Vehicle Safety
NHTSA Model 3 probe deepens Tesla door safety scrutiny amid fatalities and complaints
Reported by AI Image generated by AI
Building on the NHTSA's recently opened defect investigation into 179,071 2022 Tesla Model 3s over hidden emergency door releases—as detailed in prior coverage—this probe highlights design flaws linked to at least 15 fatalities, over 140 complaints, and growing calls for reform.
The NHTSA has opened an investigation into emergency door mechanisms on about 180,000 2022 Tesla Model 3 vehicles, prompted by a defect petition from an owner trapped in a post-crash fire. This follows a Bloomberg report documenting 15 related deaths and prior scrutiny of Model Y doors.
Reported by AI
A Bloomberg investigation has identified at least 15 deaths in Tesla vehicles where electronic doors failed to open following crashes, trapping occupants in burning cars. More than half of these incidents occurred since November 2024, prompting regulatory scrutiny. Tesla has responded by promoting new safety features and considering design changes.