Tesla has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a safety ‘recall’ affecting certain 2021-2023 Model X vehicles.
The ‘recall’ is due to a failure in the vehicle controller to detect low brake fluid levels, violating Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135. The issue potentially affects 54,676 units and poses an increased risk of crashes.
The issue specifically targets the electrical system and the service brakes’ hydraulic brake fluid low warning switch, sensor, and float in the Model X vehicles produced between 2021 and 2023.
The vehicle controller in the affected Model X units may not detect low brake fluid levels, failing to display a warning light. This non-compliance with federal safety standards could lead to reduced braking performance and an elevated risk of accidents.
Without a warning light, drivers may unknowingly operate vehicles with low brake fluid, compromising braking efficiency. Tesla has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update to address the issue, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be sent out starting December 12, 2023. Tesla’s number for this recall is SB-23-00-005.
Tesla is required to submit a draft owner notification letter to the NHTSA at least five days before mailing it to customers. All related communications must also be submitted to the NHTSA within five days of their original dispatch.
