NHTSA opens probe into 1.2 million Teslas

The US traffic safety authority NHTSA has launched a preliminary investigation into around 1.2 million Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. Earlier model years may have suspension defects that could lead to a loss of steering control.

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into around 1.2 million Tesla Model 3 vehicles from the 2018–2020 model years and Model Y vehicles from the 2021–2023 model years. The probe follows 156 owner complaints alleging that the front lower lateral link can detach unexpectedly while driving.

Such a defect can severely impair steering and directional stability, posing a significant safety risk to occupants and other road users. The front lower lateral link is a key suspension component that connects the steering knuckle to the vehicle’s subframe. It absorbs lateral forces during cornering, helps maintain suspension geometry and keeps the wheel correctly aligned.

According to the NHTSA, the failure typically occurs without warning. Although some owners reported unusual noises beforehand, most incidents were not preceded by visual warning messages in the vehicle. In many cases, the failure left the vehicle undriveable and required it to be towed.

The NHTSA said it has not received any reports of crashes, injuries or fatalities related to the issue. However, its Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is examining the complaints to determine the scope of the problem and identify the underlying technical cause.

Tesla has previously recalled vehicles over issues involving the lower lateral link. In 2021, the company recalled around 2,800 vehicles, followed by a further recall of 422 Model 3 cars in 2023. According to the NHTSA, however, the complaints under the current investigation appear to extend beyond the scope of those earlier recalls and may point to a different technical cause.

The preliminary evaluation marks the first stage of the NHTSA’s defect investigation process. If the agency concludes that the issue is caused by a safety-related design or material defect, the investigation could lead to a formal recall affecting a much larger number of vehicles.