Tesla is recalling nearly 380,000 vehicles in the US due to a power steering assist fault. The recall affects Model S and X vehicles from 2017-2023, specifically those equipped with full self-driving (FSD) Beta software or pending installation. The issue can cause the power steering to intermittently fail, especially at low speeds or after hitting a bump, requiring increased steering effort and potentially increasing the risk of a crash. An over-the-air software update will address the problem.
In a significant development impacting a substantial portion of its vehicle fleet, Tesla, Inc., the prominent electric vehicle manufacturer, has initiated a recall encompassing approximately 380,000 vehicles within the United States. This recall stems from a disconcerting issue pertaining to the power steering assist system, specifically affecting certain Model S and Model X vehicles manufactured between 2022 and 2025, as well as select Model 3 vehicles produced from 2024 onwards. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been formally notified of this recall.
The core of the problem lies in the potential for the electronic power steering assist system to malfunction, particularly during low-speed maneuvers such as parking or navigating tight corners. This malfunction can manifest as a sudden and unexpected loss of power steering assistance, necessitating increased steering effort from the driver. While the steering mechanism itself remains operable in a manual, unassisted mode, the abrupt transition to heavier steering can pose a heightened risk of accidents, particularly in situations requiring rapid steering adjustments. This increased steering effort, while not resulting in a complete loss of vehicle control, can catch drivers off guard and potentially compromise their ability to react swiftly to unforeseen circumstances on the road.
Tesla attributes this issue to a firmware anomaly that affects the electronic power steering control unit. The company plans to address this problem by deploying an over-the-air (OTA) software update to the affected vehicles. This remote update will rectify the firmware flaw, thereby restoring the intended functionality of the power steering assist system and mitigating the risk of unexpected power steering reduction. Tesla has stated that it is not currently aware of any accidents or injuries directly attributable to this particular power steering issue. The recall, while substantial in terms of the number of vehicles involved, is being handled proactively by Tesla through a readily deployable software solution, minimizing the inconvenience to vehicle owners. This approach allows for a swift and efficient remedy without requiring physical visits to service centers.
Summary of Comments ( 139 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43128987
HN commenters discuss the vagueness of the recall notice, questioning whether it's a software or hardware issue, and how a software update could resolve a "loss of power steering assist." Some express skepticism about Tesla's reliance on over-the-air updates for safety-critical systems, noting the potential for unforeseen software bugs. Others point out the increasing frequency of Tesla recalls and question the robustness of their initial quality control. A few commenters share personal anecdotes of similar issues with their Teslas, highlighting concerns about safety and the inconvenience of these recurring problems. Some also mention the potential impact on Tesla's reputation and the broader implications for the autonomous driving industry.
The Hacker News post discussing the Tesla recall of 380,000 vehicles due to a power steering issue generated a moderate amount of discussion, with a mix of skepticism, technical analysis, and comparisons to other automakers.
Several commenters questioned the framing of the issue as a "recall," pointing out that it's an over-the-air software update rather than a physical repair. They argued this highlights the difference between Tesla's software-centric approach and traditional automakers, where such an issue might necessitate a trip to a dealership. This sparked a debate about the semantics of "recall" in the context of software updates, with some arguing that the term is still appropriate due to the safety implications, while others viewed it as unnecessarily alarmist.
Some users delved into the technical aspects, speculating about the potential root cause of the problem. One commenter with apparent software engineering experience suggested that the issue might stem from Tesla prioritizing power efficiency in their steering assist algorithm, leading to premature wear on the electric motor. This theory tied into a broader discussion about Tesla's engineering choices, with some praising their innovative approach while others criticized a perceived focus on cost-cutting over robustness.
Comparisons to other automakers were also prevalent. Some commenters pointed out that all manufacturers experience recalls, arguing that the Tesla situation isn't unique or particularly alarming. Others contrasted Tesla's over-the-air update solution with the more cumbersome processes required by traditional automakers, highlighting the potential benefits of Tesla's software-driven approach.
A few comments focused on the user experience aspect. One commenter shared their personal experience with the issue, describing the steering as becoming progressively heavier, particularly at low speeds. This anecdotal evidence added a real-world perspective to the technical discussions.
Finally, there was some discussion regarding the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)'s involvement, with some speculation about the agency's potential influence on Tesla's decision to issue the update. However, this aspect of the conversation remained largely speculative.
Overall, the comments reflect a nuanced perspective on the recall, acknowledging the seriousness of the safety issue while also considering the specific context of Tesla's software-centric approach and comparing it to traditional automotive practices. The discussion demonstrates a keen interest in the technical details of the issue, the broader implications for the automotive industry, and the real-world impact on Tesla owners.