Tesla Recalls 120,423 Vehicles Due to Doors That Can Be Unlocked During a Crash
After recalling over 2 million vehicles due to Autosteer control issues, Tesla is facing another safety recall. This time, the recall affects 120,423 Model S and Model X vehicles from the 2021 to 2023 model years. According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the doors of these vehicles can be unlocked during a crash, which violates Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214 for side impact protection.
However, there is some good news for owners of Tesla vehicles. The remedy for this recall does not require any hardware changes or replacement parts. Instead, Tesla has developed a software update that will prevent the doors from unlocking during a crash. Owners who have downloaded software release 2023.44.30 or later versions need not worry, as these versions already contain the necessary remedy software.
The issue with the doors was discovered during a validation test on December 6. An employee observed a door unlatch after a side-impact test, prompting Tesla Engineering to investigate further. It was determined that the lockout functionality was mistakenly excluded from software releases starting with version 2021.36, which began deploying in September 2021. This means that Tesla failed to identify the noncompliance condition for over two years.
Tesla notified its stores and service centers about the issue on December 21, and the deployment of software release 2023.44.30 started on December 12. This over-the-air update will fix the problem for owners who have access to the internet. For those who don’t, Tesla will send out notifications via first-class mail by February 17.
It’s worth noting that Tesla’s Model S and Model X have been in production since 2012 and continue to be manufactured at the Fremont assembly plant in California. The base price for the Model S is currently $74,990, while the performance version, known as the Plaid, starts at $89,990. The Model X, Tesla’s SUV, is available from $79,990.
Despite this recall, Tesla’s vehicles still offer impressive performance. Even the dual-motor Model S can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, while the Plaid version achieves an astonishing 1.99 seconds. These figures make both versions a formidable presence on the road.
Teslas have gained popularity for their cutting-edge technology and innovative features. However, this recent recall serves as a reminder that even the most advanced vehicles can have their flaws. The importance of rigorous testing and continuous improvement cannot be overstated in the automotive industry.
In conclusion, Tesla is recalling 120,423 Model S and Model X vehicles due to doors that can be unlocked during a crash. The company has developed a software update to address the issue and is deploying it via over-the-air updates. Owners are encouraged to download the latest software release as soon as possible to ensure their safety. Tesla’s commitment to resolving safety concerns demonstrates its dedication to providing the best possible experience for its customers.
