Tesla recalls were reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in a Part 573 report. Tesla is recalling all Model 3 cars from 2017 to 2020. 

Reports claim that 356,309 Model 3 cars are affected. And that Tesla engineers have done a redesign on the system beginning in 2021. So current models are not affected.

The electric carmaker’s report claims that repeated opening and closing of the trunk lid could cause the car's backup camera to fail.

 The vehicle has a trunk harness equipped with a cable that feeds the camera. And wear-and-tear on the cord can cause disruptions in the linkage between the camera and the infotainment screen.

Regardless, Tesla also urges drivers not to rely solely on the backup camera when driving in reverse.

A recall has also been issued for 119,009 Model S Teslas manufactured after 2014.  And this is due to evidence that prolonged use of the front trunk lid may result in it coming loose.

Tesla also reports that it is not aware of any “crashes, injuries, or deaths related to this condition”. And all Tesla recalls are strictly preventative.

Tesla assures the EV owners that the cars are still drivable and safe. And they are just anticipating potential problems and strengthening their design. 

Remedy Program for Tesla Recalls

The owners of all Tesla recalls will receive notification starting February 18 for both recalls.

Tesla says that its service centers will check all affected vehicles. And will either install protection on the harness. Or they will replace the harness complete with a protective guide if necessary. 

If a Tesla owner has already addressed this issue they should be reimbursed. And any Tesla customer who paid to replace or service the trunk harness or repair the front trunk lid should be eligible for reimbursement per Tesla’s General Recall Reimbursement Plan.

Check to see if your car is being recalled at the website for NHTSA recalls.