Tesla is facing a significant recall, affecting nearly two million vehicles across the United States.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced on Tuesday that the recall is due to a potential software issue that might prevent the detection of an unlatched hood. If a hood isn’t properly secured, it could open up while driving, blocking the driver’s view and increasing the risk of an accident. To address this, Tesla has issued an over-the-air software update.
Despite recent headlines where Elon Musk has been vocal about the US presidential election on social media, he hasn’t commented on this recall.
This isn’t Tesla’s first recall this year; in December 2023, the company had to recall several vehicles due to concerns about its autopilot technology.
Moreover, between January and April 2024, there were 20 more Tesla-related crashes that prompted further investigations.
The recall isn’t limited to just one model.
It affects several, including the 2021-2024 Model 3, Model S, and Model X, as well as the 2020-2024 Model Y. Tesla has committed to replacing the faulty wiper motors free of charge. Owners will be informed by mail starting August 18.
The problems for Tesla don’t stop there. The Cybertruck, which debuted on November 30, has been recalled four times since its release. According to NHTSA documents from June, each recall involves over 11,000 trucks.
The issue lies with the front windshield wiper motor controller, which can malfunction due to excessive electrical current.
A faulty wiper could reduce visibility and raise the risk of accidents. Tesla has stated there are no known crashes or injuries related to this issue.
Customer Complaints and Quality Issues
In April, Cybertruck owner Jeremy Junkins voiced numerous complaints about his new vehicle on social media.
His frustrations highlight some common issues reported by others, including concerns about the vehicle’s social impact—Junkins suggested it might not be suitable for those with social anxiety due to the attention it attracts.
Additional criticisms have come from other Cybertruck owners who note problems like the stainless steel coating attracting fingerprints and potential rusting, despite assurances from a Tesla engineer.
Gaps between panels have also been a point of contention, with some attributing this to the truck’s stainless steel construction.
Unexpected Failures and Workforce Reduction
The Cybertruck hasn’t had the smoothest ride.
Entrepreneur Thomas Remo shared a video showing his new truck breaking down shortly after he drove it off the lot, with multiple failures on his first day.
Tesla’s challenges this year also include significant workforce reductions. In mid-April, Musk announced the layoff of 14,000 employees, affecting teams essential to the engineering of Tesla’s electric vehicles.
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