Key Points
- 1. Tesla's stainless steel Cybertrucks may be rusting, as some owners have reported orange rust marks forming in the rain.
- 2. The Cybertruck does not come with clear coat, leaving the untreated stainless steel vulnerable to corrosion.
- 3. Stainless steel can stain and discolor, especially if cheaper steel fittings beneath the panels react with the stainless product.
- 4. Care instructions for the Cybertruck include avoiding hot water, direct sunlight, and certain cleaners that can cause damage or discoloration.
- 5. Corrosive substances such as grease, oil, bird droppings, tree resin, and road salt should be promptly removed to prevent damage to the exterior.
The revelation that Tesla's much-touted stainless steel Cybertrucks may be susceptible to rust has stirred up considerable concern and discussion within the automotive community.
The Cybertruck's Promises
During the Cybertruck's grand unveiling in 2019, Elon Musk proudly proclaimed the vehicle's "ultra-hard stainless steel" body as potentially "literally bulletproof." However, recent reports suggest that the Cybertruck's exterior panels may not be as impervious to damage as initially advertised, with some owners reporting rusting issues.
Users on the Cybertruck Owners Club forum have expressed dismay over the apparent vulnerability of their vehicles to rust, with one individual recounting how their truck developed orange rust marks after exposure to rain. Another user shared photos of corrosion forming on the metal of their Cybertruck following prolonged exposure to rainy weather in Los Angeles.
One of the key factors contributing to the susceptibility of the Cybertruck's stainless steel exterior is its lack of clear coat, a standard protective layer found on most modern vehicles. While Tesla offers a urethane-based film as an optional add-on for $5,000 to provide additional protection, many owners may not have opted for this extra layer of defense.
The choice of stainless steelfor the Cybertruck's exterior is unconventional in the automotive industry, with most car manufacturers opting for more traditional materials due to stainless steel's weight, cost, and difficulty to work with. Additionally, stainless steel is not immune to staining and corrosion, especially when exposed to corrosive substances or high temperatures.
Tesla claims to use proprietary stainless steel for the Cybertruck, but even proprietary formulations can still be susceptible to staining and corrosion under certain conditions. Factors such as exposure to sea salt and environmental contaminants can accelerate the degradation of stainless steel surfaces.
The Cybertruck's owner's manual includes stringent care instructions to mitigate the risk of corrosion, advising owners to promptly remove corrosive substances and avoid washing the vehicle in direct sunlight. Failure to adhere to these guidelines could result in irreversible damage to the vehicle's exterior.
Ultimately, the reports of rusting issues with Tesla's Cybertruck highlight the importance of proper maintenance and care for stainless steel vehicles. While the allure of a bulletproof exterior may be appealing, it's essential for owners to be aware of the potential drawbacks and take proactive measures to protect their investment.
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About Tesla, Inc.
- Ticker TSLA
- Exchange NASDAQ
- Sector Consumer Cyclical
- Industry Auto Manufacturers
- Shares Outstandng 3,157,750,016
- Market Cap $560B
- Description
- Tesla, Inc. designs, develops, manufactures, leases, and sells electric vehicles, and energy generation and storage systems in the United States, China, and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Automotive, and Energy Generation and Storage. The Automotive segment offers electric vehicles, as well as sells automotive regulatory ...