In an unusual move, Tesla has announced a physical recall for a limited number of 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles due to a potential defect in their pyrotechnic battery disconnect mechanism. The recall notice, recently posted on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website, highlights that only a small population of 26 vehicles may be affected. However, Tesla estimates that the actual number of impacted units will be significantly lower, with only 2% of the mentioned vehicles likely to possess the identified condition. These affected vehicles were manufactured between May 20 and May 26, 2023, for the Model Y, and on May 21, 2023, for the Model 3.
The pyrotechnic battery disconnect is a safety feature designed to disconnect the high voltage battery in the event of a crash or other battery-related issues. The flaw in the disconnect mechanism was detected during validation testing on April 20, 2023, subsequent to the supplier introducing a new production line for this component. Despite the discovery in April, a lapse in the supplier’s tracking processes resulted in a small number of faulty units being installed in vehicles during May.
Unlike the majority of Tesla’s recalls, which can be resolved through over-the-air (OTA) software updates, this particular recall requires the physical replacement of the battery disconnect. Tesla will perform this replacement at no cost to the affected vehicle owners.
As of now, no similar recall notice has been issued by Transport Canada, and it is unlikely that such a recall will be issued, considering that most of the Model 3 and Model Y cars supplied to Canada are now sourced from China.
[pdf-embedder url=”https://evmagz.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/RCLRPT-23V434-8034.pdf”]
