NHTSA to Investigate Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Steering Issues
Wednesday, August 2nd, 2023 AutoThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced on Tuesday that they have initiated an investigation into potential steering control and power steering problems in Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles in the United States.
This investigation comes in response to a series of complaints from owners of 2023 Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, totaling twelve reported cases. The NHTSA has taken the first step by opening a preliminary evaluation to assess whether the reported issues pose an unreasonable safety risk to drivers and passengers. For a recall to be mandated, the NHTSA would need to elevate the probe to an engineering analysis phase.
Approximately 280,000 vehicles in the U.S. could be impacted, according to the NHTSA’s estimation. As the agency delves deeper into the matter, they will determine if further action is necessary. Typically, such investigations prompt automakers to examine potential manufacturing or design defects, often leading to voluntary recalls to address identified issues.
To aid in their assessment, the NHTSA encourages drivers to report any relevant complaints by phone or through an online portal. Combining these complaints with other pertinent data helps the agency gauge when further investigations are warranted.
It’s worth noting that both the basic Model 3 and the Model Y are significant offerings in Tesla’s lineup. The Model Y, in particular, achieved an impressive milestone, becoming the best-selling car worldwide in the first quarter of 2023.
