Tesla Blames Bosch For Recall Of 125,000 Model S Cars

Tesla claims that Bosch is responsible for the faulty bolts that led to the recall of 125,000 Model S cars in March.

In the electric automaker’s quarterly report, Tesla said Bosch should be responsible for covering all costs related to the recall.

“The recent voluntary recall of 125,000 Model S vehicles related to steering bolt corrosion was not material to our warranty reserves and is expected to be covered by the indemnification obligations of the supplier,” Tesla said.

Quizzed by German publication Handelsblatt about the recall, a Bosch spokesman declined to comment on Tesla’s assertion. He also refused to state how much the parts supplier may have to pay.

When Tesla initially announced the recall, it made no mention of Bosch.

“We have observed excessive corrosion in the power steering bolts, though only in very cold climates, particularly those that frequently use calcium or magnesium road salts, rather than sodium chloride (table salt),” the original statement read.

“Nonetheless, Tesla plans to replace all early Model S power steering bolts in all climates worldwide to account for the possibility that the vehicle may later be used in a highly corrosive environment.”

Tesla will replace the bolts in all the Model S vehicles it built through the end of March 2016.