Tesla Cybertruck owner reports major crash due to brake failure
What's the story
Bruce Freshwater, owner of a brand-new Tesla Cybertruck, experienced a severe crash into his neighbor's yard due to an alleged brake failure. He reported that the vehicle's brakes stopped working during the incident. "I held the brakes down, and the vehicle really wasn't slowing down," Freshwater told Business Insider. Fortunately, the airbags were deployed on time, preventing any significant damage to the passengers.
Collision impact
Freshwater's Cybertruck collides with neighbor's car
Freshwater reported to the North Fayette Township Police Department that his truck collided with a neighbor's car, which then hit another vehicle. The local body shop estimates the repair costs for the Cybertruck to be between $16,000 and $30,000. This incident has been a significant setback for Freshwater who had already paid $109,000 for the vehicle. "Waited five years and drove for four hours," he expressed his frustration on X, urging Tesla to take responsibility.
Twitter Post
"Truck was literally 4hrs old"
Truck accelerated and didn't slow down, nor did it turn.
— Cobra1 (@bfreshwa) June 11, 2024
Skid marks for ~50ft, almost like one motor was accelerating while the other set of wheels locked.
Neighbors truck and deck :-/ :-/
Truck was literally 4hrs old.
Recall history
Tesla's silence and previous Cybertruck issues
Tesla has yet to comment on Freshwater's incident. It is still uncertain whether this case is related to a previous accelerator issue that led Tesla to recall all sold Cybertrucks earlier this year. This design flaw could cause the pickup's accelerator pedal to get stuck down. Other owners have also reported problems with their Cybertrucks, including critical steering issues and vehicles breaking down.
Owner's dilemma
Freshwater reconsiders his commitment
Tesla recently issued its fourth Cybertruck-related recall within months, due to a trim piece that can detach and windshield wiper motors insufficiently powerful for the truck's large wiper. These reports have led Freshwater to reconsider his commitment to the vehicle. "With the wife and the kids, I'm not sure they would ever get in it with me," he shared with Business Insider, reflecting his growing concerns about the vehicle's safety.