Tesla is recalling more than 1.6 million cars in China to address issues with the automated steering and door latches

More than 1.6 million Model S, X, 3, and Y electric cars that were shipped to China are being recalled by Tesla due to issues with the door latch controls and automated assisted steering.

The recall was issued on Friday by the State Administration for Market Regulation in China. It stated that remote upgrades would be used by Tesla Motors in Beijing and Shanghai to address the issues, negating the need for most car owners to visit Tesla service centers.

1.6 million imported Tesla Model S, Model X, Model 3, and Model Y vehicles are covered by the recall because of issues with the automated steering assist feature.

According to the notification, drivers may abuse the combined driving function when the automatic steering feature is activated, which raises the possibility of accidents.

Exactly 7,538 cars manufactured between October 26, 2022, and November 16, 2023 are covered by the recall to repair the door unlock logic control for imported Model S and Model X EVs. It is required to stop door latches from opening in the event of an accident.

The goal of the upgrades is to encourage drivers who use Tesla’s Autopilot technology to focus more on the road. According to Tesla’s documents submitted to the US government, the online software update will result in more alarms and warnings telling drivers to keep their hands on the steering wheel.

Even as tensions between the United States and China worsened, Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, maintained tight ties with Chinese officials. China is a significant market and manufacturing hub for Tesla. In 2019, the company constructed an electric vehicle assembly plant in Shanghai, China, which serves China, Europe, and other international markets.

In the rapidly expanding Chinese electric vehicle market, Tesla is the second-best seller. The market leader is BYD, a Chinese automaker.