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November 21, 2021 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V912000
Suspension Knuckles May Fracture
Suspension links that separate can reduce vehicle stability and control, increasing the risk of a crash.
NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V912
Manufacturer Tesla, Inc.
Components SUSPENSION
Potential Number of Units Affected 826
Summary
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla
) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. The front and rear suspension knuckles may fracture, causing the suspension links to separate.
Remedy
Tesla Service will inspect and replace the knuckles as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 18, 2022. Owners may contact Tesla
customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla
’s number for this recall is SB-21-31-004.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Check if your Tesla has a Recall
Condition
Certain Model Y vehicles may have been manufactured with suspension knuckles that do not meet correct specifications.
Correction
Inspect all suspension knuckles for symptoms related to the condition. If symptoms are present, replace the affected knuckles.
If Necessary
Part Number | Description | Quantity |
1188311-00-E | FR KNUCKLE, LH | 1 |
1188316-00-E | FR KNUCKLE, RH | 1 |
1188411-00-F | RR KNUCKLE ASSY, LH | 1 |
1188416-00-F | RR KNUCKLE ASSY, RH | 1 |
1109263-00-B | NUT&WSHR[SW],M14x1.5,[10],ZNFL,PTP | 3–6 |
1114797-00-A | BOLT,HF,M6-1×16,[58],ZNFL,SMAT | 1–4 |
1088969-00-B | BOLT,TE,M12x45,STL[109],ZNFL[BLCK] | 2–8 |
1111542-00-A | NUT,HF,M10x1.25,[10],ZNNI,PTP | 1–2 |
1115558-00-A | NUT&WSHR[SW],M24, STL[8],ZNFL,SERR | 1–4 |
1111145-00-A | NUT,HF,M10-1.5,[10],ZNNI,PTP | 1–2 |
These part numbers were current at the time of publication. Use the revisions listed or later, unless otherwise specified in the Parts Catalog. |
Special Tools
1769449-00-A | Hardness Tester Tool |
1082171-00-A | Brake Caliper S-Hook |
1076973-00-A | Dead Blow Hammer |
1062500-00-A | Magnetic Field Viewer Card |
1459409-00-A | Hub Jack Adapter |
1071271-00-A | Chassis Height Measurement Tool |
1090881-00-A | Brake Pedal Depressor |
1090880-00-A | Steering Wheel Holder |
1096075-00-A | Hydraulic Hub Puller |
1457016-00-A | Gedore Spring Compressor |
1137855-00-A | Rear Ride Height Torque Tool |
Shop Supplies
Molykote M-77 (if replacing a driven knuckle)
Procedure
NOTE: If the on-hand hardness tester tooling is different than the tool described below, consult the tool’s instruction manual for operating instructions. The following settings must be selected:
- Hardness Scale: “HB” or “Brinell”. DO NOT select “HRB” or “Rockwell”.
- Material Type: Cast aluminium.
- Measurement Direction: Downward vertical for rear knuckles; horizontal for front knuckles.
- Calibrate the hardness tester tool:
NOTE: Calibration only needs to be performed once per day.
a. Simultaneously press Enter and On/Off to enter calibration mode (Figure 1).
b. Load the impact tool by sliding the black tube towards the tip.
c. Trigger the tool on the test block 5 times, striking a different location each time (Figure 2).
NOTE: Load the impact tool (step 1b) prior to every triggering.
d. After striking the test block 5 times, you will be prompted to enter the test block’s hardness Press ▲ or ▼ to enter the hardness value of the test block (Figure 3), and then press Enter.
- Press Mat’l until “Cast Aluminium Alloys” is selected (Figure 4).
- Press Hard until “HB” is selected (Figure 5).
NOTE: Select “Brinell” if “HB” is not available. DO NOT select “HRB”.
- Remove all 4 wheels (refer to Service Manual procedure 34015001).
- Use a wire brush to clean the circled area on the LH rear knuckle (Figure 6).
CAUTION: Dirt/debris/paint can yield inaccurate hardness readings. Carefully clean all dirt/debris/paint from the circled area until only bare metal is visible.
NOTE: Clean an area that is larger than the tip of the impact tool, as multiple measurements will be taken.
- Press Direc until the impact icon faces downward (Figure 7).
NOTE: This step sets the hardness tester tool to vertical firing mode.
- Load the impact tool by sliding the black tube towards the tip.
- Position the impact tool on the LH rear knuckle as pictured (Figure 8).
CAUTION: Hold the tip of the impact tool firmly against the knuckle and make sure the entire tip of the impact tool is flush against the knuckle.
- Carefully hold the tip of the impact tool (Figure 2) to stabilize it against the knuckle, and then press the release button to trigger the tool. The tool will record the measurement.
- Take 2 more measurements (3 total), slightly shifting the impact location with each measurement.
CAUTION: Hold the tip of the impact tool firmly against the knuckle and make sure the entire tip of the impact tool is flush against the knuckle.
NOTE: Load the impact tool (step 7) prior to every triggering.
- When 3 successful measurements are taken, the hardness tester tool will beep and automatically calculate the average hardness of the knuckle (Figure 9).
NOTE: If using different tooling that does not automatically calculate average hardness:
a. Take 5 measurements.
b. Discard the lowest and highest measurements.
c. Calculate the average hardness of the 3 remaining measurements.
- If the average hardness is 80 HB or higher, the knuckle does not require Take note and skip to the next step.
- If the average hardness is less than 80 HB, the knuckle requires Take note and continue to the next step.
- Perform steps 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 on the RH rear knuckle (Figure 10).
- Use a wire brush to clean the circled area on the LH front knuckle (Figure 11).
CAUTION: Dirt/debris/paint can yield inaccurate hardness readings. Carefully clean all dirt/debris/paint from the circled area until only bare metal is visible.
NOTE: Clean an area that is larger than the tip of the impact tool, as multiple measurements will be taken.
NOTE: Take care not to scrape off the numbering and barcode.
- Press Direc until the impact icon faces sideways (Figure 12).
NOTE: This step sets the hardness tester tool to horizontal firing mode.
- Load the impact tool by sliding the black tube towards the tip.
- Position the impact tool on the LH front knuckle as pictured (Figure 13).
CAUTION: Hold the tip of the impact tool firmly against the knuckle and make sure the entire tip of the impact tool is flush against the knuckle.
CAUTION: Make sure the impact tool is positioned completely outboard of the knuckle’s casting line.
- Carefully hold the tip of the impact tool (Figure 2) to stabilize it against the knuckle, and then press the release button to trigger the tool. The tool will record the measurement.
- Take 2 more measurements (3 total), slightly shifting the impact location with each
CAUTION: Hold the tip of the impact tool firmly against the knuckle and make sure the entire tip of the impact tool is flush against the knuckle.
NOTE: Load the impact tool (step 15) prior to every triggering.
- When 3 successful measurements are taken, the hardness tester tool will beep and automatically calculate the average hardness of the knuckle (Figure 14).
NOTE: If using different tooling that does not automatically calculate average hardness:
a. Take 5 measurements.
b. Discard the lowest and highest measurements.
c. Calculate the average hardness of the 3 remaining measurements.
- If the average hardness is 80 HB or higher, the knuckle does not require Take note and skip to the next step.
- If the average hardness is less than 80 HB, the knuckle requires Take note and continue to the next step.
- Perform steps 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19 on the RH front knuckle (Figure 15).
- Replace all suspension knuckles that did not pass the hardness test.
TIP: To loosen a halfshaft nut with the wheels already removed, insert a screwdriver or punch into the brake rotor slots so that as the halfshaft nut is loosened, the screwdriver presses against the brake caliper. (Figure 16).
CAUTION: Insert a rolled up towel between the screwdriver and caliper to prevent damage to the caliper.
- RWD front knuckle (refer to Service Manual procedure 31010102).
- Dual Motor Front knuckle (refer to Service Manual procedure 31010112).
- Rear knuckle (refer to Service Manual procedure 31030102).
- Return all failed suspension knuckles to MRB through the standard process.
NOTE: As a condition of applying this recall, it is not possible for the customer to retain the removed hardware.
Chronology :
– On September 16, 2021, several deformed knuckles were discovered in production at Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory.
– Tesla and the supplier immediately began performing hardness checks on all other knuckles in their inventory and rejected those with low hardness. Analysis of the deformed knuckles confirmed that their strength did not meet the correct specifications, and a root cause hypothesis was developed for further investigation.
– Between mid-September and early October, Tesla and the supplier reviewed production data, containment inspections, and additional component analysis to further evaluate the possible causes of the deformation.
– On October 22, 2021, the supplier concluded its component-level testing to determine the effect that the resulting knuckle strength may have on knuckle performance.
– From October 13, 2021, to October 28, 2021, Tesla conducted vehicle-level testing to evaluate the potential impact of the lower-strength knuckles. Tesla
also began identifying the scope of a potentially affected vehicle population based upon the suspect production range provided by the supplier.
– On November 11, 2021, Tesla and the supplier completed their investigation of records, related testing and analysis, and confirmed the root cause, risk assessment and affected population.
– On November 18, 2021, a recall determination was made. Tesla is not aware of any injury, warranty claims or customer complaints related to the condition.
3 Affected Products
Vehicle
MAKE | MODEL | YEAR |
TESLA![]() | MODEL Y | 2020-2022 |
9 Associated Documents
Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)
RCONL-21V912-6980.pdf 21.083KB
Recall 573 Report – 12/15/2021
RCLRPT-21V912-6464.PDF 214.523KB
Courtesy Customer Email Notice – MY Suspension Knuckle Inspection
RMISC-21V912-6466.pdf 322.739KB
Defect Notice 573 Report
RCLRPT-21V912-5048.PDF 214.417KB
Recall Acknowledgement
RCAK-21V912-1020.pdf 689.826KB
Remedy Instructions and TSB
RCRIT-21V912-8188.pdf 825.507KB
Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2022-1
RCLQRT-21V912-0230.PDF 211.127KB
Recall Quarterly Report #3, 2022-3
RCLQRT-21V912-7278.PDF 211.313KB
Recall Quarterly Report #4, 2022-4
RCLQRT-21V912-6290.PDF 211.415KB
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SEOCONTENT-START
Subject: Model Y Suspension Knuckle Inspection Tesla has decided to proactively recall certain Model Y vehicles to inspect their suspension knuckles. This recall applies to certain Model Y vehicles built between June 2020 and November 2021. Our records indicate that your vehicle, <VIN>, may be affected by this recall. On these vehicles, the front and/or rear suspension knuckles may not meet the correct manufacturing specifications, which may allow the knuckle to deform or fracture and possibly separate from the suspension links. If the suspension links separate from the knuckle, the wheel alignment could shift, which may impact vehicle controllability. In such cases, you may detect abnormal noise or handling. We are not aware of any crashes or injuries relating to this condition. No immediate action is required if you own a Model Y affected by this recall, and you may continue to drive your car. Tesla will contact you to schedule a service appointment when tools become available in your region to inspect your suspension knuckles and replace if needed, free of charge. Thank you for being a Tesla customer, and we apologize for this inconvenience. Tesla | All Rights Reserved | 3500 Deer Creek Rd. Palo Alto CA 94304 Privacy
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SB-21-31-004 Page 1 of 10 _ Tesla, Inc. Service Bulletin Inspect Suspension Knuckles SB-21-31-004 December 1, 2021 R1 Classification Section/Group Mobile Service Recall Bulletin 31 – Suspension Cannot Perform Model Year Model Country/Region Version 2020 – 2022 Model Y All All The model(s) and model year(s) listed are a general approximation of the affected VIN list. Refer to the VIN/Bulletin Tracker or Customer/Vehicle profile to determine applicability of this bulletin for a particular vehicle. Recall Bulletin: Recall Bulletins are mandatory service procedures that must be carried out by Tesla-certified Service Centers. Recall work performed by uncertified technicians could lead to unsafe conditions or voided warranty provisions. This Service Document supersedes SB-21-31-004, dated 24-Nov-21. Each content change is marked by a vertical line in the left margin. Discard the previous version and replace it with this one. Condition Certain Model Y vehicles may have been manufactured with suspension knuckles that do not meet correct specifications. Correction Inspect all suspension knuckles for symptoms related to the condition. If symptoms are present, replace the affected knuckles. Correction Description Correction Time Inspect All Knuckles; No Replacement Needed S012131004 0.25 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front Knuckle (RWD) S022131004 0.80 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace RH Front Knuckle (RWD) S032131004 0.80 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front Knuckle (Dual Motor) S042131004 0.90 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace RH Front Knuckle (Dual Motor) S052131004 0.90 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Rear Knuckle S062131004 1.25 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace RH Rear Knuckle S072131004 1.25 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front and RH Front Knuckles (RWD) S082131004 1.25 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front and RH Front Knuckles (Dual Motor) S092131004 1.45 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front and LH Rear Knuckles (RWD) S102131004 1.65 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front and RH Rear Knuckles (RWD) S112131004 1.65 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace RH Front and LH Rear Knuckles (RWD) S122131004 1.65 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace RH Front and RH Rear Knuckles (RWD) S132131004 1.65 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front and LH Rear Knuckles (Dual Motor) S142131004 1.75 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front and RH Rear Knuckles (Dual Motor) S152131004 1.75 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace RH Front and LH Rear Knuckles (Dual Motor) S162131004 1.75 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace RH Front and RH Rear Knuckles (Dual Motor) S172131004 1.75 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Rear and RH Rear Knuckles S182131004 2.05 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front, RH Front, LH Rear Knuckles (RWD) S192131004 2.10 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front, RH Front, RH Rear Knuckles (RWD) S202131004 2.10 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front, RH Front, LH Rear Knuckles (Dual Motor) S212131004 2.30 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front, RH Front, RH Rear Knuckles (Dual Motor) S222131004 2.30 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front, RH Rear, LH Rear Knuckles (RWD) S232131004 2.50 SB-21-31-004 Page 2 of 10 _ Inspect All Knuckles; Replace RH Front, RH Rear, LH Rear Knuckles (RWD) S242131004 2.50 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace LH Front, RH Rear, LH Rear Knuckles (Dual Motor) S252131004 2.55 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace RH Front, RH Rear, LH Rear Knuckles (Dual Motor) S262131004 2.55 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace All Knuckles (RWD) S272131004 2.90 Inspect All Knuckles; Replace All Knuckles (Dual Motor) S282131004 3.10 Part Number Description Quantity If Necessary 1188311-00-E FR KNUCKLE, LH 1 1188316-00-E FR KNUCKLE, RH 1 1188411-00-F RR KNUCKLE ASSY, LH 1 1188416-00-F RR KNUCKLE ASSY, RH 1 1109263-00-B NUT&WSHR[SW],M14x1.5,[10],ZNFL,PTP 3–6 1114797-00-A BOLT,HF,M6-1×16,[58],ZNFL,SMAT 1–4 1088969-00-B BOLT,TE,M12x45,STL[109],ZNFL[BLCK] 2–8 1111542-00-A NUT,HF,M10x1.25,[10],ZNNI,PTP 1–2 1115558-00-A NUT&WSHR[SW],M24, STL[8],ZNFL,SERR 1–4 1111145-00-A NUT,HF,M10-1.5,[10],ZNNI,PTP 1–2 These part numbers were current at the time of publication. Use the revisions listed or later, unless otherwise specified in the Parts Catalog. Special Tools 1769449-00-A 1082171-00-A 1076973-00-A 1062500-00-A 1459409-00-A 1071271-00-A 1090881-00-A 1090880-00-A 1096075-00-A 1457016-00-A 1137855-00-A Hardness Tester Tool Brake Caliper S-Hook Dead Blow Hammer Magnetic Field Viewer Card Hub Jack Adapter Chassis Height Measurement Tool Brake Pedal Depressor Steering Wheel Holder Hydraulic Hub Puller Gedore Spring Compressor Rear Ride Height Torque Tool Shop Supplies Paint Pen Molykote M-77 (if replacing a driven knuckle) SB-21-31-004 Page 3 of 10 _ Procedure NOTE: If the on-hand hardness tester tooling is different than the tool described below, consult the tool’s instruction manual for operating instructions. The following settings must be selected: • Hardness Scale: “HB” or “Brinell”. DO NOT select “HRB” or “Rockwell”. • Material Type: Cast aluminium. • Measurement Direction: Downward vertical for rear knuckles; horizontal for front knuckles. 1. Calibrate the hardness tester tool: NOTE: Calibration only needs to be performed once per day. a. Simultaneously press Enter and On/Off to enter calibration mode (Figure 1). Figure 1 b. Load the impact tool by sliding the black tube towards the tip. c. Trigger the tool on the test block 5 times, striking a different location each time (Figure 2). NOTE: Load the impact tool (step 1b) prior to every triggering. Figure 2 – Press the release button to trigger the impact tool SB-21-31-004 Page 4 of 10 _ d. After striking the test block 5 times, you will be prompted to enter the test block’s hardness value. Press ▲ or ▼ to enter the hardness value of the test block (Figure 3), and then press Enter. Figure 3 2. Press Mat’l until “Cast Aluminium Alloys” is selected (Figure 4). Figure 4 3. Press Hard until “HB” is selected (Figure 5). NOTE: Select “Brinell” if “HB” is not available. DO NOT select “HRB”. Figure 5 SB-21-31-004 Page 5 of 10 _ 4. Remove all 4 wheels (refer to Service Manual procedure 34015001). 5. Use a wire brush to clean the circled area on the LH rear knuckle (Figure 6). CAUTION: Dirt/debris/paint can yield inaccurate hardness readings. Carefully clean all dirt/debris/paint from the circled area until only bare metal is visible. NOTE: Clean an area that is larger than the tip of the impact tool, as multiple measurements will be taken. Figure 6 – Clean the circled area 6. Press Direc until the impact icon faces downward (Figure 7). NOTE: This step sets the hardness tester tool to vertical firing mode. Figure 7 7. Load the impact tool by sliding the black tube towards the tip. SB-21-31-004 Page 6 of 10 _ 8. Position the impact tool on the LH rear knuckle as pictured (Figure 8). CAUTION: Hold the tip of the impact tool firmly against the knuckle and make sure the entire tip of the impact tool is flush against the knuckle. Figure 8 – Striking location on the LH rear knuckle 9. Carefully hold the tip of the impact tool (Figure 2) to stabilize it against the knuckle, and then press the release button to trigger the tool. The tool will record the measurement. 10. Take 2 more measurements (3 total), slightly shifting the impact location with each measurement. CAUTION: Hold the tip of the impact tool firmly against the knuckle and make sure the entire tip of the impact tool is flush against the knuckle. NOTE: Load the impact tool (step 7) prior to every triggering. 11. When 3 successful measurements are taken, the hardness tester tool will beep and automatically calculate the average hardness of the knuckle (Figure 9). NOTE: If using different tooling that does not automatically calculate average hardness: a. Take 5 measurements. b. Discard the lowest and highest measurements. c. Calculate the average hardness of the 3 remaining measurements. Figure 9 SB-21-31-004 Page 7 of 10 _ • If the average hardness is 80 HB or higher, the knuckle does not require replacement. Take note and skip to the next step. • If the average hardness is less than 80 HB, the knuckle requires replacement. Take note and continue to the next step. 12. Perform steps 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 on the RH rear knuckle (Figure 10). Figure 10 – Striking location on the RH rear knuckle 13. Use a wire brush to clean the circled area on the LH front knuckle (Figure 11). CAUTION: Dirt/debris/paint can yield inaccurate hardness readings. Carefully clean all dirt/debris/paint from the circled area until only bare metal is visible. NOTE: Clean an area that is larger than the tip of the impact tool, as multiple measurements will be taken. NOTE: Take care not to scrape off the numbering and barcode. Figure 11 – Clean the circled area SB-21-31-004 Page 8 of 10 _ 14. Press Direc until the impact icon faces sideways (Figure 12). NOTE: This step sets the hardness tester tool to horizontal firing mode. Figure 12 15. Load the impact tool by sliding the black tube towards the tip. 16. Position the impact tool on the LH front knuckle as pictured (Figure 13). CAUTION: Hold the tip of the impact tool firmly against the knuckle and make sure the entire tip of the impact tool is flush against the knuckle. CAUTION: Make sure the impact tool is positioned completely outboard of the knuckle’s casting line. Figure 13 – Striking location on the LH front knuckle 17. Carefully hold the tip of the impact tool (Figure 2) to stabilize it against the knuckle, and then press the release button to trigger the tool. The tool will record the measurement. 18. Take 2 more measurements (3 total), slightly shifting the impact location with each measurement. CAUTION: Hold the tip of the impact tool firmly against the knuckle and make sure the entire tip of the impact tool is flush against the knuckle. NOTE: Load the impact tool (step 15) prior to every triggering. SB-21-31-004 Page 9 of 10 _ 19. When 3 successful measurements are taken, the hardness tester tool will beep and automatically calculate the average hardness of the knuckle (Figure 14). NOTE: If using different tooling that does not automatically calculate average hardness: a. Take 5 measurements. b. Discard the lowest and highest measurements. c. Calculate the average hardness of the 3 remaining measurements. Figure 14 • If the average hardness is 80 HB or higher, the knuckle does not require replacement. Take note and skip to the next step. • If the average hardness is less than 80 HB, the knuckle requires replacement. Take note and continue to the next step. 20. Perform steps 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19 on the RH front knuckle (Figure 15). Figure 15 – Striking location on the RH front knuckle SB-21-31-004 Page 10 of 10 For feedback on the accuracy of this document, email ServiceBulletinFeedback@tesla.com 21. Replace all suspension knuckles that did not pass the hardness test. TIP: To loosen a halfshaft nut with the wheels already removed, insert a screwdriver or punch into the brake rotor slots so that as the halfshaft nut is loosened, the screwdriver presses against the brake caliper. (Figure 16). CAUTION: Insert a rolled up towel between the screwdriver and caliper to prevent damage to the caliper. Figure 16 – LH brakes shown; the screwdriver is positioned above RH brake calipers • RWD front knuckle (refer to Service Manual procedure 31010102). • Dual Motor Front knuckle (refer to Service Manual procedure 31010112). • Rear knuckle (refer to Service Manual procedure 31030102). 22. Return all failed suspension knuckles to MRB through the standard process. NOTE: As a condition of applying this recall, it is not possible for the customer to retain the removed hardware.
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3500 Deer Creek Road Palo Alto CA 94304 IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL <Date> <Name> <Address> <Address 2> (if applicable; if not, remove this line) <City, State, ZIP> This notice applies to your vehicle, <VIN> NHTSA Recall No: 21V-912 Dear Tesla Owner, This notice is sent to you in accordance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Tesla, Inc. has decided that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in certain Model Year 2020-2022 Model Y vehicles. Our records show that you are the owner of a vehicle affected by this action. REASON FOR THIS RECALL The suspension knuckles on these vehicles may not have been manufactured to the correct strength specification, which may cause the knuckle to deform or fracture. This may in turn cause suspension links to separate from the knuckle. If a knuckle deforms or fractures such that the suspension links separate from the knuckle, the wheel alignment could shift, which may adversely impact vehicle controllability and increase the risk of a crash. WHAT TESLA WILL DO At no charge to you, Tesla Service will inspect the knuckles, and if necessary, replace the knuckles. WHAT YOU SHOULD DO Please schedule a service appointment through your Tesla mobile app. Alternatively, if you wish to contact your nearest Tesla Service Center or require technical assistance, please visit www.tesla.com/findus or call 1-877-79- TESLA (1-877-798-3752). For awareness, the appointment will take approximately 15 minutes for the inspection and up to about three hours if a repair is necessary. If you have already had this repair completed on your vehicle, there is no further action that you need to take. You may confirm whether the repair has been completed by checking our online VIN look-up tool at https://www.tesla.com/vin-recall-search. If you previously paid for a repair that addresses the recall described in this notice, you may be eligible for a refund. To verify eligibility and learn how to request a refund, please contact Tesla online by visiting www.tesla.com/support/contact or by calling 1-877-79-TESLA (or 1-877-798-3752). Additional detail can be found in our General Recall Reimbursement Plan, which is available online at https://www.tesla.com/sites/default/files/ downloads/tesla-recall-reimbursement-plan.pdf. If you believe that Tesla has failed or is unable to remedy this defect without charge or within a reasonable time, you may submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, by calling 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), or by visiting www.safercar.gov. Federal law requires any lessor who receives a notification of a determination of a noncompliance pertaining to any leased motor vehicle to send the notice to the lessee within 10 days. If you no longer own the vehicle, update vehicle ownership in your Tesla Account. For more details adding or removing vehicles from your Tesla Account, visit www.tesla.com/support/account-support#add-remove-products. Thank you for being a Tesla customer. We are committed to ensuring that your vehicle provides the highest possible level of safety. TESLA, INC.
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OMB Control No.: 2127-0004 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 21V-912 The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Manufacturer Name : Tesla, Inc. Submission Date : DEC 15, 2021 NHTSA Recall No. : 21V-912 Manufacturer Recall No. : SB-21-31-004 Manufacturer Information : Manufacturer Name : Tesla, Inc. Address : 3500 Deer Creek Road Palo Alto CA 94304 Company phone : 650-413-4000 Population : Number of potentially involved : 826 Estimated percentage with defect : 1 % Vehicle Information : Vehicle 1 : 2020-2022 Tesla Model Y Vehicle Type : Body Style : Power Train : NR Descriptive Information : The recall population includes select Model Y vehicles and was determined based upon a review of manufacturing and service records from Tesla and the supplier. Production Dates : JUN 16, 2020 – NOV 10, 2021 VIN Range 1 : Begin : NR End : NR Not sequential Description of Defect : Description of the Defect : The front and rear suspension links on Model Y vehicles are attached to the knuckles. The knuckles may not have been manufactured to the correct strength specification, which may cause the knuckle to deform or fracture and may lead the suspension links to separate from the knuckle. FMVSS 1 : NR FMVSS 2 : NR Description of the Safety Risk : If a knuckle deforms or fractures such that the suspension links separate from the knuckle, the wheel alignment could shift and cause instability, which may adversely impact vehicle controllability and increase the risk of a collision. Description of the Cause : During the supplier’s manufacture of the knuckles, the quench tank fluid level may not have been sufficient to fully quench the knuckles during the heat treatment process. Identification of Any Warning that can Occur : If the knuckle deforms or fractures such that the suspension links separate from the knuckle, abnormal noise or handling may occur, which may be detectable by the customer. Part 573 Safety Recall Report 21V-912 Page 2 The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Involved Components : Component Name 1 : FR KNUCKLE, LH Component Description : FR KNUCKLE, LH Component Part Number : 1188311-00-E Component Name 2 : FR KNUCKLE, RH Component Description : FR KNUCKLE, RH Component Part Number : 1188316-00-E Component Name 3 : RR KNUCKLE ASSY, LH Component Description : RR KNUCKLE ASSY, LH Component Part Number : 1188411-00-F Component Name 4 : RR KNUCKLE ASSY, RH Component Description : RR KNUCKLE ASSY, RH Component Part Number : 1188416-00-F Supplier Identification : Component Manufacturer Name : Ningbo Tuopu Imp and Exp Corp Address : No.598, Binhai Six Road Hangzhou Bay, Ningbo Foreign States Country : China Chronology : – On September 16, 2021, several deformed knuckles were discovered in production at Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory. – Tesla and the supplier immediately began performing hardness checks on all other knuckles in their inventory and rejected those with low hardness. Analysis of the deformed knuckles confirmed that their Part 573 Safety Recall Report 21V-912 Page 3 The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 strength did not meet the correct specifications, and a root cause hypothesis was developed for further investigation. – Between mid-September and early October, Tesla and the supplier reviewed production data, containment inspections, and additional component analysis to further evaluate the possible causes of the deformation. – On October 22, 2021, the supplier concluded its component-level testing to determine the effect that the resulting knuckle strength may have on knuckle performance. – From October 13, 2021, to October 28, 2021, Tesla conducted vehicle-level testing to evaluate the potential impact of the lower-strength knuckles. Tesla also began identifying the scope of a potentially affected vehicle population based upon the suspect production range provided by the supplier. – On November 11, 2021, Tesla and the supplier completed their investigation of records, related testing and analysis, and confirmed the root cause, risk assessment and affected population. – On November 18, 2021, a recall determination was made. Tesla is not aware of any injury, warranty claims or customer complaints related to the condition. Description of Remedy : Description of Remedy Program : Tesla Service will inspect the knuckles on affected vehicles. If necessary, Tesla Service will replace the knuckle. Customers who have replaced the knuckle at their own expense due to this issue prior to the recall notification may be eligible for reimbursement per Tesla’s General Recall Reimbursement Plan. How Remedy Component Differs from Recalled Component : Manufacture of the knuckle to the correct specifications. Identify How/When Recall Condition was Corrected in Production : Tesla implemented a hardness check on all knuckles in its inventory for Model Y production, and the supplier implemented new production controls to ensure sufficient quench tank fluid levels as well as a hardness check of each knuckle. Recall Schedule : Description of Recall Schedule : All Tesla stores and service centers will be notified on or shortly after November 23, 2021. Owner notification letters will be mailed in accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 577.7. Planned Dealer Notification Date : NOV 23, 2021 – NOV 23, 2021 Planned Owner Notification Date : JAN 18, 2022 – JAN 18, 2022 * NR – Not Reported
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OMB Control No.: 2127-0004 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 21V-912 The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Manufacturer Name : Tesla, Inc. Submission Date : NOV 21, 2021 NHTSA Recall No. : 21V-912 Manufacturer Recall No. : SB-21-31-004 Manufacturer Information : Manufacturer Name : Tesla, Inc. Address : 3500 Deer Creek Road Palo Alto CA 94304 Company phone : 650-413-4000 Population : Number of potentially involved : 826 Estimated percentage with defect : 1 % Vehicle Information : Vehicle 1 : 2020-2022 Tesla Model Y Vehicle Type : Body Style : Power Train : NR Descriptive Information : The recall population includes select Model Y vehicles and was determined based upon a review of manufacturing and service records from Tesla and the supplier. Production Dates : JUN 16, 2020 – NOV 10, 2021 VIN Range 1 : Begin : NR End : NR Not sequential Description of Defect : Description of the Defect : The front and rear suspension links on Model Y vehicles are attached to the knuckles. The knuckles may not have been manufactured to the correct strength specification, which may cause the knuckle to deform or fracture and may lead the suspension links to separate from the knuckle. FMVSS 1 : NR FMVSS 2 : NR Description of the Safety Risk : If a knuckle deforms or fractures such that the suspension links separate from the knuckle, the wheel alignment could shift and cause instability, which may adversely impact vehicle controllability and increase the risk of a collision. Description of the Cause : During the supplier’s manufacture of the knuckles, the quench tank fluid level may not have been sufficient to fully quench the knuckles during the heat treatment process. Identification of Any Warning that can Occur : If the knuckle deforms or fractures such that the suspension links separate from the knuckle, abnormal noise or handling may occur, which may be detectable by the customer. Part 573 Safety Recall Report 21V-912 Page 2 The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Involved Components : Component Name 1 : FR KNUCKLE, LH Component Description : FR KNUCKLE, LH Component Part Number : 1188311-00-E Component Name 2 : FR KNUCKLE, RH Component Description : FR KNUCKLE, RH Component Part Number : 1188316-00-E Component Name 3 : RR KNUCKLE ASSY, LH Component Description : RR KNUCKLE ASSY, LH Component Part Number : 1188411-00-F Component Name 4 : RR KNUCKLE ASSY, RH Component Description : RR KNUCKLE ASSY, RH Component Part Number : 1188416-00-F Supplier Identification : Component Manufacturer Name : Ningbo Tuopu Imp and Exp Corp Address : No.598, Binhai Six Road Hangzhou Bay, Ningbo Foreign States Country : China Chronology : – On September 16, 2021, several deformed knuckles were discovered in production at Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory. – Tesla and the supplier immediately began performing hardness checks on all other knuckles in their inventory and rejected those with low hardness. Analysis of the deformed knuckles confirmed that their Part 573 Safety Recall Report 21V-912 Page 3 The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 strength did not meet the correct specifications, and a root cause hypothesis was developed for further investigation. – Between mid-September and early October, Tesla and the supplier reviewed production data, containment inspections, and additional component analysis to further evaluate the possible causes of the deformation. – On October 22, 2021, the supplier concluded its component-level testing to determine the effect that the resulting knuckle strength may have on knuckle performance. – From October 13, 2021, to October 28, 2021, Tesla conducted vehicle-level testing to evaluate the potential impact of the lower-strength knuckles. Tesla also began identifying the scope of a potentially affected vehicle population based upon the suspect production range provided by the supplier. – On November 11, 2021, Tesla and the supplier completed their investigation of records, related testing and analysis, and confirmed the root cause, risk assessment and affected population. – On November 18, 2021, a recall determination was made. Tesla is not aware of any injury, warranty claims or customer complaints related to the condition. Description of Remedy : Description of Remedy Program : Tesla Service will inspect the knuckles on affected vehicles. If necessary, Tesla Service will replace the knuckle. How Remedy Component Differs from Recalled Component : Manufacture of the knuckle to the correct specifications. Identify How/When Recall Condition was Corrected in Production : Tesla implemented a hardness check on all knuckles in its inventory for Model Y production, and the supplier implemented new production controls to ensure sufficient quench tank fluid levels as well as a hardness check of each knuckle. Recall Schedule : Description of Recall Schedule : All Tesla stores and service centers will be notified on or shortly after November 23, 2021. Owner notification letters will be mailed in accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 577.7. Planned Dealer Notification Date : NOV 23, 2021 – NOV 23, 2021 Planned Owner Notification Date : JAN 18, 2022 – JAN 18, 2022 * NR – Not Reported
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