRAIN
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

Full Reliability Reports

Full Report →

Tesla Model Y Reliability & Problems

6,657 complaints · All years · NHTSA data

Full Report →

FORD F 150 Reliability & Problems

27,152 complaints · All years · NHTSA data

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