Tesla Recalling 439 Roadsters for Fire Hazard
Tesla Motors announced recently that it is “recalling 439 of its electric sports cars because of a possible fire hazard involving the 12-volt electrical system.” (10/6, NY Times Wheels, C Jensen). However, the automaker has told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that the defect does not effect the “electric drive main power system” that moves the vehicle. Recalled models include the 2010 Roadster 2.0 and Roadster 2.5 with “a 12 volt auxiliary cable.”
The problem lies with the use of “a small lead acid battery as a backup power source to the vehicle’s main electrical system.” The automaker learned of the problem in August 29 when a customer called and reported smoke and possibly a in the right front corner of his vehicle. This was the only incident reported, and Tesla claims it began investigating immediately.
As a car and truck accident attorney in Chicago, I encourage all consumers to stay up to date on recalls, and to act swiftly when one of their vehicles is affected.