Tesla Issues Physical Recall for 20,349 Model 3 and Model Y Vehicles Over Headlights

Tesla is conducting a physical recall of 20,349 vehicles in the United States because the low-beam headlights may emit more light than federal regulations allow.

The action involves 18,735 “pre-refresh” Model Y vehicles and 1,614 Model 3 vehicles.

Which Tesla Vehicles Are Included

NHTSA recall 26V507 applies to certain 2017-2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. The affected vehicles were either manufactured or repaired with specific headlamp assemblies bearing a supplier manufacturing date of June 2, 2023, or later.

Tesla identified the affected VINs by reviewing manufacturing and service records. Unlike some recalls where a faulty headlight assembly is broadly identified, these figures reflect the number of vehicles Tesla expects to repair to meet regulatory requirements.

Why the Headlights Are Being Recalled

According to NHTSA, the low beams in these vehicles exceed the maximum permitted light intensity in the outer upper-left and upper-right areas of a federally defined testing zone.

NHTSA states that excessive low-beam output may reduce visibility for the Tesla driver and other road users, increasing the risk of a crash. The filing identifies Marelli Automotive Lighting in Mexico as the supplier of the affected headlight assemblies.

Tesla’s Earlier Request Was Denied

Previously, Tesla had asked NHTSA to classify the lighting variance as inconsequential, which would have allowed the company to avoid notifying owners and performing the recall.

NHTSA rejected that request and has now officially announced the recall. The earlier estimate suggested the action would affect approximately 19,900 vehicles.

When Owners Will Receive a Fix

Tesla submitted the recall report on August 4, 2026, and notified its stores and service centers on or shortly after that date. Recall letters are scheduled to be mailed on September 15, and owners may be notified through the Tesla app before then.

Upgrade Matrix Headlights?

The filing indicates Tesla is still developing the remedy, so it is not yet known whether the headlights will be repaired or replaced.

Unlike many Tesla recalls resolved via software — such as the TPMS recall that fixed over 700,000 vehicles — this repair will require a visit to a service center or use of Tesla’s mobile service.

Affected VINs are not yet listed on NHTSA’s website; once available, owners will be able to check whether their vehicle is included.