Tesla Model 3 recalled over Australian rules breach

Tesla has recalled the 2019 and 2020 Model 3 sedan to fix a problem with the seat occupancy switch – but owners won’t need to return to a showroom or service centre to have their car fixed.

“Due to an issue with driver seat occupancy switch, the instrument cluster may fail to illuminate the visual and audible seat belt warnings in certain conditions as required by the Australian Design Rules (ADR),” the recall notice says

“If the driver is not made aware of an unfastened seatbelt, there is an increased risk of injury or death in case the vehicle is involved in an accident.

“The vehicle may not be compliant with ADR 04/06 – Seatbelts.”

• A total of 331 cars are included in the recall notice
• A VIN list of affected vehicles is attached here
• The original recall notice is attached here

Tesla will fix the problem with an over-the-air software update which doesn’t require visit to the dealer or service centre.

“On the vehicle touchscreen, touch Controls (vehicle icon) > Software, and then scroll down to display the vehicle software version,” the recall notice says.

“If the vehicle is operating with software version 2024.20.3 or newer, no further action is necessary.”

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