2023 Model 3 — Known Failures, Repairs & Fixes
Final pre-Highland; HW4 phase-in OK
Range272–358 mi
APHW3 or HW4
USSRemoved late '22
LightsMatrix LED
- 1 Cameras / Vision
- 2 Window regulator / door
- 3 Rear drive unit
What changed
- USS removed — Vision-only parking; HW4 phased in mid-2023.
- Matrix LED headlights. (North-American Highland refresh arrives for 2024.)
Known issues
- No USS frustrates many owners.
- Mixed HW3/HW4 inventory — verify by VIN.
Recalls
- Steering overvoltage recall (incl. certain 2023) — assist can feel heavy / momentary loss; service.
- Rearview-camera board-short recall touches some later cars — verify by VIN.
Repairs & fixes
- Heavy steering / loss of assist (overvoltage) Tesla service addresses the steering control electronics — confirm the campaign by VIN. Service
- Vision parking accuracy OTA refinements; optional aftermarket parking camera. DIY
- Drive-unit noise (with miles) Fluid change for early noise; DU repair/replacement if bearings are worn. Service
Verdict
OK — the 2021–2022 is usually a better deal unless you specifically want HW4.
References & further reading
- Model 3 recalls (cars.com) ↗
- NHTSA recall lookup — enter your VIN ↗
- pimpmyev: why Tesla removed ultrasonic sensors ↗
- EV Central: drive-unit noise explained ↗