NHTSA launches investigation into Tesla Model 3 emergency door handles

Updated on: December 24, 2025 / 5:33 PM EST / CBS News

NHTSA launches investigation into Tesla Model 3 emergency door handles

TL;DR

  • U.S. safety regulators (NHTSA) are investigating Tesla Model 3 door handles.
  • The investigation was prompted by a complaint about the difficulty of locating the emergency door release during a fire.
  • The probe covers about 179,000 Model 3 cars from the 2022 model year.
  • A driver claimed they escaped a burning 2022 Model 3 through a rear window due to the door handle issue.
  • Previous incidents involving Tesla Model 3s include a fatal crash linked to uncontrolled acceleration and door issues.
  • Reports indicate at least 15 deaths in the past decade where occupants or rescuers could not open the doors of crashed and burning Teslas.