Tesla is recalling nearly all of its Cybertrucks due to a problem where exterior trim panels can detach, the company announced Thursday. This marks the eighth recall for the futuristic electric pickup truck since its launch.
The recall affects approximately 46,000 vehicles, encompassing all Cybertrucks manufactured between November 13, 2023, when production began, and February 27. In a report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Tuesday, Tesla stated that while only around 1% of the vehicles exhibited the defect, a complete recall was initiated as a precautionary measure.
According to the report, by March 14, Tesla had identified 151 warranty claims potentially linked to the trim panel issue. However, the company noted it “was not aware of any collisions, fatalities or injuries that are or may be related to the condition.”
This latest recall represents one of the most extensive for the Cybertruck, a model that has faced a series of challenges since its introduction. Prior issues have included instances of power loss, malfunctioning windshield wipers, and accelerator pedals becoming stuck. The Cybertruck is currently priced between $80,000 and $100,000, depending on the configuration.
Tesla has advised Cybertruck owners that they can continue to operate their vehicles until the company contacts them to schedule a service appointment. Replacement parts will be dispatched to regional service centers as they become available.
The company’s initial awareness of the issue stemmed from reports of “partial delamination” of the stainless steel panel on January 7, the report indicated. The affected component, known as the cant rail, is an “electrocoated steel stamping” attached to a stainless steel panel using an adhesive. The cant rail is then secured to the Cybertruck with fasteners. The defect arises when the panel separates from the adhesive joint.
