The Tesla Cybertruck is back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced a recall affecting 27,185 units of the 2024 model. This latest recall stems from issues related to the rearview camera that can delay image transmission, raising significant safety concerns.
What’s the Problem?
According to the NHTSA’s recall notice, the image displayed by the rearview camera may experience a delay. This violation of federal law poses safety risks, particularly when drivers rely on this critical feature while reversing.
The root cause of the issue lies in the system’s shutdown process. If a driver shifts the electric truck into reverse before the system has completed shutting down and rebooting, the rearview camera may not display the necessary image within the required two-second timeframe. In some cases, the display could remain blank for as long as six to eight seconds.
Affected Models and Timeline for Recall
The recall specifically targets Cybertrucks built between November 13, 2023, and September 14, 2024. Affected vehicles were operating with specific software logic linked to low-voltage hardware.
Tesla was alerted to the problem on September 12 and conducted an internal assessment that concluded on September 19. The automaker promptly identified the noncompliance issue and initiated the recall process.
As of September 25, Tesla reported 45 warranty claims related to the camera delay, although there have been no reported collisions or injuries linked to the issue. To address the problem, Tesla began rolling out an over-the-air (OTA) software update on September 19, which aims to correct the delay and ensure the rearview camera meets the required response time.
Affected Cybertruck owners will receive recall notifications via mail shortly after September 30.
What Brought Recalls?
This incident marks the fifth recall for the Cybertruck, which has been on the market for less than a year. Previous recalls have included issues such as a malfunctioning wiper motor, loose trim, and “trapped” accelerator pedals. As Tesla continues to grapple with these challenges, the company must address these concerns to maintain consumer trust and ensure safety.