Tesla Model S & Model X Recalled Because Seat Belts Might Detach

Jun 02, 2024

The recall comes after a NHTSA investigation into complaints about faulty seat belts

Tesla is recalling over 15,000 Model S sedans and Model X SUVs from the 2021 through 2023 model years because their front seat belts may detach. If this occurs, occupants could be at greater risk of injury in a crash.

According to documents Tesla provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the problem has to do with a faulty connection between the seat belt and the pretensioner, a safety device that uses a controlled explosion to tighten a seat belt at the onset of a crash. When investigating the issue, Tesla found that some front seat belts had been disconnected from their pretensioner anchors as part of a repair and were not properly reconnected afterward.

In March, NHTSA opened a defect investigation into the issue after receiving two complaints from Model X owners who reported that their cars were delivered to them with improperly connected seat belts. (If you suspect your vehicle has a safety issue, here’s how to complain to NHTSA.) In addition, Tesla told NHTSA it identified 12 warranty claims related to the recall, and no reports of crashes or injuries.

Tesla dealerships will inspect and, if necessary, reconnect the front seat belts to their pretensioner anchors or replace the seat belt assembly. As with all recall repairs, the fix will be free of charge. The automaker said it has also rewritten its repair instructions to ensure that technicians properly reconnect seat belts to pretensioners in the future.

Vehicles Recalled• Tesla Model S sedans manufactured between Feb. 18, 2021, and June 22, 2023• Tesla Model X SUVs manufactured between Sept. 8, 2021, and June 24, 2023

The problem: Because of an improper repair, front seat belts might not be connected to their pretensioner anchors. This may increase the risk of injury to occupants if a crash takes place.

The fix: Tesla dealerships will inspect and, if necessary, repair or replace the seat belt assembly, free of charge.

How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may contact Tesla at 877-798-3752.

NHTSA campaign number: 23V488. Tesla’s own number for this recall is SB-23-20-004.

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 any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.

Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle using our Car Recall Tracker. Create a free account now to become a CR member.

Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on Twitter @itskeithbarry.