Tesla voluntarily recalled 40,000 Model S and X units which are at risk of losing power steering when driven over rough roads, according to a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) dated November 1 (via CNBC).
The recall applies to Model S and X units with model years from 2017 to 2021, and Tesla is already deploying an over-the-air software update to fix the issue.
Only about one percent of the recalled vehicles had the defect, according to the press release, which was caused by an October update.
Tesla Walk-Away Door Lock, Autopilot Not Working in 2022.36.6 for Some Owners https://t.co/KFk5Yb58fS
— TeslaNorth.com (@RealTeslaNorth) November 7, 2022
The issue causes power steering to go out when drivers go over bumpy roads, potholes or other rough terrains, which the NHTSA says could make it difficult for drivers to control the electric vehicle’s (EV’s) steering.
“Reduced or lost power steering assist does not affect steering control, but could require greater steering effort from the driver, particularly at low speeds,” according to the NHTSA.
Tesla also voluntarily recalled 24,000 Model 3 units last month over a seat belt issue, which couldn’t be fixed by a software update and instead had to be inspected by the automaker’s service personnel.
EV startup Rivian also recalled some of its electric trucks and SUVs over a loss of power steering last month.
