Tesla Recalls Small Number of Model Ys for Bolt Problem

Tesla is calling back fewer than 20 Model Y sport utility vehicles over a suspension bolt issue that could make the cars harder to control.

“The front suspension lateral link on affected vehicles is attached to the sub-frame using two fasteners,” Tesla said in a recall notice. “If a fastener is not secured to the correct specification, the fastener may loosen over time or separate from the sub-frame, which could cause the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame.”

That increases safety risk, the automaker said in the notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

“If a fastener becomes loose enough or separates from the sub-frame such that the lateral link separates from the sub-frame, the wheel alignment could shift and cause instability, which may adversely impact vehicle controllability and increase the risk of a collision,” Tesla said.

The recall covers certain 2026 Model Y SUVs built between July 26 and August 4, at the automaker’s plant in Fremont. The problem bolts connect the front suspension lateral links, which help keep the wheels properly aligned. Owners may notice an “abnormal noise” coming from the front suspension if the bolts’ fasteners start to loosen, according to Tesla.

The company said it planned to notify owners of recalled SUVs by early September. Model Y drivers can also check the NHTSA website to see if their cars are part of the recall.

Tesla wants owners of recalled cars to bring the vehicles to authorized service providers, who will inspect both front suspension lateral link fasteners on each affected vehicle for proper torque. The automaker said it will retorque loose or missing fasteners to the correct specification, then perform an alignment check.

How the California Lemon Law Works

Tesla and other car manufacturers call back millions of vehicles every year, citing a wide range of defects and malfunctions that increase safety risk for anyone in the cars or sharing the road with them. These moves often happen long after the vehicles have been sold to unsuspecting buyers.

Fortunately, the California lemon law gives car owners and lessors in the state some strong rights and protections. Many do not need to wait for a recall to get a defective or malfunctioning vehicle repaired.

The lemon law requires Tesla and other carmakers to perform a wide range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also requires companies to buy back (or replace, in some cases) covered vehicles they cannot or refuse to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the purchase price, as well as financing fees, rental car costs, and other related expenses.

Talk with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a California lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.