Tesla is one of the newest brands in the automotive world, having debuted its first commercial vehicle in 2008, the Tesla Roadster. Since then, this company has leveraged its cutting edge technology to become a dominant force in the emerging battery electric vehicle (BEV) market. This has seen Tesla introduce such vehicles as the Model S sedan in 2012, the Model X SUV in 2015, the Model 3 compact sedan in 2017, and the Model Y crossover in 2020. The most recent model, the Cybertruck introduced in 2023, is one of the most distinctive vehicles on the road. However, despite this innovation, Tesla has experienced some problems during its early history that drivers should be aware of. These potential problems may be covered by the California Lemon Law, which protects the rights of consumers like you. The experienced attorneys at 833-Limones can provide you with the help you need to get compensated for any defects in your Tesla BEV.
Vehicle Safety Information and Recalls
While most Tesla models are considered safe vehicles, there have still been a number of safety issues and recalls over the years involving these vehicles. The most common issues involve excessive autopilot reliance, poor windshield visibility, and unexpected acceleration.
One of the most innovative features on the Tesla is its autopilot. This form of autonomous self-driving has allowed drivers to reduce fatigue by allowing their Tesla to drive itself. However, this has also led to misuse, as many drivers don’t understand that they need to remain engaged for the autopilot to function properly. This has included some drivers who have modified the software or hardware controlling the system, allowing them to bypass key safety features. As a result, there have been a number of horrific accidents when Teslas have been in self-driving mode. To date, over two million Tesla vehicles have been recalled to install software to prevent this from happening.
There have been other issues with the Tesla as well. In some cases, the lithium-ion battery pack that powers the vehicle’s electric motors has caught fire. In addition, some Tesla owners have reported that they experienced unexpected acceleration. This can lead to collisions as drivers lose control over their vehicles. Tesla has had to recall some models to address these issues.
Specific Tesla models have also experienced unique problems. For example, the Model 3 compact sedan and the Model Y crossover have both experienced issues with the hood latch, the steering system, and the seat belt warning lights. At the same time, the Model S sedan and Model X SUV have also had some problems with the hood latch and seat belt system. These can impact the passenger safety of these vehicles. Even the newest model, the Cybertruck, has not been free from difficulties. For example, this BEV pickup truck needed to have a recall because the small font sizes on the dashboard warning lights were too small for many drivers to see. In addition, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that the Cybertruck also experienced unintended acceleration, while there was a cybersecurity breach of the internal vehicle cameras, allowing third parties to invade the privacy of Cybertruck owners and passengers.
In total, Tesla has experienced many recalls for its various models. The Model S alone has accounted for 39 recalls, followed closely by the Model X with 38 recalls. The Model 3 has been recalled 30 times, while the Model Y has had 33 recalls so far. Even the Cybertruck in its short life span has had safety recalls. This shows that you may have problems if you are currently driving one of these Tesla models.
The company does maintain a webpage on its website where you can find out if your vehicle is subject to a recall (https://www.tesla.com/support/annual-and-recall-service). You can either review the recalls based on the models listed or search for your specific Tesla by entering your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (vehicle identification number), which is located on the dashboard in front of the driver, in the lower sill of the front passenger side door, and on our vehicle’s registration.
Another way to find out if there is a safety or functionality issue with your Tesla is to locate technical service bulletins (TSBs). Just like recalls, these are issued by the brand, but they do not involve mandatory repairs like in a recall. You can locate them by going to the website of the NHTSA (www.nhtsa.gov) or to the webpage maintained by Tesla (https://service.tesla.com/en-US/). You will be able to look up the TSB for your vehicle based on the model and model year of your Tesla.
Common Vehicle Issues and Solutions
While recalls address problems that affect safety, as well as functionality that may also be covered by a TSB, there are other issues that are common to Tesla vehicles. These could affect your enjoyment of your Tesla, so it is important to be aware of them. Many Tesla owners have complained about the poor quality of the build of their vehicles. They have found that some panels are misaligned, the exterior paint job has been inconsistent, and some of the trim has been poorly fitted. These will not affect safety or performance, but will detract from your enjoyment of the vehicle.
More troubling are reports of doors and windows malfunctioning. One of the things that stands out about the Tesla are its futuristic doors and windows. However, there aren’t many manual overrides if they fail to open or retract properly. If you have found this issue, you may want to have it addressed by your Tesla dealer.
There have also been complaints about the suspension system on many Tesla models. They have seen extensive wear and tear on key components like control arms, ball joints, and bushings. If you experience this and your vehicle is still under warranty, you should insist on getting the dealership to replace these parts at no cost to you.
Finally, some owners have found that the batteries do not last as long as they are supposed to. The most important part of the Tesla is its battery pack. If it is unable to hold a charge, then it will reduce the value and usage of the vehicle. While a reduction in range is expected over time, some folks have experienced a rapid decline in the ability of the battery to hold its charge. Hopefully, Tesla will work with you to replace the battery-pack if it becomes necessary to do so.
Understanding Your Consumer Rights
As a California resident, you are protected by one of the most powerful consumer protection laws in the country. Commonly called the California Lemon Law, the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act requires manufacturers and their authorized agents to make a reasonable number of repair attempts to fix problems on the vehicles they have sold or leased to consumers. The number of attempts depends on the seriousness of the issue. The Lemon Law covers new vehicles during the first 18 months of ownership or 18,000 miles, as well as pre-owned vehicles that are still under warranty from the manufacturer or an authorized dealership.
Drivers who experience problems with their vehicles during that initial 18-month or 18,000 mile period should bring the vehicle back to the dealership to have a repair made to fix the problem. If Tesla or its authorized dealer is unable to fix the problem, then the vehicle will be deemed a lemon. When this happens, the manufacturer will either have to replace the vehicle with one of a similar type and quality, or refund the purchase price to the buyer, less an amount due to usage, as well as covering reasonable expenses of the consumer that were incurred in addressing the problem.
Call Us if You Have Had a Problem with Your Tesla
If you own a Tesla, then you may experience problems with your vehicle. When this persists despite efforts on the part of Tesla and its dealership to fix the problem, you may be covered by the California Lemon Law. Call us today at 833-Limones for a free consultation.