Tesla has announced the recall of nearly 700,000 vehicles across multiple models due to a critical issue with the tire pressure monitoring system, as confirmed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This recall includes the 2024 Cybertruck, 2017-2025 Model 3, and 2020-2025 Model Y vehicles, marking another setback in a challenging year for the electric vehicle giant.
According to the NHTSA, the fault lies in the tire pressure monitoring system’s inability to maintain its warning light illumination between drive cycles. This malfunction could leave drivers unaware of dangerously low tire pressure, increasing the risk of tire blowouts, accidents, and injuries.
Tesla has responded swiftly, promising a free software update to rectify the issue. Owners of the affected vehicles will receive notification letters starting February 15, 2025. In the meantime, the company advises customers to regularly check tire pressure manually to ensure safety on the road. For additional assistance, Tesla owners can contact the company’s customer service line or the NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety hotline.
This latest recall adds to Tesla’s mounting challenges in 2024, particularly with its Cybertruck. The futuristic vehicle, which debuted in 2023 after years of delays, has faced seven recalls within a single year. The most recent prior recall affected 2,400 vehicles, raising questions about the Cybertruck’s reliability and quality control.
The broader Tesla lineup has also been under scrutiny. In July, the company recalled over 1.8 million vehicles due to hood latch issues that posed crash risks. Earlier in February, 2.2 million vehicles were pulled from the market over instrument panel warning lights that failed to meet visibility standards.
For Tesla, a pioneer in the electric vehicle industry, these recurring issues highlight the challenges of maintaining quality and safety standards amid rapid innovation and production expansion. While the company’s ability to address recalls through over-the-air software updates is a notable advantage, the frequency of these incidents has drawn criticism from consumers and industry analysts alike.
As Tesla grapples with these hurdles, its reputation for innovation and reliability hangs in the balance. With the highly anticipated Cybertruck under increased scrutiny, the company must work to restore consumer confidence and ensure that safety remains a top priority in its ambitious push toward the future of transportation.
