Over 375,000 Tesla Vehicles Recalled for Loss of Power Steering Assist

Approximately 1%, or around 3,760 of 376,000 Tesla’s, are estimated to be affected by a potential power steering assist issue.

The recall affects certain 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles running software versions earlier than 2023.38.4.

The issue stems from an overstress condition in the printed circuit board of the electronic power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, which can cause a loss of power steering assist when the vehicle stops and then accelerates again.

If this condition occurs, the vehicle’s user interface (UI) will display a warning: “Steering assist reduced. Steering may require increased effort.”

If overstress occurs while the vehicle is in motion, the same alert will appear in advance of the potential EPAS loss when the vehicle reaches 0 MPH.

Tesla has stated that it is unaware of any crashes, injuries, or fatalities related to this issue.

What Causes the Tesla Loss of Power Steering Assist Issue?

The loss of power steering assist in Tesla vehicles is primarily caused by an overstress condition in the printed circuit board of the electronic power-assisted steering (EPAS) system. This issue arises when the vehicle comes to a stop and then accelerates again.

The overstress can lead to a breakdown in the motor drive components within the circuit board, ultimately resulting in the loss of power steering assist.

Tesla addressed this problem with an over-the-air software update designed to prevent the overstress condition.

Meanwhile, in July 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an investigation (PE23-014) into reports of steering control loss in 2023 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles.

Tesla responded to NHTSA’s information requests in September 2023 and provided further data throughout the year.

In February 2024, NHTSA escalated the investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA24-001), prompting Tesla to submit additional information in July and September 2024. Tesla has continued to cooperate with NHTSA, sharing its evaluation of field reports and engineering data.

Tesla’s investigation determined that an overstress condition in the circuit board can lead to EPAS failure when the vehicle reaches 0 MPH.

However, Tesla’s design ensures that EPAS remains functional while the vehicle is in motion. Although manual steering remains available when EPAS is lost at 0 MPH, regulators in a non-U.S. market concluded that the increased manual steering effort could pose a safety risk.

To prevent confusion and address this concern, Tesla voluntarily issued a recall in all affected markets- the manufacturer insists that this latest recall was not directly prompted by NHTSA’s ongoing investigation.

Which Tesla Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall impacts more than 376,000 Tesla vehicles, specifically the 2023 Model 3 and Model Y.

These vehicles were operating on a software version earlier than 2023.38.4, which made them susceptible to the power steering assist issue.

Does Tesla Have a Remedy?

Yes, Tesla is offering a possible remedy for the power steering assist issue through an over-the-air (OTA) software update designed to prevent the overstress condition in the printed circuit board of the electronic power-assisted steering (EPAS) system. This update is provided free of charge to affected owners.

Tesla began rolling out the update in October 2023, and as of January 2025, 99% of affected vehicles in the U.S. have already received it.

Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed by March 25, 2025. Tesla drivers can check their software version by navigating to Controls (vehicle icon) > Software on their touchscreen.

• If the software version is 2023.38.4 or later, no further action is required.
• If the software version is earlier than 2023.38.4, an update is needed to resolve the issue.

Owners with questions can reach out to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or visit nhtsa.gov with NHTSA campaign number 25V-092.

Drivers can also contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752 and reference Recall SB-25-00-004.

Steps for Affected Tesla Owners

If you own a 2023 Model 3 or Model Y affected by this recall, follow these steps to ensure your vehicle is up to date and safe to drive:

1. Check for Notifications: Tesla has likely sent a recall notification via the Tesla app, email, or mail. You can also check for recall alerts on the Tesla website or by entering your VIN on the NHTSA recall lookup tool at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

• Verify Your Software Update: The over-the-air (OTA) update that resolves the power steering assist issue was rolled out starting in October 2023. Most affected vehicles should have already received this update. To check your software version:
  • On your touchscreen, go to Controls (vehicle icon) > Software.
  • If your software version is 2023.38.4 or later, your vehicle is up to date.
  • If your version is earlier than 2023.38.4, you need to install the latest update.

• Contact Tesla if Needed: If you haven’t received the update or have concerns, call Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. They can confirm your vehicle’s status and assist with any necessary updates.

• Monitor Your Vehicle’s Performance: After updating, pay attention to any steering-related issues. If you notice increased steering effort or receive the “Steering assist reduced” warning on your display, contact Tesla service immediately. If your vehicle continues to have steering problems despite the update, California Lemon Law or similar consumer protection laws in your state may offer you legal options.

• Stay Updated: Tesla may provide additional recall updates or service instructions. Keep an eye on your Tesla app, email, or official Tesla communications for further information. If repeated repairs fail to resolve the issue, Lemon Law protections may help you seek compensation or a vehicle replacement.

Call the Lemon Law Experts Today

If your Tesla is experiencing persistent issues related to the power steering assist system—such as unresponsive steering, increased effort required to turn, or recurring alerts about reduced steering assist—you may have legal options under California Lemon Law.

Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have helped countless consumers secure compensation for defective vehicles.

Whether your Tesla’s steering issues persist despite software updates or you’ve encountered other unresolved defects, our team is here to guide you through the process.

You could be eligible for a refund, replacement, or cash compensation. Don’t wait—call the Lemon Law Experts at 877.533.9451 or fill out a case evaluation form on our website today to learn more.