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Recalls can really hurt a vehicle’s reputation, especially when they’re serious. Some brands recall vehicles for minor detailing issues. Others need to be addressed immediately for the safety of consumers. America’s most popular SUV is one of many Tesla models involved in a recall that relates to reliability. Is this new Tesla recall enough to deter drivers from getting the most popular SUV, the Tesla Model Y?

Tesla is recalling the Tesla Model Y

A red 2023 Tesla Model Y small electric SUV is driving on the road, it's the most popular SUV in America.
The 2023 Tesla Model Y | Tesla

Tesla’s Model Y small electric SUV is part of a new recall that also includes the Model S, and Model X. All three offerings have a front camera alignment issue that could cause drivers serious problems when operating their vehicles.

Many Tesla active safety features rely on the front cameras. Misaligned front cameras could cause problems like automatic emergency braking malfunction, which is less than ideal, to say the least. Front camera misalignment could also interfere with lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning features. The American automaker is no stranger to reliability issues (or controversy). It’s indisputably innovative, and with that innovation comes some unique issues that are often specific to Tesla models.

Teslas have struggled with reliability issues, often because the automaker has developed some groundbreaking new features. Its EVs have also suffered from battery overheating issues, like many popular electric vehicles. The latest Tesla recall affects 1,337 vehicles.

Does the latest Tesla Model Y recall affect its reliability?

A gray 2023 Tesla Model Y small electric SUV is parked near water, it's part of yet another Tesla recall.
The 2023 Tesla Model Y | Tesla

Since the latest Tesla recall also involves the Model S and X electric vehicles, very few Model Ys are impacted by the misaligned front camera issue. Tesla has sold thousands of Model Ys in 2023, and this recall affects a small percentage. Furthermore, there have been no reports of injuries or crashes caused by the camera misalignment issue to date.

Model Ys made between April 27th and July 13th, 2023, are affected. So, while the possibility of malfunctioning safety features sounds horrifying, realistically, this recall probably isn’t going to change the way the small electric SUV is perceived.

Drivers will likely continue to purchase the Model Y, and its sales will continue to flourish because of the perfect storm of factors making the EV so sensational in 2023. Let’s break down how the Tesla Model Y overtook the Toyota RAV4 as the most popular SUV in America (and the world).

Why do drivers love the Model Y?

Drivers are going crazy over the most popular SUV because of its peppy acceleration, excellent driving range, and luxurious interior. Tesla’s small electric SUV provides great value for the money, especially following the availability of its base model.

The 2023 Tesla Model Y starts at $47,740 and is currently eligible for the $7,500 federal electric vehicle tax incentive. After the tax credit, the small electric SUV’s price is closer to $40,240. Tesla’s small electric SUV goes from 0-60 miles per hour in just 5.0 seconds and has 279 miles of estimated range.

Model Ys are the perfect balance of driving verve and practicality for drivers that want an entry-level electric vehicle. As a result, it’s unlikely the latest of many Tesla recalls can stop the most popular SUV’s domination.

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