The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is scrutinizing Tesla in response to 12 reports of steering issues in the 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The regulatory body initiated a preliminary evaluation (PE) in response to driver complaints stating either a complete lack of vehicle control or diminishing power steering.
Out of the total complaints received, five were related to drivers’ complete loss of control over steering, while seven were about compromised power steering leading to increased efforts to maneuver the car, according to the NHTSA. The body also stated that the PE aims to analyze the extent, regularity, production methods, and severity linked with these issues.
While there have been no reported injuries or deaths related to these instances as Electrek points out, one situation resulted in a collision or fire. Around 280,000 cars are encompassed by the investigation, which may lead to a vehicle recall. At the time, there is no dedicated communication department at Tesla available for any comments.
This isn’t the first time that Tesla’s safety practices have come under NHTSA’s radar. Earlier in March, the regulator launched a different inquiry following incidents of steering wheels detaching from Model Y cars while in transit. The carmaker also garnered attention from the Department of Justice (DOJ). In January, Tesla admitted to the DOJ’s request for documents concerning their Autopilot and Full Self-Driving functionalities.
In other developments, Tesla voluntarily recalled over 1,300 Model S, X, and Y vehicles manufactured this year due to camera misalignment last month. Tesla stated that this issue could render active safety features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist ineffective, without notifying drivers of their unavailability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tesla Steering Issues Investigation
What is the issue with Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y vehicles?
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received a dozen reports of steering issues with the 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The issues range from drivers being unable to steer their vehicles to a loss of power steering, making it difficult to control the car.
Who is investigating the steering issues in Tesla’s cars?
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating the steering issues in Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y vehicles from the 2023 model year.
Have there been any injuries or deaths reported due to these steering issues?
No deaths or injuries have been reported in connection with these steering issues. However, there was one incident that led to a crash or fire.
How many vehicles are included in the scope of the investigation?
Approximately 280,000 vehicles are included in the scope of the NHTSA investigation. This could potentially lead to a recall of these vehicles.
Has the Department of Justice also investigated Tesla?
Yes, earlier in the year, the Department of Justice requested documents from Tesla related to the company’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features.
Did Tesla recall any other models recently?
Yes, last month, Tesla voluntarily recalled more than 1,300 of their Model S, X, and Y vehicles manufactured this year due to misaligned cameras, which could compromise active safety features.
5 comments
Man, Tesla sure can’t catch a break with these regulators! seems like every other week, they’re in the news for some safety issue or another. do they need to get their act together or what?
This isn’t good for Tesla’s reputation. First the autopilot issues now this. As a big fan, this is disheartening. they need to prioritize safety over fancy features.
How much of this is actually Tesla’s fault, and how much of it is just other companies trying to slow them down. just asking.
280,000 cars might need a recall!! Thats huge. How they gonna manage that? Tesla needs to sort their production quality pronto.
I own a Model Y and never had a single issue. Love my Tesla! But steering problems sound serious, Hope they fix it ASAP!