NHTSA probes 1.2M Teslas over suspension failure risk

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened a preliminary investigation on July 31, 2026, into an estimated 1.2 million Tesla vehicles following reports of front suspension failures that could cause a loss of directional control. Model 3 sedans from 2018 through 2020 and Model Y crossovers from 2021 through 2023 are covered by the probe, according to a filing from the agency’s Office of Defects Investigation. The investigation stems from 156 complaints alleging detachment of the front lower lateral link. In most cases reviewed, the failure occurred with no advance warning, though some complaints mention noises before the separation. No crashes, injuries, or fatalities have been linked to the issue. Tesla has faced suspension recalls before. In 2021, the company recalled 2,791 Model Y and Model 3 vehicles for a potential suspension defect. Later, it recalled additional Model 3 vehicles after the NHTSA found a loose fastener could allow the lateral link to separate from the sub-frame. The agency noted that the complaints in the current investigation do not appear related to those earlier issues. A preliminary evaluation is the first step in a process that could lead to an engineering analysis and, if necessary, a safety recall.