Tesla Recalls Nearly 160 Model S, X Vehicles Over Steering Wheel-Airbag Mismatch

EV giant Tesla Inc TSLA has recalled nearly 160 Model S and X vehicles, citing incorrect airbag installation.

What Happened: Tesla installs different airbags on its vehicles depending on whether the vehicle has a round steering wheel or a yoke steering. In the 159 vehicles recalled, the airbag might be inconsistent with the steering wheel, thereby decreasing airbag performance when deployed.

The inconsistency between the airbag and the wheel might be a result of the customer switching between steering wheel choices, the company said.

The service operator might have switched the steering wheel and subsequently equipped it with the incorrect driver airbag variant, the company said in a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Why It Matters: Tesla offers two variants of steering for its premium Model S and X vehicles. While the round steering wheel is included in the vehicle’s starting price, the yoke is priced at another $1000.

Check out more of Benzinga’s Future Of Mobility coverage by following this link.

Read More: Tesla Expands Tax Credit Cut Alert To ‘Certain Vehicles,’ Not Just Model 3

Image via Shutterstock