Tesla Recalls Nearly 3 Million Vehicles in China Over Hidden Door Handle Safety Concerns

BEIJING — August 25, 2026: Tesla is recalling approximately 2.98 million vehicles in China over safety concerns surrounding its electronic, retractable door handles, in what has become the company’s largest recall to date.

The recall affects China-made and imported versions of the Tesla Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X, with vehicles manufactured between 2019 and 2026 included in the action.

Chinese regulators say the vehicles’ emergency mechanical door releases can be difficult to identify and operate, particularly after a serious collision or when the vehicle’s electrical system loses power. In such circumstances, occupants could struggle to escape while emergency responders could also have difficulty gaining access to the vehicle.

Tesla is expected to address the problem largely through over-the-air software updates, including changes designed to lower vehicle windows automatically following certain collisions. Warning labels will also be added to help occupants locate the emergency mechanical door releases.

The recall comes as China prepares to introduce tougher rules on retractable and hidden door handles. From 2027, new vehicles in China will be subject to requirements designed to ensure doors can be opened mechanically during emergencies.

Tesla is not the only manufacturer affected. China has launched a wider recall involving about 4.3 million vehicles from Tesla and several other automakers, including Xiaomi, Leapmotor, Geely and XPeng, over related door-handle safety concerns.

The issue has renewed debate over whether sleek, technology-driven vehicle designs should take priority over simple emergency access. Safety experts and industry observers say the recalls demonstrate the growing importance of designing electric vehicles with reliable escape and rescue mechanisms even when electrical systems fail.

For Tesla, the recall represents a significant regulatory challenge in one of its most important international markets and highlights the increasing scrutiny facing electric vehicle manufacturers as governments introduce stricter safety standards.

The key message from regulators is clear: when an emergency happens, a car door must be easy to find and open — even when the technology fails.