Archive · 17 Sep 2025
NHTSA Investigates Tesla Model Y Door Handle Issues
The NHTSA is looking into problems with the door handles on certain Tesla Model Y cars made since 2021.
Owners have reported the outside door handles not working, meaning they can't open the doors.
In some cases, parents were locked out of their cars, and in four instances, they had to break a window to get back in.
The NHTSA wants to know if this is a safety issue.
If the agency finds the failures pose a risk, Tesla may have to recall these vehicles.
The issue might be related to not enough power reaching the door handle.
NHTSA is investigating Tesla Model Y door handle failures.
The investigation affects Model Y vehicles made since 2021.
Reports detail exterior door handles failing to open.
Parents reported being locked out of their vehicles in some cases.
NHTSA is assessing the scope and safety implications of the failures.
- Who
- NHTSA
- What
- Investigating Tesla Model Y door handle failures
- When
- Investigation ongoing
- Where
- USA, focusing on Model Y vehicles
- Why
- To assess safety risks related to door handle failures
Concerned Owners
NHTSA/Tesla
Door Handle Functionality
Concerned Owners
Door handles can fail, potentially trapping occupants.
NHTSA/Tesla
NHTSA is assessing the issue and Tesla hasn't yet commented.
- Affected Vehicle
- Tesla Model Y
- Model Year
- 2021 and later
- Investigation Agency
- NHTSA
- Issue
- Exterior door handle failure
- Reported Incidents
- 9
- Vehicles Affected
- Approx. 174,000
- Reported Problem
- Inability to open doors
Sources
United States opens probe into 174,000 Tesla Model Y cars over door handle failures - Telegraph India
Tesla under scrutiny: US auto safety agency investigates Elon Musk-owned company; here’s why
Probe Against Tesla After Parents Say Faulty Door Handles Trapped Their Kids
Tesla Faces Probe After Parents Claim Faulty Door Handles Trapped Kids
