Tesla is recalling more than 9,000 Model X cars over a cosmetic adhesive that could fly off

• Tesla has filed recall paperwork with US regulators for more than 9,000 Model X vehicles.
• The cars have a cosmetic adhesive near the roof and windshield that could come loose, NHTSA said.
• The company has struggled with numerous other recalls in recent months, ranging from power steering to electronics and suspension issues.

Tesla on Wednesday filed to recall an estimated 9,136 Model X vehicles due to issues with a cosmetic adhesive that could come loose, fly off, and create a safety hazard.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Tesla became aware of the possible defect after a "field event" in September when the part, known as an applique, was found to be missing. The recall applies to vehicles built between September 2015 and July 2016.

"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," NHTSA said. "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."

Tesla said it's not aware of any accidents or injuries due to the defect, but warned "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."

In recent months, several owners of other Tesla vehicles — including both the Model Y and Model S — have reported issues with the cars' glass roofs. In some cases, the roof completely separates and flies off in traffic, with one dramatic dashcam video even capturing the moment.

It's not clear if the roof issues have anything to do with Wednesday's recall, and Tesla has yet to comment publicly on the issues. The company did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday.

In October, Tesla recalled 15,000 Model X's over power-steering issues, and in China it recalled 30,000 S and X cars over suspension problems.

Read more: Tesla's Model S is no longer recommended by Consumer Reports after problems with its touchscreen, suspension, and body hardware