Tesla is recalling nearly 700,000 vehicles across the United States due to issues with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which may fail to adequately alert drivers of low tire pressure. The recall encompasses approximately 694,304 units, including certain 2024 Cybertruck models, as well as 2017-2025 Model 3 and 2020-2025 Model Y vehicles.
The problem at hand stems from the TPMS warning light possibly not illuminating consistently between drive cycles. This failure could leave drivers unconsciously operating their vehicles with improperly inflated tires, heightening the risk of crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), “Driving with improperly inflated tires can increase the risk of crash.”
This significant recall adds to the already notable figures associated with Tesla, which accounted for 21% of all U.S. recalls during the first three quarters of 2024, as reported by the recall management firm BizzyCar. Notably, Tesla’s most recent vehicles will benefit from the company’s trend of resolving most recall issues through over-the-air (OTA) software updates. This approach eliminates the need for customers to visit service centers for fixes.
The issue was first identified on November 6, 2024, during routine compliance testing. The underlying cause related to software bugs linked to Tesla's update 2024.38.3. This update inadvertently caused the TPMS malfunction warning indicator to reset when the vehicle was turned off or placed in sleep mode.
Tesla confirmed it initiated investigations following the identification of the defect and completed its engineering analysis by December 10, 2024. Although no injuries or fatalities have been reported due to this problem, the investigation revealed 76 warranty claims and one field report connected to the TPMS malfunction.
To mitigate the issue, Tesla started rolling out the OTA software update on November 12, 2024. This update ensures compliance with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 138, which requires the TPMS warning to persist across driving cycles until the malfunction is resolved. This initiative signifies Tesla's commitment to maintaining transparency and safety within its vehicle operations.
Affected owners will receive notification letters by February 15, 2025, informing them of the recall's details and the steps they need to take, if any, beyond merely ensuring their vehicle's software version is up to date. Tesla has indicated clearly, “No additional action is required for vehicles equipped with software versions 2024.38.7 or later, or FSD (Full Self-Driving) supervised versions 12.5.6.4, 13.1, or later.”
This recall also highlights the introduction of the Cybertruck to the market, which itself has faced multiple recalls this year, including one for 2,400 units due to unrelated concerns. Tesla's pursuit to innovate within the electric vehicle industry has, at times, been marred by its history of recalls, casting shadows on its brand reputation. According to reports, after the announcement of this recall, Tesla's market value saw significant fluctuations, declining by over $188.9 billion.
While recalls within the automotive industry are not uncommon, Tesla's unique strategy of offering OTA updates contrasts with traditional practices, potentially altering consumer perceptions as they embrace technology. Customers familiar with other manufacturers who typically require physical repairs at service locations may find Tesla’s model more appealing, prioritizing convenience and immediacy.
Overall, Tesla aims to navigate these challenges by emphasizing its commitment to safety and efficiency, with its vehicles becoming reliant on sophisticated software management systems capable of addressing safety concerns remotely. This substantial recall reinforces the importance of vigilance around vehicle safety technology, emphasizing how necessary it is for consumers to stay updated on their vehicle's software to maintain highway safety.
