In a significant setback for Tesla, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced on March 21, 2025, a recall affecting all 46,096 Cybertrucks produced since its launch in November 2023. The recall is due to a potentially hazardous defect in the cant rail assembly, which is a stainless steel panel strip adjacent to the windshield and roof.
The cant rail's adhesive can detach while driving, posing a serious risk of road hazards and collisions. Concerns escalated when viral videos surfaced on social media, demonstrating individuals easily detaching these panels with their hands. The NHTSA's action marks the eighth recall for the Cybertruck, highlighting ongoing safety issues since the vehicle's introduction.
According to Tesla, the problem is linked to the structural adhesive used during production, which may not withstand environmental stressors. In response to the defect, the company has developed a new adhesive compound, claiming it will better handle the conditions that previously caused failures.
Tesla plans to rectify this issue by providing free replacements for the faulty cant rail panels. Notifications will be sent to affected customers via mail starting May 19, 2025. In the meantime, owners are advised to avoid high-speed driving and can reach Tesla customer support at 1-877-798-3752 or visit nhtsa.gov for further updates.
This recall follows a string of other significant recalls for the Cybertruck, including an electric inverter failure reported in November 2023, which caused sudden loss of power, and an April 2024 recall for a sticking acceleration pedal. Additional recalls have addressed problems with windshield wipers and display screen failures.
Despite these safety recalls, Tesla had continued its deliveries until compelled by this latest regulatory intervention. Tesla's stock has taken a staggering hit amid these ongoing issues, falling approximately 42% over the course of 2025, reflecting diminishing investor confidence in the company's handling of safety matters.
Tesla has faced rising scrutiny not only from safety regulators but also from increasing vandalism and politically motivated attacks on its dealerships and charging stations. Incidents coincide with Elon Musk's growing ties to government operations under President Donald Trump’s administration.
In the words of Dale Harrow, chair and director of the Intelligent Mobility Design Center at the Royal College of Art London, this type of recall is particularly surprising given that adhesive bonding is commonly used in the auto industry today. “Glues are used a lot more than people think in car body construction these days,” he explained. “I’ve not heard [of problems] anywhere else.” He attributed the confusion to the unique construction methods employed in the Cybertruck, especially its use of stainless steel which might have affected the adhesion process.
Critics highlight that vehicle recalls have surged in recent years, citing a 70% increase in annual recalls from 2003 to 2023, particularly as modern cars have become more technically sophisticated. Tesla's situation underscores growing pains for a newer model that has faced significant production delays and quality control challenges. Initially unveiled in 2019, the Cybertruck has seen its production timeline stretch from 2021 to late 2022 and eventually to late 2023.
The price tag of the Cybertruck has also escalated dramatically during this period, rising from an initial base price of $40,000 to $61,000, a reflection of the numerous hurdles faced. Despite a promising market launch, the vehicle's roll-out has repeatedly hit snags—everything from issues with power units to initial production struggles has made it a challenging endeavor for Tesla.
Amid these hiccups, the White House has actively promoted the vehicle; President Trump was photographed recently among parked Cybertrucks, endorsing the automaker while joking, “Everything’s computer!” However, this grassroots support may not be enough to overshadow the looming apprehensions directed at Tesla regarding consistency in quality and safety.
Tesla’s stock market performance, worsened by this recall, reflects broader investor concerns. As buyers keep a wary eye on the situation, many are left to wonder whether Tesla can regain its ground and reassure the public, especially amid rising competition from international electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers.
In closing, Tesla's response to the latest recall is critical not only for the safety of its drivers but also for the company's long-term viability. The automaker’s ability to fix these defects effectively will play a vital role in restoring public trust and confidence. As the Cybertruck’s reputation is scrutinized, the industry watches closely to see if Tesla can navigate this tempestuous landscape without further incident.
