Tesla Issues Software Update to Fix Backup Cam Problem in Model S, X, and Y
A software update has been deployed by Tesla to address a backup camera issue in several Model S, X, and Y vehicles, as informed by a recall notice recently shared by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The Backup Cam Issue and Recall
In a recall letter issued on Tuesday, the NHTSA highlighted a problem with certain Model S, X, and Y vehicles equipped with the Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) computer Hardware 4.0 (HW4). According to the notice, when these vehicles are in reverse, the rearview image does not display correctly. This recall applies to 2023 model year vehicles, specifically those running software versions 2023.44.30 to 2023.44.30.6.
Tesla’s Software Fix
Tesla quickly issued a software update to resolve the issue. The NHTSA mentioned that owner notification letters regarding the software update will be sent by mail on March 22. The recall number assigned by the NHTSA for this matter is 24V-035, while Tesla’s manufacturer recall number is SB-24-00-002. The report also reveals that Tesla introduced a new software update, version 2023.44.100.1, earlier this month, following an assessment of the affected vehicles and software versions.
Over-the-Air Updates and the “Recall” Controversy
The recent recall raises a debate, as numerous Tesla and electric vehicle (EV) owners criticize the use of the term “recall” for issues that can be addressed via an over-the-air (OTA) software update, rather than necessitating servicing by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
Specifically, last month, two million Tesla vehicles were reportedly involved in a recall due to problems with the Autopilot’s Autosteer system, which didn’t provide sufficient safety checks for drivers. Tesla responded by deploying software version 2023.44.30, which resolved the issues by enhancing driver attentiveness monitoring and ensuring clearer warning labels.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has previously voiced his disagreement with the use of the term “recall” for software updates, calling it “anachronistic and just flat wrong.” Musk stressed that these software updates have not caused any injuries. Many automakers in the industry have also followed Tesla’s lead in offering OTA software updates for convenience, and some have even encountered recalls that were fixable via OTA updates.
Despite the criticism, the NHTSA still defines these types of issues as recalls, even if they do not require physical servicing. Currently, the NHTSA and the Department of Transportation have not responded to requests for comment from publication concerning the development of new terminology to address recalls fixed by software updates.
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