Tesla Recalls Nearly 1.85 Million Vehicles for Hood Latch Problems

About 18,496 of the 1,849,638 recalled Tesla’s are estimated to be affected by a software issue that fails to detect an unlatched hood, potentially causing it to fly open and obstruct the driver’s view.

The recall applies to specific Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y vehicles from the 2020 to 2024 model years. This recall is Tesla’s largest since December 2023.

On July 17, 2024, following an investigation by the manufacturer earlier in March, Tesla made the decision to voluntarily recall the affected vehicles as a precautionary measure.

As of July 20, 2024, Tesla had recorded three warranty claims or field reports in the U.S. that might be linked to this issue.

The Tesla Hood Latch Recall includes several Tesla models. If your Tesla has undergone repeated repairs for hood latch issues, you may be eligible for cash compensation or a refund under California’s Lemon Law.

Affected Vehicle	Average Lemon Law Settlement
Model 3 (2021-2024)	$89,449
Model S (2013-2024)	$163,447
Model X (2016-2024)	$172,933
Model Y (2020-2024)	$98,420

*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on results from previous cases and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.

Potential Safety Risks for Tesla Owners

Tesla owners should be aware of the potential safety risks associated with the hood latch issue. One of the most serious dangers is an obstructed view; if the hood is not properly latched and suddenly flies open while driving, it can block the driver’s vision and greatly increase the likelihood of a collision.

An unlatched hood poses an increased risk of accidents. The sudden and unexpected distraction caused by the hood opening can be especially dangerous at high speeds, where even a brief lapse in attention can lead to severe consequences.

How Do I Know if My Vehicle Is Included?

To find out if your Tesla vehicle is part of a recall, you can start by visiting Tesla’s official website and using the Tesla Recall Information page. Here, you’ll find resources and tools to help you determine if your vehicle is affected.

One of the most useful tools available is the VIN Recall Search Tool. Simply enter your complete 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into this tool, and it will provide the latest information on any open safety recalls that apply to your vehicle.

You can also check your VIN through the Tesla app. Your VIN is located at the bottom of the app or on your Tesla Account page.

If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your preferred Tesla Service Center.

What Will Tesla Do to Fix the Hood Latch?

Tesla is addressing the hood latch problem through an over-the-air (OTA) software update. The company has released firmware version 2024.20.3, which is designed to detect when the hood is open and notify the driver through the vehicle’s user interface.

This update ensures that drivers are alerted if the hood is not properly latched before driving, enhancing safety and preventing potential issues on the road.

There is no need to schedule a service appointment for this recall as the update is being automatically rolled out to all affected vehicles.

Owners can verify that their vehicle has received the update by checking the software version on their touchscreen under ‘Controls’ > ‘Software’ or by using the Tesla mobile app.

What Can I Do If I Experience Repeat Tesla Hood Latch Problems?

If your Tesla continues to experience hood latch issues even after a software update, here are the steps you can take:

1. Verify Software Updates: Ensure your Tesla is running the latest software version. You can check this via the touchscreen under ‘Controls’ > ‘Software’ or by using the Tesla mobile app.
2. Contact Tesla Support: Reach out to Tesla customer service at 1-877-792-3752 for assistance. They can offer guidance and help troubleshoot the issue.
3. Schedule a Service Appointment: If the issue persists, schedule a service appointment through the Tesla app or your Tesla Account. A technician will inspect the hood latch assembly and perform any necessary repairs.
4. Report the Issue: If you consider the problem to be a safety concern, report it to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at 1-888-327-4236 or online at www.nhtsa.gov.
5. Consider a Lemon Law Claim: If the hood latch issue remains unresolved after multiple repair attempts, you may want to explore a lemon law claim. Keep thorough documentation of all repair efforts and communications with Tesla. A lemon law attorney can guide you through the legal process, potentially leading to a replacement vehicle, refund, or settlement.

By following these steps, you can address ongoing hood latch problems with your Tesla. If further assistance is needed, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.

The Lemon Law Experts Can Help with Your Tesla!

If you are facing unresolved manufacturing issues with your Tesla, the Lemon Law Experts are here to assist. With over a decade of experience since 2009, we have successfully recovered millions in compensation for our clients.

Our commitment lies in protecting consumer rights and ensuring that you receive the justice and financial relief you’re entitled to.

Whether you’re aiming for a vehicle that meets safety standards, a refund, or cash compensation, the Lemon Law Experts are dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for your situation.

We’ve done it for countless Tesla owners, and we’re here to do the same for you. Take the first step toward resolving your issue by calling us at 877.885.5366 or completing a case evaluation form on our website today.