Tesla has initiated a corrective action for approximately 2.2 million vehicles, addressing a minor yet non-compliant issue concerning the size of the ABS warning indicator’s font. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified that several Tesla models, including the Cybertruck, Models S, 3, Y, and X, displayed warning indicators with font sizes smaller than the mandated 3.2 millimeters. This inconsistency with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) 105 and 135 led to the classification of this software fix as a vehicle recall.
Understanding the Safety Impact
The NHTSA’s concern hinges on the potential for reduced visibility of the indicators, which could possibly delay a driver’s response and inadvertently heighten the risk of an accident. To correct this, Tesla has developed a software update that enlarges the letter font to the required size.
Software Solution and Deployment
Addressing the issue requires no physical intervention; instead, Tesla is distributing a software update to affected vehicles. Models S, 3, X, and Y will receive Software Update 2023.44.30.9, while the Cybertruck will be updated with version 2023.44.9.1. This distinction has sparked discussions around the semantics of the term “recall,” as the term traditionally implies a more substantial defect.
Tesla’s proactive approach ensures that vehicle owners will incur no costs for the remedy. The over-the-air software update, which began rolling out in late January 2024, targets the enhancement of the ABS warning indicator font size. All remaining cars will receive the update in early February 2024.
The situation casts light on the evolving nature of vehicle maintenance in the era of connected cars, where updates occur wirelessly much like they do on a smartphone. Consequently, the term “recall” may not accurately reflect the simplicity and convenience with which Tesla rectifies such issues, igniting debate on whether regulatory language needs to adapt to technological advancements in the automotive industry.
Tesla and the NHTSA reassure owners that the adjustment will seamlessly integrate into their vehicles, maintaining safety and regulatory compliance without any inconvenience to the customer.
