Tesla Recall Affects Nearly 3 million Cars in China

Tesla recall affects nearly 3 million cars in China over concerns about hidden door handles and emergency access during crashes

Tesla is recalling nearly 3 million vehicles in China after concerns that their concealed door handles could make it difficult for passengers to escape following a serious crash. The Tesla recall affects around 2.98 million China-made vehicles, including certain Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X vehicles.

The issue centres on hidden door handles, which can be difficult to identify and operate because their colour may blend with the vehicle's interior trim. Tesla said that in a severe collision, a failure of the low-voltage system could prevent occupants from opening the doors quickly.

What Tesla will Do

Tesla plans to address the problem through a combination of warnings and a software update. The recalled vehicles will receive:

• Warning labels explaining how to operate the doors
• A software update designed to automatically lower the windows after a crash
• Updated guidance to help occupants and rescuers access the vehicle more easily

Tesla said the issue could create a safety risk when passengers need to leave the vehicle quickly or emergency workers need to reach them.

Wider Concerns Over EV Door Designs

The Tesla recall comes as regulators and manufacturers in China face wider questions about concealed door mechanisms. Other carmakers, including XPeng, Xiaomi and Geely, have also faced recalls involving similar designs.

The debate over hidden door handles has grown as concerns have emerged about how these mechanisms work during emergencies. Chinese authorities have also announced new rules requiring vehicles sold in the country from 1 January 2027 to have mechanical door releases on both the inside and outside.

The move reflects growing attention on emergency access in modern vehicles. Tesla's official vehicle safety information provides guidance on operating its vehicles and accessing doors in different situations.

It remains unclear whether Tesla or other affected manufacturers will introduce similar recalls in other markets.

FAQs

1. Why is Tesla recalling vehicles in China?
The recall concerns door handles that may be difficult to operate during an emergency.

2. How many Tesla vehicles are affected?
Around 2.98 million China-made Tesla vehicles are included.

3. Which Tesla models are affected?
Certain Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X vehicles are included.

4. What will Tesla do about the issue?
Tesla will add warning labels and provide a software update designed to lower the windows after a crash.

5. Will the recall affect Tesla vehicles outside China?
It is not currently clear whether similar action will be required in other markets.