Model X Front and Spine Applique Recall

Tesla has issued a voluntary recall on Model X vehicles produced within the build dates September 17, 2015 to July 31, 2016 to inspect the vehicle for proper applique retention and reattach or replace the roof applique where proper retention was not found.

Is my vehicle affected by this recall?

This recall includes Model X vehicles manufactured from September 17, 2015 to July 31, 2016. All owners can check if their vehicle is affected by entering their VIN in the Tesla VIN Recall Search tool.

What is this issue and how does it affect my vehicle?

On affected vehicles, the Roof and Spine applique or adhesion may not have been installed according to specification, which may cause the applique to become loose or separate from the vehicle.

On November 17, 2020, Tesla initiated a voluntary recall (20V-710) to inspect impacted vehicles for proper applique retention and reattach or replace the roof applique where proper retention was not found. The inspection method was to pull the applique with a maximum force of 60N. Appliques that were retained after the pull inspection were determined to meet specification and were not replaced. Appliques that showed any indication of displacement or separation from the urethane bond after the pull inspection were deemed to not meet specification and were replaced.

Subsequent to the initial recall, Tesla determined that either the inspection pull force, or the location and number of locations where pull force was applied, were not sufficient to accurately identify all instances in which the part may be at risk of separation.

Is my vehicle safe to drive?

If not properly secured, the front and spine applique can detach from the roof and fall off while driving. The applique could create a road hazard for other road users and could increase the risk of a crash and injury. We are not aware of any accidents or injuries resulting from this condition, if you experience movements or separation of the front or spine applique from the roof while driving, pull over safely and contact Tesla Roadside for assistance.

What is the recall remedy and how long does it take to perform?

At no charge to the customer, Tesla will inspect affected vehicles and perform an improved retention test at a number of defined locations and with a considerably higher force at a minimum of 120N.

If the applique passes the retention test, then it has sufficient adhesion, and no further action is necessary. If an applique fails the retention test, then Tesla will rework the applique with the proper primer and urethane procedure or replace it if needed. Inspection to check if the applique is well secured should take less than twenty minutes and, if necessary, replacement of the applique will take forty-five minutes.

Do I need to make a service appointment for this recall?

Yes. Schedule a service appointment using the Tesla app by selecting ‘Service' > ‘Request Service’ > 'Other' > 'Something Else' and entering the note “Open Recall Repair – Model X Roof / Spine Applique” into the 'Describe Concern' field.