Tesla has once again hit a roadblock with its Cybertruck, issuing its eighth recall—this time due to an issue quite literally coming unstuck. The automaker announced on Thursday that over 46,000 Cybertrucks are being recalled after it was discovered that the adhesive used to secure the stainless steel trim panels may fail, causing them to detach while driving and posing a safety risk.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified the problem, confirming that it cannot be remedied through Tesla’s usual over-the-air software updates. Instead, affected owners must bring their vehicles to Tesla service centers for physical repairs.
This recall affects Cybertrucks manufactured between November 2023 and February 2025. The flaw stems from an adhesive prone to “environmental embrittlement,” meaning it deteriorates when exposed to varying temperatures. Tesla has pledged to replace it with a more durable bonding agent better suited for different weather conditions.
Production Paused Amid Investigations
Tesla first became aware of the problem in January 2025 after customer complaints gained traction online. As reports spread, the company halted Cybertruck production last week to investigate the issue.
Dale Harrow, chair of the Intelligent Mobility Design Centre at the Royal College of Art in London, found the recall surprising, as adhesives are widely used in modern vehicle construction.
“Most automakers, including Jaguar, Lexus, and Audi, rely on glues rather than bolts or welding for lightweight body construction. This is standard industry practice,” Harrow explained. However, he pointed out that Tesla’s decision to use stainless steel—a material uncommon in consumer vehicles—could be a contributing factor. The metal’s density and thermal conductivity may have interfered with the adhesive’s curing process during manufacturing.
“I suspect something during production is preventing the glue from setting properly, possibly due to temperature fluctuations or inadequate UV exposure,” he added.
Cybertruck’s History of Quality Issues
The Cybertruck has faced intense scrutiny since its highly anticipated—but problem-ridden—2019 unveiling, where a supposedly unbreakable window shattered during a live demonstration. Since then, the vehicle has encountered repeated delays, cost increases, and ongoing quality concerns. Its starting price has surged from an initial $40,000 to $61,000, and leaked internal documents from 2022 detailed struggles with suspension, body sealing, and braking systems.
Of the eight recalls issued for the Cybertruck to date, five have required in-person servicing. Previous recalls have addressed issues such as malfunctioning windshield wipers and defective accelerator pedal pads, which became hazardous after being treated with an unapproved soap during assembly.
Industry-wide, vehicle recalls have surged in recent years due to the increasing complexity of electronic systems. NHTSA data shows that US vehicle recalls jumped by 70% between 2003 and 2023. However, the frequency of Cybertruck recalls has set it apart, and now, the latest issue revolves around something as seemingly simple as glue.
White House Reaction and Tesla’s Response
Despite the ongoing problems, Tesla’s reputation remains strong among some high-profile figures. Last week, a Cybertruck was displayed at the White House alongside other Tesla models. President Donald Trump, who was present at the event, ultimately decided against purchasing the futuristic truck, citing concerns about potential rust. Instead, he opted for a Tesla Model S Plaid, which features more conventional materials.
Tesla has not yet confirmed when recall-related repairs will begin, but the company assured owners that all fixes will be performed free of charge. In the meantime, Cybertruck drivers are advised to schedule service appointments and avoid high-speed travel until their vehicles are properly repaired—this time with adhesive that actually holds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why is Tesla recalling the Cybertruck again?
- The latest recall addresses an issue with faulty adhesive used to attach stainless steel trim panels, which may detach while driving.
- How many Cybertrucks are affected by this recall?
- Over 46,000 Cybertrucks produced between November 2023 and February 2025 are impacted by the defect.
- Can this issue be fixed remotely through a software update?
- No, affected vehicles must be taken to a Tesla service center for a physical repair.
- Has Tesla stopped Cybertruck production because of this issue?
- Yes, Tesla temporarily paused Cybertruck production to investigate the adhesive failure.
- Will Tesla cover the cost of repairs for affected owners?
- Yes, all recall-related services will be provided at no charge to Cybertruck owners.
