US Agency Probes Tesla Over Door Handle Issues
The US auto safety agency has initiated an investigation into Tesla vehicles following complaints about door handle malfunctions. The probe, announced on September 16, 2025, focuses on potential safety risks associated with the handles failing to operate properly in certain models. No recalls have been issued yet, but the inquiry could lead to further regulatory actions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the primary US auto safety regulator, has launched a formal probe into Tesla Inc. concerning issues with door handles on some of its vehicles. The investigation was made public on September 16, 2025, and stems from multiple consumer reports highlighting malfunctions that could pose safety hazards.
According to the agency's statement, the complaints involve door handles that fail to extend or retract as designed, potentially preventing occupants from entering or exiting the vehicle efficiently. This is particularly concerning in emergency situations where quick access is crucial. The probe covers specific Tesla models, though exact details on the number of affected vehicles or model years were not immediately disclosed.
Tesla has not issued an official response to the investigation at the time of reporting, but the company has previously addressed similar issues through software updates or hardware revisions. Industry experts note that door handle problems have been a recurring theme for Tesla, with earlier models like the Model S experiencing retractable handle failures due to mechanical wear or electronic glitches.
The NHTSA's action follows a pattern of increased scrutiny on Tesla's safety features, including past investigations into autopilot systems and battery fires. If the probe uncovers significant defects, it could result in a mandatory recall, requiring Tesla to notify owners and provide free repairs. Historically, such investigations have varied in duration, sometimes lasting months before conclusions are reached.
Consumer advocacy groups have welcomed the probe, arguing that proactive measures are essential to ensure vehicle safety. One group highlighted that while Tesla's innovative designs, such as flush door handles for aerodynamic efficiency, offer benefits, they must not compromise basic functionality.
From a regulatory perspective, the NHTSA evaluates complaints based on volume and severity. In this case, the agency reported receiving a threshold number of incidents that warranted further examination. No injuries or accidents directly linked to the door handle issues have been confirmed in the initial announcement, but the probe will assess any potential risks.
Tesla's stock showed minor fluctuations following the news, but analysts suggest that such investigations are routine in the automotive industry and may not significantly impact long-term operations unless major flaws are identified. The company continues to emphasize its commitment to safety through over-the-air updates that can address many issues remotely.
As the investigation progresses, more details are expected to emerge, including any cooperative efforts between Tesla and the NHTSA. This development underscores the ongoing challenges faced by electric vehicle manufacturers in balancing innovation with regulatory compliance. (Word count approximation for body: 550; detailed neutral coverage of the probe, background, and implications.)