Tesla is recalling 9,537 of its Model X and Model Y electric vehicles over potentially faulty roof trim and bolts that could be inadequately tightened.
The recall covers 9,136 Model X cars made between Sept. 17, 2015, and July 31, 2016, though Tesla estimates only 10 percent of them have trim that was incorrectly applied, recall records show.
The electric SUVs have pieces of cosmetic trim on their roofs that are attached with urethane. The appliques were applied to some 2016 Model X’s without using primer, which can cause them to come unstuck over time and potentially detach from the car, according to a recall notice.
The Model X is equipped with a cosmetic applique at the front of the roof just behind the windshield, known as the front applique, as well as an applique at the center of the roof in between the upper falcon door roof glass, known as the spine applique. Both appliques are adhered to the vehicle using urethane. If the applique-to-urethane interface lacks primer, then, over time, the adhesion may weaken, causing the applique to separate from the vehicle.
“While we are not aware of any accidents or injuries resulting from this condition, if the applique separates from the vehicle while in drive, it could create a road hazard for following motorists and increase their risk of injury or a crash,” Tesla said in the recall notice.
Tesla Service will inspect affected vehicles and apply a retention test on the appliques. If the appliques pass the retention test, then they have sufficient primer and no further action is necessary. If either applique fails the retention test, then Service will apply primer at the urethane-to applique interface to remedy the condition.
Tesla also recalled 401 2020 Model Y vehicles over a potential issue with its bolts. The bolts connecting the front upper control arm and steering knuckle may have not been properly tightened, allowing the upper control arm to detach from the steering knuckle.
Tesla will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and as necessary, tighten the bolts, free of charge.
