Tesla is among nearly a dozen automakers caught up in the largest vehicle recall in China’s history. The recall covers more than 4 million vehicles over concerns that occupants may have difficulty opening doors after a serious crash.
Aside from Tesla, Xiaomi, Leapmotor, Xpeng, Geely and several other manufacturers are also included in the recall, most of which are addressing similar concerns surrounding emergency mechanical door releases that can be difficult to identify or operate if a vehicle loses electrical power.
Tesla accounts for the largest share of the recall, with 2,975,910 imported and China-built Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X vehicles included.
At issue is the design of emergency mechanical door releases. Chinese regulators say the releases can blend into the surrounding interior trim, potentially making them difficult to identify or operate if a severe collision disables the vehicle’s electrical system.
The recall will begin September 25, 2026.
Tesla’s fix will involve applying warning labels identifying the emergency releases, where required, along with an over-the-air (OTA) software update. The update will introduce a post-crash strategy that automatically lowers the windows, potentially giving occupants and emergency crews another way to access the vehicle.
The recalls come as China tightens its rules surrounding electronic and concealed door systems. Beginning January 1, 2027, new vehicle models must include mechanical door-release systems under a new national safety standard, effectively ending the use of purely electronic hidden-door designs.
Tesla has already announced it is redesigning its door handles as the company is also being investigated in the U.S. by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
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