Tesla has announced a recall for 46,096 Cybertrucks from the 2024 and 2025 model years due to a serious safety defect identified by U.S. regulators. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that a stainless steel trim panel on the Cybertruck’s exterior can detach while driving, posing a road hazard and increasing the risk of accidents.
The affected trim, known as the cant rail, is a cosmetic panel attached to the vehicle with an adhesive and fasteners. Tesla discovered that the adhesive used in the assembly can delaminate due to environmental factors, causing the panel to loosen and potentially separate from the truck. The recall includes all Cybertrucks built between November 13, 2023, and February 27, 2025.
Tesla first became aware of the issue on January 7, 2025, after receiving a field complaint about partial delamination. Following additional reports on January 31, an internal engineering study was launched. Although initial tests did not detect separation, further investigation revealed 151 warranty claims related to the defect. As a result, on March 11, 2025, Tesla decided to voluntarily recall all affected vehicles.
To address the issue, Tesla plans to replace the cant rail assembly at no cost to owners. The new component will feature an improved adhesive that is resistant to environmental embrittlement and will be reinforced with a stud and nut for added security. Production of vehicles with the upgraded assembly is set to begin on March 21, 2025.
Starting March 20, 2025, Tesla service centers will notify customers of the recall, with official recall letters expected to be mailed by May 19, 2025. Owners can reach out to Tesla at 1-877-798-3752 or contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 for further information.
This recall is the latest in a series of quality control concerns for Tesla’s highly anticipated Cybertruck, which has faced various production challenges since its launch. The timeline of events related to the trim issue highlights the steps taken by Tesla to address the defect promptly and effectively.
In comparison to similar trim recalls by traditional automakers, Tesla’s action timeline of roughly 8-10 weeks falls within the faster end of the 6-12-week range. For instance, Toyota’s 2023 recall of 12,150 Tacoma trucks for loose bed trim took approximately 10 weeks from detection to filing, while GM’s 2022 Silverado trim recall (17,000 units) took about 12 weeks.
Overall, Tesla’s swift response to the Cybertruck trim issue demonstrates its commitment to prioritizing customer safety and ensuring the quality of its vehicles. Owners of affected Cybertrucks can rest assured that the necessary steps are being taken to address the safety concern and prevent any potential risks on the road.