Tesla’s Cybertruck Rust Woes: The Stainless Steel Conundrum

The launch of Tesla’s Cybertruck marked a significant milestone in automotive innovation, showcasing a promise of durability and resilience through its stainless steel construction. However, recent reports of rust spots on some units have raised questions regarding its corrosion resistance. Despite their brief tenure on the roads since deliveries began in December, owners have expressed their concerns on platforms such as Cybertruckownersclub.com, sharing images of orange rust appearing after minimal exposure to rain. This emerging issue challenges the vehicle’s intended reputation for resilience in the face of environmental elements.

“Will The Tesla Cybertruck Wrap Rust or Corrode?” shared by YouTube channel: Dirty Tesla

People suspected whether rust-prone Cybertruck was worth purchasing.

The Cybertruck, with its starting price of $57,390, is not just another electric vehicle; it’s a statement of innovation and sustainability. Yet, the complaints of rust have raised eyebrows and questions about the material’s suitability for vehicle exteriors. Stainless steel, while known for its strength and durability, is not commonly used for car exteriors due to its difficulty in molding, which is reflected in the Cybertruck’s rigid and angular design.

“Tesla Cybertruck outside unveil modified by Smnt” by u/Kruzat but modified by User:Smnt is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Tesla provided solutions to the problems for car owners.

Tesla’s response to these concerns is not yet public, but the company does offer a solution for those willing to invest further. For an additional $6,000, Tesla provides a black or white paint film wrap, and for $5,000, a clear paint film, both of which are claimed to protect the Cybertruck’s exterior from scratches and other cosmetic damages. Moreover, Tesla’s unreleased owners manual includes instructions for maintaining the vehicle’s cleanliness, emphasizing the removal of substances like road salt that could cause cosmetic damage.

“Cybertruck-fremont-cropped” by Lcaa9 is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

A debate on the true resilience of stainless steel.

The rust issue has sparked a debate about the true resilience of stainless steel. While stainless steel is indeed resistant to corrosion, it is not impervious to it, especially when exposed to harsh chemicals or salt. The Cybertruck’s rusting could be a result of such exposure, or it could be something as simple as rail dust, which are tiny iron particles that can settle on surfaces and rust under certain conditions. This theory is supported by the fact that some owners have successfully removed the rust spots with clay bars, indicating that the issue may not lie with the stainless steel itself but with external contaminants.

Tesla’s Cybertruck production is gradually ramping up at Giga Texas, with images showing several units ready for delivery. The company is focusing on producing premium trims and has invited reservation holders to configure their orders. As production scales, Tesla aims to build at least 200,000 Cybertrucks annually, with current projections around 125,000 units per year.

As we await the production-ready Cybertruck design, questions about its durability and rust resistance remain. The vehicle’s stainless steel exoskeleton is rust-resistant, but not rust-proof. Tesla’s vehicles have generally performed well against rust, but the Cybertruck’s lack of paint presents a new challenge. Car wrapping is suggested as an option for those desiring color variety, but it’s unclear if Tesla will offer this service directly.

The Cybertruck’s rusting issue underscores the challenges associated with employing stainless steel for vehicle exteriors. Although this material offers notable durability, it is not free from certain vulnerabilities. The manner in which Tesla addresses these concerns and the Cybertruck’s performance as production ramps up will draw significant attention from both enthusiasts and skeptics.