Tesla is recalling almost 500,000 vehicles, including certain years of its popular Model 3 and Model S sedans, over dangerous visibility issues that can increase the odds of an accident.
Key Points
- Tesla Inc. is recalling almost half a million units for trunks that may open while driving and damaged rearview cameras. Both issues can hamper the driver’s visibility and potentially cause a wreck.
- The latest recall for the compact Model 3 electric car concerns a rearview camera that may no longer function due to damage from opening and closing the rear trunk.
- Specific to the Tesla Model S, the hood may unexpectedly open while in motion and block the driver’s field of view.
- While shares fell by as much as three percent, by the end of the day they rebounded even higher than before.
Tesla Model 3s Recalled Over Rearview Camera Not Displaying Properly, Reducing Overall Visibility
Tesla is recalling more than 350,000 Model 3s from 2017 to 2020 over a rearview camera cable harness that, due to damage from repeated opening and closing of the trunk lid, can prevent the image from displaying properly.
As expected, this can increase the chances of an accident occurring due to a lack of visibility.
Tesla Model S Hoods May Open without Warning and Obstruct Driver’s View of the Road
Nearly 120,000 Tesla Model S units from 2014 to 2021 were also recalled after 2,301 warranty claims and 601 field reports came in showing a pattern of the vehicle’s hood opening while the car is in motion.
Like the rearview camera recall, this issue presents a serious hazard as the hood can obstruct the driver’s view of the road and possibly cause a crash.
Tesla’s Prompt Response to Recent Recalls Shows Why it’s the World’s Most Valuable Automaker
Tesla reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that it was unaware of any accidents, injuries, or fatalities stemming from the issue. After the announcement, stock prices of the Musk-led electric car giant dropped by as much as three percent but rebounded even higher than before later in the day to almost $1,089 per share. Overall, the companies prompt response is a clear indication as to why it’s known as the World’s Most Valuable Automaker, though, we still aren’t sure about the updated Model S not having a conventional steering wheel option to replace the new yoke design.
Photos: Tesla
