Tesla has initiated an official “recall” with the NHTSA for 125,227 vehicles due to a defect in the seat belt reminder system. The affected vehicles include 2012-2024 Model S, 2021-2024 Model X, 2017-2024 Model 3, and 2019-2024 Model Y.
The defect, identified under NHTSA Recall No. 24V-376, was discovered during an internal compliance audit involving a 2024 Tesla Model X. The audit revealed that the seat belt reminder signals did not chime or display as required by FMVSS No. 208, S7.3(a)(1).
Specifically, the issue involves an open trace in the driver seat occupancy switch, which may result in the loss of audible and visual seat belt reminder signals when the driver’s seat belt is not fastened after the vehicle ignition is moved to the “on” or “start” position. This non-compliance with FMVSS No. 208 could increase the risk of injury in a collision.
From April 22, 2024, to May 14, 2024, Tesla conducted an investigation and performed tests to characterize and recreate the condition. By May 20, 2024, Tesla determined that a recall was necessary. The company identified 104 warranty claims potentially related to this defect but reported no collisions, fatalities, or injuries.
Affected vehicles will receive an over-the-air (OTA) software update at no cost to customers. This remedy will eliminate the dependency on the driver seat occupancy switch and rely solely on the driver seat belt buckle and ignition status to activate the seat belt reminder signals.
The software update is expected to begin deployment in June 2024. Owners of affected vehicles do not need to take further action if their vehicles receive the upcoming software release.
Tesla will notify all its stores and service centers about the recall on May 30, 2024, and plans to notify owners on July 27, 2024.