It looks like Elon Musk’s Tesla cannot catch a break. The U.S. auto safety regulator said on Wednesday it has opened a defect investigation into Tesla Model 3 compact sedans over concerns that emergency door release controls may not be easily accessible or clearly identifiable in an emergency.
The investigation is being conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which said it is examining whether the placement, labeling, and design of the emergency door release could pose a safety risk. In emergency situations—such as crashes, fires, or power failures—passengers may need to exit the vehicle quickly.
The investigation was opened on Dec. 23 after the agency received a defect petition alleging that the vehicles’ mechanical door release is hidden, unlabeled and not intuitive to locate during emergencies.
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In Tesla Model 3 vehicles, doors are typically opened using electronic buttons rather than conventional handles. While mechanical emergency releases are included, reports suggest they may not be obvious to all occupants, particularly passengers unfamiliar with the vehicle. Some complaints indicate that users struggled to locate the emergency release under stress or in low-visibility conditions, prompting regulators to take a closer look.
NHTSA’s defect investigations are an early step in the regulatory process and do not necessarily mean a recall will follow. The agency will collect data, review consumer complaints, analyze vehicle design, and may request additional information from Tesla. If regulators determine that a safety-related defect exists, Tesla could be required to issue a recall or make design changes to address the issue.
Tesla has not admitted any wrongdoing, and the company has previously argued that its vehicles meet all applicable safety standards. Supporters of Tesla’s design philosophy often point out that simplified interiors reduce clutter and that emergency releases are documented in owner manuals.
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The investigation highlights a broader debate within the auto industry as vehicles become increasingly software-driven. As manufacturers move away from traditional mechanical controls, regulators are paying closer attention to how design choices affect usability and safety under stress. The outcome of the probe could have implications not only for Tesla, but also for other automakers experimenting with similar minimalist interior designs.
While inquiries like this do not automatically signal fault, they serve as reminders that user experience during emergencies is a key component of overall vehicle safety. The outcome of this review may influence how manufacturers balance innovation with accessibility, potentially shaping future design norms across the automotive industry.