Tesla's futuristic Cybertruck faces yet another setback as the company issues a comprehensive recall affecting every single vehicle delivered since its launch in late 2023. The recall stems from a potentially dangerous defect where exterior steel panels can detach while driving, creating hazards for other motorists.
The Recall Details
Tesla has officially recalled 46,096 Cybertrucks manufactured between November 13, 2023, and February 27, 2025, according to documentation filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The issue involves the adhesive used to secure the stainless steel exterior panels, particularly the cant rail - a cosmetic applique running along the vehicle's exterior. This adhesive has been found to be susceptible to environmental embrittlement, meaning it becomes brittle and can fail, especially in colder climates. While Tesla estimates only about one percent of the affected vehicles have the defect, the company has taken the precaution of recalling every Cybertruck delivered to date.
Cybertruck Recall Facts:
- Affected vehicles: 46,096 Cybertrucks
- Manufacturing dates: November 13, 2023 - February 27, 2025
- Issue: Adhesive failure causing detachment of stainless steel panels
- Estimated defect rate: ~1% of vehicles
- Warranty claims related to issue: 151 (as of March 14, 2025)
- Total Cybertruck recalls since launch: 8
A Growing List of Problems
This marks the eighth recall for the Cybertruck since its December 2023 launch, highlighting ongoing quality control challenges for Tesla's most unconventional vehicle. A similar recall was issued last summer regarding trim in the truck bed that could also come loose and create road hazards. The latest issue has been well-documented by Cybertruck owners in forums and through YouTube teardown videos that demonstrate the concerning ease with which some exterior panels can be removed.
The Fix and Timeline
Tesla has already halted all outbound deliveries of the Cybertruck while it addresses the problem. According to the NHTSA filing, Tesla will replace the cant rail on recalled vehicles free of charge, using a different structural adhesive not prone to environmental embrittlement. The company anticipates that vehicles in production will begin receiving the remedy around March 21, 2025, and all manufactured but undelivered trucks will be retrofitted with the new adhesive prior to delivery.
Market Impact and Reputation Concerns
The recall represents a significant setback for Tesla's ambitious pickup truck, which has already faced multiple delays and criticism for failing to meet original price and specification promises made during its 2019 unveiling. Despite these challenges, the Cybertruck still outsells electric truck competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T. However, with cumulative deliveries below 50,000 units out of an installed production capacity exceeding 125,000 trucks annually, the vehicle appears to be underperforming Tesla's typical market dominance.
Safety Implications
While Tesla reports no known collisions, fatalities, or injuries related to the panel detachment issue, the company acknowledges the serious safety risk posed by steel panels potentially flying off vehicles at highway speeds. As of March 14, Tesla had identified 151 warranty claims potentially related to the condition. The NHTSA filing emphasizes that detached panels could create a road hazard for following motorists and increase their risk of injury or a collision.
Broader Context for Tesla
This recall comes at a challenging time for Tesla and its CEO Elon Musk, who has been criticized for dividing his attention across multiple companies while also serving as an advisor in the White House. The Cybertruck's ongoing issues have raised questions about Tesla's product development strategy, particularly as resources devoted to resolving the truck's problems may have delayed work on a more strategically important $25,000 entry-level vehicle that Musk first mentioned in 2020.