NHTSA looks into Tesla steering lock-ups after several crashes involving Model 3 and Model Y vehicles ^↺

Tesla has been come under regulatory scrutiny a number of times over the past few years, with recent investigations into active safety systems after a fatal Model 3 crash and an earlier crash that was allegedly caused by Tesla's FSD systems. More recently, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a preliminary investigation into Tesla's steering hardware in the Model 3 and Model Y after a number of users reported that their steering wheels locked up with very little warning (via CNBC).

The NHTSA decided to investigate the steering hardware after a number of drivers reported steering wheels locking up unexpectedly, resulting in a total loss of steering. One driver reportedly crashed into a tree after their steering wheel locked up, and another experienced a similar loss of control, accompanied by a warning message, but managed to safely get the car to a standstill on the side of the road.

Other drivers report the vehicle unexpectedly changing direction, like one instance wherein the steering wheel abruptly turned right and the driver heard a loud thud. The loud thud and the need to replace the steering rack and motor indicate that this is a hardware issue rather than a software issue.

Thus far, owners facing this issue have turned to Tesla's service centres for repairs, but this has also presented its fair share of challenges thanks to parts shortages causing delays of several weeks in some cases.

The NHTSA estimates that up to 280,000 vehicles may be affected by the issue. If a recall is eventually required, Tesla service centres are likely to see a dramatic increase in volume, which would likely increase lead times on parts and service.

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