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Tesla’s Cybertruck is facing a significant issue with its windshield wipers, resulting in an official recall affecting more than 11,000 units of the electric truck. This recall encompasses nearly all Cybertrucks produced since their launch in November 2023. The wiper malfunction stems from the wiper motor controller failing due to “electrical overstress,” as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Additionally, regulators have initiated another recall in conjunction with the wiper issue. This pertains to trim pieces on the Cybertruck’s bed or trunk that could potentially detach while the vehicle is in motion. As a result, not only might Cybertruck drivers find themselves unable to see clearly in the rain, but they could also endanger other motorists with loose parts flying off their vehicles.
The windshield wiper recall involves 11,688 units of the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck manufactured between mid-November 2023 and early June 2024. While Tesla estimates that only about 2% of these vehicles are actually experiencing the issue, the trunk trim recall affects 11,383 units, stemming from a shorter production period where the defect might occur, involving models produced until late May.
The failures in the wiper motors are attributed to “electrical overstress” during testing. Sam Abuelsamid, an analyst at Guidehouse Insights, indicated to Reuters that such failures were expected, noting, “This is the largest individual wiper ever utilized on a light-duty vehicle, featuring a 4-foot-long (1.22 meter) blade. That considerable lever arm creates significant stress on the motor, and numerous reports of failures have arisen since production began.”
Tesla has committed to replacing the faulty wiper motors and is working with its supplier to alter the wiper motor testing process, likely to reduce stress on the components during evaluation. While it seems that this might help prevent future failures, it also suggests a step back in the thoroughness of their testing. Only time will reveal whether the longer, more flexible wipers can function without stressing the motor to its breaking point. Operating without the wipers, even in light rain, is more than a minor nuisance; it’s a serious safety risk that complicates visibility to the extent that drivers might feel forced to hang out of the window, which is unacceptable in a new vehicle.
Regarding the trunk trim issue, it relates to the adhesive used for the “sail applique” on the vehicle’s exterior, as described by NHTSA. There may have been insufficient strength in the glue used, or possibly the parts were not installed correctly, leading to the risk of detachment while on the road. Tesla intends to reapply the adhesive or replace any dislodged trim components at no charge to the owners.
These incidents highlight ongoing challenges for the Cybertruck, which according to Reuters, has not yet commenced mass production. Elon Musk aims for an output of 200,000 units annually, with aspirations to increase to 250,000 by 2025, suggesting that these problems may just be the beginning of more challenges ahead.
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