NHTSA investigates Tesla Model 3 and Model Y over potential suspension failure

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a new investigation into nearly 1.2 million Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles over a potential suspension failure.

The investigation, opened July 29, 2026, focuses on the front lower lateral link in 2018-2020 Model 3 and 2021-2023 Model Y vehicles. NHTSA estimates approximately 1,198,300 vehicles are included in the investigation.

According to the agency’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), it has received 156 complaints alleging that the front lower lateral link detached. NHTSA says a failure could potentially result in a loss of directional control.

Most owners reported receiving no warning before the failure occurred. Some complaints mentioned noises beforehand, but NHTSA noted there is no visual warning provided by the vehicle. In some cases, the failure left the Tesla undrivable and requiring a tow.

The NHTSA’s opening report lists no crashes, injuries, fires, or fatalities connected to the 156 incidents.

Tesla Has Faced Similar Recalls Before

This isn’t the first time Tesla’s lower lateral links have attracted regulatory attention. In 2021, Tesla recalled 2,791 Model 3 vehicles from the 2019-2021 model years over a production issue that could allow the lateral link to separate from the subframe. A second recall followed in 2023, covering another 422 Model 3 vehicles from the 2018 and 2019 model years.

However, NHTSA says the latest complaints extend beyond those recalls and don’t appear to be connected to the manufacturing issue behind the earlier campaigns.

The Preliminary Evaluation will now examine the cause, scope and severity of the reported failures and determine whether they require a recall otherwise be issued.

Opening an investigation does not mean NHTSA has determined that a defect exists, and there is currently no new recall associated with the probe.

You can read the full NHTSA report below.