Tesla is recalling 9,136 Model X electric SUVs from early in the vehicle’s production run to fix trim prices that may not have been properly applied to the roof and could come off.
The recall includes 2016 Tesla Model X vehicles manufactured from the start of production until Jul. 31, 2016, when a change in the assembly process was made at a supplier, according to the NHTSA. In the earlier vehicles now being recalled, two trim pieces—one just behind the windshield and another between the upper glass sections of the Model X’s signature roof-hinged “Falcon doors”—may not have been applied properly.
2016 Tesla Model X
If the trim pieces were attached without primer between the pieces and the urethane coating used to adhere them, the adhesion could weaken over time, potentially leading to the trim pieces separating from the vehicle, according to the NHTSA. Trim pieces separating from a car while driving present a potential hazard to other road users, although Tesla is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this problem.
Tesla previously conducted a recall for this issue on Nov. 17, 2020, but found that the inspection process used was inadequate. The automaker will now again ask customers to bring their cars to service centers where the trim pieces will be inspected and, if necessary, replaced free of charge.
2016 Tesla Model X
While Tesla has managed to conduct several recalls with over-the-air software updates, hardware-related issues like this one, or a pair of recent recalls of the Tesla Cybertruck, still require an in-person visit to a service center.
Tesla plans to begin mailing notification letters to owners Oct. 14, 2024. In the meantime, owners can contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752 for more information. Tesla’s reference number for this recall is SB-24-12-008.