Tesla Recalls About 13,000 Newer Cars Over Battery Issue That Can Cause Power Loss While Driving

Core Viewpoint - Tesla is recalling nearly 13,000 electric vehicles due to a battery pack issue that may lead to a loss of drive power, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) [1][2]. Summary by Sections Recall Details - The recall affects approximately 7,925 Model Y (2025) vehicles and 5,038 Model 3 (2026) sedans [1][2]. - The issue involves a battery pack contactor that can fail, resulting in a "sudden loss of propulsion," which increases the risk of a crash [2]. Company Response - Tesla has identified 36 warranty claims and 26 field reports related to the battery issue but has not been informed of any accidents or injuries resulting from it [2]. - The company will replace the battery packs of the affected vehicles at no cost to the owners, with notifications expected to be sent by December 9 [2]. Historical Context - In 2025, Tesla has experienced only nine recalls, with most affecting a small number of vehicles. Notably, four recalls impacted over 1,000 cars, including a significant recall of about 376,000 older Model 3 and Model Y vehicles for a power steering issue [4]. - In contrast, other automakers, such as Ford, have issued a record-breaking 126 recalls in 2025, affecting millions of vehicles [4]. Related Investigations - This recall follows a recent NHTSA investigation into Tesla's "Full Self-Driving" features, which are under scrutiny for potential traffic law violations, including running red lights [5].