Tesla recalls Model X vehicles to fix seats
san francisco — Tesla on Thursday said that it is recalling Model X sport utility vehicles to fix second-row seat-backs that might shift forward during crashes.
Internal testing revealed that cables in second-row fold-flat seats in 2016 and 2017 model year vehicles might need to be adjusted to “ensure the safety” of those riding inside, a Tesla spokesperson said in an e-mail response to an AFP inquiry.
“Although Tesla has not received reports of any issues or accidents relating to this condition, we will be conducting a voluntary recall to inspect the affected vehicles and confirm whether any adjustment is needed,” the statement said.
The number of Model X vehicles being recalled was estimated at 11,000, with only a small percentage expected to have the seat cable problem.
In messages sent to Model X owners, Tesla offered to tend to inspecting and adjusting seats using its mobile service, giving an option of bringing vehicles into service centres.
“Until then, there is no issue with continuing to drive your Model X,” the Tesla spokesperson said. “We just ask that you temporarily avoid having two adults sit in the second row left and center seating positions at the same time.”
While Tesla cars have been met with high demand and glowing safety reviews, the Silicon Valleybased firm has struggled to crank models off the assembly line.
Tesla announced early this month that it missed its production target for the Model 3 sedan, the first mid-priced electric vehicle for the mass market in its lineup. —