Tesla recalls 132,000 Model 3 vehicles over side-impact safety concerns

Tesla is recalling approximately 132,000 Model 3 vehicles worldwide due to safety concerns regarding side-impact protection. The issue involves the deployment process of the ‘Far-Side-Airbag’ (FSAB), which may not fully comply with UN regulation No. 135. Specifically, the maximum impact force on the shoulder area could exceed the legal limit of 3.0 kN, increasing the risk of injury to passengers during a side collision.

The affected vehicles were manufactured between June 30, 2024, and May 8, 2026. The German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) announced the recall, noting that no injuries have been reported in connection with this defect so far. In Germany, 12,680 affected units have been identified, while in Norway, approximately 16,000 Model 3 units were sold during the relevant production period.

Tesla intends to resolve the issue via an over-the-air (OTA) software update rather than physical repairs. The fix is implemented in software versions 2026.26.100.2, 2026.32.3, and later. Customers can check their vehicle's status using their chassis number on the manufacturer's website.