Tesla Faces U.S. Probe Over Suspension Failure Risk

U.S. safety regulators have launched an investigation into nearly 1.2 million Tesla vehicles after reports of suspension failures that could affect steering control.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a preliminary investigation into nearly 1.2 million Tesla vehicles after receiving reports of suspension failures that could result in a loss of steering control.

The investigation focuses on certain 2018–2020 Tesla Model 3 and 2021–2023 Tesla Model Y vehicles following complaints involving the detachment of a front suspension component.

What Prompted the Investigation?

According to the NHTSA, its Office of Defects Investigation has received 156 consumer complaints alleging that the front lower lateral link detached while driving.

The agency warned that the issue could leave affected vehicles undriveable, requiring them to be towed.

Most owners reported no warning before the failure, although some drivers said they heard unusual suspension noises shortly beforehand.

At this stage, the NHTSA says it is not aware of any crashes, injuries, or fatalities linked to the reported defect.

The NHTSA is investigating suspension failures affecting certain Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles.

Previous Tesla Recalls Under Review

Tesla has previously recalled vehicles for similar suspension-related issues.

Those actions included:

• 2021: Approximately 2,800 Model 3 vehicles recalled because of a manufacturing defect.
• 2023: Another 422 Model 3 vehicles recalled after similar suspension failures.

However, regulators say the newly reported incidents appear to extend beyond the scope of those earlier recalls, suggesting a potentially different underlying cause.

The current preliminary evaluation will determine the origin, severity, and scope of the suspected defect before deciding whether a formal recall is necessary.

Federal investigators are reviewing whether the reported failures are linked to a broader safety defect.

Investigation Could Lead to a Recall

The NHTSA’s preliminary evaluation represents the first stage of the federal defect investigation process.

If investigators conclude that the suspension issue poses a safety risk, Tesla could be required to issue another recall covering affected vehicles.

The company has not yet commented publicly on the new investigation.

According to recall management data, Tesla issued three recalls affecting approximately 234,000 vehicles during the second quarter, making it one of the automakers with the highest recall volume during the period.

The investigation could result in a new recall if regulators identify a safety-related defect.