Tesla’s Huge Model 3 Recall: Not an Over-the-Air Fix
Tesla is never far from the news, and the world-leading EV outfit’s latest Model 3 recall is special for several reasons.First, it’s a recall that can’t be fixed over the air. Second, it’s not a defect caused at the factory level.So, why is Tesla recalling thousands of its Model 3 EVs, and will it affect you?
Tesla Model 3 Recall: Potentially Dangerous Seatbelts
Telsa’s report [PDF]to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that: “When the second-row left seat belt buckle and/or center seat belt anchor is not fastened to correct specifications, one or both components may be loose when pulled up and away from the second-row seat bench.”
In other words, the seat belts in the back seats of the Model 3 might not be anchored properly.
How Many Tesla Model 3 EVs Are Being Recalled?
This is not an assembly issue but rather a re-assembly issue.
It’s common to have to take apart components of a vehicle for service. If you’ve ever heard that a certain vehicle is a “nightmare to work on,” this is often why. For example, no technician wants to have to take out an engine to replace a sensor.
In the case of the Model 3, certain services require taking out the left seat belt buckle and center seat belt anchor. Because they share common parts and technicians may not have properly put everything back together, Tesla wants to ensure that the seat belts perform as intended.
This recall impacts around 24,000 Model 3 vehicles built since 2017.
How Did Tesla Find Out?
In its report to the NHTSA, Tesla states that from August 15 to September 30, 2022, it looked into repair orders (ROs) from its service centers. Automotive ROs are invoices generated by service customers, providing valuable data to manufacturers. If a vehicle has a lot of ROs for the same issue, it indicates there may be a widespread problem.
Analyzing the Model 3 ROs and corrective codes, Tesla discovered that 105 rear seat belt components in the US were not reassembled properly.
Tesla reported that they were unaware of any accidents, injuries, or deaths related to this issue.
A “Real” Recall
Unlike other recalls that Tesla has been able to fix withover-the-air (OTA) software updates, the nature of this problem will require Tesla owners have their vehicles physically examined.
In contrast,Tesla’s September 2022 window recallwas corrected via a software update.
Though technically a recall by the parlance of the NHTSA, Elon Musk expressed that the problem was more of an “update.” Musk expressed his feeling that the word “recall” was no longer appropriate for issues that can be addressed via OTAs:
Tesla Will Fix the Seat Buckles Free of Charge
The fix should be easy. Tesla owners will receive a letter informing them of the recall (along with the app telling them).
Tesla will, free of charge, examine the rear seat belts and, if necessary, fix them. In addition, customers who paid to have this condition fixed before will be reimbursed.
Unlike theToyota BZ4X EV recall, Tesla has not told owners to stop driving their vehicles until they are inspected. However, anyone who carries passengers in the back seats of their Model 3 should be aware of this recall and schedule service as soon as possible.
Tesla has updated how technicians will service these components, so this problem doesn’t reoccur in the future.
What the Recall Means for Tesla
While detractors will say that this is yet another recall, it’s prudent to remember that cars are becoming more like computers than ever before.
While many issues can be solved by OTA updates, there’s still a great need for skilled technicians who can repair physical components. Exploring avenues to minimize owner’s inconvenience, such as mobile service, will likely be part of the future of automotive repair operations.
GM has announced the recall of one of its flagship SUVs. But why?
These films will leave you questioning humanity, but also wanting more.
Anyone with more than a passing interest in motorsports must see these films.
Not all true crime is about hacking, slashing, and gore.
Windows is great, but adding this makes it unstoppable.
Revolutionize your driving experience with these game-changing CarPlay additions.
