NHTSA Investigates Tesla 2021 Model Y Door Handles — Safety Concerns
Less than a week after reporting on electronic door-handle failures, U.S. regulators have opened an investigation into Tesla’s electrically powered door handles on the 2021 Model Y. The probe covers roughly 174,290 vehicles and may be expanded to other models.
What’s happening?
- Tesla uses flush, electrically actuated door handles that rely on a 12-volt (low-voltage) battery to pop the handle and release the latch.
- If the low-voltage battery fails, the handles may not operate — risking entrapment of occupants.
- Tesla vehicles have an in-cabin manual release, but its location varies by model and can be hard to access, especially for children or pets.
Why it matters
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says entrapment is especially concerning in emergency situations (fires, heat, smoke). News reports cite multiple incidents and complaints dating back to 2018, including rescues that required breaking windows and tragic fatal fires where occupants were reportedly unable to escape.
Notable reports and coverage
- Electrek coverage of the NHTSA probe: Electrek — NHTSA probing Tesla door handles
- Teslarati summary: Teslarati — Tesla gets NHTSA probe over door handles
How to prepare (safety items to consider)
- Car window breaker + seatbelt cutter (search): https://www.amazon.com/s?k=car+window+breaker+seatbelt+cutter&tag=f1rede-20
- Portable jump starter (search): https://www.amazon.com/s?k=portable+jump+starter&tag=f1rede-20
Sources
Reporting summarized from recent news coverage and public filings: Electrek, Teslarati. The NHTSA has opened a preliminary investigation into electronic door-handle failures affecting the 2021 Model Y (about 174,290 vehicles).
If you own a Tesla or have experience with electric door handles, share your story in the comments below. What should regulators and automakers do next?