Investigations
Steering wheel detachment
NHTSA Preliminary Evaluation PE23003 — open, opened 2023-03-04 and involving the TESLA MODEL Y.
NHTSA investigation PE23003 is a Preliminary Evaluation opened on 2023-03-04 and currently open. The subject of record is TESLA MODEL Y, which places this file inside the Office of Defects Investigation queue for TESLA. Latest activity on this investigation was logged on 2023-03-04 — NHTSA updates that field whenever an Information Request goes out, a supplement is filed, or a status change is recorded in the public docket.
A Preliminary Evaluation like PE23003 is the entry point of the federal defect-investigation process. NHTSA engineers scan complaint databases, field reports, and manufacturer data to decide whether an Engineering Analysis is warranted, whether a voluntary recall is already sufficient, or whether the pattern does not rise to a defect finding.
Investigators summarized the matter as follows: "The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is aware of two reports of complete detachment of the steering wheel from the steering column while driving in 2023 Model Year Tesla Model Y vehicles. Both vehicles were delivere..." Investigations are the early-warning layer of the federal auto-safety system, sitting upstream of formal recalls and defect orders. Whether this one closes without action or escalates into an Engineering Analysis, the full history stays in the ODI archive so researchers, litigators, and buyers can pull the paper trail at any time. Related TESLA files, listed below, give context on whether this is an isolated concern or part of a broader pattern across the brand.
Investigation Summary
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is aware of two reports of complete detachment of the steering wheel from the steering column while driving in 2023 Model Year Tesla Model Y vehicles. Both vehicles were delivered to the owners missing the retaining bolt (P/N1036655-00-A) which attaches the steering wheel to the steering column. Both vehicles received an end of line repair requiring removal and re-installation of the steering wheel. A friction fit maintained the connection between the steering wheel and the column splines during operation until separation. Sudden separation occurred when the force exerted on the steering wheel overcame the resistance of the friction fit while the vehicles were in motion. Both known incidents occurred at low vehicle mileage. A PE has been opened to assess the scope, frequency, and manufacturing processes associated with this condition. The ODI report cited above can be viewed at http://www.nhtsa.gov under the ODI identification number 11504846.
About This Investigation Type
A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first phase of NHTSA's investigation process. It is opened when the agency identifies a potential safety defect pattern, usually triggered by consumer complaints, manufacturer reports, or field monitoring. During a PE, NHTSA gathers information to determine whether a formal engineering analysis is warranted.
Other TESLA Investigations
Emergency egress controls are not readily accessible and clearly identifiable.
Traffic safety violations while Full Self Driving ("FSD") is engaged
Electronic door handles become inoperative
Compliance with Standing General Order 2021-01 Reporting Requirements
FSD Collisions in Reduced Roadway Visibility Conditions
Data from NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Cross-references: NHTSA recall campaign API and NHTSA FARS where fatality records overlap. PlainCars does not rate or recommend vehicles. Learn more.
Read our methodology — how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.