NHTSA Launches Probe into 1.2 Million Teslas Over Suspension Failures Linked to Loss of Control

On July 31, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced it has opened a preliminary investigation into approximately 1.2 million Tesla vehicles, covering Model 3s from model years 2018 to 2020 and Model Ys from 2021 to 2023. The probe stems from 156 consumer complaints alleging that the front suspension’s lower transverse link could suddenly detach, resulting in loss of steering control and rendering the vehicle undrivable—requiring towing. Most complainants reported no prior warning signs, though some noted unusual noises beforehand. To date, no crashes or injuries linked to this issue have been identified. This investigation is in the initial stage of NHTSA’s defect inquiry process; if a safety-related defect is confirmed, Tesla could be required to conduct a recall. Tesla previously issued recalls for similar issues in 2021 and 2023, affecting about 2,800 and 422 Model 3 vehicles, respectively. However, NHTSA stated that the newly reported problem falls outside the scope of those earlier recalls and does not appear to stem from the same manufacturing defects. The agency will assess the potential defect’s root cause, scope, and severity. Additionally, data shows Tesla initiated three separate recalls in the second quarter of 2024, totaling approximately 234,000 vehicles, ranking seventh among automakers by recall volume.