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A chronological list of recalls and recall news.

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16 - 05 - 2013

Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback cars because of a problem that could cause them to lose steering control.

Steering shafts in the cars, all from the 2013 model year, could become disengaged, causing a loss of steering. The steering shaft on the cars is made from two pieces -- an inner and an outer shaft -- which, in the vehicles involved, can become separated.

If that happens, the driver can lose the ability to steer the car. The problem was first discovered by Subaru in a car at its Indiana factory. Later, the carmaker received a customer complaint about loss of steering control in another car. Subaru is notifying dealers about the recall and expects to begin notifying owners within 30 days, according to a document filed on May 13 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Subaru dealers will replace the steering columns in all the vehicles that might potentially have the defect. If owners feel unsafe driving their vehicles before the repair has been completed, Subaru will arrange to have cars brought to the dealership, Subaru spokesman Michael McHale said.

10 - 05 - 2013

Chrysler is recalling 469,000 Jeep SUVs worldwide because they can shift into neutral without warning on startup.
The recall affects 2005 to 2010 Grand Cherokees and 2006 to 2010 Commanders.
U.S. safety regulators say cracks in a circuit board can cause a faulty signal as the SUVs are being started. If the vehicles shift into neutral they can roll away.
Chrysler says the problem has caused 26 crashes and two injuries.
Chrysler will notify owners and dealers will update software to take care of the problem. Chrysler found cracks in a circuit board that turns the four-wheel-drive system on and off.
Repairs will be made at no cost to owners.
The recall covers 295,000 vehicles in the U.S., 28,500 in Canada, and 4,200 in Mexico. The remaining 141,000 are outside North America.
The company says in documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Administration that it began looking into the problem after a customer complained that an SUV rolled away in January of 2012 after being started remotely.
7 - 05 - 2013

This recall affects Chevrolet Malibu Eco models from the 2013 model year and Buick LaCrosse and Regal sedans from 2012 and 2013 which are equipped with eAssist hybrid gas-electric engines.
"The issue is the potential overheating of the circuit boards in the generator control module, but it does not involve the eAssist battery," GM said in a statement.
GM said an overheating circuit board could lead to a loss of battery charge and cause the engine to stall.
"In addition, there may be a burning or melting odor, smoke, and, in rare instances, a fire in the trunk," GM spokesman Alan Adler said in a statement.
Most of the incidents occurred within the first 1,000 miles of operation, GM said and only two led to trunk fires. One was during an October screening in a dealership and the other occurred in March.
26 - 04 - 2013

Nissan Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co. have announced recalls of popular car models.

Nissan is recalling certain Altima cars from the 2013 model year to correct a potential problem with their spare tires.
In a document filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the car maker said the spare tires on as many as 123,308 cars may have been significantly over- or under-inflated. As a result the tires could fail without warning, increasing the risk of a crash. Nissan said it built the affected vehicles from March 21, 2012, through March 26, 2013.
Under the recall, Nissan dealers will inspect and adjust the spare tire pressure if necessary. The recall is expected to begin May 3.

Honda is recalling certain Fit Sport vehicles from the 2012 and 2013 model years to fix their electronic stability control, or ESC systems. The company said the ESCs on the affected vehicles “may allow excessive yaw rates at high steering angles with certain tires,” which can increase the risk of a crash.
The recall affects 43,782 cars built from May 23, 2011, through March 22, 2013.
Under the recall Honda dealers will update the ESC software free of charge. The safety recall is slated to begin on May 17.

11 - 04 - 2013

Honda Motor Co is recalling about 225,300 SUVs and minivans in the United States and Canada to replace a part that if not operating could allow the driver to shift out of park without depressing the brake pedal.
The Japanese automaker said in the United States it is recalling about 128,000 Honda CR-V SUVs and 59,000 Honda Odyssey minivans from the 2012 and 2013 model years, and 17,500 Acura RDX SUVs from the 2013 model year to replace a part of the brake shift interlock system.

In Canada, the recall affects about 14,000 CR-Vs, 4,500 Odysseys and 2,300 RDXs.

Honda said no customer complaints, accidents or injuries have been reported related to the issue, which was discovered during an internal investigation.

In subfreezing temperatures, after initial use of a vehicle's gear-shift mechanism, it may be possible to shift the transmission out of park without depressing the brake pedal, Honda said.

Mailed notifications of the recall will be sent in May, Honda said.

Chrysler Group LLC is recalling more than 247,000 SUVs and cars for several problems, including faulty gas tank hoses, broken drive shafts and air bag warning lights that illuminate when there’s no problem.
The largest of the recalls, posted Tuesday on the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website, covers about 139,000 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger sedans from the 2011 and 2012 model years. The automaker says that faulty wiring can cause the air bag warning lights to illuminate.

Cars made from April 11, 2011 to Dec. 14, 2011 are included. Chrysler says it will fix the vehicles for free and will start notifying owners about the problem this month. The recall includes 119,000 cars in the U.S., with the rest in Canada, Mexico and other countries. Chrysler also is recalling 78,500 two-wheel-drive Jeep Liberty and Dodge Nitro midsize SUVs because the drive shafts can break.

The SUVs are from the 2007 and 2008 model years. Chrysler says in documents filed with NHTSA that a heat shield can drop and rub against the drive shaft, causing it to wear and break. If the shaft breaks, the SUVs will lose power and the side air bags may inflate. Chrysler says it doesn’t know of any crashes or injuries from the problem. Dealers will install a bracket to hold the shield in place at no cost to customers.

The recall affects 61,400 vehicles in the U.S., 13,700 in Mexico, 1,000 in Canada and 2,300 elsewhere. Also included is a sister vehicle to the Liberty that is sold outside North America, the company said. Chrysler says it has received less than 40 complaints about broken drive shafts in the vehicles. Also, the automaker is recalling about 30,000 small SUVs because a faulty hose inside the gas tank can cause them to run out of fuel.

The recall affects Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass four-wheel-drive vehicles from the 2012 model year. If they run out of gas, the engines can stall. Chrysler says it’s aware of one crash but no injuries or fires due to the problem.
The company says the SUVs have saddle-style gas tanks that go around the rear drive shaft. Fuel is pumped from one side of the tank to the other through a hose. But Chrysler says some of the hoses weren’t formed right in manufacturing, and they can stop the flow of gas.

The problem stems from a worldwide shortage last year of a nylon resin called PA-12. The shortage sent automakers scrambling for substitutes, one of which was used in the Compass and Patriot fuel tank hoses.
Chrysler says the hoses were made with a new material, which required a higher manufacturing temperature than PA-12. Some malformed tubes were shipped to the tank maker before the problem was found by Chrysler engineers. The manufacturing process was changed and the tubes now work properly, Chrysler said.
Dealers will replace the hoses free of charge. Owners will be notified starting next month.

The recall affects about 20,500 SUVs in the U.S. and 2,300 in Canada. The rest are in Mexico and outside North America. They were made from Oct. 18, 2011 to May 7, 2012.

The affected switch in this recall may cause the brake lights not to come on when the brake pedal is depressed.

The switch fault may also "cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal", the NHTSA said.

"Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature, preventing the shifter from being moved out of the park position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate," stated NHTSA documents.

Failure to illuminate the brake lights or disengage cruise control could increase the risk of a crash, while disabling the brake-transmission interlock could result in the vehicle rolling away, it added.

The South Korean carmakers are informing owners, and dealers will replace the switch at no cost, the NHTSA said.

The Hyundai models affected include 2007-2009 Accent cars and Tucson SUVs, 2007-2010 Elantras, 2007-2011 Santa Fe SUVs, 2008-2009 Veracruz SUVs, 2010-2011 Genesis coupes and 2011 Sonata cars.

The Kia models include 2011 Optima cars, 2007-2010 Rondo crossovers, 2007 Sedona minivans, 2007-2011 Sorento crossovers, 2010-2011 Soul cars and 2007-2010 Sportage SUVs.

A fault which could see Buick and Cadillac cars switch unexpectedly to Sport transmission mode has forced General Motors to recall almost 34,000 sedans and crossovers, the automaker has revealed. The software glitch, affecting the 2013 Buick LaCrosse and 2013 Cadillac SRX, will inconvenience drivers in the US, Canada, Mexico, China, and the Middle East, and require a swift reprogramming in order to fix it.

That attention will require a trip back to the dealership, and can’t be done remotely. General Motors says that 26,582 of the impacted cars are located in the US, though insists that it’s yet to hear of an injury or a crash caused by the problem.

Exactly what the cause of the software issue is, GM hasn’t said, only that it identified the fault while testing a 2014 engineering model. However, the end-result is clear: during driving, the auto gearbox can unexpectedly flick over from manual mode and into Sport mode, something which could increase the risk of a crash.

That’s because Sport mode has the side effect of “removing any transmission-related engine braking effect” GM explains so that taking your foot off the gas doesn’t allow the car to naturally slow itself. General Motors expects to kick off the recall on March 28, and owners of affected vehicles should speak to their local dealership to arrange a fix.

A recall has been issued for nearly 183,000 Honda and Acura brand vehicles from the 2005 and 2006 model years. The problem stems from a potential malfunctions to the vehicles' stability control and braking systems.

Drivers have reported a malfunction to Honda's Vehicle Stability Assist system, though to date, no crashes or injuries have been reported as a result of it. Some of the vehicles' Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) control units may have an electric capacitor that was damaged during manufacture. A damaged control unit could cause the VSA system to apply brake force for a "fraction of a second" without any driver input, or could add additional brake force if it malfunctions while the driver is already braking. Either example could increase the risk of a crash.

To fix the issue, Honda will install a new electrical sub-harness, free of charge to the owner. The recall specifies 101,000 Honda PilotMDX and 21,000 Acura RL vehicles from the 2005 model year will be affected. An additional 800 MDX crossovers from the 2006 model year are also included in the recall. In addition, 51,000 of the affected 2005 Pilots will be inspected to be sure that a ground bolt for the VSA system is properly tight. Should this bolt come lose, similar unexpected brake activation may occur.

27 - 02 - 2013

(2012-2013), Subaru Canada is recalling 2,813 vehicles equipped with a dealer-installed remote starter. Affected models include the ImprezaLegacy (2010-2013), Outback (2010-2013), and XV Crosstrek (2013).

If the fob is dropped, the internal battery retaining clip could move and cause damage to a component on the printed circuit board. As a result, the fob may transmit an engine start (or stop) request without the user pressing the button.

The engine may continue to start and stop until the fob battery is depleted, or until the vehicle runs out of fuel. If that occurs when the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area, such as a garage, there is a risk of carbon monoxide build-up, which could lead to asphyxiation or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Consequently, Subaru dealers will replace the remote starter fob.

15 - 02 - 2013

BMW is recalling almost 570,000 cars in the U.S. and Canada because a battery cable connector can fail and cause the engines to stall.
The recall affects the popular 3-Series sedans, wagons, convertibles and coupes from the 2007 through 2011 model years. Also included are 1-Series coupes and convertibles from 2008 through 2012, and the Z4 sports car from 2009 through 2011.
The cable connectors and a fuse box terminal in the cars can degrade over time, and that can break the electrical connection between the trunk-mounted battery and the fuse box at the front. If that happens, the cars could lose electrical power, causing the engines to stall unexpectedly, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in documents posted on its website Saturday.
The company says in documents sent to the NHTSA that the problem stems from movement between the battery cable and the fuse box.
BMW says it knows of one minor collision in Canada due to the problem, but no injuries.
The German automaker says dealers will replace the battery cable connector and secure it without charge. It will start notifying owners in March.
The 3-Series is BMW's most popular car in the U.S., dominating the small luxury car market. The company sold nearly 100,000 of them in the U.S. last year.
The recall affects more than 504,000 cars in the U.S. and another 65,000 in Canada.
BMW, Toyota and other automakers have experienced large recalls in recent years because they use common parts on multiple models in order to save money.
8 - 02 - 2013

Mitsubishi is recalling 14,700 of its i-MiEV electric cars worldwide, including a number in Canada, because a brake pump can fail.

The automaker said Tuesday that the recall affects 2012 models made from Dec. 2, 2011 through Sept. 7, 2012.
Mitsubishi has sold just over 200 across Canada since the Dec. 2011 launch, but the precise number involved in the recalled was still being determined.

About 1,400 vehicles in the United States, including some still on dealer lots, are covered by the recall.
Mitsubishi said in documents filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that a defective electric vacuum pump can stop working. That can reduce braking power, increase stopping distances and raise the risk of a crash.
Mitsubishi said no crashes or injuries have been reported.
The problem was discovered when the company got a complaint from a customer in Japan.

1 - 02 - 2013

Toyota Canada is recalling more than 157,000 vehicles to fix airbags and window wipers
They include more than 140,000 Corolla and Matrix cars from 2003 and 2004 and almost 17,000 Lexus IS models from 2006 through 2012.
The Corolla and Matrix cars are being recalled because of concerns their airbags could be deployed inadvertently due to a possible short circuit in the control module.
The automaker also says the wiper arms of the Lexus vehicles may not be sufficiently tight and may stop working if their movement is restricted, by a buildup of snow for example.
The company says owners of the vehicles covered by these voluntary recalls will receive a letter via mail starting next month. It is part of a global recall of more than 1.3 million vehicles, including 752,000 in the United States.

General Motors Co is recalling 13,680 cars globally to address potential problems with improperly tightened suspension bolts and faulty airbags, according to the company and documents filed with U.S. safety regulators. Neither issue has resulted in any accidents or injuries, GM said on Thursday.
GM is recalling 8,519 2013 model year Chevrolet Malibu sedans in the United States as one or more rear suspension bolts may not have been tightened properly, which could lead to loss of vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.GM is recalling another 1,060 of the cars in Canada, Mexico and overseas, GM said.
Owners initially may notice noise and minor handling issues, but as the condition progresses sudden changes in vehicle handling could occur, NHTSA said. The company has begun to notify owners.
GM also is recalling 3,896 2012 model year Buick Verano, and Chevy Camaro, Cruze and Sonic cars in the United States to address potentially faulty airbags, NHTSA said. Another 205 cars were affected by the recall in Canada, GM said.
The driver side front airbag has a shorting bar that may intermittently contact the airbag terminals, possibly causing the airbags not to deploy and increasing the risk of injury, according to the NHTSA. The recall is expected to begin on February 13.

4 - 01 - 2013
General Motors Co is recalling more than 69,000 full-size trucks and vans globally that could roll away after being parked due to a potential steering column defect, the automaker said on Friday.The vehicles may have been built with a fractured park lock cable or a malformed steering column lock actuator gear, and could roll away after the driver has exited the vehicle, according to documents filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
GM said most of the affected vehicles are believed to be still on dealer lots or in transit to dealers. It said it was not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the defect.
Only about one in 1,000 of the recalled vehicles are expected to have the defect, it said.
About 55,000 of the vehicles in the recall are in the United States, 6,310 are in Canada and 7,084 are exports, GM said. Another 670 are in Mexico. Affected vehicles include certain 2013-model Cadillac Escalade, Escalade EXT and Escalade ESV SUVs; Chevrolet Express vans, Silverado and Avalanche pickup trucks, and Tahoe and Suburban SUVs; and GMC Savanna vans, Sierra pickup trucks, and Yukon and Yukon XL SUVs, GM said.
If the steering column defect is present, a driver could shift from "park" while the key is removed from the ignition or the key is in the "off" position, GM said. The transmission also could be shifted out of "park" with application of the brake pedal while the key is in the "off" position, or the key may be rotated to the "off" position and removed while the shifter is not in "park."
GM said the steering column will be replaced if necessary at no cost to the vehicle owner. Letters are expected to be mailed to vehicle owners alerting them to the recall beginning January 22.

Subaru is recalling nearly 634,000 cars and SUVs in the U.S. because lights beneath the doors can overheat and catch fire. The recall affects all Outback and Legacy cars from model years 2010 and 2011. Also included are Tribeca SUVs from 2006 through 2012 and Forester SUVs from 2009 through 2012. Subaru says the Tribecas and Foresters were sold before January 2012.
The company says moisture can get into puddle lights beneath the doors and cause a short circuit that can melt plastic and cause fires. It says only 54,000 of the vehicles are equipped with the lights and will need to be repaired. But it will send letters to all owners asking them to take their cars to dealers if they have the lights.
Subaru said Thursday that there have been no crashes or fires because of the problem. The company found the problem after getting complaints about smoke coming from the lights on a small number of vehicles.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says on its website that Subaru will install an additional fuse at no cost to the owners. The recall is expected to begin in February.

"Doomsday" 2012

General Motors has announced a recall of 118,800 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon pickup trucks due to the possibility of secondary hood latches not being installed at the time of manufacture. The affected vehicles are from the 2010, 2011 and 2012 model years, all of which were built between November 9, 2009 and August 28, 2012.

According to the official National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report, these trucks fail to "comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 113, 'Hood Latch System.' The hood may be missing the secondary hood latch." In other words, owners of these trucks could find their vehicles' hoods opening unexpectedly while driving.

The official recall campaign is expected to begin on January 17, 2013. Dealers will inspect the affected pickups and if a secondary hood latch is not present, one will be installed free of charge.

Honda Motor Co. will recall 871,000 vehicles that could roll away after the ignition key has been removed, the company said on Wednesday.
The automaker said a part in the ignition interlock could become damaged or worn, enabling the key to be removed even if the vehicle’s transmission lever has not been shifted into park.
“If the transmission is not in park and the parking brake is not set, the vehicle could roll away and a crash could occur,” the company said in a statement.
Honda said the recall affects 318,000 Odyssey minivans and 259,000 Pilot crossovers from model years 2003-2004, and 230,000 Acura MDX crossovers from model years 2003-2006. The recall also includes 64,000 Honda vehicles outside the United States.
U.S. safety investigators in October opened a probe into the 2003-2004 Odyssey and Pilot after receiving 43 consumer complaints, including several reports of injuries, related to the ignition switch.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it had received complaints alleging some Honda vehicles had rolled away and stopped only after hitting objects such as parked cars, fences, a tree and a mailbox.
One consumer reported being knocked down and run over, sustaining a fractured fibula, while trying to stop a 2003 Odyssey from rolling away, NHTSA said in its initial notice of the defect investigation.
American Honda said it will begin sending recall notices to owners in February. Honda Canada issued the following press release:
“Mailed notification to customers will be sent in late January 2013. In addition to contacting customers by mail, at that time, owners of these vehicles will be able to determine if their vehicles require inspection by going on-line to www.honda.ca/recalls and www.acura.ca/recalls or by calling (888) 9HONDA9 for Honda owners or (888) 9ACURA9 for Acura owners.”
1 - 12 - 2012

For the third time this year, Ford is recalling vehicles with its 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engines, citing a fire hazard.
The action covers about 65,000 2013 Escapes and almost 15,000 2013 Ford Fusions in the United States, according to a document the automaker filed on Friday with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
About 8,000 more Escapes and 800 more Fusions are being recalled in Canada.
The 2013 Fusions and Escapes with the two-liter or 2.5-liter engines are not affected.
The automaker is aware of 13 fires, although there were no injuries.
In its report, Ford told the safety agency that it had been investigating reports of under-hood fires since early September and that it appeared an unidentified liquid was leaking when the engine overheated. If the liquid touches the exhaust system, a fire may result.
The report said Ford’s investigators “found a pattern of engine overheating and fluid leaks that led to the fires.” It did not identify the fluid.

It is not the first time the automaker has had problems with leaking fluid and fires with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine. In September, Ford recalled about 6,100 of its 2013 Escape crossovers, saying a coolant leak could cause fires.
It also is not clear how Ford plans to fix the vehicles. In its report to the safety administration, the automaker said it was “developing a fix to address the fire risk.”
Ford said some owners had reported warnings on the instrument clusters reading “Engine power reduced to lower temps” or “Engine over temp.” Some reported seeing a red light or hearing a chime.
Owners who see such warnings should find a safe place to pull over and stop the vehicle, the automaker advised.
Owners were being urged to contact a dealer as soon as possible. They would be given loaner vehicles at no cost. Any damage caused by overheating will also be repaired without charge.
Ford has heavily promoted the EcoBoost family of engines, which come in different sizes and are made in different locations. The 1.6-liter version is made in Spain.
What the engines share is turbocharging and direct injection. The goal is to provide good power and improved fuel economy.
In July, Ford recalled about 11,500 2013 Escape crossovers because a fuel line on the 1.6-liter EcoBoost could leak.
In that case, Ford took the unusual action of telling owners to stop driving the vehicles.
The new Fusion and Escape are two of the most important vehicles the automaker has introduced in years, vying in highly competitive segments with relatively high volumes.
Ford described the recall as voluntary, but once an automaker is aware of a safety problem, it has no choice but to contact the federal safety agency — within five business days — or face a civil penalty.
23 - 11 - 2012

Toyota is voluntarily recalling about 150,000 Tacoma pickup trucks from the 2001 to 2004 model years to make sure the spare tire can't fall off.
Under the recall, it plans to inspect and possibly replace the spare-tire carrier assembly, the automaker announced.
The recalled vehicles were originally sold or are currently registered in 20 cold-climate states and the District of Columbia. In these vehicles, the spare tire is stored underneath the rear bed and suspended by a spare-tire carrier on a metal lift plate.
Toyota says during the manufacturing process, the spare-tire carrier lift plate may not have been sufficiently coated with phosphate. That, combined with prolonged exposure to road salt and other environmental factors, could cause corrosion of the lift plate, causing it to break and detach the spare tire from the vehicle.

14 - 11 - 2012

Toyota has launched a recall of 2.8m cars with faulty steering wheels and water pumps just a month after calling back more than 7m vehicles with faulty windows.

The Japanese company said the latest recall affected nine models, including the Avensis, Corolla and Prius. About 75,000 cars will be recalled in the UK, 496,000 across Europe, 670,000 in the United States and 1.5m in Japan.

Toyota said it had not received any reports of crashes and injuries resulting from the faults. It said the steering problem was caused by "insufficient hardness" of the steering shaft, which could deform if the wheel was turned forcefully at slow speed.

The company said some of its Prius models also had a fault with a water pump in the cooling system, which could blow a fuse in the electricity power circuit and stall the vehicle.

Toyota drivers are encouraged to visit the company's website where they can enter their registration number to learn if their car is affected. It will also contact the owners of all affected vehicles within six weeks to advise them to take their car to the nearest Toyota dealer. It said most problems could be fixed within an hour and a half.

Toyota had been trying to improve its reputation after a series of recalls of 14m vehicles over the past few years, mostly in the US, affecting faulty floor mats, braking and gas pedals.

Just last month it recalled 7.4m cars after discovering faulty window switches in 12 models – the biggest single recall since Ford took 8m vehicles off the road in 1996.

9 - 11 - 2012

Chrysler is telling U.S. owners of more than 46,000 midsize cars to take them to dealers to fix a problem that can make the engines stall.
Owners of Chrysler 200s and Dodge Avengers from the 2011 model year are getting notices from the company. The cars have 3.6-Liter V-6 engines.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began investigating in June after getting complaints from drivers.
The safety agency and Chrysler got 161 complaints about stalling, mostly at low speeds.
Investigators traced the cause to a computer that runs the pollution controls. Chrysler will reprogram the computer.
The company's actions are similar to a recall but are called a customer satisfaction campaign. The safety agency says the condition is a low risk to safety and is properly addressed by Chrysler's campaign.
Jaguar is recalling 4,195 XF cars in the United States (367 cars in Canada, according to Transport Canada's website) to fix a potential fuel leak problem, according to documents filed with U.S. safety regulators.
Jaguar Land Rover is recalling XF cars equipped with 5-litre gasoline engines from model years 2010 through 2012. The affected vehicles may have a fuel tank fuel outlet flange that could crack, resulting in a leak and possible vehicle fire.

Jaguar has received three field reports and 17 warranty claims worldwide, but no reports of accidents, fires or injuries related to the issue, according to documents filed with the NHTSA.
Customers have reported fuel odor, the check engine light going on and fuel on the ground, and dealer technicians found the cracks in the affected pieces, according to documents filed with the NHTSA.
Dealers will replace the affected part. The recall is expected to begin on or before December 7.

23 - 10 - 2012

Nissan is recalling 13,919 new and near-new Altima sedans because some bolts may not be tight enough, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says today.

The error in the 2012 and 2013 Altimas could have serious consequences. If the nuts loosen and fall off, the vehicle could veer out of control and crash, NHTSA warns in the recall notice.
The bolts are used to lock down the traverse link and the power-steering rack. They were supposed to have been tightened to a specific torque specification, but apparently, some were not.
Nissan is going to send a notice to owners to bring in their cars so that mechanics can check to make sure the bolts were tightened to the correct specification.

8 - 10 - 2012
Japan’s Toyota Motor Corp. announced a massive recall on Wednesday to fix malfunctioning power window switches, saying it will pull back 7.43 million vehicles worldwide in the biggest single recall since 1996, performed by Ford Motor Co.
The move comes as Japan’s biggest auto maker tries to rebuild trust after a series of recalls between 2009 and 2011 in which it pulled back around 10 million vehicles, and as it struggles with plummeting Chinese sales as a result of a Sino-Japanese territorial dispute.
The recall primarily affects cars in the United States, China and Europe. Toyota’s main rivals in the U.S. include Ford and General Motors Co., while in China they include Volkswagen AG, Hyundai Motor Co. and Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., and in Europe Hyundai and Nissan.
The recall will include some Yaris and Corolla models on which the power window switches can be repaired in about 40 minutes, the company said.
“The process to repair (the power window switch) is not an extensive one,” spokeswoman Monika Saito said, adding that it would involve putting heat-resistant lubricant on the switches, or exchanging them.
The vehicles recalled outside Japan include certain models of the Yaris, Vios, Corolla, Matrix, Auris, Camry, RAV4, Highlander, Tundra, Sequoia, xB and xD produced between 2005 and 2010.
9 - 10 - 2012

Mercedes-Benz is recalling one of its fanciest cars because the air conditioning refrigerant could explode under certain crash conditions.
The German luxury automaker will recall 432 of its 2013 model year SL-Class cars to fix the problem, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Monday. The sticker price of the SL, a two-door sports car, starts at more than $100,000 and ranges up to nearly $150,000 depending on options and equipment.

With the Mercedes SL recall, the German automaker said it learned of the problem while testing a different vehicle that it did not name because it is not sold in the U.S. However, that car uses the same refrigerant as the SLs.

The testing was designed to replicate worst-case conditions in a severe frontal crash that would cause a rupture of the air conditioner refrigerant line. The automaker found that a rupture of a refrigerant line could result in a gaseous mixture of refrigerant being released into the engine compartment and igniting, causing the vehicle to burn.

Mercedes said it will fix the problem by using a different refrigerant and new hose lines.
Mercedes isn't the only German automaker with a problem in some high-end cars.

Arch rival BMW will recall 696 M5 and M6 coupe and M6 convertible sports cars from the 2013 model year to replace a faulty oil pump. The pump could fail and cause the car to stall and potentially crash, the NHTSA said. BMW plans to replace the pumps.

In a larger action, Chrysler is recalling 44,300 model-year 2009-2010 Ram 1500 and Dodge Dakota trucks because a rear axle pinion nut may loosen due to a lack of adhesive. If the rear axle pinion nut loosens, the axle can lock up and cause a loss of vehicle control and a crash. Chrysler plans to replace the nut on those vehicles.
8 - 10 - 2012

Honda Motor Co. is recalling CR-V crossovers from the 2002 to 2006 model years because an electrical switch in the driver's side door could melt and cause a fire.
Honda and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced the recall Saturday.
The problem involves around 268,000 vehicles. Honda said rain or other liquids could enter through a driver's open window and damage the master power switch on the door. If that happens, the switch could overheat and melt, causing a fire.
NHTSA said owners should park CR-Vs from those model years outside until the recall is performed to avoid any property damage from a fire. A fire could start even when the ignition is off and the CR-V is parked.
But Honda said it isn't necessary to park the vehicles outside. The switch can be seriously damaged only if someone spills liquid onto it or lets a large quantity of rain water into the car through the driver's side window, Honda spokesman Ed Miller said.
Customers concerned that their switches may have been damaged that way can ask a dealer to inspect their cars. Most vehicles will only need to have a cover plate installed inside the switch to prevent any liquid from coming in, Miller said.
6 - 10 - 2012

Drivers of the Hyundai Veloster could be in for a surprise while cruising down the highway.
The panoramic sunroof on the funky hatchbacks can shatter without warning, showering the driver with glass.
U.S. safety regulators are investigating the problem, although they have not recalled the cars. The probe affects about 18,000 vehicles from the 2012 model year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.
So far, 11 drivers have complained to NHTSA about the panoramic roofs shattering. Seven said the cars were moving.
Shattering glass could distract the driver and injure people in the car, the agency said. A few people complained of minor scratches from the glass, but there were no reports of crashes, according to NHTSA.
NHTSA investigators will figure out whether the problem is bad enough to require a recall.

In one complaint, a driver was making a left turn on Aug. 3 when there was a loud bang and the sunroof shattered.
"I had shards of glass in the top of my head, back down the inside of my shirt, and the glass still hanging was flying off," the driver reported.

1 - 10 - 2012

General Motors Co. is recalling more than 40,000 cars sold in warm-weather states because a plastic part might crack and cause a fuel leak. The company is recalling Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5 sedans from the 2007 through 2009 model years and Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent SUVs and Saturn Ion sedans from the 2007 model year. The vehicles have plastic parts connected to the fuel pump which could crack. If the crack gets large enough, fuel could leak out of the vehicle and cause a fire. GM says there have been no reports of fires or injuries related to the defect. The company began investigating the issue in 2011 after a dealer reported fuel leaking from some vehicles. GM says its warranty data indicates that the problem is far more common in warm-weather states. It will repair the vehicles for free in those states. Owners will be notified of the recall by mail.
But the company also plans to send letters to owners in other states offering a free repair within a limited time period if the parts are cracked. That offer is valid for 10 years or 120,000 miles from the date the vehicle was sold, spokesman Alan Adler said.

28 - 09 - 2012

This latest recall is just further egg on the figurative face of GM, as the company has already announced various recalls in the last few months alone. (See below) Most recently, the automobile manufacturer announced the recall of more than 45,000 Chevy Sonic vehicles due to defective wiper blade hoses that had the potential to disconnect and leave drivers without the ability to clean their windshields. The Sonic, currently the third-highest ranked “affordable small car” in America, is marketed worldwide under various names; however, the NHTSA and GM only reported an issue with the American version.

21 - 09 - 2012

Transport Canada has issued a safety recall on 40,000 cars over a potential problem with their automatic transmission. The recall affects 2008-10 Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6 cars as well as 2007-2010 Saturn Auras.
The recall warns the shift cable locking tabs could break. If this occurs, the transmission may not be in the park position and may not match the gear position indicated by the shift lever. The driver would then be able to remove the key from the ignition, but the door locks may not unlock automatically and the park indicator would not be illuminated. The driver may also not be able to restart the vehicle and it could roll away after the driver has exited the vehicle. Dealers will install a shift cable retainer clip, or replace the shift cable, as necessary.

24 - 08 - 2012

Nearly 102,000 Suzuki Forenza and Reno sedans are being recalled by American Suzuki Motor Corp. The small cars have wiring issues that may cause the headlamps to work only intermittently, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Sudden loss of illumination reduces driver visibility and increases the risk of collision, warns the safety agency.

According to NHTSA, poor contact between the terminals of certain wires can generate heat in the wires of the 2004-06 Suzuki Forenza and the 2005-06 Suzuki Reno that lead to the cars' headlights. If the wires melt, both the low- and high-beam headlamps in the small cars will fail, says the agency.

Nissan's luxury-badged 2013 Infiniti JX35 sport-utility vehicles are being recalled for a defect in the fuel gauge system, said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The fuel gauges in more than 7,800 Infiniti SUVs may display higher levels of fuel than what's actually in the tanks, which may cause drivers to unexpectedly run out of gas.

The company has told the NHTSA that the fuel gauge problem with the Infiniti JX35 SUV is due to a fuel transfer tube inside the vehicle's fuel tank. During production of the SUV, the tube was incorrectly routed, which subsequently prevents the internal fuel level float sensor from properly measuring the amount of gas in the tank.

Last month, the federal safety agency also began a probe of the Infiniti JX35's brakes. At issue is the Driver Assistance Package, which automatically applies the SUV's brakes based on the vehicle's on-board radar sensors.

14 - 08 - 2012

OMG! Please, not again. Chrysler cylinder head failures.

About 1,300 new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram brand vehicles are in Chrysler dealerships awaiting maintenance because of defective cylinder heads, according to Automotive News.

The trade publication reports that a Chrysler-built 3.6-liter V-6 engines — also known as the Pentastar V-6 — have defective cylinder heads. A cylinder head feeds and exhausts air from the engine block as well as delivers fuel to the cylinders and covers the combustion chamber. Chrysler has designed a new cylinder head and is replacing the unit on select vehicles that have experienced the problem.

The cylinder head problem cropped up in June, when several dealerships reported that some V-6-equipped Chryslers were experiencing early cylinder head failure, according to Allpar, a Chrysler enthusiast site. On an Allpar forum, some owners of new Chrysler vehicles have reported experiencing cylinder misfirings, check-engine light illumination and stalling after just 3,000 miles, presumably related to the defective cylinder head. On the forum, the cylinder head problem was most reported on the 2012 Jeep Wrangler, which received the new Pentastar V-6 for the model year.

The Pentastar is Chrysler's only V-6 engine for its 2012 cars and crossovers. There's a 3.7-liter V-6 on the 2012 Ram 1500 and 2012 Jeep Liberty, but the Pentastar is coming to both models for the 2013 model year, Allpar says. The V-6 has a rare cylinder head design in which the exhaust passages merge into a single outlet, whereas most engines have multiple exhaust passages in the head, according to Automotive News.

Chrysler is averaging more than 500 new service requests per week for cylinder head replacements, Automotive News says. In fact, demand for new cylinder heads is increasing so fast that Chrysler cannot keep up with it; there's currently a backlog of about 1,300 vehicles, says Automotive News. The problem has been discovered in about 7,500 Chrysler V-6s, and there could be more, the publication reports. Chrysler is giving owners free rentals while it fixes the defective motors, says the trade publication.

Chrysler has declined to describe the full nature of the cylinder head problem or its method of fixing the issue to Automotive News. The cylinder head fix will be covered by each new vehicle's powertrain warranty.

General Motors is recalling 10,315 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans from model years 2003-2004 in 20 cold-weather U.S. states and in Canada because road salt may have corroded a fueling pipe, GM said.
There are 9,389 vans recalled in the United States and 926 in Canada. The affected vans have "60/40" swing-out driver side doors. U.S. safety regulators said there is a higher risk of fire if the pipe that carries gasoline is corroded.
No injuries or fires have yet been reported as a result of this issue, GM said.
GM said owners already have been notified that they can bring their vehicles to dealers for repairs if necessary. Dealers will install a new fuel filler neck assembly.

2 - 08 - 2012

Toyota recalls RAV4s

Toyota is recalling some 99,000 RAV4 vehicles – some built at an Ontario plant – from Canadian roads to fix a suspension problem that could cause crashes. The company is also recalling 778,000 RAV4 SUVs and Lexus HS 250h sedans in the United States to work on the problem. RAV4s from the 2006 to 2011 model years are covered by the recall. The Lexus sedans are from 2010 only.

The company says if rear suspension nuts aren’t tightened properly after a wheel alignment, the arms can rust and separate from the vehicle. On Thursday, Toyota said it was recalling 600,000 vehicles in Europe suffering from the same problem.

These latest recalls come a month after Toyota added two models to a controversial 2009 recall launched after floor mats became trapped under the accelerator and were linked to accidents which allegedly caused dozens of deaths.
Toyota’s mishandling of the initial problem and other reports of sudden, unintended acceleration led to the recall of more than 12 million vehicles worldwide, a U.S. congressional probe, more than $50 million in fines from U.S. regulators and public apologies by its chief.

27 - 07 - 2012

What began as an investigation into a possible sticky throttle problem in 2001 to 2004 model-year Ford Escapes has now gone to a worldwide recall. Nearly 485,000 vehicles are involved.

The action covers the Escape SUV in the U.S. and the same model in Europe, which is called the Maverick. The recall applies only to models powered by the 3-liter V-6 engine with cruise control.
Ford says in those older Escape SUVs, the cruise-control cables can snag on the plastic cover on top of the engine. If that happens, the throttle can stick wide open. It will be fixed with a fastener to provide more clearance for the cable.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received 68 complaints about the problem, including 13 crashes, nine injuries and one death. It opened an investigation into the issue on July 18, and today's recall is a voluntary action by Ford. The Associated Press report says the death involved a teenage girl who died when an Escape crashed in Arizona in January.

Escapes have been on a recall binge. The latest version, the 2013 Escape, was recalled last week for fuel lines that can leak in the 1.6-liter engine version, possibly causing fires. There was also a recall to fix carpet padding that could make it harder to hit the brakes. Ford officials say the old Escapes don't have much in common with the latest version, except the name.

19 - 07 - 2012

Honda Canada says it will voluntarily recall approximately 20,920 model-year 2012 CR-V vehicles and about 800 model-year 2013 Acura ILX vehicles.
The auto maker needs to replace both front door latches and, in some CR-V vehicles, the interior front door handles because the door release cable may become partly disengaged.
Honda Canada says when this happens, the affected door might open unexpectedly.
No accidents or injuries have been reported related to this issue.
Honda says it will begin mailing notifications to affected owners in mid-August.
Japan’s Honda Motor said Thursday it is recalling more than 320,000 vehicles worldwide because of the defect.
Owners can check to see if their vehicles are affected, and obtain additional information, by going on-line after July 20 at www.honda.ca/recalls and www.acura.ca/recalls.
Honda owners can also call (888) 946-6329 and Acura owners can call (888) 922-8729.

25 - 06 - 2012

BMW is recalling 2,642 2012-13 BMW X5s and 2013 BMW X6s due to incorrect manufacturing of the steering system, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

In affected vehicles, built from April 20 to May 29, the steering gear was not built to specifications. As a result, the gear may not lie firmly in the rack-and-pinion guide and could be pressed out under certain conditions. This would cause power-steering fluid to leak possibly into the engine compartment. The result would be a loss of hydraulic power steering, making it more difficult to steer. More important, the flammable steering fluids could ignite an engine fire if exposed to hot exhaust. The manufacturing error is reported to be in about 70% of the recalled vehicles, according to BMW.
Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified, and dealers will inspect and replace the steering gear, when necessary, free of charge. Owners can call BMW at 800-525-7417
22 - 06 - 2012

A risk of engine fires is forcing General Motors (GM) to recall its popular Chevrolet Cruze compact car.
The recall covers the 2011 and 2012 model years and affects more than 475,000 cars, which have ranked among the top-selling U.S. compacts over the past two years.

The fires can ignite when fluids, mainly oil spilled when it is being changed, drip onto a hot plastic shield below the engine, the company said Friday. GM knows of 30 fires caused by the problem. Flames engulfed and destroyed cars in two cases reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. No injuries have been reported, spokesman Alan Adler said.

To eliminate the risk of fires, dealers will cut the shield to let the fluids drain to the pavement, GM said. The repairs take about 30 minutes and are free, the company said.

Cruzes with completely worn-out manual transmissions also can leak fluid onto the shields in rare cases, GM said.

"The most important thing for our customers to know is that we are proactively working to assure the Cruze is the safe and durable car they purchased," said GM vice president of Global Quality Alicia Boler-Davis in a statement. "We are sorry for any inconvenience caused by these actions."

The recall includes cars built from September of 2010 through May of 2012 at GM's Lordstown, Ohio, assembly plant. They were sold in the U.S., Canada, and Israel.
The Cruze is a strong competitor in a market where GM has fallen short in the past. The car came out in 2010 and was the top-selling compact in the U.S. from May through September last year.

But sales have started to fall as more Toyota Corollas and Honda Civics become available. Both were scarce after a 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan hobbled production.
Still, GM has sold more than 351,000 Cruzes in the U.S. alone, including almost 95,000 so far this year.

15 - 06 - 2012

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that it has upgraded its "preliminary" probe of 3.04 million 1993 to 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees into a more serious full-scale engineering analysis. It also added the 1993 to 2001 Jeep Cherokee and the 2002 to 2007 Jeep Liberty, bringing the total to about 5.1 million Jeeps.

So far, none of the vehicles are being recalled over the issue. Such NHTSA investigations may or may not lead to recalls and aim to discover if there is a safety defect that creates increased risk of crashes or injuries.

The Jeep probe began in September 2010 as a result of a petition from advocacy group Center for Auto Safety, which alleged the location of the gas tanks, behind the rear axle and below the bumper, makes them excessively prone to fires in crashes. In the 2005 and newer-model Grand Cherokees and the 2008 and newer Liberties, the fuel tank is located differently. The lower-level Cherokee model was discontinued.

Chrysler says it believes there's nothing wrong with its design. In documents, Chrysler said the nearly 3 million Grand Cherokees originally at the center of the probe had been driven more than 200 billion miles. It said that out of 180 fatal crashes involving those vehicles, 23 involved rear impact and fire. In close examination, Chrysler said it found that rate of crashes and resulting damage was no greater than for other comparable vehicles with other designs.

The Grand Cherokee is a "very safe vehicle," says Chrysler safety manager Dave Dillon, who said almost all of the fatal rear impact crashes involved speeds higher than 50 miles per hour. He expressed confidence that the government will come to agree after its thorough analysis.

However, Center for Auto Safety chief Clarence Ditlow, in a May 23 letter to NHTSA, and posted on the CAS website, urged a mandatory recall and repair of the Jeeps. He cited two rear-end crashes in 2006 and this year in which two children in safety seats burned to death. He also presented statistics he said show a higher rear-end crash fire risk in Grand Cherokees than for Ford Explorers.

13 - 06 - 2012

Honda recalls 50,000 2012 Civics because the driveshafts might come apart. The automaker says the driver's side shaft, also called a half-shaft, might have been put together wrong and could fail, separating from the constant-velocity joint that connects the shaft to the wheel. If that happens while the car's in motion, it will coast to a stop, because the engine's no longer connected to the wheels. If you park the car after a failure, it could roll away if you only put the gear lever in "park." You have to set the parking brake to hold the car.

Here's the automaker's announcement:

Honda will voluntarily recall approximately 50,000 model-year 2012 Civics to inspect and, if necessary, replace the left driveshaft. The left (driver's side) driveshaft in certain vehicles may not have been properly assembled, potentially allowing it to separate from the outer CV joint while in operation.

If separation occurs, the engine will no longer propel the vehicle in any gear, and the vehicle may roll away if the parking brake has not been set when the gear selector has been placed in the Park position, increasing the risk of a crash or personal injury. No crashes or injuries have been reported related to this issue.

Honda is announcing this recall to encourage owners of all affected vehicles to take their vehicles to an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification of this recall from Honda. Mailed notification to customers will begin in late-June 2012.

1 - 06 - 2012

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 JEEP WRANGLER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. THE TRANSMISSION SKID PLATE, WHICH IS CLOSE TO THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, CAN COLLECT DEBRIS.

Consequence:
WHEN THIS OCCURS, THE DEBRIS IGNITES WITHOUT WARNING, RESULTING IN A VEHICLE FIRE.

Remedy:
CHRYSLER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SKID PLATE WITH A SKID BAR, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Notes:
CHRYSLER'S RECALL NUMBER IS M22.

25 - 05 - 2012

CHRYSLER / TOWN AND COUNTRY 2012
DODGE / GRAND CARAVAN 2012

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 TOWN AND COUNTRY AND DODGE GRAND CARAVAN VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 9, 2012 THROUGH MARCH 12, 2012. SOME VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH A RIGHT SIDE LIFTGATE PINCH SENSOR THAT DOES NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY. AS A RESULT, INCREASED FORCE MAY BE REQUIRED IN ORDER TO STOP THE POWER LIFTGATE DURING FINAL CLOSING STAGES.
Consequence:
THE POWER LIFTGATE DOOR MAY CLOSE ON AN APPENDAGE, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy:
CHRYSLER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE RIGHT SIDE LIFTGATE PINCH SENSORS, FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN IN MAY 2012.
Notes:
CHRYSLERS RECALL NUMBER IS M17.

Lexus Announces Voluntary Safety Recall of Certain 2013 Model Year GS 350 F Sport RWD Vehicles

On May 16, 2012, Lexus filed a Defect Information Report (DIR) with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicating it will conduct a voluntary safety recall of approximately 650 – early 2013 model year GS 350 F Sport Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) vehicles to update the Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) electronic control unit (ECU) calibration.

On certain early 2013 model year GS 350 F-Sport RWD vehicles, the ECU for the VGRS system could cause the steering wheel to become off-centered when restarting the vehicle immediately after the vehicle is parked with the steering wheel turned. Dealers will update the VGRS ECU calibration to address the condition.

Owners of the involved vehicles will receive a safety recall notification by first-class mail beginning in early June 2012.

Any authorized Lexus dealer will perform this update at no charge to the vehicle owner. The repair is expected to take approximately 30 minutes depending on the dealer's schedule.

18 - 05 - 2012

Acura is recalling 56,881 TL sedans from model years 2007 and 2008 in North America to replace a power steering hose that could leak over time and potentially cause a fire.
The recall affects 52,615 TL sedans in the U.S. and another 4,266 in Canada, the Japanese automaker said.
Acura said the hose may deteriorate and leak over time. Leaking fluid could lead to a loss of power steering assistance or could cause smoke and fire, the Japanese automaker said.
Acura said no crashes, injuries or fires have been reported related to the issue.
The company said owners will be notified of the recall by mail, beginning in mid-June. Customers also can see whether their car is affected by the recall at www.recalls.acura.com or www.acura.ca/recalls.

11 - 05 - 2012

Ford is recalling more than 10,000 vehicles because the transmission may not shift into reverse, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The recall affects:
2012 Ford Expedition, 2011-12 Ford F-150, 2012-13 Ford Mustang, 2012 Lincoln Navigator

In the affected vehicles, the transmission's range sensor may be improperly calibrated for Reverse, according to NHTSA. That means the transmission may not go into Reverse or -- in the F-150, Expedition and Navigator -- it may go into Reverse when the driver moves the lever into Reverse but without the "R" illuminating on the dashboard. In certain cases, the backup lamp may not illuminate in the F-150, Expedition, Navigator or Mustang.

Any or all of these things increase the risk of a crash or of a pedestrian being struck, says NHTSA.

Ford will begin notifying owners June 25, and dealers will inspect and repair the transmission range sensor.

4 - 05 - 2012

Chrysler Group is recalling about 119,000 model year 2011 and 2012 Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger sedans in the United States because of a problem that could cause the anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control systems to malfunction. Anti-lock brake systems pump a car's brakes extremely rapidly in order to prevent the wheels from "locking up" during hard braking. Locking up can lead to loss of control and longer stopping distances because it can cause a car to skid.

Electronic stability control systems, which also use computerized brake controls, intervene to prevent a car from skidding during sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers. In the recalled cars a fuse for the computer controller that operates those safety systems can overheat, causing it to lose effectiveness.

Owners will be asked to bring their vehicles to Chrysler dealers to have the fuse replaced. The new fuse will be mounted in a different location inside the car where it won't be subject to extreme temperatures.
The problem was first discovered on Dodge Charger police cars. Chrysler engineers initially believed the problem was confined to police models. Further research, however, showed that civilian cars were also experiencing the problem.
Although they look different, the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 are both based on the same underlying engineering. "Despite a small number of incidents, we concluded it was in the best interest of our customers to repair the vehicles and eliminate the potential for this condition to occur,"

No accidents or injuries have been reported as a result of the problem, according to Chrysler.

Japan's Suzuki Motor said Monday it will recall about 109,000 Swift subcompact cars worldwide, half of them in Japan, to repair a defect that may cause gasoline leakage.

The cars were produced between September 2010 and last month with 55,146 of them shipped to the domestic market and 53,801 others exported outside the country, including Australia, Mexico, and Europe, a company spokesman said. Suzuki said in a statement that a defect related to the rubber fuel filler hose could cause gasoline to leak. Four cases of such defects have been reported in Japan but they did not lead to any accidents, the company said. "There have been no reports of such defects abroad," the spokesman added. "About the exported cars, we will deal with them in keeping with local procedures of the countries concerned." In March, Suzuki recalled about 93,000 Swifts, including 45,800 in Japan, to repair the fuel filling system.

15 - 04 - 2012

BMW is recalling about 2,800 cars because a circuit board can overheat and cause a fire.
The recall covers some 2011 and 2012 models of the 5-Series, 5-Series Gran Turismo, 6-Series convertible, 7-Series, X5 SAV and X6 SAV. The company says in documents filed with the government that there have been no injuries.
The circuit board is for the electric auxiliary water pump. BMW says it will notify owners of the cars and dealers will replace the pump for free. Owners can call BMW at 800-525-7417 for details.

8 - 04 - 2012

Ford is recalling more than 140,000 Focus compact cars because the passenger side windshield wiper can fail.
Federal Safety regulators say a seal in the wiper motor wiring may be missing.
Water can get inside and cause the wiper to stop working, increasing the risk of a crash.
There are 19,062 Focus vehicles in Canada that are involved in the recall.
Ford says there haven't been any crashes or injuries from the problem.
The cars were built from Aug. 1, 2010 through Oct. 18 of last year.
Ford dealers will clean and seal the wiring free of charge and fix any wipers that don't work.
Ford expects to begin the repairs in late May.

2 - 04 - 2012

Federal safety regulators have launched an investigation into the cause of fires in the Chevrolet Cruze, General Motors' bestselling passenger car. According to complaints made with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there have been at least two incidents in which the small sedan has caught fire while being driven. GM said it is researching warranty claims involving fires for at least 19 Cruzes.

Regulators also are looking at fires in the Jeep Wrangler sport-utility vehicle. The NHTSA launched the Cruze probe only two months after closing a similar investigation into fires that broke out following safety tests of the Chevrolet Volt, GM’s plug-in hybrid vehicle. GM fixed the problem by adding structural reinforcement that better protects the Volt’s battery pack from punctures or a coolant leak in a severe side crash.

But the issue hurt sales of the car and proved an embarrassment to GM, which is marketing the Volt as a technical achievement and sign of the automaker’s successful reemergence from bankruptcy reorganization in 2009.
Having to deal with another fire issue so soon after resolving the Volt defect could hurt Chevrolet’s image, analysts said.

The fire issue could drive buyers to other brands because “there are so many other good cars in that segment and there are not legions of faithful Cruze buyers out there because it is a fairly new model for Chevrolet,”
Moreover the typical Cruze buyer is “someone who is very practical, and safety will be a concern,”

With sales of almost 232,000 last year, the Cruze became one of the nation’s most popular small cars, outselling rivals such as the Honda Civic and Ford Focus and only narrowly trailing the Toyota Corolla.
It is selling well again this year as new car buyers gravitate to smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles because of high gas prices.

In one incident, a driver said they had a 2011 Cruze Eco – a model with a special factory-installed set of options that increases the sedan’s fuel economy – with about 11,000 miles on the odometer.
The driver complained of a slight smoke smell while driving and brought the vehicle to a stop. A flame appeared out of the hood and the car was completely engulfed within five minutes. It was only after the first flames appeared that a warning light appeared on the dashboard.
In the other case reported to NHTSA, the driver was waiting to cross an intersection when a woman in the car in the next lane started shouting that the Cruze was on fire. The vehicle also was quickly engulfed, according the report.

NHTSA’s probe is focused on the 2011 model year Cruze.

The agency also has received eight reports alleging fires originating in the engine compartment of the 2010 model year Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Seven of the 8 complainants allege the fire or symptoms of the impending fire began while driving.

23 - 03 - 2012

Honda says it is recalling more than 550,000 CR-V and Pilot SUVs because the low-beam headlights can fail.
The automaker says it will fix a problem with the headlight wiring. Affected vehicles include 2002-2004 CR-Vs and 2003 Pilots. Honda says there isn't enough slack in the wiring leading to the headlight switch. Over time the wires can work their way loose and cut off the low-beam lights. No crashes or injuries have been reported due to the problem. Owners will get recall notices in the mail starting in late April.

About 1.3 million cars worldwide — including 16,750 in Canada — are being recalled by German luxury carmaker BMW as a result of battery malfunctions that, in extreme cases, may result in fire. BMW is recalling all BMW 5 and 6 Series models built between 2003 and 2010. The company said that in some cases the battery cable cover inside the trunk may be mounted incorrectly. If this is not mounted correctly, the screw beneath this cover can become loose. If it does get loose, then there can be problems in the electrical systems. That can lead to technical difficulties in the electronic system of the car. These technical difficulties include such malfunctions as the inability to start the vehicle as well as, in "very rare cases," potential "smouldering and fire."

General Motors is recalling vans and SUVs to fix steering parts that could break. In a document filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, GM said the recall includes certain 2012 models of the Chevrolet Express van, Suburban SUV, and their sister vehicles the GMC Savana and Yukon XL. The car maker said a part called the steering gear pitman shaft on the affected vehicles may may not have been properly hardened during manufacturing and could break. If a break occurs it could result in a loss of steering control that would increase the risk of a crash. The potential problem affects 6,159 vehicles.

Under the recall dealers will inspect the steering gear and replace the steering gear pitman shaft if necessary. The recall is expected to begin April 4.

HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 ODYSSEY VEHICLES, THE GAS-FILLED STRUTS THAT HELP TO RAISE AND SUPPORT THE LIFTGATE OF VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A POWER LIFTGATE SYSTEM MAY BE PRONE TO EARLY LIFE FAILURES DUE TO A MANUFACTURING FLAW. THE FLAW CAN RESULT IN A LEAK OF THE PRESSURIZED GAS, LEADING TO REDUCED STRUT PERFORMANCE.

HONDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH POWER LIFTGATE GAS STRUTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MARCH 13, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-999-1009. HONDA'S RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS S22.

Porsche is recalling more than 1,200 of its 911 Carrera S sports cars because a fuel line can come loose and cause a fire. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on its website Saturday that the line can come apart at a connection and leak fuel. The agency says that could cause loss of power and a crash, or it could cause a fire. Porsche says it doesn't know of any fires or accidents. The 2012 cars have a starting price of more than $96,000. Porsche says the problem happens because a coolant pipe can touch a connection on the fuel line and loosen it. Dealers will either replace the fuel line or make sure the connections are tight. They'll also install a spacer to keep the lines apart.

3 - 02 - 2012

Mazda is recalling has issued a recall of the 2001- and 2002-model-year Mazda Tribute crossover for a possible brake fluid leak. It's been found that fluid leaking from the reservoir cap on the master cylinder might come into contact with the ABS wiring harness connector, leading to potential corrosion and/or fire.
We've been waiting on this action for the better part of a month, as its mechanical twin, the Ford Escape, was the subject of a similar NHTSA recall announced on January 11. The Blue Oval recall covered some 244,000 units for the same problem.
There are 52,390 Tributes affected in total, and Mazda is taking the unusual step of advising that if you have one, you should park it outside until a dealer has made the necessary repairs.

28 - 01 - 2012

FORDS with transmission leaks and Mitsubishi transmissions stuck in the Park position are among the mechanical ailments covered in the latest technical service bulletins.

The bulletins, known as T.S.B.’s, are not recalls; they are information provided by manufacturers to dealers’ service departments and mechanics.

Unless otherwise noted, the carmakers do not offer payment assistance for these repairs beyond normal warranty coverage.

BMW Some 2011 528i models may have a loose vacuum line. In T.S.B. 110911 issued on Nov. 1, BMW said that the line controlling the turbocharger waste gate might become disconnected, leading to a loss of horsepower. Installing hose clamps on the line should keep the connection secure.

It’s easy to imagine that a car owner would scratch his head if a mechanic told him, “You need a new leak diagnostic pump.” But some BMW owners may be hearing exactly that.
The pump verifies that the fuel system is sealed and not letting vapors escape, as required by pollution-control laws. In T.S.B. 010511 issued on Dec. 1, BMW said the part would be covered on 2007-8 X5 3.0si models for 10 years or 120,000 miles.

CHEVROLET A new axle shaft (or halfshaft) for the right front wheel could be in order for some 2011 Chevrolet Cruzes with the 1.8-liter engine. In T.S.B. 11225B issued on Nov. 15, General Motors said road splash could cause corrosion on the shaft, leading to a fracture if the corrosion were severe. The company will replace the parts on all models susceptible to the condition. Owners of affected cars should receive a letter about the repair.

CHRYSLER Noise from the rear of some 2011 Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans may be irritating some owners. In T.S.B. 17-003-11 issued on Nov. 22, Chrysler said the noise over bumps at low speeds was most likely to come from the rear shock absorbers. Replacing them should quiet things.

FORD Several models may have a transmission fluid leak. In T.S.B. 11-11-30 issued on Dec. 7, Ford said the problem might stem from seal or bushing wear. Affected models may include 2010-11 Fusions and Mercury Milans and 2009-11 Escapes and Mercury Mariners. Replacing the bushing, seal and constant velocity joint housing should stop the leak.

Also, shifting gears in some 2009-12 Expeditions, F-150 pickups and Lincoln Navigators may require excessive effort in cold weather. In T.S.B. 11-12-2 issued on Dec. 7, Ford said the problem could be a result of snow built up around the shift cable and lever. Adding a snow shield kit should help.

GENERAL MOTORS Malfunctioning halogen headlights in a variety of models will be fixed free. In T.S.B. 11055 issued on Dec. 5, G.M. said a problem in the electrical connector could cause the lights to turn off intermittently. Connectors and headlights will be replaced through December 2013. Affected vehicles include certain models of the 2008-10 Cadillac CTS, 2010 Cadillac SRX, 2007-10 GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook. Owners of affected vehicles should receive a letter about the repair.

KIA A campaign to replace battery cable terminals is expanding beyond earlier repairs of Optima Hybrids. Bulletins ELE020 through ELE025 add 2011 Rios, 2011-12 Souls and 2011-12 Fortes. These models need both the positive and negative cable ends replaced. The 2011-2 Sportages and 2012 Sedonas need only the positive terminal replaced. Owners of affected cars should receive a letter.

MITSUBISHI A transmission stuck in the Park position may be a result of grease in electrical contacts. In T.S.B. 11-23-004 issued on Nov. 1, Mitsubishi said grease contamination could interfere with the contacts on a switch that detects when the gearshift lever is in Park. Models exhibiting the trouble include 2007-9 Outlanders,
2008-9 Lancers and 2009 Lancer Sportbacks. Replacing the shift-lever assembly should get things rolling.

TOYOTA Winking minivans may have an easy fix. In T.S.B. 0182-11 on Nov. 23, Toyota said some 2011 Sienna headlamps might occasionally fail to illuminate. The problem is not the bulb or connector, but the power integration relay in the fuse box. Replacing the relay should brighten the outlook.

16 - 01 - 2012

BMW is recalling 235,000 Mini vehicles worldwide - 29,868 in the UK - because of a fault with an electric water pump. The fault, which could be a fire risk in some cases, is known to affect vehicles, including the Cooper S and John Cooper Works models, built between March 2006 and January 2011.
The company said the issue had been picked up by internal quality control. The Mini is made in Oxford, UK.
BMW said it was investigating one incident in the UK of an engine-related fire caused by the fault. There have been no reports of any injuries or road accidents resulting from it worldwide.

High temperatures
"In more extreme cases, it could create a heat build-up in the wiring and some smouldering. Potentially it could cause a fire," a spokesman said. "We are not aware of any accidents or injuries connected with this. The important thing is that when people receive the letter, they simply go to their dealer and get a new water pump fitted if there is a problem."

13 - 01 - 2012

Ford is recalling 450,000 older Ford Escape SUVs for a fire risk and Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans for potential sudden loss of power, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Ford will fix 244,530 Escape SUVs from the 2001 and 2002 model years. On vehicles manufactured from Oct. 22, 1999, through July 19, 2002, the brake master cylinder reservoir cap could leak brake fluid. If the fluid comes into contact with the antilock braking system module, an electrical fire could result.

Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder reservoir cap and the antilock braking system will be modified. Owners will be notified starting Jan. 23.

Ford is also recalling 205,896 Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans made during the 2004 and 2005 model years because the transmission's torque converter output shaft may fail, according to NHTSA. If the shaft fails, the driver may experience a sudden loss of power without warning.

Ford or Lincoln dealers will replace the torque converter for free. The recall is expected to begin in the spring because the parts needed for repairs will not be available until then.

30 - 12 - 2011

General Motors Co is recalling 4,873 of its current year Chevrolet Sonic subcompact cars in the United States and Canada for possible missing front brake pads, the company and federal safety regulators said on Friday.
GM said it knows of no crashes or injuries due to the issue. GM said it is recalling the cars to see if inner or outer front brake pads are missing.
GM said that its research shows that between 20 and 30 of the recalled cars were sold without one of its brake pads. Of the total recalled, 4,296 were sold to U.S. customers and 577 to Canadian customers, GM said.
The issue was discovered during warranty service on a rental Sonic, GM said.

Customers will be informed of the recall by mid-January, GM said. If technicians at GM dealerships find that a brake pad is missing in a Sonic, they will, if needed, install new inner and outer pads. If needed, brake calipers and brake rotors will also be replaced, at no cost to customers.

GM just started selling the Sonic several months ago. Through November, it sold about 10,000 Sonics in the U.S. market, and nearly half that total in November.

The Sonic is made at GM's plant in Orion Township, Michigan. GM and the United Auto Workers union agreed to allow up to 40 percent of the production workers at the plant to be paid less than veteran UAW workers. The agreement was necessary to keep the Sonic from being produced outside the United States, the UAW and GM have said.

23 - 12 - 2011

Nissan North America is recalling nearly 15,000 vehicles, including Infiniti sedans and SUVs and Nissan SUVs and a commercial van, for an issue that may cause a loss of engine oil. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the problem affects 2011 Infiniti FX SUVs, 2012 Infiniti M sedans, 2012 Nissan Frontier pickup trucks, 2011-2012 Nissan Pathfinder SUVs, 2011-2012 Nissan Xterra SUVs and 2012 Nissan NV commercial vans.

Owners of 2010 and 2011 model year Cadillac SRX vehicles, lend me your ears: Your luxury crossover may be facing a recall. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, some 8,789 affected units could have an improperly fitted transmission shift cable.

According to the government agency's notice, the faulty installation could result in the cable popping out of the transmission bracket. If that happens, NHTSA says the transmission may not shift at all, rendering the vehicle immobile. The gearbox could also appear to be in Park when it isn't, resulting in a potential rollaway.

Cadillac will begin notifying owners of vehicles covered in the recall next month, and dealers will be tasked with inspecting the cable and making sure it's properly routed and secured.

16 - 12 - 2011

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall alert for more than 33,800 Nissan Sentra cars. Certain sedans from Nissan's 2010 and 2011 model years may have faulty battery terminals that may cause an unexpected engine stall while the cars are in motion. The flaw may also prevent an engine restart, increasing the risk of a crash.

According to NHTSA, the issue affects 2010-2011 Nissan Sentra vehicles equipped with MR20 engines and made in May 2010 as well as from July to October 2010. During the manufacturing process, a zinc coating was applied to the battery terminal posts too thickly. The extra coating can result in a voltage drop that may increasing difficulty in starting the car or perhaps even damage the car's engine control module.

Nissan will notify affected owners to bring their recalled Sentras in to local dealerships where mechanics will replace the faulty battery terminals free of charge.

Nissan is recalling 28,294 Jukes from the 2011 model year because of a defective weld, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
In the affected vehicles, the turbocharger boost sensor bracket could separate from the air inlet tube. If the bracket comes off, the Juke could stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
The recall is expected to being around Jan. 9. Nissan dealers will check the lot number on the air inlet tube and replace it, if necessary, free of charge.

Ford is recalling thousands of F-Series pickup trucks from the 2011 and 2012 model years over a transmission problem that, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "fails to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard number 114, theft protection." NHTSA reports that the transmissions in these defective trucks can be shifted out of the park position without pressing the brake pedal due to a problem with the brake shift interlock switch.
Affected models include 2011 F-150s built between September 9 and September 22, 2011, as well as F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 Heavy Duty trucks built between September 12 and September 22, 2011. A total of 16,091 trucks are included in this recall.
Ford dealers will inspect – and if necessary, replace – the brake shift interlock switch on these affected vehicles, free of charge. The official recall is expected to kick off in the coming days.

10 - 12 - 2011
Ford has been forced to recall almost 129,000 vehicles, after discovering that the wheels on certain 2010-2011 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan cars could fall off. The issue, Ford told the Nation Highway Traffic Safety Administration, was spotted when lug-nut tightening was found to cause fracturing; if the drivers ignored the subsequent vibration warning signs, the wheels themselves could potentially detach from car.

According to Ford, the problem only affects Fusion and Milan cars with 17-inch steel wheels, not those with alloy wheels. Nonetheless, that’s 128,616 vehicles in all, along with a further 3,000 steel wheel sets distributed to Ford dealers.

9 - 12 - 2011

NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 ROGUE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 17, 2010, THROUGH OCTOBER 30, 2010. THE CIRCUIT BOARD MAY NOT HAVE BEEN INSTALLED IN THE CORRECT POSITION ON CERTAIN ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS) ASSIST CONTROL UNITS. THIS MAY CAUSE ADDITIONAL STRESS ON THE SOLDER OF THE TERMINAL TO THE CIRCUIT BOARD RESULTING IN THE SOLDER CRACKING AND SEPARATING COMPLETELY FROM THE CIRCUIT BOARD.

Consequence:
AS THE CIRCUIT BOARD FAILS, THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FEATURE WILL STOP FUNCTIONING, INCREASING THE FORCE NEEDED TO STEER THE VEHICLE AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy:
NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE EPS CONTROL UNIT IF NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING DECEMBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.

25 - 11 - 2011

Recall: 2012 Fiat 500 and Dodge Journey for bad brake fluids

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall warning for the 2012 Fiat 500 compact car and 2012 Dodge Journey midsize SUV. Certain models of both vehicles from the Chrysler Motor Corp. may have been assembled with contaminated brake fluid which can lead to loss of stopping power.
According to NHTSA, about a total of 340 Fiat 500 and Dodge Journeys may have this bad hydraulic brake fluid which deteriorates the vehicles' brake seals. If the seals fail and there is a loss of braking power, the risk of a collision increases, warns the federal safety agency.

In December, Chrysler will begin to notify affected owners to bring their vehicle into a local dealership. Mechanics there will replace free of charge the bad brake fluid and all of the brake components that have come into it.

11 - 11 - 2011

Toyota Motor Corp. said Wednesday it is recalling about 550,000 vehicles worldwide — mostly in the United States — for problems that could make it harder to steer. The recall affects 447,000 vehicles in North America, as well as 38,000 in Japan and another 25,000 in Australia and New Zealand.

Toyota has received a total of 79 reports about the defect dating back to 2007. There have been no reports of accidents or injuries related to the problems.

The latest recall is due to the possibility that the outer ring of the engine’s crankshaft pulley may become misaligned with the inner ring, causing noise or a warning signal to light up. If the problem isn’t corrected, the belt for the power steering pump may become detached from the pulley, making it suddenly more difficult to turn the steering wheel.

In the United States, the automaker is recalling 283,200 Toyota brand cars, including the 2004 and 2005 Camry, Highlander, Sienna and Solara, the 2004 Avalon and the 2006 Highlander HV. Its recall of 137,000 Lexus vehicles includes the 2004 and 2005 ES330 and RX330 and 2006 RX400h.

In the U.S., Toyota will mail owners a notification to make an appointment with an authorized dealer to have their car inspected once replacement parts have been produced in sufficient quantities. Notifications will be mailed starting in January.

In the meantime, if an abnormal noise is heard coming from the engine compartment, the owner is asked to make an appointment with any Toyota or Lexus dealer to have the vehicle inspected for this condition.
28 - 10 - 2011

General Motors is recalling nearly 34,000 2012 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain crossovers over improperly calibrated tire pressure monitoring sensors.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the monitors are required to be calibrated to illuminate a warning light any time a tire is denflated to 25 percent below the recommended level. The sensors in 2012 Equinox and Terrain models may not illuminate until the tire is much further below that threshold. NHTSA says that improperly inflated tires could lead to an accident due to premature wear and excess heat.

In addition, improperly inflated tires can reduce fuel economy and result in poor handling as well. GM will update the body control module on affected vehicles free of charge once the recall gets under way this month.

Of course, this is as good of a time as any to remind drivers to always check their tire pressure at regular intervals, regardless of what the light on the dash says. Hit the jump to see the full recall notice for yourself.
21 - 10 - 2011

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) Mini Cooper S cars are under U.S. investigation after 12 reports of engine fires, including five that resulted in a total loss of the vehicle. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced the probe today on its website, saying in eight of the complaints, fires occurred when the cars were parked and turned off. The investigation includes about 36,000 Mini Coopers from model years 2007 and 2008. The regulator said the “complaints show an apparent increasing trend with most complaints received within the past year.”

14 - 10 - 2011
ACURA An extended warranty on the rear catalytic converter is available for some 2007 MDX crossovers. In T.S.B. 11-018 issued on Aug. 17, Acura said the warranty would be extended to 10 years or 120,000 miles, from eight years or 80,000 miles. In T.S.B. 11-017 issued on the same date, Acura said reprogramming the electronic control module should prevent further problems with the converters.

AUDI Some models with 3- and 3.2-liter V-6 engines may experience problems with the accessory drive belt or its guide. In T.S.B. 131106 issued on Aug. 22, Audi said some 2011 S4, S5 Cabriolet, A6 and Q5 models might have a guide that was out of line, causing damage to the belt. Audi will do a free inspection of vehicles it suspects of having the problem and replace the guide and the belt as needed.

BMW Some 2011 X3 models may need a new rear window. In T.S.B. B512911 issued on Sept. 1, BMW said the rear window defroster might fail because of a chemical reaction between the heating conductors and the foil to which they are attached. Replacing the window with a revised model should stop the problems.

DODGE The outer tie-rod ends on some Ram 1500 trucks may be eligible for free replacement. In T.S.B. L04 issued on Aug. 30, the Chrysler Group said some 2009-10 models shipped to cold-weather states might allow water into the outer tie-rod ends, causing a rattling or clunking when driving. Replacing the outer tie-rod ends should stop the noises.

FORD Some 2012 Focus models may need a new steering gear. In T.S.B. 11-9-8 issued on Sept. 20, Ford said some drivers had noticed a tendency for the steering to wander above 45 m.p.h. Replacing the steering gear should straighten things out.

GENERAL MOTORS Some midsize G.M. sedans may qualify for an extended warranty on the catalytic converter. In T.S.B. 10134A issued on Aug. 24, G. M. said the affected cars were 2006-7 Chevrolet Malibus with the 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine and those with the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with a 4-speed automatic transmission, as well as the 2006-8 Pontiac G6 and the 2008 Saturn Aura. The cars may have a deteriorating catalytic converter, causing the engine light to illuminate. The warranty will be extended to 10 years or 120,000 miles from eight years or 80,000 miles.

HONDA An extended warranty on the power steering pump is being offered for some Odyssey minivans. In T.S.B. 11-039 issued on Sept. 2, Honda said some 2005-10 models might be hard to steer at low speeds. The warranty is extended to seven years or 100,000 miles from the original powertrain coverage of five years or 60,000 miles.

MAZDA Some CX-7 and CX-9 crossovers may leak oil from the rear differential seal. In T.S.B. 0300411 issued on Sept. 21, Mazda said the issue with 2007-11 models might be a differential breather that was placed too low and became clogged by snow or water. A new differential with a raised breather covered by the breather boot should stop the leak.

NISSAN A leak from the oil cooler may be a problem on some Nissans. In T.S.B. NTB11015A issued on Sept. 6, Nissan said the leak from the upper end of the oil cooler might occur in 2007-12 Altimas and Sentras and 2008-12 Rogues with 4-cylinder engines. Removing the cooler and replacing the gaskets should fix the problem.

SCION AND TOYOTA Several models with the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine may be using too much oil. In T.S.B.’s SB002411 and SB009411 issued on Aug. 11, the companies said the problem was traced to the piston assembly. Replacing the pistons and rings should solve the problem. Affected models are the 2007-9 Scion tCs and the 2008-9 Scion xB as well as these Toyotas: 2006-8 RAV4, 2007-8 Solara, 2007-9 Camry, 2007-11 Camry Hybrid, 2009 Corolla and 2009 Matrix.

VOLKSWAGEN The company says it may have a remedy for diesels that won’t start in cold weather. In T.S.B. 2111-06 issued on Sept. 6, Volkswagen said some 2009-11 Jettas and 2010-11 Golfs, all with the 2-liter TDI engine, might not start if left in temperatures below freezing. Moisture from the air intake may condense in the intercooler. VW recommends adding a cold weather intercooler kit.

7 - 10 - 2011

The federal government has put the first Jeep Liberty SUVs -- 2002 and 2003 -- under the microscope after seven complaints that the front air bags just, bang, went off without a reason. No crash, just whap.
In some cases, owners told the feds, the air bag warning light was on, or had been going on and off, before the bag bang. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it also rounded up 32 more incidents among what it calls its "early-warning field reports."

All told, NHTSA said, there have been 15 injuries from the unexpected front bag deployments.
In the "early-warning" cases, NHTSA said, "Inspections of the vehicles did not reveal any evidence of exterior vehicle impacts or damage that could have reasonably caused the air bags to deploy."

Consumer Reports data show that the 2002-06 Liberty had troubles with engine cooling and unspecified portions of its "drive system." The '04 and '05 also had fuel system problems.

The Liberty was redesigned for 2008 and those newer models have been less troublesome, according to CR data.

17 - 09 - 2011

Subaru is recalling 69,590 of its 2011 Legacy sedans and Outback crossovers, because their sunroof glass could come loose and fall out. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration says the vehicles were made between Aug. 3, 2010, and July 1, 2011. NHTSA says on its website that the adhesive between the sunroof’s glass and retainer wasn’t adequately applied. There is a chance the sunroof glass could loosen and come off while driving, resulting in a potential road hazard for other cars and trucks and potentially causing a crash. Subaru told NHTSA that it will notify owners. Dealers will inspect the adhesion and either apply extra adhesive or replace the glass for free. The recall is expected to begin next month.

13 - 09 - 2011

German automaker Volkwagen is recalling 30,294 of its 2011-2012 model year Jetta sedans for tailpipe finishers that extend beyond the vehicle's rear bumper.

On certain Jettas, stainless steel exhaust tips – sold at the point-of-purchase and installed at port during importation – may extend beyond the original length of the factory-installed exhaust pipes, a situation that could result in burns if bumped or touched while hot.

VW will notify owners of affected Jetta models by the end of November and says that dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the stainless tips with updated versions. Owners are urged to contact Volkswagen for additional info.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has just announced a safety recall covering
295,123 vehicles, a pair of Subaru models and a close relative from Saab. The recall concerns front control arms that may fail if corroded, making the vehicle difficult to control. The action covers select 2003-2008 Forester crossovers, 2002-2007 Impreza

In April, NHTSA launched an investigation after receiving seven complaints from owners of affected vehicles. In two instances, owners reported losing control of their vehicle due to control arm failure. The agency's investigation revealed the front lower control arms may break at the hanger brackets due to corrosion if exposed to salt or humid environments.

This is a geographic recall, meaning that Subaru will inspect the degree of corrosion and either replace or rustproof the control arms on vehicles registered for use in the District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island and West Virginia.

Saab dealers will be responsible to inspect and repair affected 9-2x models as necessary, including the possible rustproofing or replacement of control arms. Owners who think that their vehicle may be covered under the recall are urged to contact their dealer.

Japanese automaker Subaru has issued a recall for Model Year 2010-2011 Outback and Legacy vehicles manufactured from January 7, 2010, through May 20, 2011. Subaru says faulty components inside the wiper motor's bottom cover could overheat.

According to Subaru, if the motor's bottom cover overheats, the windshield wipers may no longer function, which could lead to reduced visibility and increase the chance of a crash.

Subaru will notify owners of the 195,080 affected Outback and Legacy vehicles by the end of November. As is typically the case, dealers will replace defective components free of charge and owners are urged to contact Subaru for more info.

3 - 09 - 2011

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced that BMW is recalling 241,000 3 Series models for potentially faulty rear lamps. According to NHTSA, certain 2002-2005 325i, 325xi, 330i and 330xi models built between September 1, 2001 and March 1 2005 may experience increased resistance at the electrical contacts. This resistance may eventually lead to the failure of tail light, brake light or turning indicator lamps over time. That failure could impede a driver's ability to warn other motorists of his or her intentions, potentially leading to an accident. BMW dealers will repair the electrical components free of charge once the recall gets underway in October of this year. Previously, BMW issued a technical service bulletin concerning a certain eight-pin connector which would overheat and melt under extreme electrical load. BMW dealers corrected the issue by adding additional grounding to the circuit. It's unclear whether this remedy will also be applied to the recall.

12 - 08 - 2011

GM recalls 2012 Chevrolet Impalas for possible fire hazard. General Motors along with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a recall of more than 10,000 Chevrolet Impalas for issues with the sedans' power steering system, which could lead to engine compartment fires.According to NHTSA, certain models of the 2012 Chevy Impala have power steering hoses placed too close to the cars' catalytic converters. High heat from the converter may melt the hose and ignite the flammable hydraulic steering fluid. GM will begin notifying affected Impala owners to take their vehicle to local dealerships which will inspect and make the necessary changes free of charge.

GM is also recalling 4,077 Buick LaCrosse cars built from June 9, 2011, through July 2, 2011, because their electronic stability-control systems may be improperly calibrated. As a result, the system may not properly detect a malfunctioning sensor, and the warning light indicating the system isn’t operating would not illuminate.

A malfunctioning sensor may cause the stability control to suddenly activate when it shouldn’t, which could cause a loss of control and a crash. To fix the problem, dealers will reprogram the electronic brake control module free of charge.

6 - 08 - 2011

Honda Motor Co. said Friday that it was set to voluntarily recall about 1.5 million vehicles in the US to update their automatic transmission control software.

The transmission secondary shaft in the affected vehicles can be damaged if the transmission is quickly shifted between each of the reverse, neutral and drive positions, as may be done in an attempt to dislodge a vehicle stuck in the mud or snow, Honda said.

Some of its 2005-10 four-cylinder Accord models, 2007-10 CR-V and 2005-08 Element vehicles were included in the recall, it added.

2- 08 - 2011

"For a few dollars more, they COULD have been made out of stainless steel"

Ford Motor Co said on Monday it is recalling 1.22 million older pickup trucks in the United States and Canada to replace straps that hold fuel tanks in place and could corrode and break.

The recall affects Ford F-150 full-size pickups from model years 1997 through 2004, F-250 pickups of less than 8,500 pounds from model years 1997 through 1999, and Lincoln Blackwood trucks from model years 2002 and 2003, a Ford spokesman said.

Of the trucks being recalled, 1.1 million are in the United States and the rest are in Canada.

The trucks affected in the recall were all sold or are registered in 21 eastern and Midwestern U.S. states, Washington D.C., and Canadian provinces, where the possibility of severe corrosion of the straps that hold the fuel tanks may occur due to prolonged exposure to road de-icing chemicals, Ford said.

As a result of the corrosion, one or both straps may fail, causing fuel lines to separate from the tank or in some cases the tank to fall to the ground, Ford said. Either scenario could result in a fuel leak or fire.

Ford said there were reports of three vehicle fires and one injury related to the issue.
Ford will notify owners to take the affected vehicles to a dealer to have the straps replaced with ones that offer increased corrosion protection, according to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

1 - 08 - 2011

Volvo Cars, owned by China's Geely, is recalling 8,406 S80 cars for a potential power steering fluid problem that could increase the risk of a crash, according to a federal safety regulator website.

Volvo is recalling the 2007 model year cars, built between March 8, 2006, and May 16, 2007, to inspect a potential problem that could lead to a burst hose at the steering gear that would cause a sudden loss of power steering, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.

Volvo dealers will inspect the cars and make repairs as needed at no charge, the NHTSA website said. The recall is expected to begin during August.

Volvo spokeswoman Laura DiStefano said the company had estimated 6 percent of the vehicles in the group would have the defect, but Volvo was not aware of any reports linking any accidents or injuries to the issue.

15- 07- 2011

Chrysler is recalling more than 242,000 Ram pickup trucks because of a problem that could cause a loss of steering control.

The recall affects 2008-2011 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups. The Ram pickup is Chrysler's best-selling vehicle. Sine were sold as Dodges before the Ram truck brand was split off.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that a bad tie rod ball stud in the front steering system near the left wheel can fracture and cause loss of steering. It said the problem happens mainly at low speeds in tight turns "such as in parking lot type maneuvers," according to the NHTSA posting. Chrysler says it knows of only a few minor crashes and one minor injury.

The problem also can affect 2003-2008 Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty models in which the same part was replaced by mechanics. Chrysler dealers will inspect the trucks and replace the left tie rod if needed.

Here are the specific models and build dates affected:

2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Mega Cab 4x4 built Feb. 14, 2008 to Aug. 15, 2008.

2008-2011 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 4x4 built Feb. 14, 2008 to March 28, 2011.

2008-2011 Dodge Ram 3500 Cab Chassis 4x2 built Feb. 14, 2008 to March 28, 2011.

2003-2008 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 that may have received the part during routine service.

10 - 07 - 2011

ACURA
Engines of 2004-8 TL models may knock or vibrate while driving. In T.S.B. 11-007 issued on May 20, Acura said the front engine mount in some TLs might crack or tear because of high temperatures under the hood. Replacing the engine mount should stop the shaking.

AUDI
Some Q7s may not deliver enough heat to passengers while idling. In T.S.B. 191124 issued on May 19, Audi said the problem in 2011 Q7 3.0 TFSI models was caused by an incorrect ventilation hose to the coolant reservoir or an incorrectly positioned check valve in the ventilation hose. Replacing the hose and ensuring that the check valve is in the right spot should warm the Q7’s cabin.

FORD
F-150 Raptor pickups may clunk or slip when starting or stopping. In T.S.B. 11-5-7 issued on May 10, Ford said the noise, heard in some 2011 Raptors, came from the driveshaft. Replacing the driveshaft assembly is the cure.

Also, some 2008-9 F-250 and F-350 trucks may need new tires. In T.S.B. 11B24S1 issued on April 14, Ford said Continental ContiTrac or ContiTrac TR tires in the LT275/70R18 size might vibrate, wear unevenly or separate at the belt edges. Ford will inspect all affected vehicles and replace the tires if necessary, with no mileage limit. Owners should receive a letter about this repair.

GENERAL MOTORS
Some pickups may be missing welds in the cargo box. In T.S.B. 11159 issued on May 19, G.M. said 2011 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 series trucks with the standard box might be lacking welds on the underside. Reinforcing the box with nuts and bolts should prevent panel separations.

Also, a number of pickups and S.U.V.’s are getting an extended warranty on a heater component. In T.S.B. 10240 issued on May 9, G.M. said the vehicles include the 2003-7 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra; 2003-6 Chevrolet Avalanche and Tahoe; and 2003-6 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL.

The company said the electrical terminals of the relay resistor module might corrode in vehicles equipped with manual heating and air-conditioning controls. Certain fan settings may stop working or the blower may not stop when the truck is turned off. A burning smell or smoke may accompany the problem.
The fan motor resistor and resistor module connector will be covered under warranty up to 10 years or 150,000 miles.

JEEP
Some 2008-9 Wranglers may weep fluid from the lines between the automatic transmission and the fluid cooler. In T.S.B. L05 issued on May 4, Jeep said the leak could occur at the crimped hose-to-tube joints in vehicles with 3.8-liter V-6 engines. Replacing the cooler line should stop the leak.

LEXUS
Some models may suffer from rattling steering columns. In T.S.B. 0026-11 issued on May 4, Lexus said some 2010-11 RX 350 models might rattle when turning or driving on rough surfaces. Replacing the steering column should stop the noise.

NISSAN
The heating and air-conditioning systems of Titan pickups and Armada S.U.V.’s may develop a fan malfunction. In T.S.B. 11-040 issued on May 12, Nissan said that on some 2010-11 models the fan might be noisy or its speed might not agree with the control setting. The same problem occurs in Infiniti QX56 S.U.V.’s, a similar model, from the 2010 model year, as described in T.S.B. 11-028 issued on May 12.
Nissan will replace the motors for the air-conditioning defroster door and the passenger-side air-conditioning air mix door at no charge. Owners of eligible vehicles should receive a letter about the repair.

VOLKSWAGEN
Some 2011 Jetta keyless start systems may fail. In T.S.B. 2811-02 issued on May 9, Volkswagen said the starter button might get stuck because of a problem with wire routing or the starter switch. Replacing the switch and realigning any problem wiring should fire things up.

15 - 06 - 2011
Mazda Motor Corp said on Wednesday it would recall about 494,500 Mazda3/Axela compact cars globally to fix a glitch in an electronic part that could prevent the windshield wipers from working.

No accident was reported from the defect, a Mazda spokeswoman said. The recall covers cars and knock-down parts for the Mazda3 shipped between January 2008 and July 2010. The Japanese automaker declined to disclose a cost estimate for the recall.

Of the total, 157,700 units are subject to recall in North America, 91,600 in Europe, 84,000 in China and about 20,000 in Japan.

10 - 06 - 2011
Volvo is recalling 7,558 S60 vehicles from the 2012 model year because of a potential problem with the fuel pump which could lead to engine hesitation and stalling even if the fuel gauge indicated up to a quarter tank of gas. Under certain driving conditions this could lead to a crash.

The software for the fuel pump unit may not be compatible with all fuel pumps and components. This could result in an insufficient transfer of fuel in the pump unit. The recall affects cars made from November 18, 2010 through May 5 2011.

The safety recall is expected to start June 17. Volvo dealers will upgrade the engine control module software for free. When it comes to the Volvo's performance, the redesigned S60 saw big improvements to the ride and handling and has a variety of available safety features. The S60 is perhaps the best Volvo vehicle we've seen yet.

15 - 05 - 2011.

CHRYSLER Some 2007 Chrysler 300s, Dodge Magnums and Dodge Chargers may be unable to shift out of Park. In T.S.B. K39 issued on Feb. 24, Chrysler said the shift interlock return spring might break, resulting in the inability to move the shifter. Replacing the spring should get the cars back on the road.

FORD The company is having problems with the MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch telematics systems in the 2011 Ford EdgeLincoln MKX. In T.S.B. 11-4-18 issued on April 27, Ford said the problems include blank screens, missing presets, lack of voice recognition, the incorrect dialing of phone numbers and display problems with the backup camera. The system needs to be reprogrammed. and Explorer and

GENERAL MOTORS Some 2011 Buick LaCrosses may need a new brake pressure modulator valve. In T.S.B. 10257B issued on March 4, G.M. said the valve might let one of the wheels remain locked up in a panic stop. LaCrosse owners can have the valves inspected free and replaced if necessary.

LEXUS Some models may have a notchy feel from the steering wheel at highway speeds, and the wheel will not smoothly self-center. In T.S.B. SB0016-11 issued on March 23, Lexus said the models affected include the 2006 GS 300; the 2007-11 GS 350, GS 450H and GS 460; the 2006-7 GS 430; and the 2006-2010 IS F, IS 250, IS 250C, IS 350 and IS 350C. Replacing the power steering gear assembly should smooth out the turns.

MERCEDES-BENZ Some 2010 G-Class S.U.V.’s may need new window regulators. In T.S.B. 2011030003 issued on April 1, Mercedes said the drive cable of the left rear window regulator might be defective. Replacing the regulator should prevent any further problems.

SCION Some tCs may have damaged cylinder-head bolts. In T.S.B. SB000411 issued on March 2, Scion said a production problem on 2005-7 models might have led to the damage. Installing thread repair inserts into the head bolt threads should tighten things.

SUZUKI Some Kizashis may have trouble with the alternator belt tensioner. In T.S.B. TS0102011 issued on Feb. 1, Suzuki said the internal spring of the alternator belt tensioner could break on some 2010-11 models, allowing the belt to slip or to slide off. Replacing the tensioner pulley should keep things in place.

TOYOTA A few models may have damaged cylinder-head bolts, much like the Scion tC. In T.S.B. SB001511 issued on March 2, Toyota said a production problem might have led to the damage. The models include 2002-6 Camry and Solara, 2001-7 Highlander and 2004-5 RAV4. Thread repair inserts should be installed into the head bolt threads.

29 - 04 - 2011

Kia Motors Corp. is recalling more than 58,000 Spectra compact cars registered in cold-weather states because the gas tanks could drop to the ground and cause a fire.

The recall affects Spectra LD models from the 2004 to 2007 model years in 20 states and Washington, D.C., the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on its website Friday.

The cars, built from Nov. 7, 2003, through March 6, 2007, have straps that hold the gas tank to the frame. When exposed to road salt, the straps can rust and the tank can fall to the ground, causing a fuel leak and possibly a fire.

Documents filed with NHTSA did not state whether the problem had caused any fires or injuries. A message seeking comment was left for a Kia spokesman.

Dealers will replace the fuel tank straps with zinc-coated parts at no cost to owners. Kia will mail letters to car owners in June, after dealers get parts to fix the problem.

3- 04- 2011

CHEVROLET The bolts that fasten the automatic transmission torque converter of some 2011 Camaros may need to be replaced. In T.S.B. 10432 issued on Jan. 3, General Motors said a campaign to replace the bolts applied to models with the 6.2-liter V-8 engine. The factory-installed bolts may not be properly sized to secure the torque converter, leading to a clanking sound.

CHRYSLER Some 2008 minivans may need new front wheel bearings. In T.S.B. K19 issued on Dec. 22, Chrysler said the bearings on Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans can develop a grinding noise. Replacing both front hub and bearing assemblies should restore silence.

Also, some minivans may develop a squeak or grinding noise at the pillar between the front and sliding doors. In T.S.B. 23-001-11 issued on Jan. 7, Chrysler said the noise, in 2008-10 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan models, can occur when driving or when opening the front or sliding doors. Lubricating the doors should stop the squeak.

DODGE Some Dakota pickups may need new software to assure proper operation of their side-impact air bags. According to T.S.B. K03, issued on Jan. 5, the air bags in some trucks from the 2005-7 model years may not deploy in a side-impact collision; the remedy is to reprogram the computer module that controls the air bags. Owners should receive a letter notifying them of this service campaign.

FORD Some 2-wheel-drive F-250 Super Duty trucks may need new rear springs. In T.S.B. 10B21 issued on Jan. 7, Ford said incorrect springs might have been installed in some 2011 models, causing the pickups to feel unstable when pulling trailers. Ford will offer free replacement springs on affected vehicles through Jan. 31, 2012. Owners should receive a letter notifying them of this campaign.

GENERAL MOTORS Some 2011 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain crossovers may have a dashboard electrical problem causing the battery to drain. In T.S.B. 11004 issued on Jan. 10, G.M. said backlighting in the instrument panel might illuminate even after the vehicle is shut off. Reprogramming the module that controls the lighting, and charging the battery, should solve the issue.

Also, some 2008-9 Cadillac CTS and 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5 models may develop a problem with their ignition locks. In T.S.B. 10256 issued on Dec. 14, G.M. said the key might get stuck in the ignition switch and the vehicle might not shut off if it is running. Replacing the ignition lock cylinder should free things up.

HONDA Civic owners may be hearing unusual noises from their car’s engine. In T.S.B. 06-060 issued on Dec. 24, Honda said some 2006-7 Civics might have a rattling noise from the right front of the vehicle, caused by a defective right-side engine mount. Replacing the engine mount should stop the racket.

MAZDA The rear window glass in some 2010-11 Tribute S.U.V.’s may break easily. In T.S.B. 0905210 issued on Dec. 2, Mazda said the glass was most susceptible to breaking in cold weather. Replacing the window with a revised design that has a through-bolt striker should prevent the breakage from recurring.

NISSAN Some 2007-9 Sentras may have a problem with their fuel filler tubes. In T.S.B. NTB09-069a issued on Dec. 10, Nissan said that the grommet that holds the top of the fuel filler tube in place might be detached. Replacing the filler tube and filler shield, and installing a new clip on the shield, should solve any problems.

SUBARU Owners of some 2010-11 models may complain of high oil consumption or see smoke coming from the exhaust. In T.S.B. 02-115-11 issued on Jan. 20, Subaru said the problem in 2010 Foresters and 2011 Legacy, Outback and Impreza models probably stems from faulty machining of the holes for the intake-valve guides. The cure requires replacement of the cylinder head.

VOLVO In some 2008-9 XC90 models, a click may be heard from the steering column when making a turn. In T.S.B. TJ19965 issued on Dec. 15, Volvo said the noise might be from an improperly built steering column. To restore peace and quiet, the column must be replaced.

30- 03- 2011

The past couple weeks haven't been kind to the 2011 Honda Odyssey. Two weeks ago, Honda issued a recall for 33,000 minivans for faulty windshield wipers, and now a second recall has been issued for faulty front driver and passenger windows that can come off track, rendering the window inoperative. This new recall covers 2,800 vehicles, which at least shows that Honda caught this problem before it became too widespread.

Honda filed the recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, adding that a supplier used a faulty primer fluid when making the glass. If the glass isn't replaced, NHTSA says on its website that "the window may shatter into the passenger cabin causing a risk of injury to the vehicle occupants."

To remedy this problem, dealers will replace the affected window glass free of charge. The recall will be officially announced on or before April 15.
29- 03- 2011

Own a 2011 Volkswagen Jetta? Be careful next time you honk your horn at that straggler holding up a green light.Volkswagen of America today announced a voluntary safety recall affecting its flagship sedans. A wiring issue could cause the car to turn off if the horn is activated, the company said.

Approximately 71,043 Jettas--manufactured from March 2010 through March 2011--are affected by a bizarre issue caused by a fault in the wiring layout, according to VW. The "electric gremlin" (a popular term in the automotive community) resides in the anti-theft alarm system and horn, which in rare circumstances can short-circuit the converter box that supplies power to the engine, among other components.

No related accidents or injuries have been reported, the automaker said.

As with most vehicle recalls, owners whose VINs fall within the recall range "will be notified via first-class mail regarding the corrective measures and anticipated repair timeline," according to Volkswagen.

This isn't the first time the German automaker has been criticized for electrical issues in its eclectic lineup of vehicles. I have a feeling those "honk if you liked your service" signs won't be popping up at Volkswagen dealerships any time soon.

25- 03- 2011

JAGUAR IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 XK AND XF VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 27, 2009, THROUGH MARCH 10, 2010. THE POWER ASSIST STEERING PIPES HAVE BEEN SUPPLIED WITH ZINC-NICKEL PLATING THAT DOES NOT MEET FULLY THE CORROSION PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS OF JAGUAR'S ENGINEERING SPECIFICATION. AFTER AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME IN SERVICE, CORROSION OF THE PAS PIPES WILL OCCUR THAT MAY LEAD TO PIN-HOLING OF THE PIPE.
Consequence:
PIN-HOLING OF THE PIPES COULD ALLOW PRESSURIZED POWER STEERING FLUID TO LEAK INTO THE UNDER-HOOD AND ENGINE BAY AREA. A LOSS OF POWER STEERING FLUID WILL RESULT IN A LOSS OF POWER ASSIST STEERING. ALSO, THAT FLUID MAY IGNITE IF IT COMES INTO CONTACT WITH AN IGNITION SOURCE OR A SURFACE AT A SUFFICIENTLY HIGH TEMPERATURE, CAUSING A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER STEERING FLUID PIPES WITH PARTS MANUFACTURED TO THE REQUIRED CORROSION PROTECTION SPECIFICATION. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGED. THE SAFETY
RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 11, 2011.

CONTINENTAL TIRE IS RECALLING CERTAIN CONTITRAC TR TIRES, SIZE LT275/70R18 125/122S OUTLINE
WHITE LETTERS AND BLACK SIDEWALL, AND CONTITRAC, SIZE LT275/70R18 125/122S, BLACK SIDEWALL,
PRODUCED FROM MAY 6, 2007, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 20, 2008, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET AND INSTALLED
AS ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT ON SOME MODEL YEAR 2008 AND 2009 FORD F-250 AND F-350 TRUCKS. SOME OF
THESE TIRES MAY EXPERIENCE UNEVEN WEAR, VIBRATION, OR PARTICULARLY UNDER CONDITIONS OF
OVERLOADING OR UNDER INFLATION IN HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE USAGE, SEPARATION BETWEEN
THE BELT EDGES.
Consequence:
SEPARATION OF THE BELT EDGES COULD LEAD TO TREAD BELT SEPARATION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy:
CONTINENTAL TIRE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED TIRES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY
RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MARCH 2011.

18-03-2011

Honda is recalling 18,056 model-year 2011 Civic compacts in the U.S. to inspect and possibly replace the fuel pump module. The module, inside the gasoline tank, may have a damaged valve that could leak fuel in event of a rollover accident, Honda said. So far, no crashes are being blamed on the valve problem. Honda plans to start officially notifying customers of the recall in about a month.

12-03-2011

General Motors Co. is recalling new models of the Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac SRX to fix a software glitch that could prevent the defroster from clearing the windshield. The recall affects more than 10,000 LaCrosse and SRX vehicles from the 2011 model year. GM says the software in the electronic climate control module could disable the ability to adjust and control the defroster and affect the driver's visibility.

Honda

Honda recalled more than 35,000 Civic hybrids in the United States on Monday to fix a problem with the electrical system that could cause the headlights to turn off or the engine to stall. Honda Motor Co.'s recall covers 2006-07 Civic hybrids. The voltage converter that relays power from the motor assist system to the vehicle's electrical components could fail. Honda has received seven reports of stalling engines and 82 warranty claims connected to the problem. Dealers will replace the voltage converter at no charge.

Jeep

Chrysler Group LLC has recalled about 20,000 Jeep Wranglers because of steering issues. The recall covers 2010-11 Wranglers over potential loose fasteners to the front and rear axles. The issue could cause poor steering and handling or cause the driver to lose control. The Wranglers were built from mid-July 2010 through mid-September 2010. The recall is expected to begin in mid-March and dealers will tighten the fasteners. Owners can call Chrysler at (800) 853-1403.

Toyota

Toyota Motor Corp. has recalled about 22,000 SUVs and trucks to address faulty tire pressure monitoring systems.The recall includes some of the 2008-11 FJ Cruisers, Land Cruisers, Sequoias, Tacomas and Tundras. The systems that monitor the vehicles' tire pressure did not comply with federal safety standards. The systems didn't illuminate on the dashboard at the minimum activation pressure and must be recalibrated.

17-02-2011

Honda Canada says it will recall 14,640 of its 2009 and 2010 Fit subcompact cars to replace a defective spring part. The Canadian-sold vehicles are among nearly 700,000 Fit, Freed and City compact cars Honda HMC-N is recalling around the world for the same reason.

The lost motion springs, which are compressed by rocker arms in normal engine use, may bend or break over time resulting in abnormal engine noise. The spring was placed improperly in a small box inside the engine, so that, in some cases, the problem could cause the engine to stall, a spokesman in Tokyo said.

Honda says owners of the affected vehicles should take their car to an authorized dealer as soon once they receive a notice by mail. Recalled are 167,000 vehicles in Japan, 156,000 in China, 233,000 in the rest of Asia and about 122,000 in North America.

Canadian Fit owners can determine if their vehicle is in need of repair by calling toll free at 1-888-946-6329.

16-02-2011

A tension adjuster pulley is the culprit in a round of recalls by Suzuki covering 2009-2011 Grand Vitaras and 2010-2011 SX4s. This pulley supports the drive belt, which runs alternator, water pump, air conditioner and power steering pump. Should the belt come off while driving, the vehicle will quickly become more difficult to steer and the engine could stall. Dealers will swap the pulley out for one that works correctly at no charge to owners of the affected vehicles. The recall begins on February 16th, 2011 and will affect 32,291 Suzuki vehicles.

04- 02 -2011

Ford Motor Co is recalling nearly 363,000 F-150 pickup trucks in North America because of a potential problem with the door handles not working properly. Model years 2009 and 2010 F-150 trucks produced from January 2008 to November 2009 are being recalled because in the event of a crash, “the door handle spring can fail, causing the door latch to open,” NHTSA said in a filing.

As of Jan. 21, there had been no reported accidents or injuries related to this issue.

Some 280,946 trucks will be recalled in the United States; about 68,000 in Canada; and about 14,000 in Mexico, Ford and NHTSA said.

Ford said customers will initially be asked to bring their F-150s to dealerships if any door handles are loose or fail to return to a stowed position. Later, once replacement parts are available, owners will be asked to bring in their trucks for inspection at Ford or Lincoln dealerships, the filing said.

02- 02- 2011

The government has opened an investigation into Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX4 sport-utility vehicles over reports of corrosion that can lead to the loss of steering.

The investigation covers about 400,000 vehicles, including Pathfinders from the 1996-2004 model years and QX4s from the 1997-2003 model years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a posting that it had received 35 reports of corrosion leading to a failure of the driver's side front strut tower, which affects the vehicle's alignment.

A failure of the strut tower could affect the steering column and make it more difficult to control the vehicle.
The government received five reports of the steering shaft breaking, leading to a loss of steering.
There have been no reports of crashes or injuries. Nissan said in a statement it was "committed to customer safety and the quick, effective resolution of safety issues and will work closely with NHTSA to investigate this issue."

26- 01- 2011
Toyota is recalling nearly 1.7 million cars, the bulk of them in Japan, for various defects that may cause fuel leakage — the latest in quality control woes for the world's No. 1 automaker. Toyota Motor Corp. said it was recalling a wide range of models, including the IS and GS Lexus luxury models in North America and the Avensis sedan and station wagon models in Europe.
There were no accidents suspected of being related to the defects, according to Toyota. Toyota said it had received 77 complaints overseas, 75 of them in North America, and more than 140 in Japan.
The largest number of the affected vehicles was in Japan at nearly 1.3 million — the second-largest auto recall in the nation's history — and involving two different problems.
The latest recall will cost Toyota about 20 billion yen ($240-million U.S.), but that won't dent its earnings performance by much. But there is that perception of here we go again, and that hurts Toyota's image, especially in North America.
In one of the problems announced Wednesday, an improper installation of a sensor to measure fuel pressure may cause the sensor to loosen as a result of engine vibration over time, and possibly cause fuel leakage, the company said. That problem also affects 280,000 Lexus cars sold abroad, 255,000 of them in North America and 10,000 in Europe.
Included under that recall are the 2006 through 2007 Lexus GS300/350, 2006 through early 2009 Lexus IS250, and 2006 through early 2008 Lexus IS350 sold in the U.S.
The second problem, which affects 141,000 Avensis cars sold in Europe, and New Zealand, was caused by irregular work on the fuel pipe, which may cause cracks and fuel leakage, Toyota said.

13-01-2011

Honda Accord and CR-V--Wiring harness

Honda is recalling over 2,200 2010 Accord four-cylinder and CR-V vehicles due to a potential problem with the engine wire harness. The wire harness coupler could have been damaged during vehicle assembly, which could cause the engine to stall or sparks to fire intermittently. According to Honda, no accidents or injuries have been reported. Dealers will replace the ignition wiring harness connector free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in February.

8-01-2011

ACURA
Some MDX and TL models may squeak when started. In T.S.B. 10-035 issued on Nov. 19, Acura said the noise in some 2007-8 MDXs and 2008 TLs comes from the engine’s accessory drive belt, but the underlying cause is a misaligned air-conditioning compressor. Using properly sized bolts to hold the compressor in place, and replacing the belt, should stop the noisy startup.

Also, some RDX crossovers may leak oil from the cylinder head cover. In T.S.B. 10-049 issued on Nov. 24, Acura said the leak in 2007-11 models was probably caused by paint overspray in the gasket groove. Removing the cylinder head cover and sanding the paint overspray in the groove — and replacing the gasket, if needed — should stop the leak.

AUDI
Some models with V-6 engines may be eligible for a new water pump. In T.S.B. 191017 issued on Nov. 1, Audi said 2009-10 A4, S4, A5, A6 and Q5 models and 2010 A5 and S5 Cabriolets may need a new pump to stop water leaks. Eligible vehicles can have a new pump installed free until Jan. 4, 2012. Owners should receive a letter of notification.

CHRYSLER
Some 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans may need new front wheel bearings. In T.S.B. K19 issued on Dec. 22, Chrysler said the bearings on 52,000 of the minivans might develop a growling or grinding noise. The bearings on both front wheels will be replaced and lubricated on all affected vehicles.

FORD
A number of 2010 all-wheel-drive models may need a replacement of the driveline unit that transfers power front and rear. In T.S.B. 10-22-4 issued on Nov. 22, Ford said the vehicles might vibrate during a tight turn or thump on light acceleration. The vehicles include the Ford Fusion, Taurus, Edge and Flex; Mercury Milan; and Lincoln MKS, MKT, MKX and MKZ.

GENERAL MOTORS
Some midsize vehicles may be eligible for an extended warranty on the catalytic converter. In T.S.B. 10134 issued on Nov. 17, G.M. said some 2006-7 Chevrolet Malibus with 2.2-liter engines and Pontiac G6s with 2.4-liter engines qualify for a 10-year, 120,000-mile warranty, versus the standard 8-year, 80,000-mile warranty. The insulating mat inside the converter may erode, setting off the check-engine light.

HONDA
Some 2011 vehicles may leak oil from the rear of the cylinder head cover. In T.S.B. 10-072 issued on Dec. 3, Honda said a manufacturing problem with one of the rocker shaft holders might cause the leak in Accords and CR-Vs. Replacing the shaft set should seal things up.

HYUNDAI
Some 2011 Santa Fe models may need new rear brake calipers. In T.S.B. 10-01-048 issued on Dec. 1, Hyundai said the calipers might have been improperly machined, resulting in a loss of brake fluid and illumination of the brake fluid warning lamp. Hyundai will replace the affected calipers, which should stop the leak and improve stopping.

INFINITI
Some QX56 S.U.V.’s may sag at the rear. In T.S.B. 10-073 issued on Dec. 10, Infiniti said air leaks in the shock absorbers of 2004-10 models may cause the problem. Replacing the shocks should level things out.

MERCEDES-BENZ
Some 2010 S400 Hybrids are part of a service campaign to reroute wiring harnesses. In T.S.B. 2010080002 issued on Sept. 10, Mercedes said the wiring harness for the air-conditioner compressor might have been routed incorrectly. It is being relocated to release tension and prevent chafing against other parts of the engine.

Also, 2010 GLKs may need their right-side underbody seam inspected. In T.S.B. 2010090001 issued on Sept. 1, Mercedes said insufficient sealant might have been applied to the seams. More sealant will be added if needed.

TOYOTA
Some Prius models may be eligible for a water pump replacement. In T.S.B. SC-A0N issued on Nov. 23, Toyota said that in some 2004-7 vehicles air might remain at the bearing of the pump, causing it to delay pumping water. This could raise the temperature of the coolant and set off the check engine light. Toyota will replace the pumps on affected vehicles regardless of warranty status. Owners should receive a letter of notification.

31-12- 2010

US carmakers, Chrysler and Ford Motor are recalling a total of 160,000 vehicles over four separate defects, the latest in a series of recalls that have engulfed the US automobile industry.

The US government, especially the transportation watchdog National Highway Traffic Safety Administration should seriously consider bringing out a 'white paper' on the reasons for the US automobile industry malady in making more than 19 million recalls in a span of 12 months.

In the current recall, Chrysler is recalling more than 144,000 Dodge and Ram vehicles to deal with three separate defects, while Ford is recalling about 15,000 trucks and sport-utility vehicles over a potential short circuit in the vehicles' electronic components of the body control module that may lead to a fire.

In one recall, Chrysler is recalling 65,180 Dodge Journey sports-utility vehicles manufactured from 1 November 2007 to 7 September 2008 to fix front-door wiring harnesses that could lead to inoperative side-impact airbags.
In the second recall, Chrysler is recalling 56,611 Ram 1500 pickup trucks from the 2011 model year since the rear axle in the pickup trucks makes a grinding noise, which can sooner or later seize thereby increasing the risk for a crash.
Lastly, Chrysler is recalling 22,274 Ram 4500 and 5500 pickup trucks from the 2008-11 model years because a fault in a steering component that could potentially lead to loss of vehicle control and increase the risk for a crash.

Although the US government will not put out its official report until next week on the total number of vehicles recalled this year, analysts say that 2010 was the worst year in the US for vehicle recalls since 2004.
It is estimated that more than 19 million recalls were made in the US and Canada this year, with Japanese carmaker Toyota leading the recalls having recalled more than 11 million vehicles since the last half of last year.

24-12-2010

Honda Motor Co. is recalling several of its vehicles in the United States. Honda said it is recalling about 10,800
Accord sedans and Pilot sport utility vehicles to prevent possible front suspension failure.
The automaker says the recall covers late model year 2010-11 Accord sedans and 2011 Pilot SUVs.
Honda says problems with the machinery used to tighten spindle nuts on the front axles on both vehicles could
cause the front suspension to fail.

Moreover, Honda also is recalling about 35,000 Passport sport utility vehicles to inspect brackets on the rear
suspension that could detach and lead to a crash.

The recall involves Passports from the 1998 to 2002 model years and is limited to states where road salt is used
during the winter. Honda says the front bracket of the rear suspension lower trailing links could corrode and the bracket could breakoff from the frame.

23-12-2010

General Motors Co. is recalling almost 100,000 vehicles to fix two problems that could cause the rear axle cross pin to shift
out of place and the passenger-side airbag not to work. GM said in postings with the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration that the airbag recall affects almost 96,000 2005 to 2007 model year versions of the Cadillac CTS.

The auto maker said that repeated flexing of the sensing mat in the passenger seat can cause the mat to bend or fold so
much that the sensor may not detect a passenger is sitting in the seat. Therefore, the sensor wouldn't activate the airbag
in the event of a crash.

The axle recall affects almost 1,300 2011 model year versions of the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Avalanche,
Silverado 1500, as well as the GMC Sierra 1500.

GM said the rear axle's cross pin could fracture, becoming displaced within the axle and possibly causing the vehicle to
crash without warning. The company added that drivers may hear a banging noise from the axle if the pin has shifted
out of position. Dealers will replace sensing systems and rear axle cross pins free of charge.

The axle recall is expected to begin in January. GM did not say when the airbag recall would begin.

17-12-2010

VW recalls cars over risk fuel lines could chafe, leak

Golf, Rabbit, Jetta and New Beetle covered

Volkswagen said on Wednesday it would recall over 413,000 cars in the United States and Canada for the risk
that they could develop fuel leaks and potentially catch fire. The recall covers the Golf, Rabbit, Jetta and Jetta
Sportwagen models from the 2007 to 2009 model years. The New Beetle from the 2006 to 2010 model years is
also covered under the recall, VW said.

Of the total, 377,000 of the cars are being recalled in the United States with the remainder in Canada, VW said.

The automaker said that the Golf, Rabbit and Jetta models have a plastic tab on the windshield fluid container that
could rub against a fuel line and cause a leak to develop.

In the case of the New Beetle, a fastening clamp that is part of the power steering system could cause the same kind
of problem, the automaker said in a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

All of the vehicles are manufactured in Mexico and shipped to the United States and Canada.

In addition, dealers will either remove the potentially risky plastic tab from the Golf, Rabbit and Jetta models or adjust
the problematic clamp in the case of the Beetle, VW said.

Chrysler Group LLC is recalling 367,350 Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans in the U.S., citing air bags
that may inadvertently deploy. Water leaks in the 2008 model year minivans may cause a warning light to illuminate and the
air bags to inflate, Auburn Hills, Michigan-based Chrysler said in a voluntary recall notice posted on the U.S. National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration’s website today. The leaks are caused by improperly assembled heating and cooling system drain grommets, Chrysler said. Some vehicles may have an improperly installed HVAC hose grommet that could cause moisture to collect on the floor and damage the air bag deployment module,

Honda Motor Co. HMC-N said on Thursday it would recall about 1.35 million Fit subcompacts globally to repair defective
wiring in the headlights. No accident was reported from the defect, a Honda spokesman in Tokyo said. The company said the Canadian model is not affected because it has a different wiring system than the recalled vehicles in order to comply with laws that require daytime running lights. Subject to the recall are Fit cars built at Honda’s Suzuka factory in Japan between November 2001 and October 2007. About 735,000 units will be recalled in Japan, where the Fit is the second most popular car behind Toyota Motor Corp’s Prius, excluding 660cc minivehicles. Honda will also recall 143,000 Fits exported to the United States, and 385,000 units in Europe, where the model is called the Jazz. The car will also be recalled in the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

14-December-2010

Toyota has issued a voluntary recall for approximately 94,000 2011 Sienna minivans produced before the beginning of November 2010. The recall is a result of a Stop Lamp Switch Bracket placed near the parking brake. When the parking brake is fully applied it may deform the switch bracket. This could result in the brake lights remaining lit or even partial engagement of the brakes resulting in a reduction of brake effectiveness over time.

No other vehicles have been affected by the issue and no accidents or injuries have been reported as of a result. Owners of affected vehicles will receive a notice in the mail by the middle of January, which contains instructions on how to handle any affects they might feel if their switch bracket has been deformed. A second notice will be sent out in February to inform customers that replacement parts are now available and appointments can be made with local Toyota service departments.

10-December-2010

2011 Kia Sorento

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, certain 2011 Kia Sorento models were fitted with rear brake calipers that were improperly machined. Says NHTSA: “As a result, brake fluid will leak, followed by illumination of the malfunction indicator light indicating the brake fluid level is low and should be checked, then a soft or spongy brake pedal feel, and if not serviced, reduced braking power which could increase the risk of a crash.” Naturally, the owner’s preferred Kia dealership will inspect and replace the rear calipers if necessary at no charge.

2009-2010 Mazda5

Mazda is recalling more than 16,000 Mazda5 vehicles with a fuel system issue. As a result of variations in the fuel tank leak check test performed before vehicle assembly, water might not have been completely removed from the harness connector of the fuel pump. This could cause the connector pin to corrode and the pin to break. That could lead to an inoperative fuel pump, engine stall, and the inability to restart the engine, which increases the risk of an accident. Dealers will inspect the fuel pump connector and replace at no charge. Owners may contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500.

2009-2011 Volvo S40, S60, V50 and 2010-2011 Volvo XC60

Volvo is recalling more than 7,400 cars and SUVs for an issue with the power front passenger seats. The front seat rail’s direction system was manufactured incorrectly and might permit the passenger to move the seat beyond the intended maximum. That could increase the risk of injury to the passenger in a crash. Dealers will inspect the seat rails for an “end stop” and fix it free of charge. Drivers may contact Volvo at 1-800-458-1552.

30-November-2010

Toyota is fixing the pumps that cool the hybrid system in 650,000 Prius cars – the Japanese automaker's prized green vehicle
– but is adamant the repair being carried out worldwide isn't another recall. Toyota Motor Corp. said Tuesday the coolant pump
in Prius cars for model years 2004 through to 2007 is being replaced because it doesn't work properly. But the Japanese
automaker is calling the move a “customer satisfaction campaign” because the problem doesn't warrant a recall under regulations where the vehicles have been sold, according to Nolasco. The car's hybrid system switches off when the problem occurs and the vehicle's regular gasoline engine takes over, he said. Of the Prius cars that need fixing, 390,000 are in North America
and 180,000 are in Japan. The problem also affects 70,000 Prius vehicles in Europe.

28-November-2010

FORD MOTOR Some 2011 Fiestas may develop an engine misfire because of dripping coolant. In T.S.B. 10-19-5 issued
on Oct. 11, Ford says a leak from the valve cover breather may let coolant reach the spark plug. Replacing the leaky part
should stop the seepage and the misfire.

GENERAL MOTORS Some 2011 G.M. pickup trucks may need a shield on a radiator hose to prevent chafing that could
cause the hose to puncture. In T.S.B. 10246 issued on Sept. 15, G.M. says a protective sleeve is needed on some Chevrolet Silverados and GMC Sierras to keep the hose from rubbing on the radiator fan shroud, which could result in a leak.

Also, some Cadillacs are receiving an extended warranty on their catalytic converters. In T.S.B. 10127 issued on Sept. 30,
G.M. says some 2005 STS and 2004-5 SRX models with the 4.6-liter engine may have the check-engine light illuminate,
lack engine power or rattle from underneath. The warranty is being extended to 12 years or 200,000 miles from 4 years
or 50,000 miles.

INFINITI Some 2007-8 FX35 and FX45 models with intelligent cruise control may not be recording accurate speed or
mileage. In T.S.B. 10-065 issued on Oct. 21, Infiniti said that replacing the cruise control unit and recalibrating the
speedometer and odometer should solve the problem.

KIA Some 2011 Sorentos may clunk or squeal from the intermediate axle shaft. In T.S.B. SCO82R5 issued on Oct. 27,
Kia told dealers they should repair affected vehicles with 2.4-liter engines whether or not owners had complained.
The repair involves machining the intermediate shaft bearing bracket and adding grease to the transmission shaft splines.

Also, some 2011 Sorentos with the 3.5-liter engine may have the battery light come on. In T.S.B. ELE014 issued on
Oct. 22, Kia said the alternator on affected vehicles should be replaced. Vehicles outside the production range in the
bulletin will have alternators replaced if customers report that the battery light is illuminating.

SCION In response to a class-action lawsuit, some 2006 Scion xBs will get extended warranty coverage for their windshields.
In T.S.B. CSP issued on Aug. 24, Scion’s parent, Toyota, says that as part of the settlement, warranties on windshields for approximately 90,000 affected vehicles will be extended to 5 years or 60,000 miles, from 3 years and 36,000 miles. The suit contended the windshields were prone to cracking. Information is available at XbWindshieldSettlement.com.

SUBARU Some 2010 Legacy and Outback models may have a front-end squeak over rough roads. In T.S.B. 05-49-10R
issued on Sept. 21, Subaru says the coil springs are probably rubbing the lower strut bracket, because some models had
springs installed that were slightly larger than normal. Replacing the springs should quiet things down.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into a possible fire hazard on 150,000
Honda CR-Vs from the 2006 model year. In a recent filing, the agency said it opened the investigation after three owners
complained of fires involving the master power window switch in the driver’s door.

In January, Honda recalled about 141,000 Fits from the 2007-08 model years for a fire hazard involving the master power
switch in the driver’s door.

Volvo is recalling about 6,000 of its 2011 models because the engine may stall. The models are the S80, S60, XC70 and
XC60. Volvo told the agency: “The engine and transmission software calibration is too sensitive. When the driver is braking
during city driving, and/or releases the accelerator pedal, the engine idle speed may drop, resulting in a sudden engine stall
without any prior warning.”

N.H.T.S.A. has begun an investigation into about 41,000 Kia Optimas after receiving complaints that the automatic transmission cable may come loose. It was prompted by three complaints that the transmission could not be shifted, including one who said the vehicle rolled away. The agency noted that in 2007 Kia had warned dealers of such a problem.

12-November-2010

Jaguar XJ

Jaguar is recalling 6,475 2010-'11 XJ sedans because the windshield wipers could detach from the vehicle. Jaguar said it is not aware of any customer reports of accidents or injuries attributed to this defect.The recall is expected to begin on December 13.
Jaguar is recalling 6,475 2010-'11 XJ sedans because the windshield wipers could detach from the car, according tothe
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. "The front wiper arms to spindle fixings were not torqued to specification
during manufacturing," said NHTSA in its recalls summary of the problem. "As a result, the securing nuts could fail to perform
as intended, resulting in a loss of wiper arm synchronization and a clash of the wiper arms. If the wiper arms lose
synchronization and clash, they could detach from the vehicle, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash."
In other documentation filed with the federal government, Jaguar said it is not aware of any customer reports of accidents or injuries attributed to this defect. Jaguar dealers will ensure the wiper arms are fitted securely onto the spindle and the securing nuts will be tightened to the correct torque. The recall is expected to begin on December 13. Owners can contact Jaguar at (800) 637-6837.

11-November-2010

Nissan Motor Co. is recalling more than 600,000 vehicles in North America due to steering or battery cable problems.The
Japanese automaker said the steering recall affects 303,000 Frontier pickup trucks and 283,000 Xterra sport utility vehicles
in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil and other Latin American countries.
Nissan said a corrosion problem with the lower steering column joint and shaft can limit steering movement, making the
vehicles difficult to steer. In some cases the corrosion can cause the joint to crack. Nissan also is recalling 18,500 Sentra
sedans because of a battery cable terminal connector problem that can make the cars difficult to start or stall at low speeds.

In Canada, a total of 16,300 vehicles are being recalled -- 4,500 Frontiers, 9,900 Xterras and 1,900 Sentras

The company says no injuries or accidents have been reported because of either issue.

The Frontiers covered by the recall are from the 2002 through 2004 model years.

Nissan also said it will replace the positive battery cable terminal on affected Sentras. The vehicles were built at the
Aguascalientes, Mexico, plant.

General Motors will recall 14,245 Cadillac DTS and Buick Lucerne cars with V8 engines because of a potential problem with
the starter and alternator cables that can cause fires. The cables can come into contact with the power steering return line,
GM said in a statement. This can lead to a leak in power-steering fluid, battery drain and a hole in the line. If the power
steering fluid comes into contact with hot metal in the engine, this could cause a fire. There have been four fires reported
but no injuries GM said.
The cars affected are from the 2010 and 2011 model years.

29-October-2010

Suzuki is recalling 69,587 2007-'10 SX4 vehicles because the outside mirrors can fall off, according to the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration. The vehicles include the 2007 Suzuki SX4 hatchback and the 2008-'10 SX4 hatchback and sedan. "The three screws that secure each of the outside rearview mirrors to the mirror base can come loose due to vibration," said
NHTSA in its recalls summary of the problem. "If a rearview mirror falls off the vehicle, the driver will have reduced visibility,
increasing the risk of a crash." In other documentation filed with the federal government, Suzuki noted that "after investigation,
it was determined that the cause of the reported condition was that the supplier had eliminated use of adhesive (thread lock)
on the screws that secure the mirror to the mirror base." The recall is expected to begin on November 10.
Suzuki dealers will replace the base screws on both outside rearview mirrors.

28-October-2010

Nissan is recalling 2.14 million vehicles in the U.S., Japan, Europe and Asia, including the popular March and Mycra
subcompacts, for an ignition problem that may stall the engine – its third-largest recall ever. No accidents have been
reported that are suspected of being caused by the defect, according to Nissan Motor Co.

A problem was found in an ignition-system part called the relay for vehicles produced from August 2003 through
July 2006, including small cars like the March, Cube and Note, and about a dozen other models, such as the Tiida
sedan, Titan pickup and Infiniti QX56 luxury model. In extreme cases, the engine will stall and won't be able to start,
said Nissan.

Of the recalled vehicles, nearly 835,000 were produced in Japan, 762,000 in North America, and 354,000 in Europe.

Nissan, which is allied with Renault SA of France, did not disclose a cost for the recall, but it may be relatively cheap
requiring just a half hour to fix. The cars were produced in Japan, the U.S., Great Britain, Spain, China and Taiwan.

The massive numbers involved in recent recalls are linked to cost-cutting strategies that result in the same parts being
used in many models.

22-October-2010

Toyota is recalling 1.53 million Lexus, Avalon and other models, mostly in the U.S. and Japan, for brake fluid and
fuel pump problems, the latest in a string of quality problems for the world's No. 1 auto maker.

Toyota Motor Corp. said Thursday it will call back for repairs about 740,000 cars in the U.S. and 599,000 in Japan.
The remainder are in Europe and other markets around the world.

The majority of vehicles this time around need to be fixed for a problem with the brake master cylinder, which could
lead to weaker braking power.

The models affected by the latest recall in the U.S. include the 2005 and 2006 Avalon, 2004 through 2006 non-hybrid
Highlander and Lexus RX330, and 2006 Lexus GS300, IS250, and IS350 vehicles.

A small amount of the brake fluid could slowly leak from the brake master cylinder, resulting in illumination of the
brake warning lamp.

And Honda too..........

Honda has announced that it's recalling a total of 470,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to the same failing master cylinder
problem that caused Toyota to recall 1.66 million vehicles worldwide this week.

The two automakers used the same supplier for the part, and when owners use a type of brake fluid other than what's
used at the factory, a seal within the master cylinder may fail, causing a leak that could eventually lead to loss of
braking power altogether. Honda says that a warning light would illuminate before this happened, however.

The Honda recall covers 2005-2007 Acura RL models and 2005-2007 Honda Odyssey minivans.

Honda says that at this point, it doesn't know how many of its vehicles have suffered a master cylinder failure nor how
many have leaked. The company says it will replace the faulty seal and, if leaking has occurred, the brake booster will
be replaced as well. There's no set schedule for fixing those vehicles that are impacted by the recall, but owners should
expect to hear something soon.

20-October-2010

Chrysler Group is recalling 26,397 cars and trucks to repair power-steering hoses that may become disconnected
and leak fluid, raising the potential for vehicle fires. Models involved include the Chrysler Sebring and 300 and the
Dodge Challenger, Charger, Avenger and Journey from the 2010 model year, as well as 2011 Ram light-duty
pickup trucks, according to a recall notice posted on the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration website.
On some of the vehicles, the crimped end of the power-steering pressure hose may separate from the power-steering
assembly, resulting in fluid leaking onto hot engine parts and possibly igniting a fire, NHTSA said.
As a remedy, dealers will inspect and replace the power-steering hoses as necessary, at no cost to owners of the
recalled vehicles. Recall notices are expected to begin being sent out this month, the agency said.
In June, Chrysler recalled nearly 600,000 vehicles for a wide range of problems including failing brakes, sticky
accelerators and electrical fires. Among models recalled at the time were nearly 290,000 Jeep Wrangler sport
utility vehicles from model years 2007 through 2010 that could experience brake failures caused by leaking brake fluid.

19-October-2010

Toyota to repair engine belt on Corolla, Matrix

Toyota Motor Corp in the United States has told its dealers to fix some 2010 Corolla and Matrix models because an
accessory engine belt may deteriorate and detach, according to a notice to dealers. About 10,750 vehicles may be affected
by the "limited service campaign." There are about 9,400 Corollas that could have the accessory belt issue,
and 1,350 Matrix vehicles. The cars affected have the 2ZR-FE engine. The engine accessory belt used to transfer force from
the engine to the air conditioner, alternator and water pump may pull free from pulleys. The engine may overheat, the notice said.
Dealers will inspect the belts and fix the issue at no charge. It will take about a half hour of shop time to make the fix, and about
half of the fan belts in the vehicles covered in the repair campaign are expected to require replacement, the notice to dealers said.
Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by mail in mid-October, the notice said.
The vehicles were assembled in North America in February and March of this year, the notice said.

17-October-2010

ACURA A steering rack squeal could be an unfortunate turn of events for some TSX owners. In T.S.B. 10-025 issued on Aug. 17, Acura says the squeak in 2004-8 models is probably caused by a deformed seal in the steering rack. Replacing the steering rack end seals — a 115-step process -- should put a new twist on things.

AUDI Some Q7s may leak transfer case oil. In T.S.B. 391005 issued on Aug. 3, Audi says the input shaft seal on some 2006-7 models may have been damaged during installation, while in other cases the output flange shaft may have come loose. A new input shaft seal is needed if it is the only piece that leaks; otherwise, a new transfer case is in order.

BMW Here’s why drivers start to think their cars may be possessed by demons: when unlocking some BMWs with the key fob, the driver’s outside mirror moves. In T.S.B. 513608 issued on July 1, BMW says some 3 Series sedans and wagons from the 2008 model year may experience the problem. Corrosion on the connection at the mirror or poor connections between the mirror and the footwell module could be causing the footwell module to calculate the mirror position incorrectly. Cleaning and checking connections should stop the supernatural effect.

CHRYSLER A repair program to replace shift interlock spring levers on Sebrings and Dodge Avengers is under way. In T.S.B. K16 issued on Aug. 30, Chrysler said the interlock spring retainer hook on about 278,000 of the 2007-8 models might break, causing the vehicles to remain stuck in Park. Hooks will be inspected, and those that seem weak will have a steel reinforcement clip installed. Owners should receive a letter informing them of this campaign.

FORD MOTOR Some Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner crossovers may have leaking windshield washer nozzles. In T.S.B. 10-13-1 issued on July 19, Ford says the leak while driving the 2008-10 models can be corrected with a service kit with check valves and elbows.

GENERAL MOTORS Some G.M. crossover owners in Northern states may experience brake trouble in extreme cold conditions. In T.S.B. 09051A issued on Aug. 25, G.M. said some 2009 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook models might have a temporary loss of power assist when the temperature dropped below minus 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Replacing the brake booster vacuum hose check valve with a new design should take the scare out of stopping on cold days. HONDA Some Civics may qualify for an extended warranty on the engine block. In T.S.B. 10-048 issued on Aug. 17, Honda says the blocks on 2006-8 and some early 2009 Civics may leak coolant. The company is extending the warranty on the blocks to eight years with no mileage limitation, from five years or 60,000 miles.

JAGUAR Some 2006-8 S-Types may emit a ticking or bubbling noise from the instrument panel when the climate control system is on. In T.S.B. JTB000663 issued on May 14, Jaguar says the noise may be from blend-door actuators giving incorrect feedback to the climate control module, causing the blend doors to move constantly. Replacing the actuators for the defrost, footwell and instrument panel blowers and the recirculation intake should stop the doors from dancing.

MINI Some convertible tops may come undone. In T.S.B. M540209 issued on Sept. 1, Mini’s parent company, BMW, said the soft top cover might separate from the body in 2009 and newer models, causing water leaks and noise at high speeds. Reinforcing the affected areas with a special kit should help to avoid a complete convertible top replacement.

NISSAN Owners of some older models may notice it takes longer than usual to start their cars. In T.S.B. 05-052B issued on Sept. 1, Nissan says the problem affects some 2002-6 Sentras and Altimas. If the engine takes longer than three seconds to start, it may benefit from a fuel pump repair kit, which includes a new pump seal, a new pump support, filter and pressure regulator.

8-October-2010

General Motors announced on Thursday that it is conducting a voluntary safety recall of its 2010 Cadillac SRX crossover model.
The recall affects SRX models produced in December 2009, which amount to 3,996 total vehicles, GM said in a statement.
The company said the repairs will address possible damage to power steering lines.

The luxury crossovers are being recalled in order to investigate possible damage to the power steering line. If the line has been
damaged, a resulting leak of power steering fluid could potentially spray onto hot engine parts, causing an engine fire.
GM has said that it is aware of one instance of the problem in an unattended SRX, however no crashes or injuries
have been reported.

Owners should pay close attention to any leaking fluid. If you notice any power steering fluid on the floor of your garage or
driveway, he said, you should make an appointment to have the problem repaired with your local dealer as soon as possible.

6-October-2010

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been on top of corrosion issues of late, with the recent recall
of Toyota Tundra models for excessive frame rust and an investigation of the Ford Windstar for a similar issue.
Now it's Isuzu and Honda's turn under the rust recall spotlight, as the 1998-2002 Rodeo and 2002 Axiom and the
Rodeo's badge-engineered twin, the 1998-2002 Honda Passport are being recalled in cold weather climates for
potential rear suspension corrosion issues.

In areas where highly corrosive materials like road salt are used to clear roads these vehicles can in some instances
experience "excessive corrosion in the vicinity of the forward mounting point bracket for the left or right rear suspension
lower link." In a worst-case scenario, the corrosion could lead to the rear suspension lower link bracket detaching from
the frame. And if it happens while the vehicle is in motion, handling could become compromised,
leading to a potentially crash.

Owners of the affected vehicles can head to the nearest dealer (Hondas go to Honda dealers and Isuzus go to
Isuzu dealers) for an inspection and possible repair. If the vehicle is observed to be relatively rust free, the rear
suspension area will be treated with an anti-corrosive compound. If rust is already setting in a reinforcement
bracket will be installed. If that doesn't work, dealer technicians will cook up "an appropriate remedy."

1-October-2010

German luxury automaker BMW said on Friday it was recalling 350,800 BMW and Rolls-Royce vehicles worldwide
owing to brake problems that a spokesman stressed were "without danger".he total, 5,800 vehicles were limousines
built by Rolls-Royce in Britain, a BMW spokesman told AFP.

In the United States, BMW has recalled 198,000 vehicles but the problem was "without danger" for passengers.The problem
concerned braking systems that could become "slightly more difficult to use" following an extended period of operation.
In Britain, a BMW spokesman told AFP: "It's a voluntary recall, we took it upon ourselves. It affects large-engined 5, 6
and 7-series (BMWs) and Rolls Royce" cars.

Large engined models are those equipped with V8 and V12 engines.

"The potential fault is a small leak that could develop in the power-assisted braking system ... if there is a leak the car
would lose some breaking power but should still be able to stop," the UK spokesman said.

Last year, BMW sold 1,068,770 of its own brand automobiles and 1,002 Rolls-Royce worldwide.

3-September-2010

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced a recall on two Kia vehicles – the 2010 Soul and 2011 Sorento
– to replace interior lighting wiring harnesses. These faulty units, supplied by JCI, can apparently cause an electrical short
resulting in a fire. This recall affects 35,185 vehicles manufactured between September 7, 2009 and July 30, 2010.
In the Soul, the wiring harnesses in question are located in the front doors and control the funky accent illumination in the speakers.
The Sorento has similar problems, but these wires power the lighting in both the front and rear door trim panels.
The full recall is expected to begin within the coming weeks and dealers will inspect and fix the faulty wiring harnesses free
of charge.

23-Aug-2010

Ford Motor Co. F-N is recalling about 575,000 Windstar vans in 21 cold-weather U.S. states and Canada from model years
1998 to 2003 because of the possibility that the rear axle may fracture due to corrosion, federal regulators reported Friday.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened a preliminary investigation of the problem on May 13 after
receiving 234 reports of rear axle fractures and two minor crashes. The number of complaints has risen to 950.
NHTSA said the design of the axle appears to allow it to collect road salt slush, leading to rust.
The recalls total about 463,000 in the United States, and the remaining in Canada, a Ford spokesman said.
Windstar owners will be asked to bring their vans into Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealerships for inspection of the axle.
If the axle shows a crack, owners will be offered a repair or alternative transportation until parts are available.
If there is no cracking, owners will be informed when to return to have reinforcing brackets placed on the axle.

20-Aug-2010

Mazda is recalling 215,000 Mazda3 compact sedans and Mazda5 five-door vehicles in the U.S. to fix a problem that
could result in sudden loss of power steering assist. An additional 100,000 are being recalled in Canada and Mexico.
The recall to replace the power steering pump covers 2007-09 Mazda3s. It also covers Mazda5s built from April 2007
through November 2008.

Mazda says it has no reports of crashes or injuries tied to the problem. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
opened a preliminary inquiry in June into the steering issues with the 2007-09 Mazda3s after getting 33 complaints that
included three crashes.

The recall notice posted on NHTSA's site says that "due to short supply of parts," there will a two phases of owner notification
letters that may run through February. The Associated Press reported that Mazda started fixing vehicles in Japan for the same
problem last year and has investigated the issue for two years and that Mazda said in a letter to NHTSA last week:

* It was first informed of similar steering problems in Japan in March 2008.

* After receiving additional reports, the company began its own probe in July 2008.

* By the summer of 2009, Mazda said it found that the problem was caused by rust forming inside the high-pressure pipe
in the power steering system. Rust particles could enter the power steering pump, causing it to go into a fail safe mode and
shut down to avoid overheating.

* Mazda conducted an "improvement campaign" last summer to repair vehicles in Japan "due to a high occurrence rate
of this problem." Mazda stopped short of a recall in North America, issuing a technical service bulletin to dealers since the
"occurrence rate was low." The service bulletin included repair procedures for customers who reported the steering problems.

* In the spring of 2010, Mazda "realized the occurrence rate was increasing in the North American market and then we
began to study further field action for the market."

* Mazda "recognizes that there is no unreasonable safety risk" but decided to conduct a voluntary recall "since we do
not want any delay for field action on this issue."

30-July-2010

Toyota has announced a voluntary recall of 4,200 Avalon vehicles sold in Canada to correct a steering problem.

Toyota Canada announced Thursday it is recalling Toyota Avalon vehicles manufactured in the 2000 to 2004 model years
because of an improper casting of the steering lock bar, a component of the steering system.

"If the vehicle while being driven is steered to the right with sufficient lateral acceleration, a broken and loose lock bar may
move toward the steering shaft. If the engagement hole in the shaft happens to line up at the specific time the broken lock
bar has moved, this could cause the steering wheel lock bar to engage, locking the steering wheel, and increasing the risk
of a crash," Toyota said. The company said it is unaware of any accidents related to this condition.
Toyota will replace the steering column on vehicles involved in the recall. Owners will be notified by mail.

Once again, Subaru's mainstay models, the Outback and Legacy, appear to be girding for a recall. Both models have
already faced callbacks for leaky CVT hoseswiring issues, but according to Inside Line, a new issue affecting a number
of manual transmission-equipped 2010 and 2011 models will not only precipitate another recall, but also a stop-sale
on all potentially-affected vehicles.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the oil lubrication hole in the six-speed manual
transmission has not been drilled on the affected vehicles, which can cause gears to break.

NHTSA issued a statement, saying:"If the transmission gears are not properly lubricated, a groaning sound may begin to
develop, alerting the driver to a problem. If this sound is ignored and no action is taken, the gears will eventually break
and this condition will lead to vehicle power loss, possibly resulting in a crash."

Vehicles will be repaired, free of charge, at any Subaru dealer in America. Most will simply have an oil lubrication hole
drilled, though the automaker has informed its dealer network that vehicles with 6,250 miles or more will require the
replacement of the third through sixth gearsets, as well as the main shaft.

A total of 809 Outback and Legacy models are affected by this recall, which is expected to officially go into effect on
August 6. In the meantime, owners are urged to contact their local dealers as soon as possible to have this problem
corrected.

Nissan faces a predicament involving 2009 and 2010 model year Cube hatchbacks, and the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration has issued a full recall, covering 46,000 Cubes built between
January 30, 2009 and July 30, 2010.

Much like the HS hybrid, NHSTA cites that the amount of fuel leakage following a rear-moving barrier crash "exceeds the
allowable limits," and that this could result in a fire. While a fuel leak is bad news, it's important to note that this NHTSA test
isn't simply a case of a simple crash test and resultant fuel leak – the government agency's methodology includes striking the
vehicle from the rear with a deformable barrier at 50 mph with a 70 percent overlap. Post-impact, the vehicle is then spun
on its longitudinal axis degree-by-degree for a total of 90 degrees, somewhere along which a fuel leak was detected.
While any fuel spillage is a bad thing, we suspect you can put any images of the massively overblown Ford Pinto debacle
out of your head right now.

In any case, the full recall is expected to start on or before August 30. To fix the problem, dealers will install a special
protector to the gasoline recirculation tube where it meets with the filler neck connector. Naturally, the service will be
performed free of charge at any authorized Nissan dealer.

13-July-2010

SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 OUTBACK AND LEGACY PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 16, 2009 THROUGH APRIL 12, 2010. THE WIRING IN THE STEERING COLUMN ELECTRICAL ROLL CONNECTOR LOCATED BEHIND THE VEHICLE'S STEERING WHEEL MAY DEVELOP STRESS CRACKS AND EVENTUALLY BREAK. IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN CERTAIN ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS MAY NOT OPERATE AS INTENDED.
Consequence: POSSIBLE CIRCUITS AFFECTED ARE THE DRIVER'S FRONTAL AIRBAG, PADDLE SHIFTER FUNCTION, CRUISE CONTROL, HORN CONTROL AND RADIO FUNCTIONS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL CHECK LOT NUMBER OF THE STEERING ROLL CONNECTOR. THE ROLL CONNECTOR WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE IF THE LOT NUMBER SHOWED ANY AFFECTED RANGE OF THE FAILURE OCCURRENCE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.

9-July- 2010.

Chrysler is recalling SUVs, vans over brake lines. The U.S. government says Chrysler is recalling about 22,000 sport utility
vehicles and trucks to fix brake tubes that could lead to the loss of brake fluid.
Chrysler says its recall affects certain 2010 Dodge Nitro, Dodge Ram, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Wranglers that could
have defective brake lines.
The problem could lead to the loss of brake fluid, making it difficult to brake and posing the threat of a crash.

15-May-2010

Subaru is recalling 29,443 of its latest Outback and Legacy models equipped with continuously variable automatic transmissions
to fix a faulty hose. A crack can occur in the cooler hose and leak fluid in 2010 models. There was no mention of what a leak like
this could lead to in terms of mechanical defects or accidents. The recall affects all models built between July 31 and Dec. 1, 2009.
You can see when your car was made by looking at the sticker on the driver-side door jamb.Notices have not yet gone out to owners,
but Subaru will replace the hose for free.

More than 40,000 recent Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles are being recalled to fix a problem with the ignition switch.
The problem: You might be able to remove the key from the ignition switch before the car has been shifted into park.
The fear is that the vehicle could then run away on its own with or without you in the driver's seat.
Or as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration calls it in the filing, "unintended movement."
Bad. Very bad.
The recall includes many of Chrysler's most popular 2010 vehicles, including Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger,
Dodge Charger, Ram pickup, Jeep Commander and outgoing Jeep Grand Cherokee.

8-May-2010

ACURA
Some Acuras have a chirp coming from the timing belt. In T.S.B. 08-031 issued on April 10, Acura noted that the sound,
coming from 2009 MDX and TL models, is caused by a misaligned idler pulley, so that the timing belt rubs against the side of the
pulley. A shim, a new timing belt and a pulley should straighten things out. An earlier bulletin from October outlined this problem in
2005-8 MDX and TLs.

BMW
Several models may have water leaking from the air-conditioner into the interior of the car. In T.S.B. 640110 issued on March 1,
the company said that 2009 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series and Gran Turismos may have clogged condensate drain hoses,
causing the moisture to back up into the venting system and into the car.
Unkinking or replacing the drain hose should stop the weeping.

CADILLAC
Owners of some all-wheel-drive models may have trouble getting their cars into gear. In T.S.B. 10-07-30-005 issued on April 6,
the company said some 2007-9 SRX, 2007-10 STS and 2008-10 CTS models may have trouble engaging forward or reverse
on start-up, or they may make a grinding noise when the shifter is moved. Replacing the output shaft and the transfer case input
shaft should stop the grinding.

FORD
Some 2007-9 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX models may qualify for a heater performance evaluation, a cooling system flush
and an extended cooling system warranty. In T.S.B. 09M04S1 issued on March 31, Ford said that cooling system corrosion
may lead to contamination of the heater core. The cooling system warranty is being extended from three years or 36,000 miles
to six years or 105,000 miles.

HYUNDAI
Some 2009-10 Hyundai Sonatas may not start in cold weather. In T.S.B. 10-EE-001 issued on March 29, Hyundai said that
the cars would usually start after several attempts. Replacing the starter solenoid should bring things back to life.

JEEP
Some Wrangler and Liberty vehicles with manual transmissions may jump out of first gear while accelerating.
In T.S.B. 21-001-10 issued on March 2, Chrysler said that 2007-10 models, as well as the Dodge Nitro, may have this problem
intermittently. If the trouble happens only in first gear, the first-second synchronizer assembly needs to be replaced.
If first, third and fifth all exhibit the trouble, a binding gearshift boot is the likely culprit.

MERCEDES-BENZ
Some ML-Class vehicles may be missing a spacer between the fuel and brake lines. In T.S.B. 2009100002A issued
on March 10, the company said that the spacer may be missing from some 1999-2005 models. Technicians are to add the
spacer if needed, inspect the brake and fuel lines for chafe marks and replace the lines if needed.

NISSAN
Some Nissan 4-wheel-drive vehicles may have an oil leak from the transfer case. In T.S.B. 10-047 issued on March 19,
Nissan said the leak was most likely caused by transfer case bolts needing to be retorqued. If any bolts are missing,
however, a new transfer case is in order.
Affected vehicles include the 2004-7 Titan and 2005-7 Frontier, Xterra and Pathfinder.

Also, some 2010 4-wheel-drive vehicles are eligible for a free front prop shaft inspection and, if necessary, replacement.
In T.S.B. 10-021 issued on Feb. 23, Nissan said that some 2010 Armada, Frontier, Pathfinder, Titan and Xterra models
may have been built with a front propeller shaft yoke out of specification.

TOYOTA
Clutches on some Toyota trucks may be slipping. In T.S.B. SB0385-09R1 issued on March 12, Toyota said 2007-10
FJ Cruisers and 2005-10 Tacomas with V-6 engines might exhibit a slipping feeling in all gears.
Replacing the clutch disc and pressure plate should stop the slipping.

4-May-2010

General Motors has issued a recall for 2005-2006 Chevrolet Corvette models. The recall applies to vehicles with tilt
and telescoping steering wheels. Over time, the signals traveling through the steering wheel could become corrupted,
resulting in an error message. That's not all, though. The malfunction could also cause one side of the vehicle's brakes
to actuate and pull the car to the left or the right, thereby causing an accident.
A total of 40,028 Corvettes are involved in the recall, and GM says that it will replace the faulty parts free of charge.
Owners can contact their local dealers for more information.

1-May-2010

Honda is recalling 167,000 Acura TSX vehicles sold in the United States to replace a power-steering hose that can crack
with age and leak fluid, creating a fire hazard. Owners of 2004-2008 models with 2.4-liter inline-4 engines will be notified by
mail starting at the end of May regarding the recall, the company said. The free repair involves installation of a new
power-steering hose, O-ring gasket and fluid.
The hose problem, which has resulted in one reported fire with no injuries, can deteriorate prematurely after prolonged exposure
to under-hood temperatures, Honda said. If a crack develops, the power-steering fluid can leak or spray onto a hot exhaust
component, potentially causing a fire.

24-April-2010

Ford Motor Co.(F) is recalling 33,000 midsize vehicles and SUVs in the U.S. to fix an issue with the front seat recliners.
Ford informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Friday afternoon. The recall centers on front seat
manual recliners in 2010 Ford Fusion, Explorer, Explorer Sport Trac and 2010 Mercury Milan and Mountaineer models.
The Ford models in the recall were all manufactured between mid-December through early February.

Ford described the problem as related to the "gear plate teeth" on the manual recliner mechanism, noting that they may
have been built "out of dimensional specification." The recliner's gears could have problems that would lead to the seat-back
and head-restraint moving toward the rear in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Ford indicated that the seat might not pass
the federal safety standards for strength.

Ford said that the problem was discovered by a worker at an assembly plant who felt the seat move back.

17-April-2010

600,000 two-wheel-drive Sienna minivans that could have corrosion problems in their spare tire carrier cables.

The company said the condition may occur on certain 1998 through 2010 model year Siennas that have been driven in
cold regions where there is a lot of road salt use. Prolonged exposure to road salt may cause excessive corrosion of the
cable in some vehicles. In the worst case the carrier cable, which holds the spare tire underneath the rear of the van,
may break and allow the spare to fall to the road, causing a hazard.

Toyota says it is developing a fix for the problem. Until a remedy is developed, customers will get notices instructing
them to bring their vehicles to a dealership for an inspection.

The 2011 Sienna, a redesigned model is not included in the recall.

17-March-2010

Honda Motor Co. will recall more than 410,000 Odyssey minivans and Element small trucks because of braking system
problems that could make it tougher to stop the vehicle if not repaired. The recall includes 344,000 Odysseys and 68,000
Elements from the 2007 and 2008 model years. Honda said in a statement that over time, brake pedals can feel "soft"
and must be pressed closer to the floor to stop the vehicles. Left unrepaired, the problem could cause loss of braking power
and possibly a crash.
"It's definitely not operating the way it should, and it's safety systems, so it brings it to the recall status," Honda said.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has reported three crashes due to the problem with minor injuries
and no deaths.
Honda has traced the problem to the device that powers the electronic stability control system
(Oh, God here we go again!!-Ed), which selectively brakes each of the wheels to keep the vehicles upright during
an emergency situation.
When the device, called a "vehicle stability assist modulator," tests itself when the vehicles are started, it allows a
small amount of air into the hydraulic brake lines.
Over time, an air bubble in the lines can cause a loss of braking power and require that the pedal be pushed farther
toward the floor than normal to stop the vehicles, Martin said.
"Although not all vehicles being recalled are affected by this issue, we are recalling all possible units to assure all
customers that their vehicles will perform correctly," Honda said in a statement.
Under the recall, which Honda said it volunteered to do, Honda said that owners should wait to get a letter from the
company before scheduling a repair because the parts are not yet available. Letters should go out toward the end of April.
Drivers who fear that they've lost braking power should have their dealer check the brakes sooner.
The dealer can "bleed" air bubbles out of the hydraulic lines, which should fix the problem until the parts arrive
for the final repair, he said.
Honda technicians will put plastic caps and sealant over two small holes in the device to stop the air from getting in.

9-March-2010

Nissan is pulling back 539,864 Nissan and Infiniti pickups, minivans and SUVs to take a look at brake pedal pins and fuel gauges.

Brake pedals. Hmm. Not exactly cases of mismatched upholstery or a squeaky window. Sounds like you might want to heed this one.

Nissan says it has three reported instances of brake pedal pins partially disengaging, causing a loss of normal braking ability.
It blames a supplier.

As for the gauges, Nissan says vehicles with lots of miles on them may have gauges that may tell you have plenty of fuel
when you're actually running out. If you don't want become stranded, this one is worth having checked out as well.
The list:

Affected by the brake pedal pin recall are 2008 through 2010 model year Nissan Titan, Armada, Quest and Infiniti QX56.

And for the fuel gauge inaccuracies, those affected are 2005 through 2008 model year Nissan Titan, Armada and Infiniti QX56;
Nissan Frontier, Pathfinder and Xterra produced between January and March 2006 and between October 2007 and January 2008.

January 29th 2010

Honda “announced a voluntary worldwide recall of 646,000 Honda Fits, so that it can examine window switches
that can overheat if exposed to liquid.”

From the official statement:

“Under some severe operating conditions, water, rain, or other liquid may enter the driver’s window and reach the master power window switch, resulting in impaired function of the switch. If the master power window switch is damaged as a result of the liquid intrusion, it may result in failure of the switch and overheating.”

“An overheating switch may cause smoke, melting or, potentially, fire.”

About 10 percent of the (Un)Fit cars will need replacement switches, most will get waterproof skirts to prevent water
from seeping in.

Did anybody say “when it rains, it pours?”

January 20th 2010

Chrysler is recalling 24,177 late-model vehicles due to a potential defect in a brake system that could result in sudden brake failure,
the automaker reported in a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The recall covers the 2010 model-year Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger and Nitro, and Jeep Liberty, Commander and
Grand Cherokee SUVs. Also included are 2009-10 model year Dodge Ram trucks.

The cause is a defective or missing clip retention tab that could cause brakes to fail, resulting in a crash.
The recall is starting right away.

December 5, 2009

Toyota vehicles in another federal safety probe

Federal safety officials have opened a probe into two models of Toyota Motor Corp. vehicles after drivers
complained that their cars inexplicably stalled in traffic, sometimes at highway speeds. The National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration posted a document this week launching the investigation into Toyota's Matrix and Corolla cars.
It's the latest in a string of quality-related issues for the Japanese automaker in recent months.

The document cited 26 complaints from drivers of 2006 model year Matrix and Corolla vehicles.
Consumers "allege stalls occurring randomly while driving, including some on highways and some
in intersections," the agency said.

Toyota has announced recalls of more than 4.8 million cars and trucks in the U.S. and Canada since January.
The company's second-largest annual total of recalled vehicles over the last decade was 1.1 million in 2004.
In 2000, Toyota recalled just 8,379 vehicles.

In addition to the Corolla and Matrix probe, which covers 397,000 vehicles, NHTSA is investigating the 2003
Sequoia based on allegations that the electronic stability control system seizes control of the brakes at inappropriate times.
That investigation targets 68,289 sport utility vehicles.

NHTSA's records of complaints show numerous incidents of Corolla and Matrix vehicles stalling, often in situations in
which other vehicles could strike the car. One such event details a Corolla that stalled in heavy traffic in December of last year,
blocking a right-turn lane for two hours until it could be towed. The agency indicates that the problem could be linked to the
electronic control module, or onboard computer. Toyota on its own issued a technical service bulletin to its dealers
two years ago calling for replacement of that component in Corolla or Matrix vehicles experiencing "harsh shift."

An additional service bulletin, released at the same time, applies to models experiencing a "no start" condition.

The automaker's U.S. sales are down 24% through the first 11 months of the year, and its share of the market has remained flat.
Several key competitors, including Honda Motor Co. and Ford Motor Co., have gained share.

27-November-2009

DODGE
Some 2009 Ram 1500 trucks may have a leaky windshield washer fluid reservoir. In T.S.B. J06 issued on Oct. 12, Chrysler
said that the sensor for the windshield washer fluid level could leak fluid through the wiring harness to the ambient temperature
sensor. This could damage the temperature sensor, preventing the fluid-level warning lamp from lighting.
Replacing both sensors and their wiring is expected to stop the leak.

FORD
Some 2008-10 Ford Focus models may pop or click on turns or bumps. In T.S.B. 09-18-2 issued on Sept. 21, Ford said
that the noises could indicate a problem with the front stabilizer bar, the upper front strut bearing or the lower control arm.
Replacing the affected parts, or tightening them to the factory-specified torque setting, should quiet things down.

Also, the ignition locks of some 2006-10 Focus and Escape models may fail to turn to the start position.
In T.S.B. 09-19-15 issued on Oct. 5, Ford said that a bad steering column lock module could cause the keys to bind.
Replacing the module is likely to smooth out the start-up.

GENERAL MOTORS
In a wide variety of G.M. models, removing the key from the ignition could be a challenge. In T.S.B. 09-02-35-005 issued
on Aug. 10, G.M. said a new ignition lock cylinder would correct the problem. Vehicles affected include the
2008-9 Cadillac CTS; the 2005-9 Chevrolet Cobalt; 2006-9 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice;
and 2007-9 Chevy Equinox and Pontiac G5.

LEXUS
Some models may make a clicking noise from the rear. In T.S.B. SB0151-09 issued on Oct. 14, the company said
some 2006-9 IS 250 and IS 350 models made the noise. A new rear coil spring assembly is in order.

MAZDA
Rattling rear bumpers may rattle some CX-7 owners. In T.S.B. 0904509 issued on Aug. 17, Mazda said the rattling
sounds at highway speeds on 2007-10 models was caused by air passing through gaps around the bumper.
Adding washers and new fasteners between the bumper cover and the body is expected to quell the noise.

Also, some 2008-9 Tribute crossovers may emit a popping or clunking noise from the steering column when turning.
In T.S.B. 0600309 issued on Sept. 4, Mazda said the noise occurred about a quarter turn before full left or right lock.
Replacing both the steering shaft and the coupling joint should quiet things down.

SUBARU
Some models may suffer from a momentary lack of fuel during cornering when the gas tank gets low. In T.S.B. WVL-22
issued on Oct. 13, the company said that some 2005-8 Foresters and 2005-7 Imprezas might require the removal of
a one-way valve situated at the base of a small subchamber in the tank. That, Subaru suggested, would cure the starvation.

TOYOTA
Owners of some big Toyota pickups may notice a grinding noise when the truck is in 4-wheel-drive mode.
In T.S.B. SB0338-09 issued on Sept. 16, Toyota said some 2007-10 Tundras produced such a noise from the front end.
The solution may be an updated differential support.

Also, some 2006-9 4Runners may emit sulfur odors. In T.S.B. SB0342-09 issued on Sept. 21, Toyota said the smells
were probably caused by the catalytic converter during stop-and-go driving and heavy acceleration.
An updated converter may be prescribed to stop the stink.

16-November-2009

Chrysler is recalling about 161,000 Jeeps because their automatic transmissions were assembled without a
system to warn if the fluid is overheating. The automaker told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration it is
recalling 2007-8 Wranglers to install the warning system.

“Operating a vehicle under rigorous off-road conditions will cause the vehicle’s transmission fluid temperature to elevate,”
“Continuous operation under such rigorous conditions may lead to a transmission failure.”

Here are some other safety actions taken by the agency:

• Chrysler is recalling almost 85,000 2007 Dodge Nitros because the windshield wipers may stop working.

• Mercedes-Benz is recalling about 13,500 vans badged as Dodge or Freightliner Sprinters.
The 2002-3 model 2500 and 3500 vans are being recalled because a leaking intake manifold could lead to a fuel leak.

7-November 2009

General Motors is recalling almost 53,000 Chevrolet Cobalts, Saturn Ions and Pontiac G5s
because a fuel leak could cause a fire. The automaker told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it will
replace the fuel-pump module on cars used in states with weather hot enough to cause the problem.
The recall covers 2006 Cobalts and Ions in Arizona and Nevada.
It also includes 2007 Cobalts, Ions and G5s in Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada and Texas.

Other recent safety actions are:

• Nissan is recalling almost 10,600 2009 Sentras because the brake master cylinder may leak fluid.

• Jaguar is recalling about 2,100 of its 2010 XF models with the 4.2 liter V-8 engine. The automaker told N.H.T.S.A. that a
problem with the fuel-transfer pipe “may cause the vehicle to experience fuel starvation” even though the gauge shows that
about one-quarter of a tank of gas remains. This would lead to “engine stumble followed by engine cut out with minimal
warning and could potentially cause a crash.”

3-November-2009

Chrysler has issued a recall for 12,674 vehicles, including the 2009-2010 Chrysler 300, 2009-2010 Dodge Challenger,
2009-2010 Dodge Charger, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
These vehicles may have been built without a front-wheel spindle nut.

The spindle nut is a rather large and obviously important part of the wheel assembly that keeps the wheel attached to the axle.
Without one, it’s possible that the tire and wheel could separate while driving, endangering the vehicle and others on the road.
Chrysler made the determination after a new supplier, SMW Automotive, began supplying the front corner modules for the
2010 model year, according to the automaker. The previous supplier went bankrupt. Less than a hundred 2009 models are
included in the recall. Affected models were built between Aug. 4 and Sept. 28, 2009.

27-October-2009
Nissan is recalling 163,659 2008 and 2009 model year Rogue crossovers due to a potentially serious safety issue involving
the crossover's steering gear housing cover. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reporting that a screw
could loosen, potentially causing the steering response to be compromised. In a worst-case scenario, the screw could
come out completely, and if large steering inputs are made, the pinion shaft could come out, resulting in total loss of steering.

Affected Rogue owners will be contacted by Nissan to have the repair scheduled at the local Nissan dealer.
The dealers will re-tighten the screw and install a cover plate to prevent the screw from loosening in the future.

23-September-2009
Certain 2009 and 2010 Nissan Altima and Maxima models may be fitted with out-of-spec suspension components
that may contribute to an accident. As a result, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has
issued a recall campaign (ID #09V358000) to correct the problem in up to 26,398 vehicles.
The identified issue is isolated to the upper front strut insulators in both models – the inferior insulators may crack,
allowing the struts to move out of position.
Understandably, the problem could affect vehicle stability and potentially lead to a crash.

According to NHTSA, Nissan dealerships will be replacing both left and right side strut insulators at no charge to
the customer.

11-September-2009

Volvo is recalling almost 12,000 vehicles because a computer problem involving fuel pump could allow the
vehicles to stall. The affected vehicles are the 2008-2010 S80, the 2009-2010 XC60 and the 2009-2010 XC70.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has begun an investigation to see if there is a problem related to
the fuel pump on almost 53,000 of its 2004 XC90 S.U.V.’s. The agency says it has five complaints in which consumers
aid there was either the smell of gasoline or a leak.

27-August-2009

Toyota Motor is launching a recall of roughly 95,700 Toyota and Scion-brand vehicles due to a possible brake
malfunction. The recall affects some 2009 and 2010 Toyota Corolla
and Corolla Matrix vehicles and some 2008 and 2009 Scion xD vehicles. For those vehicles equipped with 1.8-liter
engines, condensed moisture may seep into the brake system and freeze in low temperatures, potentially causing ice
accumulation and weakening the power-assist to the brakes. Those affected by the recall will be asked to return the
vehicle to a dealer, where a new intake air connector will be installed

26-July-09

ACURA
Owners of some 2009 Acura TSXs may notice a popping or clicking sound from the rear when driving over bumps.
In T.S.B. 09-019 issued on May 18, Acura says burrs from spot welds at the rear jacking points may be coming into
contact with other sheet metal. Inserting a wedge to separate the pieces should quiet things down.

Also, some 2009 TSXs may be missing windshield trim pieces and retainers, and the fuel-filler doors may fall off.
In T.S.B. 09-016 issued on April 25, Acura says it will replace both side trim pieces and all retainers.
Acura blames a faulty hinge for the problem with the fuel door. The hinge should be replaced.

BMW
Some 2008 X6s may have the wrong battery. In T.S.B. 610909 issued on May 1, BMW says some of the
xDrive 50i models may need a battery with the correct capacity ratings.

CHRYSLER
Some 2008-9 Grand Caravan and Town & Country minivans may seep coolant from around the radiator cap.
In T.S.B. 07-001-09 issued on May 5, Chrysler says the wrong cap may have been installed in some vehicles.
The cap should be replaced.

FORD
Some 2006 Explorer and 2007 Explorer Sport Trac models with the 4-liter V-6 may leak coolant from the radiator.
In T.S.B. 09-8-1 issued on May 4, Ford says a new radiator is needed.

GENERAL MOTORS
Some 2007-10 Chevrolet Silverados and GMC Sierras may make a clunking noise in the rear. In T.S.B. 09-03-09-001
issued on May 6, General Motors says the problem is loose joints in the leaf spring assembly.
Retorquing the bolts should quiet things down.

HONDA
Some 2008 Civics may pop or clunk when turning. In T.S.B. 09-028 issued on May 2, Honda says the noise,
which comes at slow speeds, may be from incorrectly torqued mounting bolts, which need to be retorqued.

INFINITI
Is the G37 possessed? In T.S.B. 09-025 issued on May 12, Infiniti says the windows on 2008-9 models will lower
an inch and then rise again when someone closes the glovebox. Apparently, a sensor wire is plugged in at the
wrong spot. Putting this wire in the right place should purge “Christine.”

LAND ROVER
Owners of some 2002-5 Freelanders may be eligible for a new fuel-pump module. In T.S.B. Q0572 issued on June 10,
Land Rover says problems with the fuel filter may cause premature wear in the fuel pump. The company says that modules
will be replaced regardless of warranty status through Jan. 11, 2011. Reimbursement may be approved for owners
who replaced the module at their own expense.

LEXUS
Some Lexus owners are finding their seats uncomfortable. In T.S.B. 0071-09 issued on June 9, Lexus says
2007-9 LS 460 and LS 600h L models may benefit from a new lower seat cushion.

SUBARU
Some Imprezas may have a rust stain on the trunk or rear gate. In T.S.B. 12-110-09 issued on April 28, Subaru
says that on some 2008 models, the rear trim piece running from taillight to taillight above the license plate may
have been installed with slide bolts that did not get proper rust protection.
The bolts need to be replaced and the rust removed.

1-June-09

BMW
The engines on some 2008 M Roadsters and M Coupes may vibrate at certain speeds.
In T.S.B. 220109 issued on Feb. 1, BMW said a problem during assembly might cause the right-side engine
mount bracket to come loose. All four bracket bolts must be replaced to resolve the issue.

Also, the warranty on fuel pumps on certain models is being extended.
In T.S.B. 130309 issued on April 1, BMW said the “service engine soon” light might come on and the engine
starting time might be delayed on some 2007-8 cars with N54 engines.
Because of this, 2007 and 2008 535i, 535xi, 335i and 335xi, and 2008 135is models with BMW’s twin-turbo
6 will now have a 10-year, 120,000-mile warranty on the pump, up from the standard four-year, 50,000-mile warranty.

CHEVROLET
There may be a flickering oil light at idle on the Aveo. In T.S.B. 09-06-04-020 issued on March 25, General Motors
said the problem was showing up in some 2005-8 models. A new oil pressure sensor or oil sending unit is needed.

FORD
Some 2008 Taurus and Taurus X models may have uneven power steering assist at low speeds.
In T.S.B. 09-5-7 issued on March 23, Ford said some cars might need a new power steering gear
to remedy the situation.

Also, some 2008 and 2009 F-250 through F-550 vehicles with 6.4-liter diesel engines may need new fuel injectors.
In T.S.B. 09B08 issued on Feb. 19, Ford announced a campaign to replace the injectors without charge, saying the
o-rings might wear prematurely, causing fuel to leak into the crankcase, ruining the engine.
Owners should receive letters explaining the problem.

HONDA
There may be a clanking noise coming from the front suspension on the Element while going over bumps.
In T.S.B. 09-023 issued on April 11, Honda said the clank from some 2003-8 Elements came from cracked bushings
in the lower front control arms. Replacing the bushings should resolve the problem.

In addition, some 2007 Civics may leak oil from the timing chain cover. In T.S.B. 09-021 issued on March 25,
Honda said the culprit was improper cleaning of the timing chain case cover and oil pump housing sealing surface
during assembly. Cleaning the sealing should stop the leak. In all three cases, Honda noted in the bulletins that
out-of-warranty work may be eligible for a price reduction.

HYUNDAI
Some Santa Fes may overheat and also have inoperative air conditioning. In T.S.B. 09-EE-001 issued on April 2,
Hyundai said a problem with the radiator fan motor connection in 2004-6 models was the probable cause.
Replacing the connection should cool things down.

INFINITI
Some 2008 EX models may emit a buzzing noise from the fuel pump. In T.S.B. 09-013 issued on April 16, Infiniti
said that while the noise was unlikely to affect performance, the company would replace the fuel pumps at no charge.

JAGUAR
A problem with rear differential contamination may affect some XF and XK models. In T.S.B. K035 issued on March 18,
Jaguar said an excess of silicon carbide might have been left in the units in 2009 models, causing premature wear.
Jaguar will replace affected differentials without charge through March 31, 2011.

22-May-09
Volkswagen has announced that it will recall some 25,594 examples of its 2006-2009 Jetta over a potential driveshaft issue.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, cars with the company's 2.0-liter inline-four may have
driveshaft cover plates that weren't manufactured properly, with the consequence that their screws may not be torqued
correctly. If the screws back out, drivers may experience a knocking sound while in motion. In the extreme, the driveshaft
could conceivably detach from the gearbox, which could cause all kinds of problems that might lead to a crash.

Owners of 2006-2009 Jettas with the 2.0-liter engine should contact their VW dealer for a free inspection and/or replacement
of the screws. The recall is set to officially begin on June 19, 2009. T

Nissan has announced that they are recalling some 360,000 first generation Murano CUVs because of an engine stall risk.
Apparently, the material they used for their air intake ducts is prematurely aging and shrinking, causing a separation risk in the
system. That separation can cause an engine stall, "increasing the risk of a crash." The affected models are the 2003 through
2007 Nissan Muranos.
Anyone with one of those models should contact their Nissan service rep to arrange a free inspection and/or repair.
The parts for the recall should be available in great enough quantity by July 6, when the recall officially begins.

This is just the latest in a string of recalls for the popular first-gen Nissan Murano, following seat belt, fuel tank,
and electrical problems.

17-April-09
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 42,469 MY 2002-2003 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN
OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE SALT BELT STATES AND CANADA. THE FRONT SUSPENSION
UPPER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT MAY EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION WHICH COULD
LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR, AND POSSIBLE SEPARATION WHILE DRIVING.

Consequence:
FAILURE OF THE BALL JOINT COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF STEERING CAPABILITY, INCREASING
THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT UPPER CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES FREE OF CHARGE.
THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE.

13-April 2009
The possibility of engine fires has prompted General Motors to recall nearly 1.5 million passenger sedans manufactured
between 1997 and 2003, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced Monday.

The recall involves certain GM vehicles in which oil apparently can leak and ignite.
The recall covers certain mid- and full-size passenger sedans under GM's Chevrolet, Buick, Oldsmobile and Pontiac brands.

The affected vehicles have naturally aspirated 3.8 liter V6 engines -- that is, engines that use atmospheric pressure
rather than a mechanical blower to bring in air for combustion -- according to documents that GM filed with federal
regulators.On Friday, the federal government acknowledged the filing and agreed to the plan.

The problem involves a potential for oil to leak on the exhaust manifold during hard braking.
When a car operates under normal conditions, the manifold can get very hot.

Oil that runs below the manifold's heat shield could ignite and spread to plastic channels that hold spark plug wires.

As a solution, the company recommends a change in the bracket that holds spark plug wires, which will be done free of charge.

Owners and dealers affected by the recall will be notified by letter next month with details.

The vehicles involved are:
• 1997-2003 Buick Regals.
• 1998-2003 Chevrolet Luminas, Monte Carlos and Impalas.
• 1998-1999 Oldsmobile Intrigues.
• 1997-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix.

GM issued a recall on a similar engine in 2008, according to the company's filing with the government.
That problem was traced to a faulty gasket on the engine rocker cover.

22-March-09

ACURA
Some 2007-9 MDX models may make thudding noises when traveling over rough roads. In T.S.B. 08-038 issued on Feb. 6,
Acura said the cause in some vehicles was faulty rear shock absorbers, which should be replaced.
Vehicles out of warranty may be eligible for free or reduced-cost repair.

CHRYSLER
Some 2008 Town & Country minivans may have a loss of power steering assist at low speeds (and the Dodge Caravan
may have the same problem). In T.S.B. H16 issued on Jan. 28, Chrysler said about 46,000 of the vans may have a leak
in the low-pressure power steering hose. The hose needs to be replaced, which Chrysler will do without charge.

HONDA
Some Civics may make a clunking noise at the rear when driving over bumps. In T.S.B. 09-005 issued on Feb. 6,
Honda said a rear shock absorber may have come loose on some 2006-9 Civics. Replacing the assembly should
quiet things down. Honda will consider full or partial reimbursement for the repair on vehicles out of warranty at the
discretion of the district manager.

Honda has added Odyssey models to an earlier bulletin regarding soft brake pedals. In T.S.B. 07-045 issued on Jan. 14,
Honda said the antilock brake modulator assembly may need to be replaced on some 2007-8 Odysseys.
Honda will consider full or partial reimbursement for the repair on vehicles out of warranty, at the discretion of the
district manager.

Also, the drive belt routing on some 2006 Civics may put pressure on the belt’s tensioner, potentially breaking the
tensioner pivot bolt and causing a loss of power steering. In T.S.B. 09-007 issued on Jan. 30, Honda said owners
should receive a letter stating that their vehicles will need a drive belt tensioner pivot bolt and a rerouted drive belt.
The repair is free.

INFINITI
Some 2007-8 G35 sport sedans and 2008-9 G37 coupes may have a squeal from the front brakes. In T.S.B. 09-009
issued on Feb. 10, Infiniti said the front brake pads and hardware may need to be replaced.

LEXUS
Some 2007 and 2008 ES 350s may have trouble with the front side windows. In T.S.B. SB-0003-09 issued on Jan. 26,
Lexus said the windows may give a popping noise and then stop operating. The cars need a new window glass assembly.

Also, some 2006-8 RX 400h crossovers may leak a small amount of oil at the rear of the engine. In T.S.B. SB-0014-09
issued on Feb. 11, Lexus said the vehicles may require a new oil galley plug and gasket.

MAZDA
Some 2004-9 RX-8s may need a new coolant reservoir tank. In T.S.B. 0100609 issued on Feb. 10, Mazda said the
low coolant light may illuminate even though the coolant level appears fine. The coolant float sensor is deteriorating,
absorbing fluid and sinking, causing the improper reading. Replacing the reservoir tank assembly should solve the problem.

MITSUBISHI
All 2001-2 Monteros will get an extended warranty on the hydraulic brake booster accumulator. In. T.S.B. 09-35-002 issued
in January, Mistubishi said the parts would be warranted for 10 years or 150,000 miles, instead of the original three years
or 36,000 miles. Mitsubishi said a faulty part will leak nitrogen, causing a firm brake pedal at startup and a chirping noise
from the dash.

TOYOTA
Some 2006-9 Highlanders may leak a small amount of oil at the rear of the engine (some Lexus RX 400h crossovers have
the same problem). In T.S.B. SB0062-09 issued on Feb. 11, Toyota said the leak in four-wheel-drive models requires a
new oil galley plug and gasket.

1-Feb-09

TOYOTA and its Lexus division are having problems with vehicles that leak oil and transmission fluid, leaks that
were noted in the latest batch of technical service bulletins.

ACURA Some new TLs may need front suspension parts replaced. In T.S.B. 08-055 issued on Nov. 25, Acura said
some 2009 TLs and TL SH-AWD models could have front lower arm bolts that do not have enough anticorrosion coating.
The company will replace the bolts on both sides of the vehicle free until Nov. 25, 2011.

AUDI Some 2007 A3 and A4 models may have faulty crankcase ventilation hoses or valves. In T.S.B. 170819 issued on
Oct. 15, Audi said the faulty parts may cause a loss of throttle pressure, a lean fuel mixture or an air intake leak.
The parts will be replaced free on vehicles under warranty though Jan. 15, 2010.

Also, some vehicles may have a leak from the coolant flange. In T.S.B. 190807 issued on Oct. 27, Audi officials said
some 2005-6 A3 and A4 models may need a new sealing O-ring for the flange, which holds the coolant temperature
sensor and connects to the engine cylinder head. And some Q7s that won’t start in the extreme cold could have a
problem with their exhaust plumbing.

In T.S.B. 210802 issued on Nov. 7, Audi said some 2007-9 models used for frequent short trips in the cold may build
up excess moisture in the muffler. The moisture could back up into the exhaust pipe, freeze and keep the engine from
starting. If so, the vehicle needs a new exhaust system, which has been redesigned.

HONDA Some Honda Elements may have been shipped from the factory with contaminated coolant. In T.S.B. 08-097
issued on Dec. 18, Honda said the heaters on 2003-5 models may not work properly; the engines could also overheat.
A letter has been sent to owners of affected vehicles. Some vehicles may merely need the coolant replaced, while others
could need a new radiator, bypass hoses, heater breather hose and heater core. Owners who have already paid for the
repair may be eligible for reimbursement.

Also, Honda updated an earlier T.S.B., adding 2008 Civics to T.S.B 08-044. The company had previously said that
2006-7 models might have engine blocks that are cracked at the cooling passages. Replacing the engine block is
the only cure. Owners whose vehicles are out of warranty may be eligible for reimbursement for the repairs.

JAGUAR Some 2009 XFs may have the wipers stuck in the on position. In T.S.B. K032 issued on Oct. 31, the
company said the windshield wipers may have a 20-amp fuse where a 30 is needed, and others will need a new
wiper control switch. Dealers will replace the parts free until Sept. 30, 2010.

LEXUS Some 2008-9 RX 350s may leak transmission fluid from the transfer case. In T.S.B. SB0160-08 issued
on Nov. 5, Lexus said the leak from the vent on top of the transfer case came from an O-ring damaged during
production, allowing transmission fluid to enter the transfer case. The transfer case must be replaced.

Also, some 2008 LX 570s may leak oil from the oil pan. In T.S.B. SB0165-08 issued on Dec. 4, the company said
the leak may be caused by a faulty O-ring on the dipstick tube. The O-ring needs to be replaced.

SUBARU Some Subaru sunroofs may not close properly. In T.S.B. 15-134-08R issued on Nov. 10, Subaru
said the sunroofs on some 2003-6 Foresters may reopen when the roof is almost closed. In such cases, the resin
piece connected to the sunroof cable is broken and should be replaced, along with the plastic spacers.

TOYOTA As with the Lexus LX 570, some Toyota trucks may have leaking oil pans. In T.S.B. SB0320-08 issued
on Oct. 21 and T.S.B. SB0384-08 issued on Dec. 8, Toyota said the leak in 2007-8 Tundras, 2008 Sequoias
and 2008-9 Land Cruisers was from a faulty O-ring in the dipstick tube. The O-ring needs to be replaced.

Also, some vehicles may leak transmission fluid from the transfer case. In T.S.B. SB0335-08 issued on Nov. 3,
the company said the leak in 4-wheel-drive versions of 2008-9 Highlanders and 2009 Siennas is from damage
to the O-ring between the transmission and the transfer case. Replacing the O-ring should solve the problem.

1- Dec- 08

BAD wheel bearings on Audis, fuel tank problems on Jaguars and various troubles with General Motors
crossovers and S.U.V.’s are among the issues covered in recent technical service bulletins.

The bulletins, or T.S.B.’s offer automakers’ insights into recurring problems with various models.
The bulletins are not recalls; they are information provided by manufacturers to mechanics and dealers’
service departments.
Unless otherwise noted, automakers do not pay for these repairs beyond normal warranty coverage.

ACURA
Some 2003 CL headlights may flicker or stop working. In T.S.B. 08-044 issued on Oct. 9, the company said the
headlight inverter — part of the circuit that powers the headlight — needed to be replaced.
For vehicles that are out of warranty, Acura may offer payment assistance for the repair at the district manager’s
discretion.

Also, some 2007 MDXs have been delivered with a wheel-nut wrench of poor quality. In T.S.B. 06-054 issued on
Sept. 17, Acura said the socket portion might easily round off. Replacement wrenches should arrive by mail.

AUDI
Owners of A8s may hear clicking noises from the front wheels when making turns. In T.S.B. 40 08 04 issued on Sept. 11,
Audi noted that 2003-6 models might have surface rust between the wheel bearings and bearing carriers.
Replacing the bearings and associated parts should stop the noise.

Also, some Q7s may leak transmission fluid. In T.S.B. 38 08 06 issued on Sept. 23, the company said leaks might
occur from the transmission lines that run to the cooler, near the oil temperature regulator.
The regulator and related seals should be replaced.

BMW
A clicking noise coming from the front wheels on turns may be heard on some X5s. In T.S.B. 31 01 08 issued on Oct. 1,
BMW said the front outer CV joint boot might be torn. The joint and the boot should be replaced.

GENERAL MOTORS
Some new crossover vehicles may have leaky sunroofs. In T.S.B. 08207A issued on Sept. 15, the company
said that 2007-8 GMC Acadias, Saturn Outlooks and 2008 Buick Enclaves might not properly drain water around
the sunroof. Installing drain tube extensions should dry things out.

Also, a few of the company’s 2009 S.U.V.’s with in-line 6-cylinder engines may have a serous problem.
In T.S.B. 08328 issued on Sept. 23, the company said some Chevy TrailBlazers and GMC Envoys might have a
cylinder bore machined too deeply, which could lead to a cracked engine block.
About 800 vehicles may be involved, and the engine must be replaced.

In addition, some S.U.V.’s may have corrosion in the fuel-tank modular reservoir assembly, which houses the
fuel pump. This could lead to fuel spraying from the vehicle. In T.S.B. 07076 issued on Sept. 30, the company
said the parts in 2002-4 Chevy TrailBlazers, GMC Envoys and Oldsmobile Bravadas and 2004 Buick Rainiers
and GMC Envoy X.U.V.’s would be warranted for 10 years or 120,000 miles, up from the original 3-year/36,000-mile coverage.
Customers who already paid for this repair can be reimbursed.

HONDA
Some 2007 CR-Vs may have abnormal wear in the power steering pump. In T.S.B. 08-070 issued on Sept. 9,
Honda said the power steering pump might seize in these vehicles, causing hard steering.
The pump should be replaced.

JAGUAR
A problem with the fuel-tank wiring harness is causing some X-Types to break down. In T.S.B. S947 issued on Sept. 18,
Jaguar said the harness might have been damaged at the fuel-pump connector during production.
Water may enter the harness and corrode the connector, causing the engine to stall. The harness should be replaced.

MAZDA
Owners of some Mazda 3s and Mazda 5s may notice a coolant leak by the water outlet. In T.S.B. 01-047-08 issued on
Oct. 10, Mazda said the problem was from a poorly designed water-outlet gasket on some 2003-8 3s and 2008 5s.
The gasket should be replaced.

Also, some CX-7 crossovers are getting insects in the taillights. In T.S.B. 09-036-08 issued on Oct. 17, Mazda said
the bugs were entering through a hole in the taillight housing. Either a gasket can be put in the current assembly to
keep the bugs out or a new taillight assembly should be installed.

TOYOTA
Some Prius owners may notice a knock from the front of the vehicle, especially when driving on rough roads.
In T.S.B 0300-08 issued on Sept. 18, Toyota said an engine mount attached to the transaxle was the culprit.
Adding engine mount insulators should quiet things down.

Also, some Tacoma pickup owners may notice a rough ride when their 2005-8 Double Cab trucks are fully loaded.
In T.S.B. 0305-08 issued on Sept. 30, the company said that an improved set of rear spring assemblies and front
and rear shocks would cure the problem.

27-Sept-08

AUDI
Owners of 2007-8 Audi Q7s may notice a leak from the transfer case. In T.S.B. 390802 issued on June 2, company officials
said the input shaft seal might have been damaged during installation. Replacing the seal, or the entire transfer case if another
seal is leaking, should stop the leak.

Also, an intermittent engine rattle upon startup in 2007 Q7s requires a simple fix. In T.S.B. 170805 issued on July 22,
Audi officials said that if the noise lasted for more than two seconds or if the engine oil light also came on, it could mean
oil pressure buildup was delayed. The oil filter flange should be replaced.

BMW
Some 2008 all-wheel-drive 3 Series models may have loose front driveshaft bolts. In bulletin 260108 issued on July 1,
company officials announced a campaign to inspect the bolts, and replace them if necessary, the next time the vehicle
was at the dealer service center. The bolts secure the front driveshaft to the front axle differential and the transfer case.

CHEVROLET/GMC
Some 2007-9 Chevrolet and GMC trucks may have an oil leak. In T.S.B. 08-06-02-003 issued on Sept. 10, General Motors
said a leak at the connection from the oil cooler to the oil pan might be caused by a porous bolt assembly. Models affected
include the Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Silverado and Express, and the GMC Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL and Savana.
Cleaning the bolt and assembly and applying pipe sealant is expected to repair the problem.

CHRYSLER
The oil level may not show correctly on some 2008 Dodge Dakota pickups. In T.S.B. 09-002-08 issued on June 20,
Chrysler said the wrong dipstick might have been placed in some 4.7-liter engines.
Replacing the dipstick will fix the problem.

HONDA
The engine blocks of some Civics may be cracked. In T.S.B. 08-044 issued on July 25, Honda officials said some
2006-7 Civics — but not the GX, Hybrid or Si models — might be leaking coolant and overheating as a result of the cracks.
A new engine block assembly is the only remedy. Honda noted that owners whose vehicles were out of warranty might be
eligible for reimbursement for the repairs.

Also, Honda has begun a campaign to replace water pump assemblies in some 2006 Civics. In bulletin 08-038 issued
on July 8, Honda noted that a manufacturing problem might lead the water pump pulley flange to crack, which could
cause pump failure or a broken drive belt. Honda said owners could have the service done at no charge.

JAGUAR
Some 2004-5 Jaguar S-Types may have a problem with the cooling system. In T.S.B. S518 issued on May 19, Jaguar
said some vehicles might have an incorrect coolant pump outlet hose, which could burst. The hose should be replaced.

NISSAN
A missing sill cover plate could lead to water problems in Nissan Versas. In T.S.B. NTB08-084 issued on Sept. 13,
Nissan officials said the covers were needed along the floor inside the right rear passenger door in 2008-9 models
to prevent water intrusion into the vehicle.
Dealers will install the covers at no charge. Nissan has sent letters to owners of the affected vehicles.

SUZUKI
There have been knocking or thumping sounds from under the hood of some XL7s. In T.S.B. TS 25 07028 issued on July 2,
Suzuki officials said the problem could be loose rivets in the engine mount struts in 2007-8 models.
Replacing the affected struts with a new design employing bolts rather than rivets should quiet things down.

TOYOTA
There is a fix available for a “bump from behind” sensation in some Tundras and Land Cruisers. In bulletin 0115-08 issued
on June 23 and 0117-08 issued on June 24, Toyota officials said the thump when stopping or pulling out in 2007-8 Tundras
and 2008 Land Cruisers might be caused by a problem in the rear driveshaft.
Replacing the driveshaft assembly should smooth things out.

VOLKSWAGEN
The company has begun a campaign to inspect and replace fuel pressure sensors on many models. In T.S.B. 2408-01
issued on Aug. 27, the company said it would inspect these models under warranty: the 2006-7 Jetta, GTI, Passat
and Passat wagon, and the 2007 Eos and Touareg.

26-Sept-08
Nissan is recalling 3,403 2009 Altima sedans equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels because one or more of the
five lug nuts could become loose. "If the lug nuts become loose, it could eventually result in a loss of control and a
crash without warning," said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in its recalls summary of the problem.
Nissan dealers will check a vehicle in question to determine if it is equipped with the affected wheels.
If it is, the wheels will be replaced with new ones that have been manufactured to the correct specification.
The Altimas involved in the recall were built at Nissan's Canton, Mississippi, plant from July 24 to August 14, 2008.

30-Aug-2008
General Motors Corp. said Friday it was recalling 944,000 vehicles because of a problem with a windshield wiper
fluid system that could lead to a fire. More than 850,000 sport utility vehicles, trucks and passenger cars in the United States
and nearly 100,000 vehicles in Canada, Mexico and the Middle East are involved in the recall, the company said.

GM said it includes the 2008 Buick Enclave, 2006-2008 Buick Lucerne, 2006-2008 Cadillac DTS, 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade,
2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade ESV, 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT, 2007-2008 Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Tahoe
and Suburban, 2007-2008 GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL, 2006-2008 Hummer H2 and 2007-2008 Saturn Outlook.

The recall involves vehicles with a heated washer fluid system. A short circuit in the system could cause electrical features to
malfunction, which could lead to an odor, smoke or potentially a fire.

GM spokeswoman Carolyn Markey said there have been nine reports of fires and three of them have been linked to the system.
There have been no accidents or injuries connected to the defect, she said.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation last February into 2007 Yukon and Tahoe vehicles
over potential engine compartment fires. In June, the highway safety agency upgraded its investigation into about 2.7 million
2007-2008 GM trucks and SUVs and reported allegations of 41 engine fires.

Dealers will install a wire harness with an in-line fuse to fix the problem free of charge, GM said.