Social Media Sparks a Major Recall
The journey from online rumors to an official recall began with a series of social media posts about Tesla Cybertrucks accelerating uncontrollably. A critical video from TikToker Jose Martinez exposing a faulty accelerator pedal prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate an investigation, halting further deliveries of the Cybertruck. Tesla has now initiated a voluntary recall to address and rectify this hazardous issue.
Uncovering the Malfunction
The danger became evident when TikTok footage showed the Cybertruck’s accelerator pedal disassembling during use. The pedal’s surface, meant to secure the driver’s foot, detached and jammed under the vehicle’s trim, causing it to remain fully engaged. Given the Cybertruck’s impressive acceleration capabilities—reaching 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds—and its substantial weight of 6,800 pounds, this mechanical fault posed a significant threat to safety.
Regulatory Response and Tesla’s Action
The NHTSA’s findings revealed improper assembly practices at Tesla’s manufacturing facilities, including the use of soap as a lubricant to ease pedal assembly, which unfortunately made it prone to disassembly. Despite previous confrontations between Tesla and the NHTSA over recall procedures and safety transparency, Tesla promptly responded this time by recalling all 3,878 units manufactured between November 13, 2024, and April 4, 2024. Tesla owners are urged to visit showrooms with service departments for immediate repairs to prevent potential accidents.
This recall highlights the critical nature of automotive safety and Tesla’s proactive steps to ensure the well-being of its customers by addressing this severe malfunction swiftly.