Tesla Recalls Nearly All Cybertrucks Over Safety Hazard

WASHINGTON, March 20 (Reuters) — Tesla announced Thursday it is recalling nearly all Cybertrucks in the United States due to a defect in an exterior panel that could detach while driving. The recall affects just over 46,000 vehicles manufactured from November 2023 to February 27, 2024, according to a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

This recall marks another setback for Tesla, which has seen its stock value decline nearly 42% this year amid increasing competition and an aging vehicle lineup. The automaker also faces backlash over CEO Elon Musk’s controversial influence on federal policy decisions during his time in the Trump administration.

The detaching stainless-steel exterior trim panel poses a risk of becoming a road hazard, which could increase the likelihood of accidents. Tesla’s service will replace the panel assembly with one that meets enhanced durability requirements. Customers may hear a loud noise inside the cabin or suspect that the panel has become loose, prompting the recall.

NHTSA’s notification regarding the issue followed a report from a vehicle owner alleging that their rail panel had detached. While Tesla has received 151 warranty claims related to this issue, there have been no reports of collisions or injuries stemming from the defect.

Analysts indicate that the recalled vehicles comprise a significant majority of Cybertrucks currently on the road. Despite strong initial demand, interest in the unconventional EV pickup has waned, particularly after delays in production.

Shares of Tesla fell by 1.4% in premarket trading following the recall announcement. The company has been scrutinized for its growing list of recalls; in 2024 alone, it accounted for 5.1 million vehicle recalls nationwide, according to recall management firm BizzyCar. Most of these issues are typically addressed through over-the-air software updates, rather than physical repairs.

“The situation reflects a growing sentiment shift among consumers, with protests against the brand and sales boycotts reported at Tesla stores across the country,” said an industry analyst who requested anonymity.

The difficulties surrounding the Cybertruck also extend to delivery issues, with many buyers reporting delays due to a containment hold. Such holds are often implemented when a manufacturer identifies potential problems that need to be resolved before vehicles are handed over to customers. Delayed deliveries have frustrated potential Cybertruck owners, who are concerned about an unclear timeline for resolution.

Within the context of Tesla’s broader recalls, the Cybertruck’s cantrail trim has also been under scrutiny. This trim covers the vehicle’s roof ledge but has raised concerns regarding its attachment and durability. Despite Tesla’s branding of the vehicle as “bulletproof,” reports indicate that many of the Cybertruck’s components resemble traditional vehicle designs rather than the touted exoskeleton structure.

As Tesla continues to navigate these challenges, the company remains under pressure to restore consumer confidence and address the recurring issues that have emerged with its latest vehicle models.