NHTSA Recall 18V031000: Inflator module (air bags)
Tesla, Inc. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 17,846 vehicles. It affects 2013 Tesla Model S.
| NHTSA campaign | 18V031000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | SB-18-20-001 |
| Component | AIR BAGS › FRONTAL › PASSENGER SIDE › INFLATOR MODULE |
| Report received | January 9, 2018 |
| Owner notification | February 28, 2018 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling all 2013 Model S vehicles equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Safety risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will replace the passenger frontal air bag modules, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in March 2018. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-18-20-001.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Vehicles covered by recall 18V031000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| Tesla Model S | 2013 |
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.