Tesla recalls 13,000 Model 3 and Y cars

A new recall affecting thousands of recently manufactured Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles is imminent, according to a report filed to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The Elon Musk–led EV company is set to recall more than 13,000 cars built between March and August 2025 due to a battery issue that can cause a sudden loss in propulsion while driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that roughly one percent of those vehicles are affected.

The NHTSA report states that the problem stems from a battery pack contactor that "may suddenly open due to poor coil termination connection," cutting power unexpectedly. The NHTSA wrote that Tesla dealers were to be notified of the issue by Oct. 15.

According to the NHTSA, Tesla has identified 36 warranty claims and 26 field reports related to the issue, but says it’s not aware of any crashes, injuries, or fatalities tied to the defect. While the agency recommended a recall, Tesla is not legally required to issue one — meaning this recall is entirely voluntary on the company’s part.

Frequently, Tesla resolves recalls through over-the-air software updates. This time, however, drivers will need to bring their vehicles to a service center to have the faulty contactors physically replaced. The repairs will be completed free of charge.

This marks yet another recall for a Tesla-manufactured vehicle, following a string of issues earlier this year involving the Cybertruck. The so-called "apocalypse-proof" EV has already faced several recalls — including one in which the accelerator pedal could become lodged under interior trim, and another over an exterior panel that risked detaching while driving.

The recall also follows mounting scrutiny from U.S. regulators over Tesla’s safety practices. Earlier this month, NHTSA launched a separate investigation into nearly 2.9 million Tesla vehicles equipped with the company’s Full Self-Driving system after receiving dozens of complaints of traffic violations and crashes involving the software.