The Tesla Cybertruck faced another setback this week as federal regulators issued a recall due to a trim piece that can detach while driving, potentially increasing the risk of a crash. This recall impacts over 46,000 vehicles. Despite assertions from Elon Musk touting the Cybertruck as a durable vehicle, critics have long cited manufacturing concerns. This is the Cybertruck’s eighth recall and the second concerning a trim issue. In June of last year, Tesla had issued a similar recall due to improperly adhered trunk bed trim.
Tesla informed Bloomberg that it believes only 1% of the recalled Cybertrucks will exhibit the issue, but all vehicles are being recalled for repairs nonetheless, with Tesla covering the costs. The company acknowledged that the manufacturing flaw has yet to be resolved but anticipated a solution by March 21. There have already been 151 warranty claims related to the issue.
The trim’s detachment issues stem from its reliance on adhesive. In an August 2024 video, YouTuber WhistlinDiesel conducted durability tests on the Cybertruck, showcasing the ease with which trim parts could be detached by hand. A segment of this video, shared on TikTok, has garnered over 20 million views, highlighting concerns over the vehicle’s construction.
The recall represents another challenge for Tesla amid declining stock prices, protests at showrooms, and increased vehicle vandalism. Long-time Tesla owners are selling their cars in large numbers, while insurance costs for Tesla vehicles are reportedly rising.
Prominent Tesla investor Ross Gerber has been vocal in media appearances, urging Elon Musk to step down as CEO. Gerber suggests that Musk’s current focus on other ventures and his association with the brand are negatively impacting Tesla’s sales, particularly in electric vehicles. Gerber advocates for a new CEO who can steer Tesla’s efforts in addressing climate change without Musk’s controversial influence.
Musk has attempted to leverage his ties to the White House to improve Tesla’s market image and sales. However, efforts have not had the desired impact. Donald Trump publicly endorsed Tesla vehicles on the White House’s South Lawn, yet Tesla’s stock value continued to fall. Treasury Secretary Howard Lutnick made a case for purchasing Tesla stock on Fox News, citing its unprecedented affordability, yet the stock price continued to depreciate the following morning.
