Tesla has issued its eighth recall of its sharp-angled electric Cybertruck due to the risk of a trim panel detaching while the vehicle is being driven.
In a report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the company announced a recall for 46,096 affected vehicles, stating that the stainless-steel exterior trim panel can “become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash” if it detaches from the truck.
The decorative trim piece, called the cant rail, is attached with glue and fasteners but may come loose and detach while the truck is in motion.
“This structural adhesive has been found to be susceptible to environmental embrittlement,” the company said in the report (PDF).
The recall applies to all Cybertrucks manufactured from Nov. 13, 2023, to Feb. 27, 2024.
A representative for Tesla didn’t respond to a request for comment.
Tesla said it will replace the rail assembly free of charge and owners will receive letters in the mail about the recall. They’re also encouraged to contact Tesla customer service for more information.
Since its 2023 launch, the Cybertruck has faced ongoing criticism, from its polarizing design to issues with its stainless-steel finish, which has been prone to rusting and spotting. In December, the Cybertruck was part of a 70,000-vehicle recall related to its tire pressure monitoring system — its seventh recall.
Earlier this year, Tesla began offering discounts on the Cybertruck following reports that production had slowed at Tesla’s factory. At the same time, some workers were reportedly reassigned from the Cybertruck assembly line in Texas to focus on the company’s bestselling Model Y sedan.
‘Quality issues from the get-go’
Robby Degraff, an analyst at auto market research firm Auto Pacific, said he can’t fathom consumers wanting to spend nearly six figures on a new vehicle that’s been “plagued with quality issues from the get-go.”
“Vehicles of all makes, price points and powertrains face recalls of some degree, but I think what makes this particular recall so newsworthy is the fact that the Cybertruck is generally just a highly controversial product that’s been a colossal hot mess since its inception,” he told CNET.
Citing the truck’s delays, high price tag and more recently, affiliation with Musk’s political agenda, he said “the Cybertruck can’t catch a break.”
“Although this recall is cosmetically related, it’s one that’s embarrassing to the brand, and I’m sure, its owners,” he said. “You know (which) vehicles’ trim panels don’t just detach? Rivian’s R1T, Ford’s F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet’s Silverado EV and the list goes on.”
Source: CNET
