Tesla is facing another class action lawsuit, this time alleging the automaker’s electronic door handle design in the Model S can leave occupants trapped during emergencies.
Filed last month in California federal court, the complaint claims that 2023 to present Model S vehicles rely too heavily on electrically actuated door latches, creating what the plaintiff describes as a serious safety hazard if the vehicle loses low-voltage power in a crash or fire.
According to the lawsuit, first reported by Top Class Actions, both the interior and exterior door handles in the Model S depend on electronic actuation. In the event of a collision or battery failure — scenarios the complaint argues are entirely foreseeable — the flush-mounted exterior handles may fail to present, potentially preventing first responders from accessing the cabin.
The plaintiff, Robert L. Hyde, alleges that the vehicle is “not reasonably escapable” after an accident that disables its low-voltage system. Hyde is seeking to represent a class of individuals who purchased or leased 2023 and newer Model S vehicles.
Unlike traditional mechanical door releases, the rear doors in the Model S use a manual cable release hidden beneath carpeting under the rear seats, the lawsuit claims. The complaint argues that this mechanism is not easily discoverable, particularly during the chaos and disorientation that can follow a serious crash.
Hyde further contends that the manual release process is “tedious” and may be especially difficult for children, elderly passengers, or those with disabilities to operate in a life-threatening situation.
Hyde, who purchased his Model S in February 2023, claims he suffered economic harm because the vehicle’s alleged safety risks reduce its value. The complaint includes claims of fraudulent concealment and violations of California consumer protection laws, and seeks damages as well as injunctive relief.
The new lawsuit arrives amid increased regulatory and legal scrutiny over flush-mounted, electronic door handles across Tesla’s lineup.
In September 2025, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched a preliminary investigation into more than 174,000 2021 Model Y vehicles after receiving complaints that exterior door handles became inoperative. Several reports involved parents breaking windows to free children from vehicles after low-voltage battery failures.
That probe later expanded following additional complaints, including incidents where occupants were allegedly trapped in high temperatures. Federal regulators requested detailed design and component data from Tesla as part of their evaluation.
Tesla has previously stated they are already redesigning their door handles. China has banned flush door handles made popular by Tesla starting in 2027.
The case is Hyde v. Tesla Inc., Case No. 3:26-cv-00942-BJC-MMP, in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. Tesla has not commented on the case.
