Tesla Recalls Most Cybertrucks Over Trim Detachment Risk
Tesla is recalling more than 46,000 Cybertrucks in the United States due to a risk of an exterior trim panel detaching while driving, the company announced on Thursday. The recall affects nearly all Cybertrucks built between November 2023 and 27 Feb. of this year.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) filing states that the stainless-steel exterior trim panel could detach, creating a potential road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash. Tesla has received 151 warranty claims related to the issue but has reported no collisions or injuries.
This marks the eighth recall for the Cybertruck since Jan. 2024. Analysts estimate that the affected vehicles represent the vast majority of Cybertrucks currently on the road.
Tesla will replace the rail panel assembly with a new version that meets durability testing requirements. The company initially used a structural adhesive to join the assembly, but environmental factors have made it unreliable. The updated version will use a different adhesive reinforced with a stud welded to the stainless panel, secured with a nut to clamp it to the vehicle structure.
Production of Cybertrucks with the updated trim is expected to begin on Friday. Vehicles produced before then but still in Tesla’s possession will be retrofitted before delivery.
The NHTSA first alerted Tesla to the issue on 21 Feb. after a vehicle owner reported a rail panel detachment.
Tesla’s stock has struggled this year, losing about half its value amid rising competition, an aging vehicle lineup, and backlash against CEO Elon Musk. Analysts have also noted a shift in consumer sentiment, with protests and sales boycotts emerging across the U.S.
Despite the recall, analysts believe it will not significantly impact Tesla’s financial performance for the March quarter, as Cybertruck sales remain a small portion of the company’s overall shipments. Tesla delivered 1.79 million vehicles in 2024, with the Model 3 and Model Y making up the majority of sales.
Tesla is recalling over 46,000 Cybertrucks due to a trim panel detachment risk.
The recall affects vehicles built from Nov. 2023 to 27 Feb. 2024.
Tesla will replace the rail panel assembly with a more durable version.
Source: REUTERS