Cybertruck’s Woes Deepen with New Recall Amidst Widespread Criticism
The Tesla Cybertruck, already plagued by design controversies and production delays, has suffered another setback in the form of a federal recall. This latest blow comes as regulators demand the recall of over 46,000 vehicles due to a concerning issue with loose trim pieces that pose a significant safety hazard. The recall notice highlights that the exterior trim can detach while the vehicle is in motion, dramatically increasing the risk of accidents.
This recall represents the eighth time the Cybertruck has been recalled since its market introduction, a number that raises serious questions about Tesla’s quality control processes. Adding insult to injury, this is the second recall related to trim issues alone. Last June, a similar recall was issued due to improperly adhered trunk bed trim pieces that could detach.
Tesla maintains that it believes only about 1% of the recalled Cybertrucks are actually affected by the trim issue. However, the company has decided to err on the side of caution and recall all vehicles, pledging to cover the repair costs. Tesla also acknowledged that the manufacturing defect responsible for the issue hasn’t been fully resolved but that they expect to implement a fix around March 21st.
Even before the official recall, Tesla had received a concerning 151 warranty claims regarding the problematic trim. Critics suggest the reason for the recurring issues lies in the Cybertruck’s construction methods. It is claimed that the trim pieces are simply glued on, rather than being securely fastened using more robust methods.
YouTuber Exposes Questionable Build Quality
This criticism has been amplified by viral videos that showcase the Cybertruck’s questionable build quality. In a video published in August 2024, popular YouTuber WhistlinDiesel conducted a series of durability tests, comparing the Cybertruck to the more established Ford F-150. WhistlinDiesel expressed his surprise at how easily he could detach various trim pieces from the Cybertruck using only his bare hands.
A clip from this video has since gone viral, racking up over 20 million views on TikTok. In the clip, WhistlinDiesel initially uses a pickaxe to demonstrate the perceived lack of durability. However, he quickly abandons the tool, demonstrating that he can easily dismantle parts of the Cybertruck simply by peeling them off.
The YouTuber’s commentary underscores the shock and disappointment felt by many: "That is not acceptable dude. You just glued your truck together. That’s not OK. That is not OK." The video has further fueled the perception that the Cybertruck’s construction is shoddy and unreliable, further undermining consumer confidence.
Tesla’s Troubles Extend Beyond Recalls
The Cybertruck recall is just one aspect of Tesla’s growing problems. The company’s stock price has been in a steady decline. There are reports of protests at Tesla showrooms across the country, with some incidents involving vandalism and arson. Long-time Tesla owners are reportedly selling their vehicles in significant numbers. The cost of insuring Tesla vehicles is also rapidly increasing.
Prominent Tesla investor Ross Gerber has publicly called for Elon Musk to step down as CEO. Gerber suggests that Musk’s attention is divided and that he is neglecting Tesla in favor of his other ventures. He believes that a dedicated CEO could revitalize Tesla and restore investor confidence.
"If Elon came back to Tesla, that would be great. That’s exactly what Tesla needs. But he’s not. And he’s gonna stay at DOGE and he’s one of the most powerful people in the world now it’s definitely gotten to his head and I just don’t see him changing and going back. I actually think he’s completely neglecting Tesla at this point," Gerber said in a recent interview.
Gerber went on to suggest that Musk’s public image has become a liability for Tesla. "I think Elon should appoint a new CEO to run Tesla so he can focus on what he’s doing in the government and also separate himself from Tesla. Which is the great company that’s trying to solve climate change. It’s now associated with Elon in such a negative fashion that it’s destroying the sales of their main product, which is selling EVs. Somethings gotta change and I think it’s gonna happen this year."
Attempts to Bolster Tesla’s Image Fail
Musk has seemingly attempted to leverage his political connections to improve Tesla’s image and boost sales, but these efforts have been largely unsuccessful. Even a seemingly positive endorsement from former President Trump did little to move the stock price.
In a bizarre turn of events, Treasury Secretary Howard Lutnick appeared on Fox News, urging viewers to buy Tesla stock. "I think, if you want to learn something on this show tonight, buy Tesla," Lutnick said. "It’s unbelievable that this guy’s stock is this cheap. It’ll never be this cheap again." However, the stock price continued to fall following Lutnick’s recommendation.
The combination of recalls, quality control issues, declining stock prices, and negative publicity has created a perfect storm for Tesla. The future of the Cybertruck, and potentially Tesla itself, hinges on the company’s ability to address these challenges and regain the trust of consumers and investors. The upcoming months will be crucial in determining whether Tesla can weather this storm or if it will succumb to the mounting pressures. The company faces a significant challenge in restoring its reputation and ensuring the quality and safety of its vehicles. The stakes are high, and the outcome remains uncertain.
