The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a preliminary investigation into approximately 1.2 million Tesla vehicles. The probe centers on reports that the front suspension lower lateral link could detach from the subframe. {source_ref:1, 2}
The investigation includes Tesla Model 3 vehicles from model years 2018-2020 and Tesla Model Y vehicles from model years 2021-2023. Potential failures of this part could affect steering control and cause vehicle instability. {source_ref:3, 4}
Complaints indicate that the front lower lateral link detached during driving, often without prior warning or unusual sounds, although some owners reported unusual noises from the suspension area. Vehicles involved in these incidents were often unable to move and required towing. {source_ref:6, 7}
Previous Recalls and Scope
Tesla recalled 2,822 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles in 2021 due to a linkage issue where fasteners may not have reached correct torque during production. A second recall was issued in 2023 for 422 Model 3 vehicles from model years 2018 and 2019. {source_ref:8, 9}
Initial assessments suggest current complaints do not appear directly related to the manufacturing issues addressed in those two previous recalls. The current investigation involves 1.2 million vehicles, a significant discrepancy from the 3,244 vehicles covered in the earlier recalls. {source_ref:10}
The current process is a preliminary investigation and does not necessarily mean a safety defect has been confirmed or that 1.2 million vehicles will be recalled. Tesla has not made a public statement regarding the investigation in its initial stage. {source_ref:11, 12}