Tesla is one of the most discussed automotive manufacturers and for good reason. The carmaker pioneered the modern-day EVs and made them popular. While other carmakers have caught up, Tesla continues to go strong on its home market, in the US as well as Canada. While the brand itself is a divisive topic, there are plenty of owners who love their Tesla. Recently, however, Tesla issued a recall for two of its most popular models – the Model 3 and Model Y.
You may experience steering issues in your Tesla Model 3 and Model Y
The latest issue relates to the Model 3 and Model Y's power-steering assist, which is prone to failure. The issue will be accompanied with a warning display, typically after the vehicle has come to a standstill. Tesla has provided an over-the-air update, which should fix the problem. These updates are brilliant as they allow older models to stay current with the latest the brand has to offer.
A total of 552,780 vehicles are being recalled for the power-steering assist issue. Those are Tesla Model 3 and Model Y models, produced between 28.02.2023 and 11.10.2023. The internal manufacturer code for this recall is “SB-25-00-004" while the Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA) monitors this recall under code “14811R”. It is recommended by owners of the affected vehicles to contact authorized dealers or workshops.
This is not the first time these two Tesla models have experienced steering issues
There is an earlier recall by Tesla, for the same issue. Back on 19 October 2023, Tesla released software update 2023.38. 4 to correct for loss of EPAS (Electric Power Assist Steering) when vehicle reaches 0 mpg. It was a voluntary over-the-air update that not all affected vehicles may have received. Once again, it was an issue on the Model 3 and Model Y models, but this time, it was models produced between May 2022 and September 2023. Vehicles that have received update 2023.38. 4 or newer should have this issue resolved.
This issue was described by Tesla as a “a notchy feel or sensation from the steering wheel when operating it in cold temperatures”. KBA's latest update on this recall is from 28 March 2025, and time will tell if more vehicles are affected by this issue.
Despite that, Tesla EVs are still strong sellers
The two EVs are currently the brand's most popular models, although the Tesla Cybertruck could change the market for good. The Tesla Model Y is the most sold EV in the US, for a third consecutive year (2024), after dethroning the Tesla Model 3. In 2023, the Model Y passed the 1.0-million threshold for sold vehicles.
While some owners are less than satisfied with their ownership experience, other Tesla owners wouldn't trade their EV for anything else, even after reaching high mileage. The Cybertruck is, indeed, controversial, both because of its looks, and because of people's opinion of Elon Musk of late.
Tesla owners have been getting some flak too, but that doesn't stop them from enjoying their vehicles. One Tesla Cybetruck owner is even willing to overlook some of the truck's shortcomings, after wafting for three years to get his delivered, which goes to show how invested some people are in the brand.
Some might say that many Tesla owners are simply gatekeeping or gaslighting themselves, but does it really matter? While the Cybertruck did not meet Elon Musk's expectations of sales volume (38,965 sold in 2024 vs 250,000 estimated), the uniquely styled pickup truck still became the most sold EV truck with a price tag of over $100,000.
Politics aside, would you buy a Tesla? Maybe you have one already. If so, I am curious to hear about your experience and whether you have experienced the above-mentioned issues (or others). Feel free to hit the comment section below.
Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.
Image source: Tesla Model Y, Tesla Model 3 steering wheel
Comments
Model 3 delivered on January…
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Model 3 delivered on January 28 2022. Zero issues with this car. Absolutely love it. Rotate tires and add windshield washer fluid. That’s it. Technology is incredible.
But do you ever miss driving…
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In reply to Model 3 delivered on January… by Russell (not verified)
But do you ever miss driving a real car?
I'm glad you don't have any…
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In reply to Model 3 delivered on January… by Russell (not verified)
I'm glad you don't have any issues with your Teslawith.
Perhaps you got the OTA update that fixes it?
Anyway, the recall doesn't seem to affect all vehicles produced in the specified period.
If you own a Tesla, it seems…
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If you own a Tesla, it seems like a good idea to drop it at the dealer monthly to address the recalls.
It doesn't seem to be that…
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In reply to If you own a Tesla, it seems… by Buzz Wired (not verified)
It doesn't seem to be that bad. I think the worst part is over, but we'll see what happens with the next models.
Every new model is prone to "glitches", some more than others.
Boutique cars are cute, but…
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Boutique cars are cute, but who wants one in their garage?
Just curious, but who waits…
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Just curious, but who waits three years for a cybertruck?
I just bought a 2019 Model S…
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I just bought a 2019 Model S and I really like it. I charge it during times of excess power from my solar panels. This is when the house batteries are topped off and the panels are bored and looking for something to do, usually after lunch.
The Model S has crazy power. I've owned Corvettes and Porsches but this is one vehicle I can see me keeping long term for many reasons.
Awesome! It sounds like you…
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In reply to I just bought a 2019 Model S… by Harold (not verified)
Awesome! It sounds like you have a sweet setup there.
Corvettes and Porsches are great cars for a different reason.
The Tesla is just quick. I hope it serves you well for a long time.