NHTSA Complaint #11697584 — 2018 TESLA MODEL 3

I own a 2018 Tesla Model 3. The vehicle experienced a sudden loss of steering assist while driving, and the steering wheel became extremely difficult to turn, eventually locking up to the point where the vehicle could no longer be safely controlled. There were dashboard warnings related to steering and low-voltage system faults. The vehicle had to be towed because it was unsafe and not steerable. This is the second time within a few months that the vehicle has become inoperable and required a tow. The first failure involved a low-voltage electrical fault that prevented the car from charging or driving. The most recent failure involved the steering rack and a front-end controller component. Tesla diagnosed the issue as requiring replacement of the steering rack and a front controller assembly. The repair cost was quoted at approximately $4,200 out of pocket, and Tesla stated the failure was not covered under warranty and not related to the earlier electrical issue. No recall was listed for this VIN. There was no crash, but steering control was lost while the vehicle was in motion, which created a safety hazard. I am reporting this because a sudden loss of steering function while driving is a serious safety defect that could lead to a collision if it occurs at higher speeds or in traffic.