The electric car manufacturer from the United States (US), Tesla, has recalled 326 Tesla Model 3 vehicles in Australia.
The recall was carried out due to a problem with the seat belt and an incorrect anchor installation. While the affected Tesla Model 3 vehicles are 2017-2022 production.
“Due to vehicle design, servicing of certain components requires disassembling the second row left seat belt buckle and center seat belt anchor, both of which are fastened with the same bolt,” reads a recall notice filed by the Australian Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development. 6/11/2022).
During service, it is stated that there is a possibility that the seat belt buckles and anchors may have been improperly reattached to the fixing bolts. As a result, the seat belt cannot operate properly.
“In the event of an accident, improperly functioning seat belts can increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants,” the recall notice continued.
While Tesla did not provide sales data for the Tesla Model 3 between its local arrivals in August 2019 and December 2020, a total of 12,058 units were sold last year, making it the most popular electric car in Australia.
From January to October 2022, Tesla reported around 8,680 Model 3s were sold in Australia, with the electric car giant facing production delays at its Chinese plant throughout the year.
Tesla said it would contact affected owners and advise them to make an appointment with a Tesla service center to have the components inspected and repaired free of charge.
Previously similar recalls were also made in the US. Tesla recalls over 24,000 Model 3s in the US due to seat belt issue. The affected Tesla Model 3 was also produced in 2017-2022.
