- Tesla has issued a new recall affecting 9,136 Model X vehicles from the 2016 model year.
- The issue lies in a potential lack of primer that could lead to roof trim separation
- The 2016 Model X has been recalled in the past for similar issues with glass panels.
Tesla has been hit with another recall, this time targeting certain 2016 Model X vehicles. The culprit? A faulty primer that could lead to roof trim peeling off. Talk about a bad hair day for Tesla’s flagship SUV.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time the 2016 Model X has found itself on the recall list. Back in 2020, Tesla had to issue a recall for a different applique issue involving glass panels. It seems like Tesla’s quality control department could use a little… quality control.
According to Tesla, a total of 9,136 units of the 2016 Model X could be affected this time around. The problem is that the lack of primer on the front and center roof cosmetic trim pieces may cause them to separate and fall. The separation could happen when the vehicle is in motion, posing an accident risk.
More: Tesla Recalls 1.85 Million EVs Because They Might Not Warn Drivers That The Hood Is Unlatched
The problem was first discovered in 2020. Tesla’s Field Quality team investigated and found that the failed components “didn’t have sufficient primer at the urethane-to-applique interface when produced by the supplier”. This sounds suspiciously similar to the previous recall about the glass panels. Unfortunately, the inspection of the aforementioned recall wasn’t “robust enough” to detect the potential issue with the roof panels.
As of August 14, 2024, Tesla has identified 40 warranty claims, 6 field reports, and 125 service reports potentially related to this issue, prompting a new safety recall. Fortunately, the automaker has not been informed of any accidents resulting from falling roof trim pieces.
Tesla will now test the roof trim adhesion on affected pre-facelifted Model X units, making sure they apply enough force to discover any issues. Where necessary, the technicians may reattach the roof trim pieces on the vehicle, using the correct amount of primer.
Owners of the affected 2016 Model X vehicles will receive notification letters, expected to be mailed on October 14. For inquiries, owners can contact Tesla customer service using the reference number SB-24-12-008.
