Tesla has acknowledged a problem affecting certain Universal Mobile Connectors (“UMC”) NEMA 14-50 adapters used to charge Tesla Model S vehicles. According to the recall report, a variety of factors such as corrosion, physical damage to receptacles, or inappropriate installation of electrical outlets can cause higher than normal electrical resistance. Electrical resistance heating in the adapter or at the wall socket could lead to melting of the adapter, cord or wall receptacle. There is also the possibility of electrical arcing that could lead to fire.
Tesla Motors, Inc. will correct the problem through a software update that allows the Model S on-board charging system to detect any unexpected fluctuations in the input power or higher resistance connections to the vehicle. If detected, the on-board charging system will automatically reduce the charging current, reducing the heat generated. The software update can be done “over the air” and can be verified by tapping on the center screen to see if the vehicle is running software version 5.8.4 or later. Model S owners not remotely accessible for the update can take their vehicles to a Tesla authorized Service Center to have it done.
In addition to the software update, Tesla will also engineer a new NEMA 14-50 adapter plug that includes an internal thermal fuse. Tesla will be providing these improved adapters to customers as the new one becomes available.
Owners wanting more information about the problem can contact Tesla Service Center at 1-877-79-TESLA (1-877-798-3752). The NHTSA recall campaign number is 14V-006.
