Tesla is recalling 20,349 vehicles in the United States because the low-beam headlights may be excessively bright, according to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The recall covers certain Tesla Model 3 vehicles produced between 2017 and 2023, and certain Tesla Model Y vehicles produced between 2020 and 2023. The affected group includes 18,735 Model Y vehicles and 1,614 Model 3 vehicles.
Maximum headlight brightness measured in testing, compared to the 125 candela specification.
The NHTSA announced the recall after finding that the low-beam headlights could exceed legal brightness limits. This glare could enter the eyes of oncoming drivers and increase the risk of a crash.
Testing showed the headlights measured up to 230.1 candela, while the specification lists a maximum of 125 candela. The affected parts, which include headlamp assembly 1077371-98-L and 1077372-00-L supplied by Marelli Automotive Lighting, were primarily included on cars manufactured before June 2, 2023, with an additional 432 vehicles using them through May 3, 2024.
In 2023, a Canadian lab found the headlights to be out of spec during routine testing, a finding that Tesla confirmed. While there have been three warranty claims and one field report related to the brightness issue, Tesla initially petitioned the NHTSA to avoid a full recall of all noncompliant vehicles, arguing the headlights had not been responsible for accidents or injuries. That petition was denied by the NHTSA in July.
Resolution and next steps
Tesla and the NHTSA are still working on a technical plan to resolve the issue, and the remedy has not yet been finalized. While it is not yet clear if the solution will be a software update or a physical service intervention, the recall appears to require a physical fix.
Tesla sales locations were notified of the recall last week, and owners will receive notifications in the mail by September 15.
In July, the NHTSA opened a separate preliminary investigation into approximately 1.2 million Tesla vehicles following reports of potential suspension failure that could lead to loss of steering control.
