Tesla Recalls 5.7 Million Vehicles in China Over Hidden Door Handles and Driver Monitoring in Industry-Wide Safety Push

Tesla is recalling more than 5.7 million vehicles in China across two separate actions ordered by the State Administration for Market Regulation. The larger recall, effective September 25, covers 2.98 million China-made and imported Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X vehicles over emergency door release handles that may be difficult to identify after a severe crash or electrical system failure, potentially trapping occupants. The fix combines in-cabin warning labels and an over-the-air software update that automatically lowers windows after a collision.

A second, immediate recall covers 2.74 million China-made Model 3 and Model Y vehicles for an OTA update to strengthen driver-attention monitoring while assisted-steering and other driver-assistance systems are engaged, reducing collision risk when drivers fail to respond. Tesla is not alone: at least eight other automakers are recalling millions of additional vehicles in China as part of a broader government-led push to eliminate the entrapment hazard posed by hidden or electronically operated door handles, a design that Tesla popularized and that China moved to ban outright earlier this year.