US Regulators Probe Tesla for Steering Issues in Model 3 and Model Y Vehicles
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is currently conducting an investigation into Tesla after receiving twelve reports regarding steering problems in the 2023 model year Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. In response to drivers’ complaints of either being unable to steer their vehicles or experiencing a loss of power steering, the agency has initiated a preliminary evaluation (PE).
“Five reports indicate an inability to control the vehicle. An additional seven reports indicate a loss of power steering, which resulted in increased efforts to control the vehicle,” NHTSA said. “The PE has been opened to assess the extent, frequency, manufacturing processes and severity of this condition.”
According to Electrek, no deaths or injuries were reported in those incidents, but one resulted in a crash or fire. About 280,000 vehicles are under investigation, which could lead to a recall. Tesla did not have a communications department that could be reached for comment.
This is hardly the first time NHTSA has investigated Tesla’s safety issues. In March, the agency launched a separate investigation into reports of wheels falling off while Model Y vehicles were on the road. The company has also attracted the attention of the Ministry of Justice. In January, Tesla confirmed that the DOJ requested documents related to Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features.
Meanwhile, last month Tesla voluntarily recalled more than 1,300 Model S, X and Y vehicles it built this year because of misaligned cameras. The company said the problem “may cause certain active safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist, to be unavailable without warning the driver of their absence.”
