Tesla Model Y, S, X, and 3 windshield defrosting software defect
Tesla is recalling 2020-2022 Model Y, S, X, and 3 vehicles due to a heat pump software error that reduces windshield defrosting performance. This may decrease driver visibility and increase crash risk.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 3/5 (High).
Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.
Our severity reasoning: This is a risk-of-harm product (vehicle windshield defrosting system) where no injuries have been reported. The source states decreased visibility increases crash risk, but no actual crashes or injuries are documented, making this a theoretical safety concern rather than a reported harm scenario.
Plain-English summary
Tesla, Inc. is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y vehicles due to a software error in the heat pump system. A valve in the heat pump may open unintentionally and trap refrigerant inside the evaporator, resulting in decreased windshield defrosting performance. This reduces driver visibility and increases the risk of a crash.
The affected vehicles do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103 (Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems). Approximately 26,681 units are affected across the recalled model years.
Tesla will remedy the issue through a free over-the-air software update. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 1, 2022. Owners should contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) for more information or to confirm if their vehicle is affected.
The recalled product
- Product
- TESLA MODEL S, MODEL Y, MODEL 3, MODEL X
- Brand
- TESLA
- Manufacturer
- Tesla, Inc.
- Category
- Vehicle — Electrical System
- Affected units
- 26,681
Is your product affected?
Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.
Model numbers (4)
- MODEL S
- MODEL Y
- MODEL 3
- MODEL X
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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