Tesla Recalls 55,000 Model X SUVs, Citing Warning Light Snafu

Tesla is calling back nearly 55,000 Model X sport utility vehicles over malfunctioning warning lights.

The vehicles' controllers may not properly detect low brake-fluid levels, potentially leading to a failure to display a warning light, the electric carmaker told federal regulators. That may sound like a minor issue, but the company acknowledged it could create big problems on the road.

“The vehicle controller’s set threshold range for the sensor may not be set to the correct range at low brake fluid levels,” Tesla said in a defect notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “A vehicle controller that does not correctly indicate low brake fluid levels to the customer may impact braking performance and may increase the risk of a collision.”

The recall covers certain 2021-2023 Model X SUVs, which were produced between February 2021 and September 2023. Tesla told NHTSA that the company is not aware of any accidents or injuries stemming from the defect.

The company said it would issue an over-the-air software update to address the issue.

Tesla Defects Pose Safety Risks

Tesla drivers have faced a number of safety concerns in recent years, including various defects and malfunctions that pose serious hazards on the road.

Tesla’s vehicles are by far the most recalled, more than any other brand, according to a recent study.

Automakers announced more than 400 total recalls last year, covering more than 25 million vehicles. Teslas scored four of the top five spots on the list, price-tracking car search engine iSeeCars.com concluded.

The company in August announced it is recalling less than 150 Model Y sport utility vehicles over missing bolts in steering wheel columns. The SUVs’ steering wheels could come off, even while cars are in use, increasing the risks of accidents and injuries, the company acknowledged.

NHTSA, around the same time, launched an investigation covering some 280,000 Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles over reports of loss of steering control and power steering.

How the California Lemon Law Works

Tesla and other automakers recall millions of vehicles around the world every single year, often citing serious defects that pose real safety risks for everyone on the road. These announcements routinely come long after cars have been sold to unsuspecting buyers.

Fortunately, car owners and lessors in California have some valuable rights and protections under the state’s lemon law.

The lemon law requires Tesla and other auto manufacturers to perform various repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also forces carmakers to buy back - or replace, in some situations - vehicles that they are unable or not willing to fix.

There is no set number of repair requests or attempts that must be made before the buyback or replacement obligation kicks in. An experienced California lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights and explore your options.

Speak with a Los Angeles Lemon Law Attorney

If you are locked in a dispute with a car manufacturer over a malfunctioning or defective vehicle, a Los Angeles lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help. 

We have successfully assisted car owners across the state. Our offices are conveniently located in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a Los Angeles lemon law attorney at our firm today.