Tesla Cybertruck Recall: Accelerator Pedal Safety Concerns

Tesla is recalling every Cybertruck it has delivered due to a potential issue with the accelerator pedal. This defect can allow the pedal to become trapped in a depressed position, which poses a risk of unintended acceleration, thus increasing the likelihood of a collision. A total of 3,878 affected vehicles represent every Tesla Cybertruck produced between November 13, 2023, and April 4, 2024.

Nature of the Problem

According to the NHTSA defect notice, the problem arises from a cosmetic pedal cover that may dislodge and become wedged between the accelerator pedal assembly and the vehicle’s interior trim when pressed. Consequently, if the accelerator becomes stuck in a depressed position, the vehicle may continue to accelerate even after the driver has removed their foot from the pedal.

Driver Safety Measures

Tesla has indicated that drivers can mitigate the risk of unintended acceleration by pressing and holding the brake pedal. When both the brake and accelerator pedals are engaged simultaneously, the Cybertruck will cut power to its electric motors, allowing the vehicle to stop as quickly as if the accelerator was not pressed.

Customer Complaints and Investigations

Tesla received its first customer complaint regarding this issue on March 31, followed by a second on April 3. Importantly, as of April 15, the company is unaware of any incidents of collisions, injuries, or fatalities resulting from this defect.

Supplier Concerns

The issue appears to originate from a supplier who used soap as a lubricant during the installation of the pedal cover without Tesla’s consent. This choice of lubricant increases the likelihood that the cover will detach from the pedal assembly. The NHTSA notice identifies the supplier as KSR International Inc., based in Canada.

Future Actions

Tesla will address the issue by replacing or reworking the accelerator pedal assembly for affected owners at no charge, although the timeline for the fix remains unclear. The company plans to notify owners of the necessary actions by June 18. Importantly, all Cybertrucks produced after April 17, 2024, already come equipped with a new accelerator pedal component featuring a revised part number. Additionally, all Cybertrucks that are in transit or located at delivery centers will be repaired before being handed over to customers.