Tesla Recalls 20,349 Model 3 and Model Y Vehicles in U.S. Over Excessively Bright Low Beams

On August 10, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced that Tesla will recall 20,349 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles due to headlight brightness potentially exceeding regulatory limits. The recall affects Model 3 vehicles from model years 2017 through 2023 and Model Y vehicles from model years 2020 through 2023. Specifically, the recall includes 1,614 Model 3 vehicles produced between July 24, 2017, and December 2, 2023, and 18,735 Model Y vehicles produced between February 11, 2020, and December 24, 2023. The issue stems from low-beam headlamp assemblies manufactured on or after June 2, 2023, which emit light intensity in certain areas exceeding the maximum allowable limit specified under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108 (FMVSS 108). This could reduce visibility for oncoming drivers and increase the risk of a crash. In documents submitted to NHTSA, Tesla stated that production of the affected headlamp assemblies ceased by March 2024. Since July 9, 2020, Model 3 production has used low-beam headlights from another supplier that comply with FMVSS 108. For the Model Y, the Fremont factory began using compliant headlamp assemblies on December 4, 2022, and the Austin factory followed suit on August 7, 2023.