NHTSA Complaint #11612214 — 2017 TESLA MODEL S

Tesla Model S has a problem when the electronic actuator for the rear lift gate failed, it cannot be opened unless serviced by Tesla. This creates a safety concern - (1) - The emergency release cable is hard to locate because it is covered by plastic that is only engraved with a picture making it impossible to find a dim/dark situation. (2) The emergency cable failed to unlatch the lift gate making it impossible to open if someone is trapped inside. There is no way to open the lift gate until someone remove the trim and peel off the cover and experiment with unplug / replug the connection wire and hope it will unlock the lift gate making it impossible for most owners. (3) When the actuator failed, the instrument cluster should not just say rear lift gate is open, proceed with caution, it should provide descriptive warnings the gate may fly open, from outside it looks like it is closed and cannot be manually lift up and driver. The driver likely will continue to drive and all warnings stop after reaching 35 mph once until the next drive. (4) On older model, there is option for child jump seats for kids and toddlers. This will be a nightmare if the electronic part failed but no way to open it until serviced by Tesla. This is not a one off problem but a common problem as reported here and easily searchable on the internet. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)