Earlier this month, Tesla Motors recalled more than 40,000 Model S and Model X vehicles in the United States. This is the 19th recall campaign reported by the company this year. Two problems are the main reasons for the recalls of the last month. So, why is Tesla recalling its cars? Are they really aware of these issues?
Tesla has proven its potential in the high-tech electric car industry. However, the company has been dealing with some problems related to its cars. The company has been aware of the issues since last month but did not immediately respond to Fox Business’ request for comment. The company has received some complaints from customers in foreign markets.
Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Tail Light Problem
Earlier this month, Tesla recalled 40,186 Model S and Model X vehicles due to an improper window. The automaker recalled nearly 30,000 Model X vehicles for a similar issue yesterday. This time, however, it was an issue with tail lights. It has been reported that taillights on these vehicles may turn off unexpectedly, but not brake lights.
The taillights of the Model 3 and Model Y vehicles can intermittently fail to illuminate. This can result in false fault detections during the vehicle’s wake-up process. However, the cars’ brake and turn signal lamps are not affected. Tesla said the cars should be taken to a dealer or service center to get the light fixed. According to the company, the taillights may have fallen off or may be leaking.
The issue is not the result of a manufacturing defect but rather a software glitch. It’s believed that the anomaly causes false fault detections during the wake-up process. It also may cause the front passenger airbag to deploy incorrectly, causing an accident. The company has received three warranty reports relating to the issue.
The company has not yet received any reports of accidents or injuries associated with the taillight issue. However, it has received three warranty reports on the problem. The company says that the problem is expected to be resolved with an over-the-air software update, but it has yet to be determined how long the process will take. The company is offering a four-year warranty on its vehicles. As part of the recall, owners will be offered free service to repair the vehicle.
Tesla Model X Airbag Problem
The other recall of the last month is related to front passenger airbags. The issue may cause the airbag to deploy incorrectly. This problem has been reported by three owners. It is expected to be fixed by an over-the-air software update, but customers who want to know more can contact Tesla customer service for more information. There have been no reports of accidents or injuries associated with this issue.
This recall was preceded by a similar issue with the Model S. The company recalled nearly 1.1 million vehicles in September. The issue is caused by a software glitch that prevents the vehicle’s restraint control module from properly calibrating. This calibration process can cause the airbag to deploy incorrectly.
Tesla’s hands-off approach to recall resolution is designed to expedite the process. While the company has received numerous complaints from customers outside the United States, there have been no reports of accidents or injuries associated.
The Most Common Tesla Problems
Tesla also recalled its cars for a defective trunk. According to the NHTSA, the problem is caused by an “unintended anomaly” that can lead to false fault detections during the vehicle’s wake-up process. This may also affect the rearview camera and could cause it to be rendered invisible.
The NHTSA found that some Teslas lacked federal safety standards for power windows and said the issue could increase the risk of collision. The agency also said the “Boombox” feature can drown out alert sounds and is, therefore, non-compliant with safety regulations.
Tesla said it hasn’t received reports of injuries related to the issue. But it filed a letter with the NHTSA and owners will receive it by November 15. The company said it was not aware of any crashes or deaths associated with the problem.
According to the NHTSA, the issue is caused by overheating in central information display screens. The problem may also affect rearview camera visibility.
Tesla will send out an over-the-air software update to address the issue. If you have a Model S, contact the company and have your vehicle fixed free of charge.