Summary
- Tesla is recalling over 239,000 electric vehicles due to potential rearview camera display failures
- Recall includes certain Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y vehicles from 2023-2025
- There is a defect in the circuit boards that could cause a loss of the rearview camera image
- Tesla is offering a free OTA software update to address the issue and will replace affected components for free
- While some recalls can be addressed through OTA updates, others may require hardware replacement, as seen in recent Model S and Model X airbag recalls.
Article
Tesla is recalling nearly 240,000 electric vehicles due to rearview camera display issues. The recall includes various Tesla models spanning from 2023 to 2025, with the potential for circuit boards to short out, leading to a loss of the rearview camera image. This poses a safety risk as a functioning rearview camera is required under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111. The NHTSA has identified the cause of the issue as reverse current on startup, resulting in a blank screen when shifting into reverse.
Despite the significant number of vehicles being recalled, Tesla estimates that only 2% of the affected vehicles actually have this defect. The automaker has reported warranty claims and field reports related to the issue but has confirmed that there have been no associated collisions, injuries, or fatalities. In response to the problem, Tesla has released a free over-the-air software update to address the issue. Additionally, the company will identify vehicles with circuit board failure or potential component stress that could lead to a failure and replace the affected computers in those vehicles at no cost.
Tesla plans to begin notifying affected vehicle owners in March 2025 and has provided a customer service contact number for any immediate concerns or inquiries. While some recall issues can be addressed through over-the-air updates that do not require a visit to a service center, certain recalls, such as a recent airbag issue with the Model S and Model X EVs, necessitate hardware replacements rather than software fixes. The automaker has also faced multiple recalls for its Cybertruck due to hardware issues, highlighting the importance of addressing potential safety concerns promptly.
The NHTSA has recently announced investigations into Tesla electric vehicles equipped with the Actually Smart Summon remote driving feature and the Full Self-Driving system. These investigations were prompted by reports of crashes and fatalities related to these systems, underscoring the ongoing regulatory scrutiny surrounding autonomous features in vehicles. These investigations serve as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety and reliability of emerging automotive technologies to prevent accidents and injuries.
Overall, Tesla’s recall of nearly 240,000 vehicles highlights the significance of addressing potential safety issues promptly and effectively. The company’s proactive approach in releasing over-the-air software updates and offering free replacements for affected components demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the safety of its vehicles and occupants. As new technologies continue to be integrated into vehicles, it is essential for automakers to prioritize safety and compliance with regulatory standards to mitigate risks and maintain consumer trust in the brand. Tesla’s handling of this recall serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive safety measures in the automotive industry.
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