Tesla Faces Safety Probe Over Door Handle Malfunctions
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a formal investigation into potential safety defects affecting approximately 174,000 Tesla Model Y vehicles from the 2021 model year. The probe focuses on electronic door handles that may fail to operate properly during low battery voltage situations.
Safety Concerns and Incident Reports
According to the regulatory agency, nine formal complaints have been filed regarding electronic door handles that become inoperative when the vehicle's 12-volt battery experiences low voltage. "In four documented cases, parents had to break windows to rescue children trapped inside the vehicles," an NHTSA spokesperson stated.
The investigation reveals that despite Tesla installing manual door releases as a backup system, the NHTSA considers these mechanisms potentially dangerous for children who may not know how to operate them or cannot reach them physically.
Warning System Failure
A significant concern identified by regulators is the apparent lack of warning notifications to drivers when battery voltage drops to levels that could compromise door operation. Vehicle owners reported receiving no alerts about low battery conditions that could lead to door handle failures.
The investigation currently focuses on exterior electronic door handle mechanisms, but the NHTSA has indicated it will expand its scrutiny if additional reports emerge of occupants becoming trapped inside vehicles.
Broader Safety Context
This investigation follows a recent Bloomberg report that highlighted concerns about Tesla's door safety systems, particularly in emergency situations. The publication documented cases where Tesla drivers involved in accidents were unable to open doors, sometimes with fatal consequences.
Tesla, led by CEO Elon Musk, has faced increasing regulatory scrutiny as its vehicles have become among the world's best-selling electric cars. The Model Y specifically achieved the distinction of becoming the world's best-selling vehicle in 2023, surpassing traditional gasoline-powered models.
The NHTSA investigation represents the latest challenge for Tesla as it balances innovation with safety compliance in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.