2008 Tesla Roadster recalls and problems

The 2008 Tesla Roadster has 1 safety recall and 1 owner complaint filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Tesla dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

Crashes / fires

0 / 0

Injuries / deaths

0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2008 Tesla Roadster vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2008 Tesla Roadster recalls

Recall 09V-178: Wheels

Reported May 26, 2009 · 345 vehicles affected · TESLA MOTORS

Problem: Tesla motors, inc. Is recalling 345 my 2008 tesla roadster vehicles manufactured between march 2008 and april 22, 2009. The rear hub flange bolts on some of these vehicles may be under-torqued and may become loose. A loose hub could lead to degradation in vehicle handling, and a rubbing noise from the rear of the vehicle.

Risk: If the problem is not addressed promptly, the driver could lose control of the vehicle, which could lead to a crash.

Fix: Tesla will notify owners and repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on may 28, 2009. Owners may contact tesla toll-free at 1-877-888-3752.

2008 Tesla Roadster problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Vehicle Speed Control	1
Traction Control System	1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 1,800 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2008 Tesla Roadster complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Vehicle Speed Control · at 1,800 miles · reported Jul 18, 2009

The vehicle is prone to 'sudden acceleration' problems where the driver loses control of the vehicle when the traction control system engages and forces the regenerative engine breaking system to disengage. The tesla roadster uses very aggressive engine regenerative breaking so, when it is disengaged, the car lurches forward uncontrollably and faster than the driver can react by engaging the breaks. This most commonly happens when I drive down a hill or around a corner at 20 MPH using engine regenerative breaking to slow the vehicle and hit a bump in the road that engages the traction control…

Other Tesla Roadster years

No other model years have data.

Compare all Tesla Roadster years · All Tesla models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2008 Tesla Roadster have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2008 Tesla Roadster: 09V-178 (wheels). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2008 Tesla Roadster?

Owners report vehicle speed control problems most often (1 reports), followed by traction control system (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 1,800 miles.

Are Tesla recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Tesla dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.