Lucid has issued two separate recalls for the Air sedan. One of them is an over-the-air (OTA) recall affecting over 5,200 of its 2022-2023 Air sedans in Canada and the United States due to a software error that can lead to a loss of power, while the second affects over 7,500 units over concerns the windshield defroster may not work.
High Voltage Interlock (HVIL) Safety Mechanism Flaw
The more serious of the two recalls revolves around the High Voltage Interlock (HVIL) safety mechanism, which is designed to ensure safety during vehicle assembly, maintenance, and repair by disconnecting the high voltage contactors. However, a software error has caused this mechanism to activate while the vehicle is in motion, leading to an unexpected loss of drive power.
Fortunately, this does not affect other critical functions such as steering, brakes, and displays, which operate independently of the high-voltage battery pack.
Lucid has addressed this flaw by releasing an over-the-air (OTA) software update on June 24, 2024. This update modifies the HVIL logic, preventing the high voltage from disconnecting while the vehicle is in Drive or Reverse. Instead, it triggers a Drive System Warning and advises contacting customer care. A Drive System Fault will only occur once the vehicle is placed in Park or Neutral, ensuring that the vehicle remains operable in critical situations.
This recall affects 4 units in Canada and 5,251 units in the US, according to Transport Canada and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Windshield Defroster Recall
Additionally, Lucid has recalled over 7,500 Air sedans due to a malfunctioning coolant heater, which could fail to defrost the windshield. The company has implemented a software update to alert drivers of a coolant heater failure, even if the defrost function has not been activated.
Owners with vehicles that experience this issue will have to schedule a service visit to receive a new High Voltage Coolant Heater at no cost.
This recall affects 81 units in Canada and 7,506 units in the US, according to Transport Canada and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The recalls come as Lucid announced its Q2 2024 production and delivery results, with the automaker posting another record quarter with 2,394 deliveries.
You can read the full NHTSA recall notices below. The Transport Canada recalls can be seen here and here.
