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Tesla recall: Model X SUVs with trim issue

By Megan Ziegler
Published  August 21, 2024 9:50am PDT
Recalls
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The Brief

    • Tesla is recalling thousands of early Model X vehicles again over roof trim pieces that may not have been properly adhered and could come loose. 
    • Tesla determined testing done for a similar recall in 2020 was not sufficient to identify if the piece was at risk of separation, posing a danger on the roadway. 
    • The physical recall is rare for Tesla, whose recalls normally require an over-the-air software update to fix the issue.

Tesla is recalling 9,136 Model X vehicles over a roof trim piece that may not have been primed properly before adhesion and poses a risk of coming loose.

The electrical vehicle maker determined testing done on these vehicles for a similar recall in 2020 was not sufficient to identify if the part was at risk for separation, and is requiring testing done with a stronger force. 

The physical recall is rare for Tesla, whose recalls normally require an over-the-air software update to fix the issue. 

Tesla Model X recall details

FILE - Tesla CEO Elon Musk speaks during an event to launch the new Tesla Model X Crossover SUV on September 29, 2015 in Fremont, California. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

The vehicles included in the recall are 2016 Tesla Model Xes. 

The subject population includes all Tesla Model X vehicles from the start of production through July 31, 2016, when a change in process and documentation was made at the supplier.

In 2020, these vehicles were also recalled so the applique could be inspected and tested for potential dislocation with a maximum force of 60N. 

Tesla officials are now wanting to test the applique with a minimum force of 120N, which was determined through a fleet study, according to a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Prior to separating, an applique without primer may create a detectable noise inside the cabin for either a short or prolonged period of time. Separately, the customer may observe the applique coming loose, the NHTSA report stated. 

Tesla said it is not aware of any incidents resulting from this condition. 

Owner notification letters are pending. 

Other recent Tesla recalls

In June, Tesla recalled more than 11,000 2024 Cybertrucks for a similar concern of a trim applique coming loose. 

More than 11,000 Cybertrucks were also recalled because the front windshield wiper motor control had the potential to fail stemming from "excessive electric current." 

In July, Tesla recalled 1.85 million vehicles in the U.S. because of an issue with software failing to detect an unlatched hood, potentially causing it to fully open and obstruct a driver's view on the road.

READ MORE: Tesla recalls 1.85 million vehicles over unlatched hood detection problem

The Source

  • Information in this article was taken from Tesla’s Safety Recall Report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Information about other Tesla recalls was taken from previous FOX Business reportings.  

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