Suspension issues on Tesla Model S and Model X vehicles is causing Tesla to recall close to 30,000 units made for the Chinese market. A chunk of these models have already been exported to the country.
Earlier today, China’s State Administration for Market Regulation made the announcement stating it affects 29,193 vehicles produced by Tesla: “Part of the imported Model S and Model X vehicles with a production date between September 17, 2013 and August 16, 2017 will be recalled, a total of 29,193 vehicles.”
According to Tesla, problems with weakness in the front suspension could lead to cracked linkage in the Model S and Model X post impact. Tesla described the problem stating (translated from Chinese): “When some vehicles within the scope of this recall are subjected to a large external impact, the ball studs of the rear connecting rod of the front suspension will have an initial crack. When the vehicle continues to be used, the crack may extend and cause the ball stud to break. In extreme cases, the ball-end cone seat may come out of the steering knuckle, affecting the control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents, and posing safety hazards.”
However, the issues don’t stop there. According to the report, similar problems with the rear suspension have presented (translated from Chinese): “When some vehicles within the scope of this recall are subjected to a large external impact, the upper connecting rod of the rear suspension may be deformed. When the vehicle is continued to be used, the component will be further weakened. In extreme cases, it may break and affect the control of the vehicle. Increase the risk of accidents, and there are potential safety hazards.”
Affected Model S and Model X owners will be notified by Tesla Beijing and will receive a replacement for the “front suspension rear link and the rear suspension upper link” free of charge. Affected owners can still carefully drive their vehicles until required parts are replaced.