Tesla is recalling 46,096 Cybertrucks : Nearly All Vehicles Affected by Panel Issue

Tesla Recalls Nearly All Cybertrucks: What You Need to Know About the Latest Recall

Tesla has announced a massive recall affecting nearly all Cybertrucks on the road, spotlighting ongoing quality issues with the futuristic electric pickup. On March 20, 2025, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that Tesla is recalling 46,096 Cybertrucks due to a defective exterior panel that could detach while driving. This marks the eighth recall for the Cybertruck since deliveries began in November 2023, raising questions about the vehicle's durability and Tesla's manufacturing processes.

Cybertruck Recall Details: What’s Happening?

The latest Tesla Cybertruck recall targets vehicles manufactured between November 13, 2023, and February 27, 2025, encompassing all 2024 and 2025 model years. The issue stems from a stainless-steel exterior trim panel, known as the "cant rail," which may delaminate and detach due to an adhesive failure. According to Tesla’s filing with the NHTSA, this defect could turn the loose panel into a road hazard, increasing the risk of crashes.

Tesla has identified 151 warranty claims potentially linked to this issue, though no crashes or injuries have been reported. Unlike previous software-related recalls, this fix requires owners to visit a Tesla service center, where the cant rail assembly will be replaced free of charge with a new adhesive resistant to environmental degradation.

Why the Cybertruck Keeps Facing Recalls

The Cybertruck’s recall history is extensive, with eight callbacks in just over a year. Past issues have ranged from faulty windshield wiper motors and software glitches to malfunctioning accelerator pedals treated with unapproved soap during assembly. This latest recall highlights a recurring theme: challenges in maintaining the Cybertruck’s bold design promises, such as its "indestructible" stainless-steel exoskeleton, while ensuring practical reliability.

Experts suggest the problem lies in Tesla’s reliance on glued panels rather than traditional bolted or welded construction. “It’s surprising that a vehicle marketed for its toughness is facing such basic assembly issues,” said Dale Harrow, director of the Intelligent Mobility Design Center at the Royal College of Art London, in a statement to WIRED.

A Timeline of Cybertruck Troubles

• June 2024: Tesla recalled over 11,000 Cybertrucks due to trunk bed trim detachment.
• January 2025: Social media complaints about loose panels prompted Tesla’s investigation into the cant rail issue.
• March 2025: The current recall affects nearly every Cybertruck produced, halting deliveries until the fix is implemented.

Impact on Tesla and Elon Musk

The timing of this recall couldn’t be worse for Tesla, which is already grappling with a 42% stock drop in 2025 amid rising competition from Chinese electric vehicle makers and backlash against CEO Elon Musk’s high-profile role in President Donald Trump’s administration. Analyst Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities described Tesla as being in a “brand tornado crisis moment,” urging Musk to refocus on the company rather than political endeavors.

While the Cybertruck represents a small fraction of Tesla’s overall sales—dominated by the Model 3 and Model Y—its repeated issues tarnish the company’s reputation for innovation. Tesla shares dipped 1.4% in premarket trading following the recall announcement, reflecting investor unease.

What It Means for Cybertruck Owners

For Cybertruck owners, the recall process begins with notifications from Tesla, expected to roll out by May 19, 2025. Signs of the defect include cabin noise or visible panel separation, Tesla noted. Owners can contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 for assistance.

New Cybertrucks produced after March 20, 2025, will incorporate the updated adhesive, and any vehicles in Tesla’s inventory will be retrofitted before delivery. However, the recall adds to growing frustration among owners, many of whom have reported vandalism and harassment linked to the vehicle’s polarizing design and Musk’s public persona.

The Bigger Picture: Tesla’s Quality Control Challenges

Tesla’s recall woes extend beyond the Cybertruck. In 2024 alone, the company accounted for 5.1 million vehicle recalls in the U.S., according to BizzyCar, making it the top automaker for callbacks. The Cybertruck’s struggles underscore broader concerns about Tesla’s rapid production scaling and reliance on unconventional engineering solutions.

As Tesla faces increasing scrutiny, the Cybertruck’s future remains uncertain. Once hyped with over 1 million reservations, demand softened by late 2024, prompting discounts. With this latest recall, Tesla must address not only mechanical flaws but also the trust of its customers and investors.

Looking Ahead: Can Tesla Bounce Back?

Despite these setbacks, Tesla has a track record of overcoming challenges. The company plans to resolve the Cybertruck recall efficiently, with service centers gearing up for repairs. Meanwhile, Musk’s vision for Tesla—including ambitious projects like autonomous driving—continues to drive optimism among supporters.

For now, the Cybertruck recall serves as a stark reminder that even the most innovative designs require rigorous quality assurance. As Tesla navigates this latest hurdle, the industry watches closely to see if the electric giant can reclaim its momentum.