Tesla Recalls Over 9,000 Model X SUVs Due to Faulty Roof Trim

Tesla is initiating a recall for more than 9,000 Model X SUVs in the United States due to a potential safety issue with the roof trim, according to Forbes.

Détails du rappel

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that this recall affects Model X SUVs manufactured in 2016. The issue stems from two cosmetic trim pieces:

1. One located at the front of the roof, just behind the windshield
2. Another at the center of the roof

These trim pieces could potentially weaken over time, leading to their separation from the vehicle. This separation poses a significant risk of injury or crash for drivers and other road users.

Tesla’s Investigation and Response

Tesla’s involvement in this issue began in September 2020 when the company became aware of a “field event” involving a Model X with missing trim. Upon investigation, it was determined that the trims were attached with an insufficient amount of primer.

“Tesla launched an investigation into the defect in September 2020 after the automaker became aware of an unspecified ‘field event’ involving a Model X car with the missing trim,” the report states.

A voluntary recall was initially issued in November 2020. However, Tesla has since acknowledged that the fixes applied at that time were insufficient, necessitating this new recall.

The Numbers

As of August 14, Tesla has reported:

• 40 warranty claims
• 6 field reports
• 125 service reports

These figures may be related to the defect. However, Tesla emphasized that it is not aware of any collisions, injuries, or deaths caused by this issue.

What Affected Owners Should Expect

Tesla plans to notify affected drivers by October 14. Dealers will offer a free inspection and fix for the affected vehicles. This physical recall is somewhat unusual for Tesla, which typically addresses issues through over-the-air software updates.

Tesla’s Recall History

This recall adds to Tesla’s significant number of recalls in recent years. In the first six months of this year alone, Tesla recalled approximately 2.5 million vehicles, second only to Ford’s 3.6 million in the same period.

Other recent Tesla recalls include:

• 1.8 million cars recalled last month for an unlatched hood issue
• 2 million vehicles recalled in February due to small font sizes on warning panels
• Over 125,000 cars recalled in May because of a software issue affecting the seat belt warning system

EVXL’s Take

This recall highlights the ongoing challenges faced by electric vehicle manufacturers as they push the boundaries of automotive technology. While Tesla has been at the forefront of the EV revolution, issues like this remind us of the importance of rigorous quality control in the rapidly evolving EV landscape.

As we’ve seen in our recent coverage of Tesla, the company continues to innovate and adapt to challenges. This recall, though concerning, demonstrates Tesla’s commitment to addressing safety issues promptly. It also underscores the need for continuous improvement in EV manufacturing processes as the industry matures.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this recall and its implications for the EV industry. Share your perspective in the comments section below.

Photo courtesy of Tesla