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NHTSA investigates Tesla over risk of suspension failure
Preliminary evaluation involves an estimated 1.2 million vehicles
The evaluation includes Model 3 sedans from the 2018 to 2020 model years and Model Y SUVs from 2021 to 2023. (Toru Hanai/Bloomberg News)
Key Takeaways:
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened a preliminary investigation July 31 into suspension failures reported in Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles.
- The probe covers about 1.2 million vehicles after 156 reports of issues that could cause loss of directional control, though no injuries or deaths were reported.
- NHTSA will evaluate the complaints as Tesla said it did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
U.S. auto safety regulators opened an investigation into Tesla Inc.’s most popular models after a series of complaints by drivers over the sudden failure of suspension in their vehicles.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received 156 reports of apparent suspension issues in Teslas, which “potentially causes a loss of vehicle directional control,” according to documents posted to the agency’s website July 31.
The so-called preliminary evaluation involves an estimated 1.2 million vehicles, including Model 3 sedans from the 2018 to 2020 model years and Model Y SUVs from 2021 to 2023.
Drivers in the cited incidents said there was typically no advance warning before the suspension failure, though some reported hearing unusual noises. None of the cases involved injuries or deaths, NHTSA said.
Tesla didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
