Tesla Recalls Cybertruck Over Wheel Detachment Risk: 173 Vehicles Affected

Tesla has issued a recall for its rear-wheel-drive Cybertruck models after discovering a critical safety flaw: the wheels could detach while driving. The issue, spotted by MotorTrend this week, affects vehicles equipped with 18-inch steel wheels sold last year at a base price of $70,000.

The problem lies in the brake rotors, which are attached using stud holes. Tesla’s recall notice, filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), states that severe road disturbances and cornering can strain these stud holes. Over time, wear and tear may cause the holes to crack, allowing the studs to separate from the wheel.

Such a failure could lead to a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash, according to the recall notice. The issue was first identified when a customer reported “braking pulsations” to Tesla. Upon inspection, technicians found cracks on the brake rotor faces.

Cybertruck’s Troubled History: 11 Recalls Since 2023

This is the eleventh recall for the Cybertruck since its launch in late 2023. Previous recalls addressed issues such as:

• Stuck accelerator pedal
• Loss of power while driving
• Detaching stainless steel body panels due to poor adhesive
• Lightbar attachment failures

The latest recall affects all 173 rear-wheel-drive Cybertrucks Tesla has ever sold—a figure that underscores the vehicle’s troubled history. Tesla discontinued the model in April 2024, replacing it in February 2025 with a $60,000 all-wheel-drive model featuring two motors. The high-end $99,990 “Cyberbeast” model includes three motors.

Tesla has identified three warranty claims potentially related to the wheel issue and estimates that 5% of the recalled vehicles may have the defect.

From “Apocalypse-Proof” to Recalls: The Cybertruck’s Struggles

“Wheel stud separation can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of crash.” — Tesla recall notice to NHTSA

Elon Musk once touted the Cybertruck as an “apocalypse-proof” tank, emphasizing its durability over practical concerns. However, the vehicle’s track record has been marred by repeated recalls and mechanical failures. Critics have pointed out that while Tesla focused on making the doors bulletproof against live rounds, other critical components—like brake systems and adhesive—were neglected.

The latest recall highlights ongoing challenges for Tesla’s flagship electric pickup, which has struggled to meet sales expectations since its debut.