The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has denied Tesla's request to avoid recalling nearly 20,000 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles over headlight issues.
The recall covers approximately 19,917 Model Y and Model 3 vehicles built from 2017 to 2023. Tesla submitted a noncompliance report in March 2024 and later petitioned for an exemption, arguing that the issue was inconsequential to safety.
NHTSA rejected the petition. The agency stated that Tesla had not met its burden to show the noncompliance is inconsequential. Vehicles may exceed maximum photometric intensity levels, with measurements reaching as high as 230.1 candela in certain zones.
Tesla must now provide notification and a free remedy. The company had claimed no complaints, accidents, or injuries were linked to the headlight performance.
