Tesla has issued an urgent recall notice for certain Cybertruck models after discovering a significant fault that could cause the wheels to fall off while driving. The issue, identified by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), affects rear-wheel-drive Cybertrucks equipped with 18-inch steel wheels manufactured between March 21, 2024, and November 25, 2025.
Details of the Fault
The recall notice explains that vibrations from normal road use can weaken the stud holes in the wheel hub, leading to cracks. Over time, this may cause the wheel stud to separate from the hub, potentially resulting in the wheel detaching entirely. Wheel studs are the threaded fasteners that hold the wheels in place; if the surrounding holes fail, the bolts lose their grip, posing a serious safety risk.
According to the NHTSA, this defect could affect "vehicle controllability, increasing the risk of a collision" and even death. However, Tesla has reported only one instance of the problem observed during a routine service in August 2025, and three warranty claims possibly related to the condition. No collisions, fatalities, or injuries have been reported so far.
Affected Vehicles and Remedy
The recall applies to 173 Cybertruck models in the US. Tesla will replace the hubs, lug nuts, and front and rear brake rotors on all affected vehicles at no cost to owners. The company stated that the issue is limited to 18-inch steel wheels and does not affect other Cybertruck variants.
Broader Context for Cybertruck
The Cybertruck, unveiled by Tesla CEO Elon Musk in 2019, has faced numerous challenges since its launch. Musk initially claimed Tesla would sell 250,000 units annually by 2025, but actual sales in 2024 were around 20,000. Data from S&P Global Mobility indicates that SpaceX, Musk's aerospace company, purchased nearly one in five Cybertrucks sold in the US during the fourth quarter of 2025.
This recall adds to a series of issues for Tesla, including a rearview camera failure affecting 2024-2025 models, an unlatched bonnet alert problem involving over 1.8 million vehicles in 2024, and a faulty accelerator pedal recall for nearly 4,000 Cybertrucks in 2024. In early 2026, Tesla lost its position as the world's leading electric vehicle seller to Chinese manufacturer BYD.
UK Recalls
While the latest Cybertruck recall is US-specific, Tesla has issued several recalls in the UK. These include the rearview camera issue, the bonnet alert problem, and the accelerator pedal fault. Owners are advised to check for any outstanding recalls on their vehicles.
