Tesla is recalling 3,878 Cybertrucks because the faceplate could slide off the accelerator pedal and lead to unintended acceleration
April 19, 2024 at 10:31
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- Tesla has launched a recall of 3,878 Cybertrucks over an issue with the accelerator pedal.
- The unauthorized use of a lubricant could be the cause of the faceplate sliding off the pedal.
- A photo posted online suggests that part of the solution may be to rivet the plate onto the pedal.
Earlier this week, we reported that a problem with the accelerator pedal in a Tesla Cybertruck led to unintended acceleration. Now, a recall confirms that faceplate slippage was a widespread issue.
In documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Tesla describes the problem as stemming from the unauthorized use of soap to get the tread plate (the shiny metal piece your foot actually touches) onto the pedal. That can reduce the retention of the trim piece and allow it to slip out of position.
More: Cybertruck Deliveries Reportedly Halted Over Loose Accelerator Pedal
As shown by an owner in a TikTok video, the pedal’s faceplate can slide forward, and stick itself between two trim pieces. If the plate gets lodged there, the accelerator pedal can become stuck in the full throttle position.
Fortunately, even with the pedal to the floor, the firm application of the brakes will cut power from the motors, and the Cybertruck can come to a stop. However, as described in the TikTok video, any time the driver lifts their foot off the brake, the truck will lurch forward at full pace, which is extremely dangerous.
@el.chepito1985 serious problem with my Cybertruck and potential all Cybertrucks #tesla #cyberbeast #cybertruck #stopsale #recall ♬ original sound – el.chepito
In official documents, NHTSA and Tesla acknowledge that this increases the risk of a crash. The automaker adds that it is not aware of any accidents, injuries, or deaths resulting from this fault.
To prevent the faceplate from slipping in the future, Tesla is recalling all 3,878 Cybertrucks in America to replace or rework the accelerator assembly to keep the trim piece stuck to the pedal. Unfortunately, the automaker doesn’t reveal any details about the fix, at least not yet.
However, the solution may have already appeared online. Earlier today, Reddit user u/Aranfiy posted a picture of an accelerator pedal with a rivet in its base to the r/cybertruck community. While this fix seems likely to do the trick, the relative crudeness of the solution appears to be disappointing members of the subreddit who, in the comments, complain that Tesla “could have at least centered it!”
Whether this is the official solution or simply a temporary measure to keep Cybertrucks leaving the factory, is not yet clear. Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
