Tesla's futuristic Cybertruck is back in the shop — recalling 11,000 vehicles over wonky wipers and loose bed trim, proving that even cyborgs need a tune-up occasionally.

In an effort to fine-tune its flagship pickup, Tesla has issued two recalls affecting over 11,000 Cybertrucks, citing faulty windshield wipers and improperly installed bed trim. These recalls, filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), underscore the growing pains of introducing a futuristic vehicle into the market. While no accidents or injuries have been reported, the company is keen to rectify the issues promptly, offering free repairs and notifying owners by August 18. Given that the Cybertruck isn't yet in full-scale production, the recalls could encompass most of the trucks currently on the road.

The first recall addresses an issue with the windshield wiper motor controller. Due to electrical overstress to the gate driver component, the wipers may malfunction or cease to operate entirely. The defect affects 11,688 Cybertruck vehicles manufactured between November 13, 2023, and June 6, 2024. Initial reports of wiper issues were noted as early as February 2024, hinting that this problem has been on Tesla’s radar for some time. Seems like these Cybertrucks might need a bit of a splash guard—literally!

The second recall concerns the bed trim of the Cybertruck. Improper installation has led to the potential for the trim to become loose. This recall impacts 11,383 Cybertrucks built between November 13, 2023, and May 26, 2024. Though it doesn’t affect the vehicle’s operation, an unexpectedly airborne trim piece could add a bit too much excitement to a leisurely drive.

As is Tesla's custom, the company will rectify these issues at no charge to the vehicle owners. The repairs will involve replacing the faulty windshield wiper motor and either reworking or replacing the problematic trim components as needed. Despite the inconvenience for those affected, it’s a comforting reminder that the company stands behind its high-tech wheeled wonders.

Cybertruck owners might find some solace in knowing they’re not alone in facing these mechanical mishaps. Given that the Cybertruck has yet to enter mass production, these recalls likely include the majority of pickups currently roaming the streets. Fortunately, there have been no associated crashes or injuries reported, making this a preventive measure rather than a reactionary one.

This isn't the first time Tesla’s brave new pickup has encountered issues. Since its public debut, the Cybertruck has had four recalls. It’s a reminder that even the most cutting-edge technology can encounter old-fashioned problems, from electrical stress to the mundane complications of bed trim installation.

Elon Musk has admitted that the Cybertruck is a difficult beast to manufacture, a sentiment now echoed in the recall notices filed with the NHTSA. Crafting a vehicle that looks like it should be riding alongside space rovers comes with its own set of terrestrial challenges.

To address these types of issues, Tesla is known for its innovative approach, often issuing “over-the-air” recalls. These software updates can address and fix problems without requiring a visit to the service center. However, in the case of physically faulty components like wiper motors and bed trim, a traditional trip to the shop is unavoidable. So, while you can update your Cybertruck's software in your pajamas, you'll still need to put on pants for those hardware fixes.

For now, Cybertruck owners are advised to keep an eye on their emails and mailboxes for notifications from Tesla. With repairs scheduled to commence by August 18, it won’t be long before these trucks are back in prime, futuristic condition. After all, for a vehicle that's dared to break the mold, a few hiccups along the way are just par for the course.

As Tesla continues to grapple with the practicalities of its ambitious projects, the Cybertruck's recent recalls serve as an early chapter in what is likely to be a storied history. The good news? For every glitch in the matrix, there's a dedicated team working diligently to ensure that the future of driving remains as smooth as possible — loose trim and all.