Published Jun 24, 2024 1:24PM EDT Share on Facebook Totaled Cybertrucks Hit Auction Sites Recently, some of the first Tesla Cybertrucks deemed "totaled" by insurers have appeared on auction sites like IAA. One of these vehicles, located in Seattle with 3,932 miles on the odometer, suffered a significant front-end impact that resulted in airbag deployment. Despite its relatively intact appearance, such impacts often lead to hidden issues like suspension damage and body alignment problems. Another Cybertruck up for auction, with only 26 miles on the odometer, was totaled due to flooding. IAA provided a picture of the "flood line," which is surprisingly below the cabin level. This raises questions about the vehicle's resilience to water damage despite Tesla CEO Elon Musk's claims about the Cybertruck's waterproof capabilities. Musk's Claims vs. Reality Elon Musk has made bold assertions about Tesla vehicles, including the Cybertruck, being able to float and serve as boats temporarily. Last year, Musk stated that the Cybertruck would be "waterproof enough" to cross rivers, lakes, and even non-choppy seas. He envisioned the truck being able to traverse the water between SpaceX's Starbase and South Padre Island in Texas, a distance of about 360 meters (1,100 feet). Warranty Limitations on Water Damage Despite these claims, Tesla's warranty policies suggest otherwise. The company introduced a 'wade mode' for the Cybertruck, designed to increase the ride height and pressurize the battery pack for water traversal. However, Tesla clearly states that damage incurred while off-roading, including water damage, is not covered under warranty. The recommended water depth limit is 2'7″, and the wade mode's effectiveness lasts only 30 minutes. The auctioned Cybertruck likely remained submerged beyond this limit, resulting in extensive damage and a total loss classification. The high repair costs and insurance challenges associated with the Tesla Cybertruck have become apparent as "totaled" units begin to appear at auctions. While the Cybertruck's innovative design offers numerous benefits, it also presents alarming repair and insurance hurdles. As more of these vehicles hit the roads, the industry will need to adapt to address these challenges effectively.