Tesla Issues Physical Recall for Model 3 & Model Y Vehicles Over Seat Fasteners

1. Recall Overview

Tesla has issued a voluntary safety recall for a small batch of Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The issue involves improperly tightened fasteners in the first-row seats.

This recall affects only 48 vehicles total. It requires a physical service visit to resolve the problem.

2. Affected Vehicles

The recall impacts specific vehicles manufactured between April 3rd and May 7th, 2025:

Vehicle Model

Year

Quantity Affected

Model Y

2026

30 vehicles

Model 3

2025

18 vehicles

All variants are included - RWD, AWD, and Performance models for the Model 3.

3. Safety Issue Details

The problem stems from first-row seating that may have been manufactured with improperly torqued fasteners. These fasteners attach the seat back to the seat bottom.

In some cases, the fasteners may be:

  • Loose

  • Missing

This could cause:

  • A rattle sound

  • The seat to detach from its base

This is a critical safety issue. A seat back that is not properly anchored could detach during operation. This would leave the driver or passenger **unsupported**. It significantly increases the risk of an accident.

Thankfully, no incidents related to this issue have been reported to date.

4. Production Timeline

Tesla's investigation revealed the issue originated from a production change made during a specific period:

  • Start Date: April 3rd, 2025

  • End Date: May 7th, 2025

Important Note: Not all vehicles built within this date range are affected by the recall. Only the specific 48 vehicles identified by Tesla are included.

5. Repair Process

Since this is a physical recall, Tesla must inspect impacted vehicles in person. The repair involves:

  1. Inspecting the seat fasteners

  2. Replacing damaged fasteners if needed

  3. Properly retorquing all fasteners to correct specifications

Cost: The repair is free of charge for affected vehicle owners.

Repair Time:

  • Service Center: Approximately 1 hour

  • Mobile Ranger: Up to 2 hours

6. How to Check Your Vehicle

Affected owners have already been contacted by Tesla under the voluntary recall. Most vehicles should have been repaired by the time this notice was formally issued.

To check if your vehicle is affected:

  • Use Tesla's Recall Tool - Enter your VIN to check for any active recalls

  • Contact Tesla Service - If you're unsure about your vehicle's status

  • Check your email - Tesla has already notified affected owners

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found:

  • In the Tesla app

  • On the driver's side dashboard

  • On the driver's side door jamb

If your vehicle is affected, Tesla will schedule a service appointment at your convenience.