Key Takeaways: 

• The NHTSA is investigating the 2021 Tesla Model Y after receiving complaints about faulty electronic door locks. 
• Some parents reported being locked out and unable to reach their children, with a few forced to break windows to get back in. 
• If the issue is found to pose a safety risk, the investigation could result in a recall of affected vehicles. 

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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently opened an investigation into the 2021 Tesla Model Y after reports of problems with its electronic door locks.

Find out what’s happening, what owners have reported, and how it could affect your rights under California’s lemon law below.

Why Is the NHTSA Investigating the Tesla Model Y?

The NHTSA has launched a formal investigation into approximately 174,000 units of the 2021 Tesla Model Y. This comes after multiple reports that the electronic door handles may fail, especially when the car is locked from the outside. The investigation is focused on the potential safety risks, particularly in cases where parents couldn’t access their children during emergencies.

Early findings suggest the locks may not be getting enough voltage, causing them to fail. The NHTSA is also reviewing how Tesla powers these locks and whether the systems involved are reliable.

What Have Owners Said?

Many parents have expressed frustration and fear over the door lock malfunctions, particularly in scenarios where they needed to access their children quickly. Several owners have reported being completely locked out of their vehicles after stepping out to assist their children, with some even having to break windows to get back inside. While Tesla vehicles do have manual door releases located inside, children may not be able to reach or operate these mechanisms, leaving them vulnerable in emergencies. 

Additionally, many owners have pointed out that they didn’t receive a warning about low battery voltage before the locks failed. 

How Is Tesla Resolving the Issue?

Tesla is reportedly investigating the root causes of the malfunctions and working on solutions to rectify the problems. The company has a history of addressing issues through software updates, so it’s likely they’ll use that approach to improve the door locks.

Some Model Y owners have had their low-voltage batteries replaced after experiencing door lock issues. However, many owners are frustrated that Tesla hasn’t taken more proactive steps to prevent these problems from happening in the first place. There’s still no clear solution or recall plan.

Are There Grounds for a Lemon Law Claim?

If you’re dealing with issues related to the Tesla Model Y’s electronic door locks, you might be wondering if you have a case for a lemon law claim. Lemon laws are there to protect buyers who have purchased vehicles with major defects that affect their safety, use, or value. If the door lock problems are considered a significant defect, you could be eligible for compensation.

To pursue a lemon law claim, you’ll generally need to show that you’ve tried multiple times to get the issue fixed without success. For Model Y owners, if you’ve reported the door lock problems to Tesla and haven’t gotten a good resolution, you might have a valid claim. 

It’s important to keep a record of everything: repair attempts, conversations with Tesla, and any issues with the door locks. Consulting with a lemon law expert can help you figure out your next steps.

Think You Have a Lemon? Get in Touch

If you think your 2020 or newer Tesla Model Y might be a lemon or you’re dealing with ongoing issues, it’s important to get the help you need. At Norman Taylor & Associates, we specialize in lemon law claims. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process and make sure you get the compensation you’re entitled to. 

Call 818-244-3905 or contact us today for a FREE consultation, and we’ll help you understand your options!

Schedule my consultation

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✓ Content checked by the lemon law attorneys at Norman Taylor & Associates