Tesla is recalling 218,868 vehicles due to a software defect that can prevent the rearview camera from properly functioning at vehicle startup. The following vehicles are affected:
- 2020-2023 Tesla Model Y
- 2021-2023 Tesla Model X
- 2020-2023 Tesla Model S
- 2021-2023 Tesla Model 3
- 2017 Tesla Model 3
The company told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that when starting up affected models, “the software configuration may prevent camera streams from being sent to the Media Control Unit (MCU), causing a loss of rearview image.”
According to Tesla, the problem lasts for about 11 seconds after the vehicle is started. If owners put the vehicle in reverse during this period, images will not appear on the rearview camera, potentially increasing the risk of an accident.
Tesla is aware of 27 warranty claims and two field reports; no collisions have been reported due to the malfunctioning software. The issue only affects models with hardware version 3.
An over-the-air (OTA) software update has resolved the issue. Vehicles that still need the software update will receive it in the next batch rollout, anticipated on Aug 6, or in a later software release.
Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail beginning July 3.
To find out whether your vehicle has any outstanding recalls, check the easy-to-use vehicle identification number (VIN) tool at our recall center.
