Tesla Cybertruck’s 10th Recall: Lightbars Detaching Mid-Drive
Tesla’s Cybertruck, marketed as an unbreakable, “apocalypse-proof” vehicle, has been recalled for the 10th time since its launch. The latest issue? The truck’s front and rear lightbars are falling off due to faulty adhesive—a glaring safety hazard for drivers and other road users.
NHTSA Warns: Falling Lightbars Pose Serious Risks
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) flagged the defect after reports of lightbars detaching unexpectedly while driving. Tesla estimates the problem affects 1% of Cybertrucks, but with limited production numbers, hundreds of owners may need repairs. The fix involves:
– Reinforced adhesive
– Full lightbar replacements for severe cases
Owners will be notified in July 2024, but critics question why this passed Tesla’s quality checks.
Cybertruck’s Growing List of Recalls
This isn’t an isolated incident. The Cybertruck’s recall history includes:
– Stuck accelerator pedals (risk of unintended acceleration)
– Faulty windshield wippers (failures in rain)
– Unstable trunk lids (sudden slamming)
– Software bugs causing power loss
Elon Musk touted the truck’s bulletproof steel exoskeleton, but basic functionality remains a persistent challenge.
Why Does Tesla Struggle with Quality Control?
Experts blame Tesla’s “build now, fix later” approach:
– Over-reliance on over-the-air updates (useless for hardware flaws)
– Rushed production of the Cybertruck’s complex stainless-steel design
– Minimal pre-release testing compared to legacy automakers
Owner Reactions: Loyalty vs. Frustration
While some Tesla fans dismiss recalls as “early-adopter tax,” others are fed up.
“Paying six figures for a truck that sheds parts like a snake skin is absurd,” posted a Cybertruck owner on Reddit.
Competitors Seize the Opportunity
Rivian’s R1T and Ford’s F-150 Lightning are marketing their EVs as “tried-and-tested” alternatives, capitalizing on Tesla’s reliability woes.
What’s Next for the Cybertruck?
Tesla vows to improve manufacturing, but with NHTSA scrutiny intensifying, further recalls seem likely. The Cybertruck’s future hinges on whether Tesla can balance innovation with basic automotive standards.
