NHTSA Closes Investigation into Tesla Suspension Concerns, Recommends Expanded Recall
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has closed its investigation into potential front suspension failures in nearly 75,000 Tesla vehicles, concluding that while the issue exists, it did not result in any reported instances of vehicle control loss. However, NHTSA has recommended that Tesla expand its 2017 consumer satisfaction bulletin to encompass all vehicles with the potentially faulty fore links, raising concerns that the original bulletin was inadequate in addressing the safety issue.
Key Takeaways:
- NHTSA closed its investigation into potential front suspension failures in Tesla Model S and X vehicles. While the investigation found no cases of loss of vehicle control due to the fore link failures, it acknowledges the issue’s existence and potential for further damage to other vehicle components.
- NHTSA recommends Tesla expands its 2017 recall bulletin to cover all vehicles with the potentially faulty fore links. The regulator found that the initial bulletin failed to address 75% of the fore link failures identified during the investigation, raising concerns about its effectiveness in addressing the safety issue.
- The investigation involved 74,918 Tesla vehicles, primarily Model S sedans from model years 2015-2017 and Model X SUVs from model years 2016-2017. These vehicles were under investigation based on 43 complaints alleging faulty fore links.
- The closure of the investigation does not mean that a safety-related defect is not present within these vehicles. NHTSA emphasized that it will continue to monitor the situation and take action if necessary.
The Investigation and its Findings
The NHTSA opened its preliminary investigation in November 2020 after receiving 43 complaints about potential front suspension fore link failures in certain model year Tesla Model S and X vehicles. These components are crucial for maintaining vehicle stability and steering control.
The investigation’s primary concern was the possibility of fore link failure leading to a loss of vehicle control, posing a significant safety risk. However, after a thorough investigation, NHTSA concluded that, despite the identified fore link failures, no cases of vehicle control loss had been reported.
Despite this finding, the investigation determined that driving with failed fore links could potentially cause further damage to other vehicle components, highlighting the potential for secondary safety concerns.
NHTSA’s Recommendation and Potential for Action
While closing the investigation, NHTSA expressed its strong recommendation that Tesla expand its 2017 consumer satisfaction bulletin to encompass all vehicles equipped with the potentially faulty fore links. This recommendation stems from the investigation’s finding that the original bulletin failed to address a considerable portion of the reported fore link failures.
The regulator emphasized that the closure of the investigation does not absolve Tesla of its responsibility to address the safety concerns raised. NHTSA indicated its willingness to take further action if required, ensuring that the safety of these vehicles is adequately addressed.
Tesla’s Response and Potential for Future Action
Tesla has yet to officially respond to NHTSA’s recommendation to expand its recall bulletin. The company’s past actions in relation to safety concerns, including its initial handling of the 2017 consumer satisfaction bulletin and its ongoing engagement with regulatory bodies, will likely be scrutinized alongside its response to this latest recommendation.
This situation underscores the importance of comprehensive and effective safety measures for all vehicles, particularly those incorporating complex technologies like electric vehicles (EVs). The outcome of Tesla’s response to NHTSA’s recommendation, and any potential subsequent action taken by the regulator, will be closely watched as a case study for addressing emerging safety concerns in the evolving automotive landscape.
Implications for the Future of Electric Vehicles
This situation serves as a reminder that the rapid growth of the EV industry necessitates a robust approach to safety regulations and consumer protection. As more EVs hit the roads, ensuring their safety and reliability becomes paramount.
This incident highlights the critical role of regulatory bodies like NHTSA in ensuring the safety of vehicles, both traditional and electric. The investigation and its outcome demonstrate that robust regulatory oversight is crucial for identifying and addressing potential safety issues in emerging technologies.
The future of the EV sector relies on building trust among consumers and ensuring that safety remains a top priority. This case is likely to influence how similar safety concerns are addressed in the future, potentially leading to stricter regulations and more proactive measures by manufacturers.
