On April 7th, Tesla issued a recall for 127,785 of Model 3s in China due to faulty parts in the rear electric motors.

Model 3; photo credit: Tesla

The recall applies to 34,207 imported Model 3s and 93,578 China-made Model 3s manufactured from January 11th, 2019, to January 25th, 2022. 

Tesla explained that due to a minor manufacturing difference in the power semiconductor unit in the rear electric motor inverter, the affected Model 3s might experience inverter malfunction, causing the inverter’s inability to control current. 

Specifically, if the failure occurs when the car is parked, it will result in ignition failure. If the failure occurs when driving, the car will lose its driving force, increasing the risk of collision. 

After recall, Tesla will perform free OTA upgrades on the electric motor control software for applicable vehicles. For those vehicles that are unable to upgrade through OTA technology, Tesla will contact users through service centers, and upgrade the software accordingly.

Additionally, the recall and upgrade will help Tesla conduct close monitoring on its rear electric motor inverter, and change the faulty inverters timely and free of charge.