Tesla recalling nearly 2 million cars over hood issue that increases crash risk

Tesla is recalling 1.85 million vehicles because of a software issue that may result in a failure to detect an unlatched hood, thereby increasing the likelihood that it fully opens and causes a crash.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Tuesday posted the recall notice, which was dated last Wednesday, and warned “an unlatched hood can fully open, obstructing the driver’s view and increasing the risk of a crash.”

The NHTSA said the recall applies to certain 2021-24 Model 3, Model S, Model X, and 2020-24 Model Y vehicles.

A software update is available free of charge to vehicle owners, the NHTSA said, and owners do not need to return their vehicles for a physical repair.

Tesla will mail notification letters to owners on Sept. 22, NHTSA said.

Tesla began investigating customer complaints of “unintended hood opening events” on certain vehicles in China on March 25, according to the NHTSA. On July 17, Tesla decided to issue the recall “out of an abundance of caution.”

Tesla’s recall number is SB-24-00-012. The NHTSA campaign number is 24V554000.

The Hill has reached out to Tesla for comment.