NHTSA Complaint #11640775 — 2023 TESLA MODEL Y

Subject: Urgent Safety Concern – Steering Component Failure in 2023 Tesla Model Y Dear Tesla Customer Support / NHTSA Safety Division, I am writing to formally report a serious safety issue involving a critical steering component failure in my 2023 Tesla Model Y (VIN: [XXX] 38,917 miles). The failure led to a loss of control and resulted in a collision. On [XXX], my wife, [XXX] , was driving the vehicle on our residential street, shortly after leaving our driveway. At a low speed of approximately 8-10 mph, she suddenly lost steering control as the car rapidly veered to the right. Despite attempts to steer, the vehicle was unresponsive, leading to a collision with a parked car. Damage Summary: •Our Tesla Model Y: Damage to front bumper, headlights, right wheel cover and right fender. •Parked Vehicle: Deep scratches and dents on the rear driver-side bumper and passenger door. Upon inspecting the vehicle after the incident, it became apparent that a suspension or steering component (likely the lower control arm) had failed (broken). After researching online, I discovered that multiple Tesla Model Y owners have reported similar sudden failures of the same part, indicating a potential manufacturing defect. Request for Immediate Action: 1.Tesla Inspection & Full Repair at No Cost – Since my vehicle is under warranty and this appears to be a manufacturing defect, I request a full investigation and repair at Tesla’s expense. 2.NHTSA Investigation into a Potential Recall – Given that similar failures have been reported by other Tesla owners, I urge NHTSA to review this issue for a potential recall before more accidents occur. 3.Tesla’s Official Response – I would like Tesla to confirm whether this component has been investigated for defects in other vehicles and what steps are being taken to prevent other accidents. This incident could have been far worse had my wife been driving at higher speeds. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA)