Tesla Recalls Cybertruck Due to Stuck Accelerator Pedal

Tesla is recalling almost 4,000 Cybertrucks due to a sticking accelerator pedal. The problem stems from an unauthorized lubricant used during assembly, which reduces the pad’s grip on the pedal. This issue can cause the accelerator to become stuck, potentially trapping it against the interior trim.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified the root cause as the use of soap during the component assembly process at Tesla’s factory near Austin, Texas. The recall affects all Model Year 2024 Cybertrucks produced between Nov. 13, 2023, and April 4, 2024.

With first deliveries starting in late November, many, if not all, of the 3,878 recalled trucks are likely already on U.S. roads. The NHTSA highlighted the risk of the pedal dislodging “when high force is applied,” potentially leading to it becoming trapped.

Unlike previous Tesla recalls that could be resolved with over-the-air software updates, this issue requires physical repair. Tesla will notify affected owners to bring their Cybertrucks to service centers for free repairs.

This recall comes at a time when Tesla is facing other challenges, including workforce reductions. Earlier this month, the company announced layoffs affecting approximately 10% of its global employees.

Tesla has delivered 3,878 Cybertrucks since December 2023, according to a recent government recall. While this number is small compared to overall U.S. truck sales, it outpaces the GMC Hummer EV, which sold 3,260 units in 2023. Despite GMC’s significant sales increase in the first quarter of 2024, Tesla has already surpassed its total deliveries.

The Cybertruck is also making an impact compared to other electric trucks. It has outpaced the Rivian R1T, which sold 2,399 trucks in the first quarter of 2024. However, the Ford F-150 Lightning leads the electric truck market with 7,743 units sold in the same period, marking an 80.4% increase from 2023.

Tesla’s current delivery rate suggests it could reach around 15,500 Cybertruck deliveries this year. Yet, the recent recall due to an issue with the accelerator pedal could affect these numbers.