While Tesla’s manufacturing plants continue to operate at full capacity, the company’s lighting systems are creating problems both in vehicles and in nearby communities. Recent recalls and complaints reveal widespread issues that span multiple vehicle models and even the facilities themselves.
Tesla’s Gigafactory Berlin identified a wiring defect in Model Y vehicles that prevents reverse lights from working properly. The problem stems from connectors and terminal pins that aren’t seated correctly in the rear lamp circuit. The company recalled 260 Model Y units from the 2026 model year after the July 13 identification. So far, 94 warranty claims and 2 field reports have documented the issue. The reverse light defect was discovered despite the challenging operational environment created by the government shutdown.
The lighting problems extend well beyond one model. Tesla recalled 63,619 Cybertrucks from 2024 to 2026 because their front parking lights are too bright. The excessive brightness exceeds federal safety standards and risks temporary driver blindness. A software glitch caused the defect, though Tesla implemented an over-the-air software fix to address it. Owners were spared from dealership visits for this particular issue, allowing for swift resolution across the affected fleet. No crashes, injuries, or deaths have been reported in connection with the lighting defect.
Additional Cybertruck issues involve off-road light bars on 6,200 Foundation Series Cybertruck models. These light bars are improperly secured with incorrect adhesive, creating a detachment risk during vehicle operation. Over 600 owners complained about rattling or visible gaps. Tesla requires dealership appointments for physical reinstallation, which began December 26.
Model 3 Highland vehicles face their own lighting troubles. Door LED light bars are cracking near interior handles, particularly on front doors. The cracks worsen as owners repeatedly open and close doors. Tesla scheduled free light bar replacements, though recurrence concerns remain despite replacing the components.
The issues aren’t limited to vehicles. Tesla’s Gigafactory in Southeast Travis County is disturbing residential neighbors with excessively bright exterior facility lights. Repeated complaints about persistent light intrusion have prompted local news reports. However, Tesla hasn’t documented any mitigation measures to address the problem.
These widespread lighting defects suggest systemic production flaws across Tesla’s manufacturing operations. While no accidents have been directly linked to the lighting failures, the scale is concerning. Recalls ranging from 260 to 69,000 units highlight significant scalability challenges. Tesla has implemented design modifications for future production, but the extent of undetected defects in the broader fleet remains unclear.