Tesla has undergone a spate of negative press in the last few months. Tesla’s autopilot feature has been blamed in at least two fatal car crashes on US roads. Meanwhile, Tesla’s Model 3 is reported to have manufacturing problems that have delayed its much anticipated rollout. Now Tesla has announced a voluntary recall of 123,000 Model S vehicles for defective components in the power steering function. The notice affects a significant number of Tesla’s fleet- almost half of all the vehicles manufactured by the company are subject to the recall.
Tesla issued an email to inform customers that it was aware of instances of “excessive corrosion” in the power steering bolts of affected Model S cars manufactured before April, 2016. The bolts may shatter or fail completely. If the bolts malfunction, the driver would have to apply increased force to steer the car. Tesla reported that this defect does not affect driving at high speeds but might alter performance at slower speeds or while parking the vehicle. Tesla acknowledged the possibility that a total failure could lead to a breakdown of power assistance. As of now, the issue has been observed only in extremely cold climates where the roads are frequently salted. Nevertheless, the company is recalling Model S cars in all regions of the country in case the car is subsequently driven in extreme climates. There have been no injuries or deaths reported in connection with this defect.
The current recall is the third time that the Model S has been recalled. Tesla differentiates this recall from others since it contends that the defective part was manufactured by a third party. Just last year, in April, 2017, Tesla also recalled 53,000 Model S and Model X cars due to a defect that hampered the parking brake. The recall affected cars manufactured between February and October, 2016. The company offered to replace the malfunctioning small gear that could prevent release of the parking brake. The company said no injuries or deaths were reported from this defect.
If you or a member of your family suffered injury or death as a result of negligence or a defective automobile, contact the attorneys Alexander Law Group, LLP. Our exceptional personal injury lawyers will answer your questions and get you the maximum compensation that is possible. Call 888.777.1776 or contact us online.
