Tesla suspension investigation covers nearly 1.2 million Model 3 and Model Y vehicles after reports of suspension failures that could affect steering control.
WASHINGTON: The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a preliminary investigation into approximately 1.2 million Tesla vehicles following reports of suspension failures that could result in a loss of steering control.
The investigation is being conducted by the agency’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) after receiving 156 consumer complaints involving certain 2018–2020 Tesla Model 3 and 2021–2023 Tesla Model Y vehicles.
According to the NHTSA, the complaints allege that the front lower lateral link in the suspension system detached unexpectedly, potentially leaving the vehicle undriveable and requiring it to be towed.
The agency said most owners reported no warning signs before the suspension failure occurred, although some drivers said they noticed unusual noises shortly before the problem developed.
Officials added that they are not aware of any crashes, injuries, or fatalities linked to the reported defect at this stage.
Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the investigation.
The NHTSA said the preliminary evaluation is the first step in its defect investigation process. If regulators determine that the issue poses a safety risk, the investigation could lead to a vehicle recall.
Tesla has previously recalled vehicles over similar suspension problems. In 2021, the company recalled around 2,800 Model 3 vehicles due to a manufacturing issue involving the lower lateral link, while another 2023 recall affected 422 Model 3 vehicles for related suspension failures.
However, the NHTSA said the complaints under the current investigation appear to extend beyond those earlier recalls and may involve a different underlying issue. The agency will examine the cause, scope, and severity of the reported defect.
The latest probe adds to Tesla’s growing regulatory scrutiny. According to recall management firm BizzyCar, the electric vehicle manufacturer ranked seventh in recall volume during the second quarter after issuing three recalls affecting about 234,000 vehicles.
