More problems for Tesla: a user reports that the doors open by themselves at 100 km/h

No one doubts that Tesla has been a catalyst in the automotive world, and that the proposals coming from the company led by Elon Musk are truly spectacular. The conversion of traditional vehicles to electric traction probably would not have been the same without the advances offered by the Californian company. But that does not mean its vehicles are free of errors and faults that put their occupants at risk.

We already know that the expectations placed on the Autopilot used by Tesla models were excessively high, and there has even been a fatality due to a software fault (it is also true that accidents have been few, with only one fatal outcome), but now a problem arrives that apparently affects the gull-wing doors used on the Tesla Model X.

The owner of a Tesla Model X 90D has reported a serious problem with one of the model’s doors. Apparently, and according to his own account, published on Reddit, the problems with the car began after its delivery. Although he reserved it in September 2015, it was delivered to him on 5 January 2017. After delivery, he found several problems with the vehicle, such as a low windscreen washer fluid level (something not very important and quickly resolved), but due to several cracks in the reservoir for this fluid, which caused leaks. The software also needed an update and, most importantly, the seal of one of the doors was broken.

Apparently, on two occasions it locked and could not be opened, until during a motorway journey on 2 June, the door opened without warning while travelling at 100 km/h, creating a risk situation for the occupants. An error that could have caused an accident. There are no further reports of a similar situation, but this incident may delay deliveries of future cars from the brand, so that a better inspection of all safety elements can be carried out.

This is not going to do Tesla any good and adds to the negative perception it has been dragging along for some time. Were too many hopes placed in this company, which may be facing a profound change if it wants to remain at the forefront of electric-mobility cars? Time will tell.