Tesla New Zealand has issued a recall notice for selected local Model 3s concerning an issue with seat belts that may not perform as expected in the event of a crash.
The notice states that the issue is linked to the assembly of the seat belt buckle on the left-hand side of the second row, as well as the centre seat belt anchor.
“A seat belt buckle or a seat belt anchor that is not fastened to correct specifications may result in the seat belt system not performing as designed in a crash, which may increase the risk of an injury,” reads the recall notice.
“Tesla will inspect the reassembly of second-row left seat belt buckle and center seat belt anchor and, where necessary, fasten the components to correct specifications.
“The remedy will be provided free of charge.”
The recall impacts Model 3s built between 2017 and 2022.
The announcement comes after a similar recall was rolled out in Australia earlier this month, effectively confirming that the issue is present on both sides of the ditch.
“Due to the vehicle design, servicing certain components requires disassembly of the second row left seat belt buckle and centre seat belt anchor, both of which are fastened with the same bolt,” states the Australian recall notice.
“During servicing, it is possible the seat belt buckle & anchor may have been re-assembled to the fastening bolt incorrectly. As a result, the seat belt may not operate as intended.
“In the event of an accident, a seat belt not operating as intended could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupant.”
