Tesla has announced a recall of 46,096 Cybertruck vehicles in the United States to fix an exterior panel that could detach while driving.
The recall affects nearly all Cybertrucks produced up to February and adds to a series of call-backs for the electric pickup truck since its launch last year.
Although Tesla does not disclose specific delivery numbers for the Cybertruck, analysts estimate that the recall covers the vast majority of units currently on the road.
According to a notice from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall addresses a stainless-steel exterior trim panel that may become loose and pose a road hazard, increasing the risk of accidents. Tesla has stated that it will replace the affected assembly at no cost to customers.
The recall marks another setback for the automaker, whose stock has plummeted nearly 50% this year amid intensifying competition, an aging vehicle lineup, and growing backlash against CEO Elon Musk. Shares of Tesla fell 1.4% in premarket trading following the recall announcement.
Demand for the Cybertruck had already shown signs of weakening toward the end of last year, following multiple production delays. Tesla also remains the most recalled car brand in the U.S., accounting for 5.1 million vehicle recalls in 2024, according to recall management firm BizzyCar. However, many of Tesla’s past issues have been resolved through over-the-air software updates, unlike the Cybertruck’s physical defect.
As Tesla navigates these challenges, industry experts continue to monitor how the recall will impact consumer confidence in the brand and the future of its unconventional EV pickup.
