Complaint 2233516

Complaint Summary

SUSPENSION

Owner Narrative

I am reporting a serious safety issue involving severe, difficult-to-detect inner-edge tire wear on my Tesla that resulted in a tire failure on Highway 101. The tire failed while I was driving on the highway, creating a dangerous situation and significant traffic disruption. After the failure, I discovered severe wear concentrated on the INSIDE edge of the tire. The concerning part is that the normally visible tread appeared serviceable. An owner can therefore believe the tire is safe while the difficult-to-see inner portion may be dangerously worn. I am concerned that Tesla’s suspension/alignment geometry, including camber/toe settings, vehicle weight, or related components may contribute to excessive inner-edge tire wear. NHTSA should investigate whether this is occurring on other Tesla vehicles and whether owners are being adequately warned to inspect the entire tire, particularly the hidden inner shoulder. I also experienced a very concerning mileage discrepancy. My vehicle showed approximately 36,000 miles before traveling to Tesla for service. During the trip to the dealership, the mileage associated with my vehicle appeared to increase to approximately 56,000 miles. Tesla subsequently referenced the higher mileage in connection with service/maintenance coverage. I request that NHTSA investigate whether Tesla vehicles have a pattern of excessive hidden inner-tire wear capable of causing sudden tire failures; whether suspension, alignment, camber, toe, vehicle weight, or related components contribute to this condition; whether Tesla has received similar complaints; and whether owners are adequately warned about this difficult-to-see wear. I also request review of the approximately 20,000-mile mileage discrepancy and whether the mileage Tesla relied upon accurately represented my vehicle’s actual accumulated mileage. I have video evidence and can provide photographs, Tesla service records, mileage information, and other documentation.

Owner-submitted narrative on file with NHTSA. Complaint narratives are self-reported and have not been verified.