Tesla issues recall for Cybertruck over potential accelerator pedal sticking issue, prioritizing safety concerns for customers.
Tesla Inc. has been directed to recall approximately 3,878 of its
Cybertrucks due to a potential safety concern related to the accelerator pedal,
announced the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The issue stems from an accelerator pedal that can stick in place when
pressed down, a problem attributed to an unauthorized alteration during
assembly involving the use of lubricant (soap).
According to the NHTSA's recall document, this lubricant was introduced
to aid in the assembly of the pad onto the accelerator pedal, leading to
reduced retention of the pad.
The recall applies to all Model Year 2024 Cybertruck vehicles
manufactured from November 13, 2023, to April 4, 2024, potentially encompassing
the majority of Cybertrucks currently in operation on US roads.
Documents from the NHTSA further elaborate that under high force, the
pad on the accelerator pedal may dislodge, causing the pedal to become trapped
in the interior trim above it.
The root cause of the issue appears to be linked to assembly practices
at Tesla's factory near Austin, Texas, where workers reportedly used soap
improperly during the component assembly process.
Reports of the accelerator sticking problem initially surfaced in social
media and online discussion groups, prompting the NHTSA to investigate. On
Monday, the regulatory body confirmed reaching out to Tesla for additional
information regarding the matter.
Unlike previous Tesla recalls that could be addressed through
over-the-air software updates, this particular issue necessitates physical
repair. Affected Cybertruck owners will be contacted via letters and instructed
to bring their vehicles to Tesla service centers for the necessary repairs,
which will be conducted at no cost.
Tesla has yet to comment on the recall. However, this development comes
amidst other internal changes at the company, including recent announcements of
layoffs affecting approximately 10% of its global workforce.
As Tesla navigates this recall, attention will be on its response
strategy and efforts to ensure the safety and satisfaction of its customers.
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