Tesla has issued an Over-the-Air (OTA) software update to address a recall in both the U.S. and Canada. Transport Canada has stated that no further action is necessary for vehicles with Tesla software versions 2024.3.25, 2024.14.5, or releases later than 2024.14.5. This action was taken in response to Canadian regulations requiring the use of common symbols instead of words for visual warnings to avoid confusion. The NHTSA has emphasized the importance of addressing safety recalls, even if they are fixed with software updates, reiterating that manufacturers must initiate a recall for any repair that remedies a safety risk.
This includes submitting communications to owners, dealers, and others about any software updates that address a defect, whether it is safety-related or not. Tesla addressed the recall issues with an immediate OTA software update deployed to all vehicles, gaining support from the Tesla community, including CEO Elon Musk, to change the language surrounding safety recalls. However, the NHTSA stands firm in its stance that safety issues, regardless of whether they are fixed with software updates, still pose a safety risk and require a formal recall. Overall, the regulatory response underscores the importance of ensuring safety and compliance in addressing recalls, even if they are resolved through software updates.