2.2 Million Tesla Cars and Cybertruck Recalled for Ridiculous Cause

OTA update solving issue instead of service centers

Tesla has announced a recall of 2,193,869 electric vehicles (EVs), including the recently released Cybertruck, due to a potentially dangerous issue with the font size on their dashboard. The recall was prompted by concerns that the small font used on the dashboard could pose a safety hazard for drivers.

As per the recall notice issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the compact warning indicators on the vehicle’s dashboard, namely for the brakes, parking, and ABS, have a diameter of less than 1/8 inch. This does not meet the specifications set by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 105 and 135, which pertain to hydraulic and electric brake systems, and light vehicle brake systems, respectively. The report states that this deficiency may impede the driver’s visibility of the warning lights, consequently heightening the chances of a potential crash.

The amount of impacted automobiles includes 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2014 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and 2024 Cybertruck models.

The initial recall of the Tesla Cybertruck by a government agency has been announced, marking the first instance since its launch in November 2023. The innovative electric pickup has been in existence for a significant period and was involved in its initial reported collision in December.

The matter was brought to attention during a standard compliance check of a 2023 Model Y on January 8. Following several days of probing, Tesla uncovered three warranty claims connected to the issue on January 24 and proactively decided upon a recall. Fortunately, there were no instances or reports of accidents or harm stemming from the issue.

Fascinatingly, Tesla is currently addressing the problem by implementing an over-the-air (OTA) update with software version 2023.44.30.13. The solution involves enlarging the font size to meet the FMVSS requirement of at least 1/8 inch. In a departure from typical recalls, the company will not be offering reimbursement as there is no paid repair necessary for the underlying issue. The OTA update will be provided at no cost.

Tesla recently implemented a comparable remedy program for nearly 200,000 of its electric vehicles (EVs) due to a rearview camera issue last month.

The topic of whether this qualifies as a recall, without the requirement of going to a service center, can be saved for future debate. Currently, Tesla intends to issue recall notices to all owners on March 30th.