Tesla has issued a recall for more than 46,000 Cybertrucks in the United States over a critical safety issue, marking another setback for the highly anticipated electric pickup truck. The company announced that a central exterior panel on the vehicle may detach while in motion, creating a potential hazard for other drivers on the road.
The recall, which applies to all Cybertrucks manufactured between November 2023 and February 2025, was disclosed in a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). According to Tesla, the problem stems from a faulty adhesive in the cantrail assembly—a key component of the truck’s roof—that is prone to environmental embrittlement. If the panel separates from the vehicle, it could increase the risk of injury or accidents for following motorists.
To address the issue, Tesla has pledged to replace the cantrail assembly with an upgraded version that meets durability standards. The repair process is expected to take approximately one hour per vehicle. The company has identified 151 warranty claims that may be linked to the defect but has not reported any related accidents, injuries, or fatalities.
This recall follows a series of safety concerns surrounding the Cybertruck, including a previous recall in 2023 over defective accelerator pedals that could become stuck, posing a risk of unintended acceleration. The company is also under investigation by the NHTSA for multiple safety-related issues, including concerns about its driver-assistance systems, which have been the subject of numerous customer complaints regarding unexpected braking and acceleration. Additionally, Tesla’s “full-self driving” software is under scrutiny following fatal highway crashes where the system was reportedly engaged.
The recall comes at a challenging time for Tesla, as the Austin, Texas-based electric vehicle manufacturer faces declining sales across key markets such as Europe, China, and the United States. The company’s stock has dropped by 51% since mid-December, with shares falling another 1% following the recall announcement. Investors have also raised concerns about the impact of CEO Elon Musk’s political activism, which some analysts suggest has contributed to consumer backlash.
