On the Dash:
- Tesla is promoting crash-detection features that unlock doors, activate hazard lights, and alert emergency services.
- Electrically powered doors can fail if the low-voltage battery dies, with some models lacking clear manual releases.
- There were over 140 complaints to U.S. regulators.
Tesla is promoting new safety features designed to help first responders access vehicles after crashes, following a Bloomberg investigation into door malfunctions. The probe, which reviewed more than 140 consumer complaints to U.S. regulators, found that electrically powered doors in various Tesla models can fail after collisions, potentially trapping occupants inside.
The company’s website states that when a crash is detected, hazard lights will activate, doors will unlock, and the vehicle will contact emergency services. Tesla notes that some features may not be available in all regions or on all vehicles, depending on build date. It is unclear whether existing vehicles will receive these capabilities through software updates or if they will be limited to new cars.
Tesla vehicles use two batteries: a high-voltage pack for propulsion and a low-voltage battery for windows and doors. If the low-voltage battery fails, doors may not unlock from the outside. While front-row manual release handles exist, some are unmarked, and certain models lack rear manual releases. Consumers have increasingly purchased emergency tools, such as glass breakers or third-party pull cords, to escape in emergencies.
Incidents of occupants being trapped, including serious injuries, have heightened awareness of the issue. Owners and rideshare drivers are showing passengers how to locate manual releases, and instructional videos and online guides have proliferated. A Consumer Reports petition advocating for improved electronic door safety has collected nearly 35,000 signatures.
Tesla’s flush door handles, once a signature of its futuristic design, have become a safety concern when power is lost. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating whether some Model Ys are defective. Past electronic door handle failures at other automakers have prompted recalls, and regulators indicate that inadequate access could constitute a safety defect.
Tesla board leadership has acknowledged the concern and is reviewing design improvements, while owners continue to find workarounds to improve accessibility. The company is under growing pressure to ensure that all drivers and passengers can exit vehicles safely in emergencies.
