Tesla Model 3 Recalled to Fix Rear Seat Belts
Service technicians might have improperly reassembled the belts after repairs on some of the EVs
Tesla Model 3 rear seat
By Keith Barry
Tesla is recalling 24,064 Model 3 sedans from the 2017 through 2022 model years because their rear seat belts may not work as designed in a crash.
The problem affects only vehicles that had specific repairs in which Tesla technicians had to take apart the rear left and center seat belts. In some cases, the technicians may not have reassembled the seat belts properly.
To fix the problem, Tesla service technicians will inspect the rear seat belts on affected vehicles to ensure that they have been reinstalled properly. If they have not, the technicians will reinstall them correctly, free of charge. Tesla says it also updated its service protocols so that technicians don’t make the same mistake again.
In documents provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Tesla says it identified the problem in August after receiving complaints about unsecured seat belt anchors from vehicle owners and service centers. The automaker identified 105 examples of improperly repaired seat belts but says there haven’t been any crashes or injuries related to the problem
The Details
Vehicles recalled: Certain 2017-2022 Tesla Model 3 vehicles that had repairs requiring the disassembly of their rear seat belts.
The problem: Technicians may not have properly reinstalled the center seat belt anchor and left seat belt buckle, both of which are fastened with the same bolt.
The fix: Tesla technicians will inspect and reinstall the seat belt assembly if necessary, free of charge.
How to contact the manufacturer: Owners can call Tesla at 877-798-3752. Tesla will contact owners of affected vehicles by mail starting Dec. 20, 2022.
NHTSA campaign number: 22V798. Tesla’s own number for this recall is SB-22-20-004.
Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall. NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.
If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have one. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly.
More from Consumer Reports:
Top pick tires for 2016
Best used cars for $25,000 and less
7 best mattresses for couples
Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2022, Consumer Reports, Inc.
