Tesla’s Cybertruck is once again in the spotlight, but not for the reasons the company would prefer. The electric pickup’s glued-on lightbars have been reported to detach from the vehicle, prompting a recall announcement on October 31, 2025. This latest issue adds to the growing list of quality concerns surrounding the Cybertruck.
The Cybertruck Lightbar Design
The Cybertruck’s off-road lightbars are mounted using an adhesive-based system. This design choice, which forgoes traditional mechanical fasteners, was intended to streamline production and maintain the vehicle’s sleek aesthetics. However, it appears that this approach has proven vulnerable to environmental factors such as vibration and temperature fluctuations.
Owners have reported that the lightbars seem to loosen over time, with some suggesting that the glued construction is a core flaw. This issue has been linked to the initial failures of the lightbars, casting doubt on the effectiveness of the adhesive-based mounting system.
Emerging Complaints from Owners
Several incidents have been reported where Cybertruck owners noticed their lightbars detaching during normal use, including during highway driving and off-road excursions. These reports have been amplified through social media and online forums, with Tesla enthusiasts sharing photos and videos of the fallen lightbars.
Complaints have been building since the Cybertruck’s launch, eventually leading to formal submissions to regulatory bodies. This accumulation of reports has drawn attention to the issue and prompted further investigation.
NHTSA’s Investigation and Recall Trigger
Upon receiving multiple owner petitions, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began reviewing the lightbar detachment issue. The agency determined that the glued lightbars pose a safety risk, as they could potentially obstruct visibility or cause road hazards if they fall off during driving.
The official recall has been classified as an expansion of prior Cybertruck quality probes. This decision underscores the seriousness of the issue and the need for immediate action to address it.
Scope and Impact of the Recall
The recall affects all Cybertrucks equipped with the factory-installed lightbars. The repair protocol involves free replacement or reinforcement of the lightbar mounts at Tesla service centers. However, this process could potentially inconvenience owners due to wait times for fixes, especially given the high demand for Cybertruck servicing.
Tesla’s History of Recalls
This is not the first recall for the Cybertruck. Previous issues have included problems with accelerator pedals and trim panels. These recalls, along with the current lightbar issue, form a pattern that raises questions about Tesla’s quality control.
Tesla’s response strategy has typically involved software updates where possible, but physical defects like the lightbars require hardware interventions. These recalls have implications for Tesla’s manufacturing reputation, with the glued lightbar recall highlighting potential issues with rushed production timelines.
Future Fixes and Owner Advice
Tesla has proposed long-term solutions to address the lightbar issue, including redesigned mounting hardware or improved adhesives for future Cybertruck builds. In the meantime, current owners are advised to check the security of their lightbars and report any issues promptly to avoid safety risks.
This situation also offers lessons for the wider automotive industry on the use of adhesives in vehicle design. Other electric vehicle makers may face similar challenges, highlighting the need for careful consideration of design choices and their potential impacts.
For more information on the recall, visit the InsideEVs report.
More from MorningOverview