- Tesla recalls 46,000 Cybertrucks due to possible roof panel separation while driving.
- The issue arises from the use of a side panel with defective structural adhesive prone to loosening.
- This issue adds to the growing list of problems with Cybertrucks since deliveries began in 2023.
If there is something that Cybertruck owners can count on these days, it is falling cladding parts and obscene gestures from fellow visitors on the road. While nothing can be done about the latter, the manufacturer is intervening regarding the former. After numerous reports of falling cladding parts, Tesla launched an investigation into the issue of external panel separation during movement and decided that the time has come for a recall.
This is a major issue, covering every car sold in the last 15 months, from November 13, 2023, to February 27, 2025, affecting a total of 46,096 units. This time the issue cannot be fixed with a software update, as owners need to bring their trucks to a dealer for in-depth attention.
Problem: Faulty Bracket
The issue lies in the bracket, a stainless steel cladding panel that stretches from the base of the windshield to the rear doors, running along the roof arc over the windows. Tesla explains that the bracket relies entirely on structural adhesive to stay in place. Despite this, the adhesive is vulnerable to environmental exposure, which means it does not hold as well as it should.
To fix this issue, Tesla is replacing the problematic adhesive with a stronger version, which is not prone to environmental wear. To ensure it stays in place, they are also reinforcing the assembly to which the stainless-steel panel is glued, with a welded bolt that will be clamped to the vehicle’s structure with a nut.
Recall Process
Although Cybertruck owners have been voicing complaints on forums for some time, Tesla says it first learned of the issue in January 2025, when a regular field repair audit discovered a complaint about partial delamination of the component. Soon after this, 151 owners filed warranty claims. After investigating, Tesla decided that a recall was mandatory, roughly estimating that about 1% of the 46,096 affected trucks have the defect.
As of March 18, 2025, serial vehicles have not yet been fixed, but Tesla plans to begin implementing the repair approximately from March 21, 2025. Any trucks manufactured before the fix is implemented, but still in Tesla’s possession, will be upgraded before being handed over to customers.
Long Recall History
This recall adds to what has already been recalled for the eighth time since deliveries began in 2023. However, many of these recalls did not require a visit to the dealer, as they were. Among notable past issues were bumps while driving and loss of drive power.