NHTSA Investigates Tesla Model Y Door Handle Malfunctions

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a preliminary investigation into approximately 174,290 Tesla Model Y vehicles from the 2021 model year due to reports of electronic door handles becoming inoperative. This investigation was prompted by nine complaints from owners who experienced difficulties accessing their vehicles, particularly in scenarios involving children. The NHTSA's inquiry focuses on the potential safety risks associated with these malfunctions, which could trap occupants inside the vehicle.

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The NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) revealed that the most common incidents involved parents exiting the vehicle to retrieve or secure their children in the back seat, only to find themselves unable to reopen the doors. In four reported cases, parents resorted to breaking windows to regain access to their vehicles. The agency noted that while Tesla vehicles are equipped with manual door releases, these may be difficult for children to access or operate, raising concerns about entrapment, especially in emergency situations.

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According to the NHTSA, the malfunction appears to be linked to insufficient voltage from the vehicle's low-voltage battery, which powers the electronic door locks. Despite repair invoices indicating that the low-voltage battery was replaced following incidents, none of the owners reported seeing low-voltage battery warnings prior to the door handle failures. The NHTSA's investigation will assess whether the electronic locks can be opened from outside the vehicle, as this scenario poses the highest risk due to the absence of a manual external release.

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This investigation is not Tesla's first encounter with regulatory scrutiny. The NHTSA is also examining Tesla's reporting practices related to crashes involving its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems. Since 2018, the agency has received over 140 consumer complaints regarding various Tesla models experiencing door malfunctions. The current investigation could lead to a broader defect inquiry and potential recalls if the issue is found to be widespread.

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Tesla has not publicly commented on the NHTSA's investigation. However, Tesla board chair Robyn Denholm previously stated that the company takes safety incidents seriously. The NHTSA has indicated that it will continue to monitor reports of entrapment and take further action as necessary.

NHTSA opens probe into Tesla Model Y door handle failures

• “The agency will continue to monitor any reports of entrapment involving opening doors from inside of the vehicle,” — NHTSA

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• “Entrapment in a vehicle is particularly concerning in emergency situations, such as when children are entrapped in a hot vehicle.” — NHTSA

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The NHTSA's investigation into the Tesla Model Y's door handle malfunctions highlights significant safety concerns regarding the electronic locking mechanisms, particularly in scenarios involving children. As the investigation unfolds, it will determine the extent of the issue and whether regulatory action, including recalls, will be necessary to ensure the safety of Tesla vehicle occupants.

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