NHTSA PROBES 1.2M TESLA VEHICLES FOR SUSPENSION DEFECT

The NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation opened the preliminary probe after receiving 156 complaints about suspension components detaching from the vehicles. According to the agency's filing, the failure could result in "a loss of vehicle directional control." The investigation encompasses Tesla Model 3 sedans from model years 2018 through 2020 and Model Y vehicles from 2021 through 2023. The specific issue involves detachment of suspension components, though the NHTSA's filing does not specify which parts are affected. Tesla has not yet issued a public statement regarding the investigation. The company typically works with regulators during such probes and may issue recalls if the NHTSA determines a defect exists. Preliminary investigations allow the NHTSA to examine whether a defect pattern exists before escalating to a formal investigation. The agency can request additional information from manufacturers and consumers during this phase. Suspension system failures represent a significant safety concern, as they directly impact a vehicle's ability to steer and maintain control. The involvement of two popular Tesla models—the Model 3 and Model Y—underscores the scale of the potential issue. The 156 complaints received by the NHTSA suggest the issue has affected multiple owners, though this represents a small fraction of the 1.2 million vehicles under review. The agency will likely examine warranty claims and service records to determine if complaints are more widespread than reported. This marks one of several safety investigations involving Tesla vehicles in recent years. The company has faced multiple NHTSA probes involving various systems, including battery fires, autopilot functionality, and steering issues. The preliminary investigation phase typically lasts several months. Depending on findings, the NHTSA may close the probe, expand it into a formal defects investigation, or recommend a recall.