NHTSA Investigates 1.2 Million Teslas for Potential Suspension Failures

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into approximately 1.2 million Tesla vehicles following complaints of suspension failures. The federal agency is examining potential issues that could result in a "loss of vehicle directional control."

The preliminary investigation covers Model 3 vehicles from the 2018-2020 model years and Model Y vehicles from 2021-2023. According to NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation, the agency has received 156 complaints related to the issue, which involves the detachment of the "front lower lateral link."

In most of the cases reviewed by NHTSA, the failure occurred without any prior warning, although some reports mentioned noises preceding the detachment. The agency's investigation aims to determine the scope and cause of the problem and assess any potential safety risks.

This probe by the NHTSA is significant given the large volume of popular Tesla models involved. The agency will now evaluate whether corrective actions are necessary to address the potential safety defect.