Fact Check: Tesla Cybertruck is dangerous and unreliable

Tesla Cybertruck: An Examination of Claims Regarding Safety and Reliability

Introduction

The claim that the Tesla Cybertruck is "dangerous and unreliable" has gained traction, particularly following a series of recalls and viral social media posts highlighting potential safety issues. This article will explore the context of these claims, the available evidence regarding the Cybertruck's safety and reliability, and the credibility of the sources discussing these issues.

What We Know

1. Recalls: The Cybertruck has been recalled eight times in the past 15 months for various safety problems, including a significant recall in November 2023 due to a fault in an electric inverter that could cause the drive wheels to lose power 1.

2. Crash Safety Ratings: Despite the recalls, the Cybertruck has received a five-star crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) 36. This rating indicates that it performed well in crash tests, which is a critical factor in assessing vehicle safety.

3. Consumer Reports: According to Consumer Reports, the Cybertruck's reliability data is still being compiled, but the organization typically assesses vehicles based on survey data from owners regarding serious problems 27. As of now, specific reliability ratings for the Cybertruck are not yet available.

4. Social Media Incidents: Videos circulating on social media show individuals easily removing panels from the Cybertruck, raising concerns about its build quality 1. However, these incidents are anecdotal and do not provide a comprehensive assessment of the vehicle's overall reliability or safety.

Analysis

The claim that the Cybertruck is "dangerous and unreliable" is multifaceted and requires careful evaluation of the evidence.

Recalls and Safety Issues

The multiple recalls reported by the Associated Press 1 highlight legitimate concerns regarding the Cybertruck's safety, particularly the issue with the electric inverter. Recalls can indicate potential design flaws or manufacturing issues, which may affect consumer confidence. However, it is also important to note that recalls are not uncommon in the automotive industry, especially for new models.

Crash Test Performance

The five-star safety rating from the NHTSA 36 suggests that, at least in controlled crash scenarios, the Cybertruck performs well. This rating is based on standardized testing protocols, which are designed to evaluate a vehicle's safety in various crash scenarios. However, the effectiveness of these tests may not account for all real-world driving conditions or potential long-term reliability issues.

Reliability Data

Consumer Reports has not yet published a reliability rating for the Cybertruck 27. The absence of this data makes it challenging to assess the vehicle's long-term reliability. Future surveys and reports will be essential in determining whether the Cybertruck meets consumer expectations for reliability.

Social Media Influence

The viral nature of social media posts showing the Cybertruck's panels being removed raises questions about the vehicle's construction and durability. However, these videos may not represent typical user experiences and could be exaggerated or taken out of context. The reliability of such sources is often questionable, as they may lack comprehensive testing or expert analysis.

Source Reliability

• AP News: Generally considered a reliable news source, the Associated Press provides factual reporting but may have a slight bias toward highlighting negative news regarding companies like Tesla, particularly in the context of recalls.
• Consumer Reports: This organization is known for its rigorous testing and consumer advocacy, making it a credible source for reliability data, although its assessments may take time to develop for new models.
• NHTSA: As a government agency, the NHTSA's crash test ratings are based on standardized protocols, lending credibility to their findings. However, the agency's assessments do not encompass all aspects of vehicle reliability.
• Social Media: While social media can provide immediate feedback from consumers, the reliability of this information is often questionable due to potential bias, lack of context, and the absence of formal testing.

Conclusion

Verdict: Partially True

The claim that the Tesla Cybertruck is "dangerous and unreliable" is partially true, as it reflects a mix of valid concerns and incomplete information. The Cybertruck has faced multiple recalls, which raises legitimate safety concerns, particularly regarding the electric inverter issue. However, it has also received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, indicating strong performance in controlled crash tests.

The lack of published reliability data from Consumer Reports adds another layer of uncertainty, as it is difficult to assess the long-term reliability of the vehicle without comprehensive owner feedback. Additionally, anecdotal evidence from social media, while concerning, does not provide a complete picture of the Cybertruck's overall reliability or safety.

It is important to acknowledge the limitations in the available evidence, as the situation is still evolving. Future assessments and consumer feedback will be crucial in forming a more definitive understanding of the Cybertruck's safety and reliability. Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information from multiple sources and consider the nuances involved in such claims.

Sources

1. In latest blow to Tesla, regulators recall nearly all Cybertrucks. AP News. Link
2. 2023 Tesla Cybertruck Reliability - Consumer Reports. Link
3. NHTSA Finally Releases Cybertruck Crash Test, Just Don't Ask About ... Jalopnik. Link
4. Tesla engineers reveal Cybertruck secrets to a 5-star crash safety. Tesla Oracle. Link
5. The Cybertruck is the latest Tesla to score a 5-star crash rating. The Verge. Link
6. The Tesla Cybertruck's First Crash Results Are Here - InsideEVs. Link
7. 2023 Tesla Cybertruck Reviews, Ratings, Prices - Consumer Reports. Link
8. 2025 Tesla Cybertruck Review, Pricing, and Specs - Car and Driver. Link
9. Video: Tesla Cybertruck achieves five-star safety with impressive NHTSA. Interesting Engineering. Link
10. Cybertruck Crushes Safety Tests With 5-Star Rating (Updated). Carscoops. Link