Tesla faces a recall order affecting nearly 4,000 Cybertrucks due to a pressing issue with the accelerator pedal, which can stick in position when depressed.
The root cause, as identified by regulators, points to an unexpected culprit: soap.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an unauthorized alteration introduced lubricant (soap) during the component assembly of the pad onto the accelerator pedal. This inadvertent addition of lubricant compromised the pad’s retention to the pedal, leading to potential hazards.
While Tesla has not disclosed the exact production numbers of its innovative Cybertrucks, it has acknowledged a deliberate approach to scaling up production since the vehicle’s initial rollout in late November.
The NHTSA stipulates that the recall impacts all Model Year (‘MY’) 2024 Cybertruck vehicles manufactured between November 13, 2023, and April 4, 2024. This encompasses a total of 3,878 trucks, likely encompassing most, if not all, Cybertrucks currently traversing US roads.
Documents from the NHTSA underscore the risk, stating that excessive force on the accelerator pedal’s pad could dislodge it, potentially causing the pedal to become ensnared in the interior trim.
The safety regulator attributes the issue to improper use of soap during assembly at Tesla’s factory near Austin, Texas.
Initially flagged via social media and online forums, the accelerator sticking concern prompted the NHTSA to seek further clarification from Tesla.
Unlike previous Tesla recalls addressable via over-the-air software updates, this recall mandates owners to respond to written notices and bring their Cybertrucks to Tesla service centers for complimentary repairs.
As Tesla navigates this recall, the company’s immediate focus will be ensuring the safety and satisfaction of Cybertruck owners while addressing this critical issue.
