Rolling out software updates to fix the glitch before this month, Tesla recalls 376,000 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles over power steering issues.
Tesla has recently issued a recall for around 376,000 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles from 2023 due to a potential issue with the power steering system.
According to reports, the problem lies in the circuit board controlling the electronic power steering, which may experience overstress, leading to a loss of steering assist when the vehicle comes to a stop. This recall affects cars running on older software versions before 2023.38.4.
The issue was first identified in July 2023 after the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an investigation into reports of power steering failures. The investigation was prompted by 12 complaints involving a sudden loss of power steering assist in Model 3 and Model Y vehicles.
Following further inquiries, Tesla determined that approximately 1 per cent of the recalled vehicles might be affected by this defect.
The glitch occurs when a vehicle comes to a stop and the steering system temporarily loses its assist. While drivers can still steer, it becomes significantly more difficult without the electronic assist.
In response, Tesla released an over-the-air software update in October 2023 to address the issue for affected vehicles. This update is being rolled out to cars still operating on older software.
No crashes or injuries have been reported due to the issue, although numerous warranty claims and field reports have been made. Tesla is expected to send out owner notification letters by March 25, 2025, to inform affected vehicle owners.
Additionally, regulatory bodies outside the US have also launched investigations into similar steering concerns, prompting Tesla to expand the recall to international markets.
