In a recent announcement, Tesla has initiated a recall affecting 125,227 vehicles in the United States due to a malfunction in the seat belt warning system. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration highlighted that the vehicles did not meet federal safety requirements, as the seat belt warning light and audible chime may fail to activate when the driver is not wearing a seat belt. The recall includes specific models ranging from 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles.
To address the issue, Tesla plans to roll out an over-the-air software update, aiming to commence deployment in June. This update will eliminate the dependence on the driver seat occupancy sensor, instead relying solely on the driver seat belt buckle and ignition status to trigger the seat belt reminder signals, according to the NHTSA.
This isn't the first recall Tesla has initiated this year. Earlier, the company recalled 200,000 Model S, X, and Y vehicles in January due to a software glitch affecting drivers' visibility while reversing. In April, Tesla also recalled 3,878 Cybertrucks to resolve an accelerator pedal pad issue that could become detached and lodged in the interior trim.
Furthermore, US auto safety regulators have launched an investigation into whether Tesla's recall of over 2 million vehicles in December to implement new Autopilot safety measures was sufficient following a string of accidents. Tesla continues to address safety concerns, demonstrating its commitment to ensuring the well-being of its drivers and passengers.