While Tesla is no stranger to issuing recalls, almost every recall over the last two years required nothing more than a software update. However, this week, Tesla confirmed a physical recall on nearly 24,000 Model 3 vehicles between 2017 and 2022 due to a seat belt issue.
For those keeping track, this is the second actual physical fix in 2022, following the Model Y bumper problem over the summer. This week, Reuters confirmed that Tesla had shared details on a situation involving nearly 24,000 Model 3 vehicles and repair jobs that weren’t up to Tesla’s standards.
According to Tesla and the NHTSA, following vehicle servicing, the second-row left seat belt buckle and center seat belt anchor may be loose. Here’s what the company had to say about the voluntary recall:
“Servicing certain components in Model 3 vehicles requires disassembly of the second-row left seat belt buckle and center seat belt anchor, both of which are fastened with the same bolt. Both components may have been incorrectly reassembled after disassembly during a service action.”
However, it’s important to remember that while Tesla added over 24,000 vehicles to the voluntary recall, the company states that as of October, only 105 service repairs, including warranty claims, were or might be related to the recall issue.This means that only a select number of vehicles could be at risk, even though Tesla confirmed no crashes or injuries were reported due to the problem.
Thankfully, the fix is pretty easy, although it’ll take more than accepting a software update on your car. Tesla service centers will inspect and re-fasten the bolts and components, and you’re all set, free of charge.
If you have a 2017-2022 Tesla Model 3 serviced or repaired lately, you’ll want to reach out to your dealer for this recall.
via Reuters
