Tesla’s Cybertruck Recalled for the 5th Time Since Its November 2023 Release

Once again, the Tesla Cybertruck-a polarizingly futuristic pickup truck-made headlines, and not necessarily for reasons that may have pleased Elon Musk. Just five months after its release last November, Tesla announced a new issue affecting almost 30,000 Cybertrucks worldwide. The latest problem involves the rearview camera of the truck, which has failed to conform to regulatory requirements.

For affected Cybertrucks, Tesla says the rearview camera takes about eight seconds to turn on when the vehicle is put into reverse. Under U.S. regulations, the display of the camera must show up no more than two seconds after the car is put in reverse. A delay like that’s a potential safety hazard since drivers might well not have an adequate view behind the vehicle when backing up.

To repair the problem, Tesla has developed a software update. However, Tesla said it won’t send notification letters to owners by mail about the required upgrade until November 25.

The recall adds to a growing list of technical issues that have beset the Cybertruck since it hit the market. In June, the units were recalled due to loose components and defective front windshield wipers. In April, two months before that, there was also another recall for faulty acceleration pedals.

A string of recalls really shows how much Tesla has its work cut out for itself with its unconventional Cybertruck design. With an uncommon, angular appearance, Cybertruck talk has been abuzz amidst its staunch following. Still, persistent technical issues are quickly overcoming consumer and industry analyst confidence in the truck’s reliability.

Meanwhile, Tesla has been addressing these and other issues, trying to fix problems as they arise. Whether such fixes will stabilize the reputation of the Cybertruck remains to be seen, but it is undeniably an uphill road after five recalls in less than a year for this innovative yet troubled vehicle.