- Tesla just recalled 172 examples of its updated Model Y.
- The safety issue at hand is a wiper arm washer hose elbow.
- A manufacturing error might mean that it’s blocked and unusable.
The updated Tesla Model Y hasn’t been out for very long, but it’s already getting its first recall. The issue actually routes all the way back to the country of Malaysia, where the suspect part rolls off of the production line. That part is a simple plastic elbow that helps route windshield wiper fluid onto the windscreen itself. Unlike the many cases where Tesla fixes a recall via software, this one will require a service appointment.
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While this isn’t as major as a suspension part falling off, a body panel flying off in traffic, or brakes that fail, it’s still important. As the recall paperwork rightly points out, a dirty windshield can pose a safety risk. If drivers can’t clean their windscreen, that’s an even bigger issue.
Read: Ford Warns Thousands Of Drivers Something Could Fall Off This Truck
Tesla says it spotted this issue itself back in mid-April. During a test drive of a freshly produced Model Y on April 18, technicians noticed a problem. The following Monday, Tesla started inspecting other Model Ys for the same issue. While it was doing that, it communicated with its supplier in Malaysia.
The supplier confirmed to Tesla that it “failed to revalidate their tooling after performing a repair, causing the defect in the suspect components.” While the automaker doesn’t spell out exactly how the defect blocks the wiper fluid, it’s clear that the elbow wasn’t clear enough. Interestingly, Tesla says that it actually tested the Model Y with just one wiper nozzle instead of two to see if one was good enough.
When it proved incapable of meeting federal motor vehicle safety standards, the automaker decided to issue this recall. That said, it only affects 172 cars in total. To solve the problem, Tesla will remove the old defective elbow pieces and replace them with fresh and fully functional ones. Notably, Tesla says it doesn’t know of any incidents or accidents related to the issue.
We’ve scrounged around different Tesla forums and message boards and don’t see any complaints about the issue either. Thankfully, this isn’t a more widespread issue. Who knows how long it would’ve taken Tesla service to manage this if it affected thousands of cars?
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