Tesla, the electric carmaker founded by Elon Musk, has issued a recall for nearly 2.2 million cars in the United States due to small font brake warning lights. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) uncovered this issue during a routine audit earlier this month. The font size of the warning lights on the instrument panel was found to be too small, making it difficult for drivers to read critical safety information and increasing the risk of a crash.
The recall affects almost every Tesla vehicle sold in the US and is free for drivers. Although no accidents have been associated with this problem, the NHTSA emphasized the importance of clear and legible warning lights to ensure driver safety. Tesla has already issued a software update to address this issue.
This is not the first time Tesla has faced scrutiny from regulators. The company has been under increasing pressure as its production has surged in recent years, resulting in more Tesla cars on the road. In China, Tesla recalled over 1.6 million vehicles earlier this month due to steering software and door-locking system issues. In the US, around 2 million cars were recalled in December 2022 related to autopilot features.
Furthermore, the NHTSA has also announced that it is stepping up its investigation into alleged power steering issues in Tesla’s 2023 Model 3 sedans and Y SUVs. Thousands of complaints have been received regarding a loss of steering control, and one accident has been linked to this issue. The NHTSA will now conduct an engineering analysis, which could potentially lead to a recall.
Tesla has been known for its ability to address issues through remote software updates, unlike traditional recalls that require drivers to bring their cars to dealerships. However, this approach has drawn criticism from Elon Musk himself, who argued that using the term “recall” for an over-the-air software update is outdated and incorrect.
Despite these challenges, Tesla continues to be a leading player in the electric car industry. The company’s innovative technology and commitment to sustainability have garnered a strong following of loyal customers. As Tesla works to address these safety concerns and improve its vehicles, it remains to be seen how these recalls and investigations will impact the company’s reputation and future growth.
In conclusion, Tesla has issued a recall for nearly 2.2 million cars in the US due to small font brake warning lights. This comes as the latest challenge for the electric carmaker, which has faced increasing scrutiny from regulators regarding various safety issues. While Tesla has been able to address some of these issues through remote software updates, the company’s approach has drawn criticism. As Tesla navigates these challenges, its commitment to safety and innovation will be crucial in maintaining its position as a leader in the electric car industry.