Tesla joins nearly 3 million-vehicle recall in China over hidden door handles
Tesla is part of a China-wide recall affecting almost 3 million cars to warn owners about concealed emergency door releases that could trap occupants.
In China, Tesla is recalling just under 3 million vehicles as part of a coordinated effort by eleven carmakers to address hidden emergency door releases that may impede escape during a crash or fire. The manufacturers will affix warning stickers and push software updates to help drivers locate the manual releases, which are often tucked behind panels. The recall follows a February decision to prohibit concealed, electronically-actuated exterior handles beginning in 2027.
Similar scrutiny has arisen in the United States, where regulators have opened an investigation into Tesla’s latch system and are considering new safety rules. Rivian and Ford have also faced issues with hard-to-find manual releases, prompting design changes in newer models. Tesla has indicated it is working on redesigning its door handles for future vehicles.
Why it matters
The recall impacts millions of drivers and highlights safety risks of hidden emergency exits in modern cars.
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