2012–2016 Tesla Model S Recall: Aluminum bolts that attach the power steering gear assist motor to the…
NHTSA campaign 18V204000 · Steering · filed Mar 29, 2018 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Tesla Model S vehicles equipped with Bosch steering racks. The aluminum bolts that attach the power steering gear assist motor to the gear housing may corrode and fracture causing a reduction or complete loss of power steering assist.
The risk
Loss of power steering assist would require a higher steering effort, especially at lower speeds, which may increase the risk of a crash.
Check whether your specific vehicle is affected
Recall campaigns often cover only certain VIN ranges. Enter your VIN on the official NHTSA site to confirm whether your vehicle is included and whether the repair is still open.
Check VIN on NHTSA →The fix — what to do
Tesla will notify owners, and Tesla Service Centers will replace the steering gear mounting bolts and add a corrosion-preventative sealer, free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-18-32-002.
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Affected vehicles
Related recalls
More Tesla Model S recalls
- 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 and 3 other models — Rearview camera image may be delayed when the vehicle is…
- 2021–2024 Tesla Model S and 1 other model — An air bag with the incorrect horn pad may have been…
- 2024–2025 Tesla Model 3 and 3 other models — Computer circuit board may short, resulting in the loss of…
- 2021–2025 Tesla Model S and 1 other model — Driver's air bag could tear during deployment
- 2021–2024 Tesla Model 3 and 3 other models — Hood latch assembly may fail to detect an unlatched hood…
Other campaigns involving Tesla vehicles
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 18V204000 (manufacturer number SB-18-32-002). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.