Tesla recalls over 23,000 Cybertrucks due to potential windshield wiper failure and loose trunk bed trim, raising concerns about the vehicle's production ramp-up.
Tesla is facing another hurdle in its rollout of the long-awaited Cybertruck. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced two separate recalls affecting over 23,000 Cybertrucks due to potential safety hazards.
The first recall involves 11,688 Cybertrucks where a malfunctioning windshield wiper motor controller could cause the wipers to fail. This poses a significant risk to drivers, especially in poor weather conditions, by reducing visibility and increasing the chance of accidents.
The second recall concerns 11,383 Cybertrucks with improperly attached trim in the truck bed. This loose trim could detach and become a road hazard for following vehicles.
These recalls come on top of a previous issue identified in April where nearly 4,000 Cybertrucks required repairs due to a faulty accelerator pedal pad.
These setbacks raise questions about Tesla's ability to smoothly ramp up Cybertruck production, which is expected to begin in earnest next year. Additionally, Tesla has remained tight-lipped about the number of Cybertrucks delivered to date.
The NHTSA reports that the wiper motor will be replaced by Tesla's service team, while the loose trim will be either reattached with proper adhesive or replaced entirely. These repairs will be performed free of charge for affected owners.
While these recent issues require physical fixes, it's worth noting that Tesla has addressed many past recalls through over-the-air software updates. However, the Cybertruck's current problems highlight the need for thorough quality control during the production phase.
Additional Information:
This is not the first time Tesla has faced large-scale recalls. In the first quarter of 2024 alone, the company recalled over 2.4 million vehicles for various issues.
The Cybertruck's launch has been plagued by delays and production difficulties. CEO Elon Musk previously described the ramp-up process as a significant challenge.
Balancing rapid innovation with robust safety measures remains a constant balancing act for Tesla and the auto industry as a whole.
Source: Reuters