Federal safety regulators have launched an investigation into Tesla's Model Y SUVs following two complaints that the steering wheels could come off while the vehicle was in operation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a Preliminary Evaluation into the 2023 model year of the Model Y after two reports of the vehicles having their steering wheels come off due to a missing or loose bolt.
The investigation was opened on Wednesday, after the NHTSA received two complaints that the steering wheels on the Model Y could come off while the vehicle was in operation. Both of the incidents involved the 2023 model year of the SUVs, and both of the drivers reported that the steering wheels detached due to a missing or loose bolt.
The NHTSA has not identified any other incidents of this happening, but it has warned owners of the Model Y to be aware of the potential issue and to inspect their vehicles for any loose or missing bolts. The agency has also asked drivers to report any incidents of steering wheels coming off, or any other potential defects with the vehicle.
Tesla has not yet issued any official statement about the investigation, but shares of the company were trading lower on Wednesday. The news of the investigation is likely to be a concern for Tesla owners, as the company has had a history of recalls and issues with its vehicles.
The investigation is still in its early stages, and the NHTSA has not yet determined if there is a safety defect in the Model Y that needs to be addressed. Until the investigation is completed, it is unclear what the outcome will be, or if Tesla will need to take any action.
In the past, the NHTSA has opened investigations into other automakers for similar issues. In 2020, the agency opened an investigation into Ford F-150 trucks after reports of steering wheels coming off. The investigation was eventually closed after it was determined that the steering wheels were simply coming off due to wear and tear and did not represent a safety issue.
The NHTSA has also issued recalls for other automakers over steering wheel issues. In 2019, the agency recalled some Fiat Chrysler vehicles due to a steering wheel issue that could cause the steering wheel to come off while the vehicle was in operation.
For now, the NHTSA's investigation into the Tesla Model Y is still in its early stages, and it is unclear what the outcome will be. The investigation could result in a recall of the Model Y, or it could simply be closed after the NHTSA determines that the issue does not present a safety risk. Until the investigation is complete, Tesla owners should be aware of the potential issue and should inspect their vehicles for any loose or missing bolts.
