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Summary
  • EVs like the Tesla Cybertruck burn hotter because of their large lithium-ion batteries.
  • The NHTSA has previously probed other Tesla models for car crashes caused by Autopilot and Full-Self-Driving technology issues.
  • Other Tesla Cybertruck recalls are faulty drive inverters, a software issue with its rearview camera, and a loose bed trim sail applique.

Have you been considering getting a Tesla Cybertruck? You might be better off delaying the purchase indefinitely after the infamous electric vehicle (EV) model suffered its second fatal car crash recently.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently investigating the deadly car crash in Piedmont, CA. Depending on its findings, the federal agency might take measures to prevent a repeat of the tragedy, such as ordering another car recall for the Tesla Cybertruck.

What Is the Latest NHTSA Cybertruck Probe About?

Back in late November, a Tesla Cybertruck crashed in Piedmont, CA. There were three fatalities and one person hospitalized for injuries.

When police officers reached the scene, they found the wrecked Tesla Cybertruck burning fiercely. The officers tried to douse the fire at the crash site, but the flames reportedly proved too much for the equipment they had on hand. Eventually, the local fire department arrived to put out the fire.

You might not believe it, but EVs can catch fire during crashes. While they lack the flammable fuel that powers internal combustion engines, electric cars have lithium-ion batteries that can catch fire or explode if they run too hot or undergo too much pressure. Burning batteries are much more challenging to douse than fuel-based fires, requiring a different approach by first responders.

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Furthermore, EVs usually have sizable batteries that dwarf the ones found in smartphones and laptops. They create bigger fires that burn hotter.

Other Tesla Cybertruck Crashes

The Piedmont incident is the second fatal Tesla Cybertruck crash in the US. The first one happened in Baytown, TX on August 2024. In that accident, the crashed Cybertruck also went up in flames.

Other NHTSA Probes of Tesla Vehicles

The NHTSA has probed other Tesla models for issues. Many problems involved Tesla’s proprietary Autopilot and Full-Self-Driving (FSD) technology, an advanced driver-assistance system that provides partial vehicle automation.

In October 2024, the NHTSA began investigating 2.4 million Tesla vehicles after receiving reports on several car crashes attributed to FSD. The crashes happened in areas with poor road visibility.

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Tesla Cybertruck Recalls

The Tesla Cybertruck debuted in 2023. Since its first deliveries, the model has witnessed multiple recalls. In many cases, Tesla fixed the problems by issuing updated software.

Here are the Tesla Cybertruck recalls so far:

Faulty Drive Inverter (Recall No. 24V832000)

Some 2024 Tesla Cybertrucks have a problem with the drive inverter that might deprive the wheels of drive power. If the vehicle suddenly loses drive power, it might end up in a car crash.

Fortunately, Tesla will replace the drive inverter without charge. The company expects to send notification letters to owners of affected Tesla Cybertrucks by January 2025.

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Rearview Camera Software Issue (Recall No. 24V718000)

One of the convenient features of the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck is a rearview camera that makes driving in reverse easier and safer. Unfortunately, some units experienced delays in displaying the image after shifting into reverse. Cybertrucks with delayed rearview camera images fail the federal safety standards on rear visibility.

If the rearview camera shows a delayed image, the driver can’t see the area behind the Tesla Cybertruck. It increases the chances of an accident while driving in reverse.

Tesla resolved the issue with a free over-the-air (OTA) software update.

Faulty Front Windshield Wiper Motor Controller (Recall No. 24V456000)

Some 2024 Tesla Cybertruck units have front windshield wiper motor controllers that failed from an oversupply of electrical current. Without a working motor controller, the wiper can’t operate when needed. The loss of a windshield wiper reduces visibility during bad weather, making it more difficult to see through the front glass.

Tesla fixed the issue with a free windshield wiper motor replacement.

Loose Trunk Bed Trim Sail Applique (Recall No. 24V457000)

The 2024 Tesla Cybertruck has a trim sail that covers its trunk bed. During the manufacturing process, the applique that keeps the trunk bed trim sail attached to the vehicle might have been applied incorrectly, loosening the trim.

A loose trunk bed trim sail applique might abruptly separate from the Tesla Cybertruck, especially while driving at high speeds or on rough roads. The trim can become a road hazard that might hit pedestrians or other vehicles.

Owners of Tesla Cybertrucks with a loose trunk bed trim sail applique can bring their vehicle in for repair. Tesla will apply an adhesion promoter and pressure-sensitive tape. In case of a lost applique, the company will replace the missing part.

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Stuck Accelerator Pedal (Recall No. 24V276000)

Some 2024 Tesla Cybertruck owners reported that the accelerator pedal might get stuck in the interior trim because the accelerator pedal pad came loose. A trapped pedal isn’t good because it can make the Cybertruck speed up when it shouldn’t, putting you at risk of a car crash.

The Tesla recall will fix the damaged accelerator pedal assembly or replace the entire thing without cost.

Faulty Instrument Cluster/Panel (Recall No. 24V051000)

Tesla issued a recall for several car models because of a flawed instrument panel. The panel showed a smaller-than-usual font size for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights.

You might not think a small font size is worth a recall. However, vehicles with this problem don’t meet federal vehicle safety standards on hydraulic, electric, and light vehicle brake systems. It’s harder to read text with a smaller font size. If the text is for warning lights that provide safety information, you might end up in danger.

Aside from the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, the recall also applies to the following:

Tesla sent an OTA software update that corrected this problem. There was no charge for this fix.

In addition to the Tesla Cybertruck recalls, NHTSA has received 21 complaints regarding issues with the EV. Some of the complaints involve broken windshield wipers and electrical system problems.

About The Author
Written By Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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