Tesla is recalling almost 200,000 vehicles in the United States due to a “software instability” that may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying. The recall encompasses specific 2023 Model S, X, and Y vehicles equipped with full self-driving computer 4.0 and running software release versions 2023.44.30 through 2023.44.30.6 or 2023.44.100.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Tesla has issued a free, over-the-air (OTA) software update to address the issue. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on March 22. The company became aware of the problem when it started receiving reports of camera feeds not displaying, including the rearview camera feed, on certain affected vehicles beginning on December 26, 2023. Tesla mentioned that it is “not aware of any crashes, injuries, or deaths that may be related to this condition.”
Tesla owners affected by the recall can contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. The recall reference number is SB-24-00-002. Alternatively, owners can reach out to the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
In response to the issue, Tesla has released a software update that can be applied remotely, eliminating the need for affected vehicle owners to visit service centers. This approach reflects Tesla’s ability to address certain issues through over-the-air updates, a unique feature of the company’s vehicles.
This recall comes on the heels of other recent Tesla recalls, including one in China where over 1.6 million electric vehicles were recalled to address issues with autopilot features and door latch glitches. The recall in China involved Tesla’s Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y vehicles, addressing concerns related to the misuse of a driving assistance feature that could lead to a crash.
In the United States, a separate recall involved more than 7,500 Model S and Model X cars, addressing concerns about the non-collision side door latch detaching from the latch during a crash, leaving the door unlocked.
Tesla owners in the Chicago area also faced challenges earlier this month as freezing temperatures impacted charging capabilities, leading to some owners being stranded with dead batteries. The company recommends keeping vehicles plugged in during cold weather to mitigate energy consumption and advises maintaining a charge level above 20% when not plugged in.
Despite these challenges, Tesla reported delivering 1.8 million cars in 2023, reflecting a nearly 40% increase over the previous year. The Model Y constituted over 1 million of the total cars sold. During the fourth quarter presentation to investors, Tesla acknowledged challenges affecting its profitability, including artificial intelligence research and the production ramp-up of the Cybertruck. The company hinted at a new growth wave with the global expansion of the next-generation vehicle platform.
In summary, Tesla’s recent recall in the United States addresses a software instability affecting rearview camera displays in nearly 200,000 vehicles. The company has issued a free, over-the-air software update to remedy the issue, eliminating the need for physical visits to service centers. This incident follows other recent recalls globally, indicating ongoing efforts to address various concerns and ensure the safety and functionality of Tesla vehicles.