PRELIMINARY EVALUATION REVEALS POTENTIAL STEERING ISSUES IN TESLA MODEL 3 AND MODEL Y VEHICLES
In a shocking turn of events, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has announced that it is currently evaluating a concerning condition in the 2023 model year Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. This preliminary evaluation, known as PE 23-014, aims to assess the scope, frequency, severity, and manufacturing processes associated with this issue.
As of February 2024, the situation has escalated, with PE 23-014 evolving into an engineering analysis. Now referred to as EA 24-001, this analysis reveals that a staggering 334,569 vehicles may potentially be affected by the steering problem.
According to the failure report summary, the ODI has already received 2,388 complaints related to this issue. Out of these, 124 complaints were identified through vehicle owner questionnaires, while the remaining 2,264 complaints were discovered through manufacturer data. The severity of the problem is further highlighted by a crash involving a 2023 Tesla Model Y driver who was unable to complete a turn, resulting in a collision with another vehicle at an intersection.
This incident, recorded under ID number 11544655, sheds light on the specifics of the problem. The vehicle owner questionnaire reveals that the steering wheel had locked up while the driver was in motion. At the same time, a warning message stating “Steering Assist Reduced” appeared on the screen, accompanied by error code UI_a020. Even after the crash, the UI_a020 error code continued to sporadically appear on the touchscreen located in the center of the vehicle’s dashboard.
ODI’s investigation has uncovered alarming statistics. Approximately one-third of the complaints received report an increase in the effort required to turn the steering wheel at speeds below 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or during vehicle start-up. At higher speeds, over 5 miles per hour, half of the complaints allege a complete inability to turn the steering wheel. Shockingly, the highest reported speed at which this issue occurred was 75 miles per hour (120 kilometers per hour).
In addition to the steering difficulties, some owners have also reported that the steering felt “notchy” or “clicky” before or after the incident. The seriousness of the problem is further highlighted by the fact that more than 50 vehicles had to be towed as a result of this concern. Although some drivers were able to temporarily resolve the issue by power cycling their vehicles, the problem persisted until the steering rack was replaced.
For those who own a 2023 model year Model 3 or Model Y and have experienced any steering-related problems, it is crucial to file a vehicle owner questionnaire with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The more information the NHTSA receives, the sooner EA 24-001 can be completed and the necessary actions can be taken to ensure the safety of Tesla owners and other road users.
(Photo: Tesla)
Tesla, the Austin-based electric vehicle manufacturer, had a remarkable year in 2020. With a total production of 1.84 million vehicles, the company’s Model 3 and Model Y accounted for a staggering 1,775,159 units. This showcases the growing popularity of Tesla’s affordable and efficient electric cars.
In terms of deliveries, Tesla achieved an impressive number of 1,739,707 units out of a grand total of 1,808,581. This indicates the strong demand for Tesla vehicles worldwide. Customers are drawn to the sleek design, advanced technology, and eco-friendly nature of these electric cars.
One of the key highlights of Tesla’s lineup is the recently refreshed Model 3. With a starting price of $38,990 in the United States market, this affordable electric sedan has become a favorite among consumers. Its sleek and aerodynamic design, coupled with impressive performance and range, make it a compelling choice for those looking to switch to electric vehicles.
Another popular option from Tesla is the Model Y, which starts at $43,990. This compact SUV offers a spacious interior, cutting-edge features, and the same impressive performance as the Model 3. With its versatile design and eco-friendly credentials, the Model Y has gained a loyal following among SUV enthusiasts.
Overall, Tesla’s success in 2020 can be attributed to its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering high-quality electric vehicles. As the world shifts towards a greener future, Tesla continues to lead the way in revolutionizing the automotive industry.
