Tesla Model X recalled over faulty rear seat hinge

Pre-orders of Tesla’s Model 3 sedan have ensured the cars will be flying off the production line this year, but before that happens a few of the firm’s Model X SUVs will need to be sent back to base.

Tesla has recalled all Model X vehicles built before March 26 2016, due a flaw with the hitch in the third row of seats (via Autoblog).

In test’s prior to the vehicle’s roll-out in Europe, the firm discovered a flaw that made the seat liable to folding forward, especially in a crash.

So, that’s worst case scenario territory right there.

See also: 5 Things you need to know about Tesla Model 3

In a press release, Tesla wrote: “Recently, during an internal seat strength test that was conducted prior to the start of Model X deliveries in Europe, the recliner in a third row Model X seat unexpectedly slipped.

“The recliner, which is provided to us by an outside supplier, is the locking hinge that allows the third row seat back to fold forward, and if a recliner were to slip during a crash, the seat back could move forward.”

Tesla pointed out there have been no reports of the flaw from customers, neither did the issue appear during strength tests in North America.

Despite that, Tesla is advising customers not to use the third row of seats until they have been replaced

The voluntary recall applies to practically all of the 2,700 Model X vehicles sold in the United States so far.

The company says the fix will take a couple of hours on exiting models, with local service centres contacting drivers directly.

In the meantime, Tesla says it is working on constructing the new seats as fast as possible.