NHTSA Investigates Tesla Model 3 Emergency Door Release Mechanism

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into the emergency door release mechanisms of Tesla Model 3 vehicles from the 2022 model year. This probe encompasses approximately 179,071 vehicles and was initiated on December 23, 2025, after the agency received a defect petition alleging that the mechanical door release is hidden, unlabeled, and not intuitive to locate during emergencies.

Tesla's Model 3 primarily utilizes electronic door latches operated via buttons, deviating from traditional mechanical handles. In situations where the vehicle loses power, occupants are expected to use the manual door release. However, concerns have been raised that these mechanical releases are not consistently visible or labeled, particularly for rear-seat passengers.

The NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a petition on November 24, 2025, requesting an investigation into this issue. The petition cites that the mechanical door release is hidden, unlabeled, and not intuitive to locate during an emergency.

This investigation follows previous scrutiny of Tesla's door mechanisms. In September, the NHTSA opened a preliminary evaluation into approximately 174,290 Model Y vehicles from the 2021 model year over reports of electronic door handles becoming inoperative.

The initiation of a defect petition does not necessarily indicate that a recall will be issued. It marks the first step in a regulatory review process that could lead to further action if safety-related defects are confirmed.