Tesla Recalls Most Cybertrucks Over Detaching Panel Concern
Tesla is recalling the vast majority of its Cybertrucks in the United States due to a potential issue with an exterior trim panel that could detach while the vehicle is in motion. The recall, announced Thursday, affects over 46,000 vehicles manufactured between November 2023 and February 27, 2025, according to a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
This recall comes as a new challenge for Tesla, as the electric vehicle manufacturer faces growing competition and is dealing with the impact of an aging vehicle lineup.
The problem centers on a stainless-steel exterior trim panel that may separate from the vehicle, potentially creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of accidents. Tesla’s service centers will replace the rail panel assembly with an updated version that has undergone extensive durability testing, the company stated.
NHTSA informed Tesla of a reported incident on February 21st involving a vehicle owner who reported a rail panel detachment. Tesla has stated that a loose or detached rail panel might produce an audible noise inside the vehicle or, may be visually apparent as separating or coming loose. The company is aware of potentially 151 warranty claims that could be related to this issue, but has not reported any collisions or injuries related to the problem.
While Tesla doesn’t release specific delivery numbers for the Cybertruck, analysts estimate that the affected vehicles represent a large portion of the trucks currently on the road.
Tesla shares experienced a 1.4 percent drop in premarket trading following the announcement. The recall has brought Tesla’s shares down nearly 42 percent this year.
Analysts have noted a shift in consumer sentiment towards the EV maker, with reports of negative reactions, including protests and potential sales boycotts.
