Tesla is recalling nearly half a million vehicles in the United States over trunk and rear view camera issues that could increase the risk of an accident.
According to the reports, the recalled 475,000 Model 3 and Model S electric cars are from the 2014 through 2021 model years.
In the Model 3 sedans, the rear view camera cable harnesses can sustain damage as the driver opens or closes the trunk lid. Over time, this could prevent rear view camera images from displaying, increasing the risk of an accident. The firm identified at least 2,301 warranty claims and 601 reports of issues associated with the cameras in the United States prior to the recall.
Related: Tesla Recalls Latest Models: Airbags Can Tear Mid-Deployment
In recalled Model S vehicles, the front trunks may open due to latching problems, leading to the obstruction of the driver’s visibility. If this happens while the vehicle is in motion, it could lead to an accident.
So far, the company stated, it is not aware of any accidents or injuries associated with the issues that led to the recall.
Regulators Continue To Investigate Tesla Over Accident Risks
Tesla has long been under scrutiny of federal regulators.
Regulators with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigated Tesla for reportedly allowing car occupants to play games on car screens while the vehicles are in motion. In addition, regulators announced they were looking into sideview camera issues in some Tesla vehicles, which are not associated with the issues that led to this recall.
While Tesla agreed to remove the gaming features from the 580,000 vehicles that had been under federal scrutiny, the company has yet to address the federal agency’s ongoing probe into automaker’s driver assistance system Autopilot and the series of crashes allegedly associated with the technology.
As the firm works on this recall, Tesla car owners should remain alert. Respond to recall reports promptly and make sure to schedule a visit to a dealership as soon as possible if you receive a recall notice in the mail.
For more on this Tesla recall, follow this link.
