Tesla, the pioneer in electric vehicles, is recalling a staggering 2,193,869 of its electric vehicles (EVs), including the highly anticipated Cybertruck, not for a mechanical glitch or a malfunctioning component, but for what seems to be the silliest reason – a font size debacle on the dashboard warning lights.
This recall, a first for the Cybertruck since its November 2023 debut, has raised eyebrows and generated discussions about safety standards and Tesla’s unique approach to resolving issues.
The recall, prompted by a safety report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), points out a crucial flaw in Tesla’s design. The small font size used for dashboard warning lights, including those for brake, park, and ABS, measuring less than 1/8 inch, fails to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) numbers 105 and 135, pertaining to hydraulic and electric brake systems and light vehicle brake systems, respectively.
This diminutive font size poses a potential safety risk by limiting the driver’s ability to discern these crucial warnings, thereby increasing the likelihood of collisions.
The affected vehicles span a wide range, covering Model S (2012-2023), Model X (2016-2014), Model 3 (2017-2023), Model Y (2019-2024), and the recently launched Cybertruck (2024).
Interestingly, the font size issue came to light during a routine compliance check involving a 2023 Model Y on January 8. Tesla, to its credit, swiftly initiated an investigation, leading to a voluntary recall determination on January 24. Despite no reported crashes or injuries associated with this concern, the electric automaker chose to proactively address the potential risk.
What sets this recall apart is not just the reason behind it but also Tesla’s approach to rectifying the issue. In a bold move, the company is opting for an over-the-air (OTA) update, a strategy already employed for a rearview camera glitch in nearly 200,000 EVs just last month.
The software release 2023.44.30.13 aims to increase the font size above the 1/8 inch threshold mandated by FMVSS, ensuring compliance without necessitating a visit to a service center.
In a departure from traditional recalls, Tesla has decided against a reimbursement plan, emphasizing that “there is no paid repair relating to the underlying condition.”
This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering updates and fixes seamlessly to its users, reinforcing the value of the OTA capability embedded in Tesla’s vehicles.
Notably, this marks the first recall for the Cybertruck, a vehicle that garnered immense attention and acclaim upon its launch. The recall notifications are slated to be dispatched to owners on March 30, underscoring Tesla’s commitment to transparency and customer communication.
In conclusion, while the font size may seem trivial in the grand scheme of automotive recalls, Tesla’s proactive approach, swift response, and utilization of cutting-edge technology showcase the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its vast user base.
The debate over whether this constitutes a ‘recall’ without a traditional service center visit may linger, but what remains undisputed is Tesla’s unyielding dedication to innovation, even in the face of unexpected challenges.