Palo Alto, CA – July 7, 2021 – Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) is recalling 5,974 cars that may lose tire pressure, increasing the risk of a crash. This recall includes the following vehicles:
- 2019 Tesla Model 3
- 2020 Tesla Model 3
- 2021 Tesla Model 3
- 2020 Tesla Model Y
- 2021 Tesla Model Y
The parts in question are a brake caliper and a fastener. Tesla did not provide corresponding part numbers.
Recall summary
The Tesla brake caliper is a part of the brake system, which helps the car slow down by clamping down on the wheels as the driver presses the brake. It is held in place by two bolts, called fasteners.
During production, the fasteners were not tightened down and may become loose. If bolts become loose enough, the brake caliper will detach from the wheel and come in contact with the inner rim surface.
This can lead to loss of tire pressure. The caliper may also jam the car wheel and stop it from rotating freely.
Warning signs
Owners may notice a metal-to-metal grinding noise that changes its pitch depending on the vehicle speed, similar to one that worn brake pads generate. This happens as a result of the contact between the caliper and rim.
Risks
Both low tire pressure and jammed wheels may make the car less stable and harder to maneuver and increase the risk of a crash.
Other Tesla recalls
Over 280,000 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles were recently recalled in China because of an autopilot problem that made it more likely that the car will unexpectedly change speeds.
The November 2020 Tesla Model Y recall because of a trailer brake light glitch included close to 3,000 cars.
The repair
To fix the issue, dealers will check the condition and tightness of brake caliper bolts on all four wheels. Bolts that are loose will be re-tightened, while those who are damaged will be replaced with new ones. The repair is free of charge. The date on which the notifications will be sent to owners is not yet released.
Is your vehicle a part of this recall?
This Tesla Model 3 recall includes almost 6,000 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. To see if your vehicle is one of them, use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.
