In the course of our coverage, we've encountered significant recalls involving vast numbers of vehicles, posing logistical challenges for automakers and dealers alike. Conversely, there exists a stark contrast in scale exemplified by a solitary incident involving a Tesla Model 3, necessitating a return to a service center due to an airbag issue.
This unique case revolves around a singular 2024 sedan, crafted in the U.S., which departed the assembly line lacking a crucial component within its airbag module—a deflector responsible for guiding gas flow upon airbag deployment. Typically, our discussions of recalls precede official notifications to affected owners. However, given the minute scope of this incident, the vehicle had already undergone rectification at a Tesla service center before the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued its notice.
According to official documentation, a supplier to Tesla raised an alarm on March 15 after discovering that one of its driver-side airbag modules had been assembled sans deflector. Subsequent scrutiny of assembly footage revealed seven instances where driver-seat airbag modules, slated for Tesla installations, were devoid of deflectors. Tesla promptly cross-referenced this information with its own records, pinpointing the seven impacted vehicles. Of these, six remained within Tesla's custody, promptly flagged for inspection and rectification prior to delivery. This left a solitary Model 3 unaccounted for, prompting Tesla to promptly reach out to the owner, scheduling a service appointment to address the deficiency.
NHTSA records indicate that Tesla dedicated April 1-5 to evaluating the potential ramifications of the absent airbag deflector on airbag performance. While the results of this assessment are not explicitly outlined, it stands to reason that compromised airbag performance would be a concern. Fortunately, the lone Model 3 in question did not encounter any accidents during this period, sparing the driver from experiencing the consequences firsthand.