Federal safety watchdogs in the U.S. have launched a preliminary investigation into Tesla following troubling reports that some 2021 Model Y vehicles have failed to open from the outside due to electronic door handle malfunctions. In at least nine separate incidents, parents said the outer handles wouldn’t work—forcing them to break windows to pull their children to safety.
The automaker, led by billionaire Elon Musk, did equip these vehicles with manual door releases inside. However, U.S. regulators noted that younger passengers might not know how to use them—or even be able to reach them in an emergency. In several cases, desperate parents had no choice but to smash the windows to free their kids.
This incident has drawn primary concern, particularly because the manual release inside the car may be out of reach or unknown to passengers. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that approximately 174,300 Model Ys are affected.
Key Details About the Tesla Safety Issue
- The investigation targets 2021 Model Y vehicles, following multiple reports that the external electronic door locks have stopped functioning, possibly due to low voltage.
- In four of these incidents, parents did break the windows to reach children in the back seat.
- Tesla has equipped these cars with manual interior door releases, but the safety agency warns that this feature may be ineffective if someone inside is unaware of it or cannot reach it.
What This Means for Saudi Drivers
Although this investigation is happening in the U.S., the implications for Tesla’s safety are global—and Saudi drivers should be paying close attention.
- Imported Teslas or Dealers: Many Tesla cars in Saudi Arabia are either imported or sold via agents/dealers. If the Model Y you own (or plan to buy) is part of the affected year (2021), there’s a chance the same door handle defect could exist.
- Safety Laws & Recalls: Saudi regulators often follow (or respond to) international auto safety standards and recalls. If U.S. authorities find a serious Tesla safety defect, there’s a good possibility Saudi Arabia’s automotive regulators may issue similar directives or demand fixes.
- Consumer Awareness Matters: For parents, especially, knowing about this problem highlights the importance of checking door operation as part of regular maintenance—that includes understanding where the manual door release is located, even if you expect electronic systems always to work.
- Market Trust and Brand Impact: Tesla’s safety is now under scrutiny, which could impact resale value, warranty claims, and customer trust. Saudi customers might see more emphasis on safety features, inspections, and warranties in EVs.
Tesla’s door handle issue isn’t just about mechanics—it’s about safety, responsibility, and engineering that works even when tech fails. As electric vehicles become more common in Saudi Arabia, Tesla safety could become a hot topic in garages, regulatory offices, and family conversations. If you’re a Tesla owner (or planning to be one), it’s time to know your vehicle inside out—literally.
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