On July 30, 2024, Tesla announced a significant recall affecting nearly two million of its Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y vehicles in the USA. This recall addresses a software malfunction that risks hood latch detection, potentially causing the hoods to pop open unexpectedly.

Details of the Recall

Tesla is recalling approximately 1.85 million vehicles in America, specifically the Model 3, Model S, and Model X from 2021–2024, and the Model Y from 2020–2024. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified a problem where the vehicle hoods could suddenly open, obstructing the driver’s view and posing a significant road hazard.

Origins of the Issue

The faulty hood latches, manufactured by the Chinese company Magna Closures Co Ltd, were first flagged in March following customer complaints. Although only three incidents were reported in the U.S., Tesla took immediate action, rolling out a software update in June to alert drivers if the hood is unlatched.

Previous Recalls in 2024

This recall is not Tesla’s first in 2024. In February, over two million Cybertrucks were recalled due to rearview camera issues. This was followed by recalls in April for 3,878 vehicles with faulty seat belts and 11,000 more in June for rear seat latch problems.

Impact and Company Response

Fortunately, no crashes or injuries have been reported in connection with the latest recall. However, this is Tesla’s most extensive recall since December 2023, which affected nearly all vehicles due to issues with the Autopilot system. These recalls come at a challenging time for Tesla, as the company reports its lowest profit margins in over five years amid slowing demand and attempts to boost sales.

Conclusion

Tesla’s proactive approach in addressing the hood latch software failure reflects its commitment to safety, despite the ongoing challenges. The recall serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent quality controls and swift response to potential safety hazards.