Tesla recalls every Model S

Tesla Motors has issued a voluntary recall affecting every Model S sedan produced to date — about 90,000 vehicles.

The US car-maker said it discovered an issue with a front seatbelt pretensioner in a Model S in Europe and has taken the immediate step to ensure the issue is contained.

The recall is posted on Tesla’s website and reads: “Tesla recently found a Model S in Europe with a front seat belt that was not properly connected to the outboard lap pretensioner.

"This vehicle was not involved in a crash and there were no injuries. However, in the event of a crash, a seat belt in this condition would not provide full protection. First and foremost, we care about your safety.”

Tesla’s immediate advice is: “You should have your seat belts inspected by a Tesla technician as part of this recall.

"However, if you are concerned about the status of your seat belt prior to your scheduled inspection, you may be able to detect this condition by pulling very firmly on the lap portion of your seat belt with a force of at least 80 pounds [37kg].

"This procedure may detect an improperly attached seat belt but performing this procedure does not replace the need for an inspection by a Tesla technician.”

Tesla's release stressed the voluntary action, which not include the few Model X SUVs delivered since late September, is different to a forced recall issued by a government safety agency and does not follow “any inquiry of any kind from a regulatory authority”.

“While most manufacturers do not undertake voluntary recalls, integrity and transparency matters at Tesla, even if we ultimately discover nothing. This effort is simply a precautionary measure which underscores how much we care about our customer’s safety,” said the Tesla statement.

"This is the only customer vehicle we know of with this condition. Even though we have since inspected the seat belts in over 3000 vehicles spanning the entire range of Model S production and found no issues, we have decided to conduct a voluntary recall as a proactive and precautionary measure to inspect all front Model S seat belts and make absolutely sure that they are properly connected."

Tesla Australia has contacted all affected owners via email and will also send then a recall notice by mail. Inspection and rectification work will be free and can be booked online, by visiting a Tesla service centre or by calling 1800 646 952.