NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2025 Tesla Cybertruck
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Tesla Cybertruck is a full-size electric pickup truck, not a sedan, and it targets tech-forward buyers who want maximum utility paired with Tesla's signature electric performance. Launched for the 2024 model year, it occupies a unique space in the pickup segment with its angular stainless-steel construction and over-the-air software architecture. It competes against the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T for EV truck buyers.
The 2025 Tesla Cybertruck earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 92 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally acknowledge the Cybertruck as a polarizing but technically ambitious vehicle, praising its electric performance and distinctive design while raising concerns about build quality consistency and the practical challenges of its unconventional stainless-steel body. Most reviewers treat it as a first-generation product that shows real promise alongside real rough edges.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 20866
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS26V255000
Risk: Wheel stud separation can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla Service will replace the front and rear brake rotors, hubs, and lug nuts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 20, 2026. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-26-33-003.
Reported 2026-04-22
EXTERIOR LIGHTING25V699000
Risk: Parking lights that are too bright can reduce visibility of oncoming drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-00-008.
Reported 2025-10-15
STRUCTURE:BODY25V170000
Risk: A detached light bar can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Tesla service will replace the cant rail assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 19, 2025. Owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-25-10-001.
Reported 2025-03-18
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
20 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.