Tesla Model S, Model X touchscreen failure one step closer to NHTSA recall – Roadshow [CNET]

Tesla has garnered over 10,000 owner requests to change out their vehicles’ MCU — Main Computer Unit — the brain that powers the touchscreen. Users have reported everything from a complete failure of the touchscreen to longer boot-up times and increased latency of response. According to NHTSA, Tesla has reported 2,399 formal complaints regarding the issue and the Silicon Valley automaker has logged 7,777 warranty claims and 4,746 non-warranty claims related to replacements of this processor. 

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According to the federal agency, “The data show failure rates over 30% in certain build months and accelerating failure trends after 3 to 4 years-in-service.” NHTSA also notes “Tesla has implemented certain Over-The-Air or OTA updates to subject vehicles to mitigate the effects of MCU failure,” but also notes that many complaints say Tesla has required owners to pay for a new MCU when the part is out of warranty.

Tesla did not immediately respond to Roadshow’s inquiry related to this story. Tesla does not operate a public relations department to field request for comment.