The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a preliminary investigation into approximately 1.2 million Tesla vehicles following reports of suspension failures that could potentially lead to a loss of steering control.
According to the agency, its Office of Defects Investigation has received 156 complaints involving certain 2018–2020 Tesla Model 3 and 2021–2023 Tesla Model Y vehicles. The complaints allege that the front lower lateral link in the suspension system detached unexpectedly, leaving some vehicles undrivable and requiring towing.
Most owners reported no warning signs before the failure occurred, although a few said they heard unusual noises beforehand. The NHTSA stated that it is not aware of any crashes, injuries, or fatalities linked to the reported issue at this stage.
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The investigation marks the first phase of the U.S. defect review process and could eventually result in a vehicle recall if regulators determine that a safety-related defect exists.
Tesla has previously issued recalls for similar suspension problems, including a 2021 recall covering around 2,800 Model 3 vehicles and a 2023 recall involving 422 Model 3 cars. However, the NHTSA noted that the newly reported cases appear to extend beyond those earlier recalls and may involve a different underlying cause.
The investigation will examine the scope, severity, and root cause of the reported suspension failures before any further regulatory action is taken.
