More than 46,000 Cybertrucks manufactured by Tesla require a recall in the United States because their exterior panel might detach while drivers operate the vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration received a filing that revealed that the recall targets vehicles built from November 2023 up to February 27, 2024.
The stainless-steel exterior trim panel on the vehicle has the potential to separate from the vehicle body, thus creating road hazards that could lead to accidents. The affected rail panel assembly from Tesla will be replaced by a stronger version to fix the problem.
Tesla faces potential difficulties from this recall because it currently deals with declining stock values, increasing market competition, and ongoing criticism of CEO Elon Musk’s political activities. The stock value of Tesla has declined by 42% in 2023 due to waning Cybertruck sales and negative changes in consumer attitudes towards the Tesla brand.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration learned about the problem on February 21 after receiving a report from a Cybertruck owner about their detached rail panel. Tesla has received 151 warranty claims related to the defect but has not recorded any accidents or injuries resulting from it.
The Cybertruck production numbers remain undisclosed by Tesla, but market analysts predict these recalled vehicles represent most existing Cybertrucks on the market. The future-oriented EV pickup faces diminishing market demand, which makes it harder for Tesla to sustain its position in electric vehicle sales.
Tesla holds the top position for vehicle recalls in the United States during 2024 by issuing 5.1 million call-backs. Most issues were addressed by software updates that Tesla distributed through wireless connections because the company prefers digital solutions over traditional physical maintenance methods.
