When a recall isn’t a recall. Tesla is replacing plug adapters on charging cables

Oh lordy. The press has gotten ahold of a lunker with its latest TESLA RECALL! meme. Unfortunately for the sensational, Tesla has already announced (last week) that it would be replacing the NEMA 14-50 adapters on its built-in charging cables (pictured above, circled). It also issued a software update that would step down charging if it had detected thermal resistance. Here’s the official letter (PDF).

It is the equivalent of Apple replacing its iPhone USB cable AC adapters.

All of this was in reaction to a garage fire that was likely caused by bad internal wiring (the investigation is still pending).

Today’s formal announcement says “recall” so the dimmer of us is running with that even though the facts on the ground are this:

• No cars are being recalled or have to go anywhere.
• Tesla will mail the $10 (guesstimate) adapter to customers
• The press is not properly educated on electrical engineering concepts
• Stock traders are. The “news” along with better than predicted production numbers has sent the stock upwards

https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/423145289310953473

Tesla is mailing new power adapters to less than 3% of Model S owners and updating software. "Recall of 29k cars" is overstating. $TSLA

— Jeremy C. Owens (@jowens510) January 14, 2014

(1/2) The term “recall” is outdated. No vehicles are being physically recalled by Tesla.

— Tesla (@Tesla) January 14, 2014

(2/2) We issued a software update in Dec. & as an additional measure will be sending upgraded adapter by mail to customers.

— Tesla (@Tesla) January 14, 2014