Tesla recalls 375,000 vehicles over power steering issues

The company has issued a recall for some of its Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV models.

Two of Tesla’s most popular models have been recalled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The company has issued a recall for some of its Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV models. Over 375,000 vehicles could be affected. A total of 376,241 units, corresponding to the 2023 model year, were manufactured between February and October 2023, according to the recall notice.

The recall is due to issues with power steering after a complete stop and problems with seat belts in the Model Y SUV. According to a statement shared by Tesla, it is believed that the issue only affects vehicles with software versions prior to 2023.38.4.

NHTSA recalls Tesla models for loss of power steering

NHTSA reported that more than 50 vehicles were towed after users reported difficulties turning the steering wheel. This recall follows an investigation by NHTSA that lasted more than a year, which began after the first cases came to light.

According to NHTSA, vehicles that may have this issue would experience a “forced overexertion situation,” causing the loss of power steering when the vehicle stopped and then accelerated, increasing the likelihood of a road accident. The company adds that users would also see the following warning: “Reduced steering assist. Steering may require more effort.“

Tesla has already released a software update that fixes the issue for free. According to the notice, the company will notify affected owners of the recall starting at the end of March.

Tesla criticizes NHTSA for requiring the reporting of accident data related to autonomous driving technology

It was recently revealed that Elon Musk’s cost-cutting team has eliminated jobs at the vehicle safety agency that oversees Tesla and its investigations into fatal accidents involving its cars. NHTSA has cut a “modest” number of positions, according to a statement.

Additionally, Musk has accused NHTSA of slowing down the progress of autonomous driving technology with its investigations and recalls, stemming from the agency’s requirement for Tesla and other automakers with autonomous driving technology to report vehicle accident data, a requirement Tesla has criticized.

For the vehicles affected by this recall, owners can contact Tesla’s customer service at 1-877-798-3752 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.