Complaints About Tesla’s Suspension

Reuters reports there may have been problems with some Tesla Model S Sedans.  In particular, the vehicles may have suspension issues. The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) has said that it is investigating some complaints that have been made and is reaching out to both the company and to owners of vehicles.

When car owners purchase a new vehicle, the last thing they expect to deal with is serious problems with the car. Unfortunately, this happens far more often than most people would like to believe. When an issue arises, car owners need to know their rights under the California motor vehicle lemon law.

Possible Problems With Tesla Suspensions under Investigation

Tesla owners have reportedly experienced issues that may be caused by a defect. There are concerns that the defect is causing suspension control arms to break. If this happens, the driver of the vehicle could end up losing control of the car.

The NHTSA is looking into these reports. It is currently in the reviewing stage, which is the step the agency takes before launching a full formal investigation that could eventually result in a safety recall.

The NHTSA is not only looking into whether there are suspension problems, but it is also investigating whether the car company urged its customers to sign a “troublesome nondisclosure agreement” in which the car owners would agree not to disclose the suspension problems. 

Apparently, some Tesla owners had indicated on a Tesla fan site that they had been promised help with the repair bills by the car company if they agreed not to disclose issues. One of the owners who allegedly had this happen was contact by NHTSA investigators after posting that Tesla had promised to pay 50 percent of a $3,100 repair bill if the owner kept silent about the arrangement.

The NHTSA said they were told by Tesla that it wasn't their intention to dissuade customers from contacting the traffic safety agency. However, there was also other evidence that Tesla had urged non-disclosure, including a resolved complaint filed against Tesla with the Better Business Bureau that involved Tesla requiring a confidentiality agreement regarding a defective Tesla Model X.

Consumers are always urged by the NHTSA to report defects so an investigation can take place, and if problems are found, a recall can be facilitated. If car companies convince drivers not to report their problems by making them sign non-disclosure agreements in exchange for fixing issues with their cars, everyone will be far less safe, and the agencies that protect the public won't be able to function effectively.

Car owners shouldn't have to jump through hoops, agree not to disclose issues or face substantial struggles when they have problems with new vehicles they buy. California’s lemon law should protect new car owners, but it may be important to get legal help to know how these laws work and whether they apply in your particular situation. An experienced lemon law attorney can provide assistance in understanding the law and dealing with defects.