I Spent Over $100,000 On An Off-Road Ready Tesla Cybertruck Only To Have My Aero Covers Almost Fall Off After A Little Snow

Tesla’s Cybertruck is built to turn heads and conquer rugged terrain, but even this futuristic beast isn’t immune to the challenges of everyday weather. Ray Chen, a member of the Tesla Cybertruck Owners Facebook group, recently shared his frustration with a seemingly small issue: the pre-wheel aero cover on his Cybertruck came loose after driving in the snow. While this might sound like a minor inconvenience, the implications go deeper, especially for a vehicle marketed as off-road ready and snow capable.

A Small Issue With Big Implications

Ray’s experience highlights an unexpected vulnerability in Tesla’s robust design. According to his post, the loose aero cover wasn’t the result of aggressive off-roading or extreme conditions, it happened after moderate driving in the snow. This raises an important question: how can small parts like aero covers withstand the demands of real-world use if they fail under relatively light strain?

The replacement cost for this part from a Tesla Service Center is $50, which isn’t exorbitant but adds up over time if the issue persists. More critically, it’s not about the cost, it’s about reliability. For Cybertruck owners who take honor in their vehicle’s rugged reputation, even small failures can erode confidence in the truck’s overall durability.

Why This Matters for Snow and Off-Roading

Off-roaders and snow drivers rely on every component of their vehicles to perform seamlessly under challenging conditions. An aero cover might seem like a cosmetic feature, but it serves a functional purpose: optimizing aerodynamics to improve range and efficiency. When these covers fail, they don’t just look bad; they compromise the Cybertruck’s performance.

Snow, mud, and debris can exacerbate the problem. Loose or detached aero covers can collect buildup, potentially damaging other components or creating drag. For owners who invest over $100,000 in a vehicle designed to excel in harsh environments, such oversights can feel like a betrayal of their expectations.

Real-Life Experiences: What Owners Are Saying

Ray’s post sparked a lively discussion in the Tesla Cybertruck Owners group, with several other members sharing similar experiences. Sari Tyler suggested a pragmatic approach, saying, “I’d just take those off. They come off often, and the manual says to take them off before off-roading. Why would you want to have to remove them with a screwdriver every time you go out off-roading? People will forget that. It’s better to just leave them out.” Sari’s point underscores the impracticality of a design that requires frequent manual intervention.

Jeramy chimed in with a story of his own: “Happened to me in mud. I cleaned it out and it snapped back up in place. (Although somewhat precariously).” While Jeramy’s solution worked temporarily, his use of the word “precariously” speaks volumes about the lack of confidence owners have in the durability of these covers.

Hicham added another layer to the discussion: “Yeah, me too, from a trip to Mammoth. No snow on the road, no off-roading, just speed.” Hicham’s comment reveals that these issues aren’t confined to extreme conditions. Even standard highway driving can dislodge the covers, suggesting a broader design flaw.

How This Benefits You as a Reader

For current and prospective Cybertruck owners, understanding these issues is critical. Knowledge is power, and being aware of potential vulnerabilities allows you to take proactive measures. Whether it’s removing the aero covers before off-roading or checking them regularly after snow driving, small actions can prevent bigger headaches.

This discussion also serves as a reminder to scrutinize the details of any vehicle purchase. While the Cybertruck boasts incredible features, no design is perfect. Sharing these experiences within the community can push manufacturers to address recurring issues and improve future models.

The Bigger Picture: Reliability Matters

Tesla has built a reputation for innovation, but even the most advanced vehicles are only as strong as their weakest link. For off-road and snow-capable trucks like the Cybertruck, every component needs to perform under pressure. Issues like loose aero covers might seem minor, but they reflect broader challenges in balancing cutting-edge design with real-world durability.

As Tesla continues to refine its lineup, feedback from owners like Ray, Sari, Jeramy, and Hicham will be crucial. These firsthand accounts not only inform other owners but also highlight areas for improvement that can enhance the overall ownership experience.

Your Turn to Weigh In

Have you experienced any issues with your Cybertruck’s aero covers or other components? What proactive steps do you take to maintain your vehicle’s performance in snow or off-road conditions? Share your thoughts and tips below!

Harutiun Hareyan is reporting Toyota news at Torque News. His automotive interests and vast experience test-riding new cars give his stories a sense of authenticity and unique insights. Follow Harutiun on Twitter at @HareyanHarutiun for daily Toyota, Tesla, and other car brand news.