Over a year after its much-anticipated launch, the Tesla Cybertruck continues to face significant hurdles, necessitating another recall affecting 46,096 units.
This latest recall, announced on Tuesday, pertains to issues with the cant rail, a trim piece on the vehicle’s exterior that has been reported to detach, posing potential hazards on the road.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), if the cant rail falls off, it could lead to accidents, a risk that Tesla has yet to associate with actual collisions, injuries, or fatalities.
Tesla had to recall 11,383 units due to similar separation issues
The cant rail is secured to the truck using a structural adhesive on an electrocoated steel stamping, but it appears that this adhesive has failed to meet necessary standards.
As a result, the stainless steel trim piece can separate under certain conditions, leading to unusual noises or visible misalignment. Tesla became aware of the issue through field reports and social media posts noting loose or detached cant rails around the Cybertruck.
To rectify this issue, Tesla plans to reinstall the cant rail assembly using a more robust structural adhesive, additionally securing it with a stud welded directly to the stainless steel panel, clamped to the vehicle’s structure. This service will be provided at no cost to the truck owners, with notifications set to be mailed by May 19.
This incident marks the eighth recall for the Cybertruck, a model that has had its share of unique problems, including cases of trapped accelerator pedals and inverter faults. Notably, this is not the first recall related to trim components; last year, Tesla had to recall 11,383 units due to similar separation issues with the bed frame rail panel.
As the Cybertruck stumbles through its initial rollout, Tesla faces ongoing scrutiny from consumers and regulators alike, highlighting the challenge of launching a groundbreaking vehicle in an evolving market.