Tesla Issues Recall: Cybertruck's Sticking Accelerator Pedal Raises Safety Concerns

Apr 20, 2024 03:53 AM EDT

TESLA CYBERTRUCK ON THE ROAD — (Photo : PEXELS/Stephen Leonardi)

Due to a worrying issue with the accelerator pedals, Tesla's Cybertruck series is having serious problems. Approximately 4,000 vehicles have been notified for recall. This is a significant finding that points to a possible safety risk that has to be addressed right away.

Alert for Recall: Every 2024 Cybertruck

All Cybertrucks built in the 2024 model year are included in the recall, highlighting the extent of the problem and the urgency of taking immediate action to reduce any hazards related to accelerator pedal problems. The pedal in question can stick in place when pressed down.

CNN Business reported that the recall in the Tesla Cybertruck concerning pedals that can stick is due to soap. As per the regulator's explanation, an unauthorized alteration introduced a lubricant (soap) to aid in the assembly of the pad onto the accelerator pedal. The residual lubricant subsequently decreased the pad's retention to the pedal, as outlined in the recall document by the NHTSA.

Tesla has yet to disclose the exact number of Cybertrucks it has produced, but it has indicated a gradual production ramp-up for the vehicle, which saw its initial deliveries in late November. The NHTSA specified that the recall pertains to "all Model Year ('MY') 2024 Cybertruck vehicles manufactured from November 13, 2023, to April 4, 2024."

This suggests that the 3,878 trucks subject to recall likely encompass most, if not all, of the Cybertrucks currently on US roads. As per the recall documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "the accelerator pedal's pad may become dislodged if high force is applied to it, potentially trapping the pedal in the interior trim above the pedal."

The safety regulator revealed that employees at Tesla's factory near Austin, Texas, utilized soap incorrectly to facilitate the assembly of the pad onto the accelerator pedal for the Cybertruck. Initial reports of the accelerator sticking problem surfaced on social media and online forums. NHTSA informed CNN on Monday that it had contacted Tesla to request further details regarding the issue.

The problem of accelerator sticking was initially brought to attention through posts on social media and online discussion groups. NHTSA informed CNN on Monday that it had contacted Tesla to request further information regarding the issue.

Solution for the Accelerator Pedal Concern

In contrast to numerous Tesla recalls, this particular issue cannot be resolved through a straightforward over-the-air software update, necessitating Cybertruck owners to act upon letters sent to them. As reported by CNET, addressing this recall entails Cybertruck owners visiting a dealer or service center for the replacement or reworking of the pedal assembly.

This will be for free. Recalls are more prevalent among electric vehicles (EVs) statistically. This trend can be attributed to the fact that some EV manufacturers are new entrants or utilize novel technologies without the extensive refinement history seen in internal combustion cars.

However, CNET emphasized that this shouldn't instigate panic among owners or prospective buyers of electric vehicles, even in cases where companies like Tesla recall a significant portion of their vehicle lineup in the US due to issues such as the Autopilot feature or the font size of warning lights.