Tesla is recalling almost all of its cars in the US, totalling around 2.2 million, because the warning lights on the dashboard are too small. This recall, announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), signals increased attention to the electric car company.
The NHTSA has also intensified an investigation into Tesla steering issues. The problem identified is that the font size of brake, park, and antilock brake warning lights is smaller than safety standards, making crucial information hard to read and increasing the risk of accidents.
To address this, Tesla plans to fix the issue through a software update, covering various models from 2012 to 2024. Owners won't need to visit a dealership; they can download the update at home. The NHTSA discovered the problem during a routine safety audit in January. While Tesla has noted three warranty claims related to the issue, there have been no reported crashes or injuries.
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This comes amid a decline in Tesla's stock value, dropping 2.7% after the recent earnings report. In December, the NHTSA influenced Tesla to recall over 2 million vehicles related to Autopilot concerns, following a two-year investigation into crashes while using the partially automated driving system.
While the current recall focuses on improving warning lights, safety experts argue that it doesn't address the underlying problem of Autopilot not reacting to stopped vehicles. Tesla maintains that its Autopilot and "full self-driving" systems require human intervention at all times.
Additionally, Tesla is recalling over 1.6 million vehicles exported to China due to issues with automatic assisted steering and door latch controls. The recall in China will be addressed through remote upgrades. Tesla faces scrutiny not only in the US but also globally, as shown by the ongoing investigation into steering control issues affecting over 334,000 vehicles. Complaints include loss of steering control, messages indicating reduced or disabled power-assisted steering, and difficulty turning the steering wheel.
This comprehensive situation puts Tesla under increased scrutiny, emphasizing the need for addressing safety concerns in its vehicles, both in the US and abroad.
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