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08/10/07

Due to insufficient coating on the fuel filler tube, Nissan is recalling 372,250 Pathfinders and Infiniti QX4's.
The model years in question are 1997-2001, and it's mainly for vehicles in the Northeast where there are large amounts
of road salt in the winter. According to the NHTSA, if an opening develops at the lower mounting bracket of the metal fuel
filler tube, the salt and water can corrode the it. If that gets so bad that holes develop in the tube, gas will leak from the vehicle
and become a fire hazard. A hole in the pipe also allows water to enter the fuel tank and may make it necessary to clean
the whole fuel system and replace the fuel injectors.

5/10/07

All you owners of Chrysler's 2007-2008 Sebring convertibles and Dodge Avengers will soon be getting a recall notices
from Chrysler. The letters will warn owners of those cars of a door latch problem that could potentially lead to unbelted
passengers being dumped into the road during a crash.
Dealers are instructed to fix both front doors with a "secondary retention feature."
You lucky 2008 AWD Avenger owners will either get longer letters or another letter entirely, to inform you of another problem
with your cars. While your door latches are being worked on, your dealer's mechanics will be replacing faulty fuel tank retention
straps that could break and cause fuel to leak out, which you would then roll around in after being dumped in the road when
your door opens -- something few drivers consider a good thing.
Both recall campaigns are expected to begin sometime this month.

21/09/07

Chrysler LLC recalled 28,755 Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee sport-utility vehicles to replace front-brake
parts that could fail because they may be made of the wrong type of metal. The recall affects 2007 and 2008 models.
Some brake calipers may have been made with gray iron instead of ductile iron and could fracture, increasing stopping
distance and possibly causing an accident, the Washington-based agency said. Chrysler found the defect during internal
testing. The recall covers vehicles built from May 17 to July 13. Repairs to the recalled models will be done at no cost to
owners, who will be notified in October. Chrysler declined to say how much the recall will cost the automaker.

14/09/07

Honda Motor Co. is recalling 182,756 Civic sedans, the automaker's second-best selling U.S. model, to fix an O-ring
on the wheel bearing that may leak and cause the wheel to fall off. The recall, affecting 2006 and 2007 model-year Civics,
was reported on the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Web site. The O-ring may not seal properly,
allowing water to seep into the wheel bearing and damage it, Honda said in a letter on the NHTSA Web site.
"This could cause a wheel to fall off of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash," Tokyo-based Honda said.
Honda said it will notify owners by mail and replace any damaged parts for free.

Ford announced a big recall today, involving 3.6 million vehicles with a faulty cruise control switch that could potentially
cause a fire.
This is essentially a follow-up to the January recall involving 6 mil light trucks for basically the same concern.
This newest recall affects about a dozen different Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models from model years 1992-2007.
Ford is apparently undertaking this latest recall in response to complaints that the speed control deactivation
switch is always on.

According to Ford, "Customers remain concerned about the long-term durability of the speed control system and about
the safety of their vehicles." Ford admitted that the company had received "a few reports of fires" in Crown Vics already,
but no deaths, injuries or accidents from this problem.

The full list of vehicles being recalled is a long one:
1998-2002 Ford Ranger, 1992-1997 Lincoln Town Car, 1992-1997 Ford Crown Victoria, 1992-1997 Mercury Grand Marquis,
1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII, 1993-1995 Taurus SHO, 1999-2001 Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer,
2001-2002 Ford Explorer Sport, 2001-2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, 1992-1993 E150-350 vans, 1997-2002 E150-350 vans,
1993 Ford F-Series pickups, 1993 Ford Bronco, 1994 Mercury Capri, 2003-2004 Ford F-150 Lightning,
and 1995-2002 Ford F53 motor homes.

This is sixth recall for speed control system concerns by Ford since 1999.
Altogether there have been 10.4 million vehicles involved.

3/07/07

Chrysler recalls more than 80,000 Wranglers and Nitros
Chrysler said Tuesday it was recalling more than 80,000 new Jeep Wrangler and Dodge Nitro models in the USA to correct
a defect that could cause the engine stall. Chrysler Group, a unit of DaimlerChrysler, said the recall would allow dealers to
reprogram a power module to remove the potential for a brief interruption of electrical power to the instrument panel and the engine.
The automaker said the power interruption could lead to a short engine stall, but said the engine would immediately restart if the
vehicle was in motion. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into the Wrangler in May after
receiving reports of engine stalling. Chrysler said the agency has received about 180 complaints of engine stalling in Wrangler
and Nitro vehicles.
There has been one accident linked to the issue, the company said, but no injuries have been reported.
Chrysler, in the process of being sold by DaimlerChrysler, said it will notify owners about the recall later this week and the
work will be completed at no cost to consumers.
Under the recall, Chrysler said it would reprogram a power-control module in 80,894 of the vehicles.
The new Jeep Wrangler has been a sell-out hit for Chrysler, which is being taken private by Cerberus Capital Management
in a $7.4 billion deal expected to close this month. Chrysler credited the Wrangler with driving a 19% gain in its Jeep brand
sales in June in monthly sales results released Tuesday.

29/06/07

Burn baby, burn.
Do you own a GM car equipped with a supercharger?
If so, don't park it in your garage until it's cooled off for awhile.

11/04/07

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION HAS RECEIVED EIGHT COMPLAINTS ON FORD ESCAPE VEHICLES
THAT ALLEGE A NON-CRASH RELATED FIRE ORIGINATING IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AT OR NEAR THE
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS) ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE.

IN ADDITION, ODI HAS RECEIVED TWO REPORTS ON FORD ESCAPE SUBJECT VEHICLES THAT ALLEGE THERMAL
EVENTS OR OTHER FIRE-RELATED PHENOMENA ORIGINATING IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AT OR NEAR THE ABS
CONTROL MODULE, AS EVIDENCED BY SMOKE, ARCING AND/OR MELTED ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS AND ASSOCIATED
WIRING. TO DATE, ODI HAS NOT RECEIVED ANY COMPLAINTS RELATED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT ON MAZDA TRIBUTE
SUBJECT VEHICLES DESPITE BEING SUBSTANTIALLY SIMILAR TO THE FORD ESCAPE SUBJECT VEHICLES.

THE ABS CONTROL MODULE IS AN ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC AND CONTROL COMPUTER CONSISTING OF TWO
MICROPROCESSORS AND THE NECESSARY CIRCUITRY FOR THEIR OPERATION THAT MONITORS SYSTEM OPERATION
DURING NORMAL DRIVING AS WELL AS DURING ANTI-LOCK BRAKING EVENTS. IT IS LOCATED DIRECTLY BENEATH THE
BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER AND BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR AND IS AFFIXED TO THE ABS HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT
WHICH CONTAINS THE BRAKE PRESSURE CONTROL VALVE BLOCK AND PUMP MOTOR.

THE ABS CONTROL MODULE IS LOCATED IN A CIRCUIT THAT IS POWERED AT ALL TIMES REGARDLESS OF WHETHER
THE KEY IS IN THE IGNITION SWITCH OR NOT. FIVE COMPLAINANTS HAVE ALLEGED KEY OFF ENGINE COMPARTMENT
FIRES THAT OCCURRED SOME TIME AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THREE OF WHICH HAVE OCCURRED SINCE
JULY 2006.

IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION
SWITCH THAT WAS THE SUBJECT OF PREVIOUS ODI INVESTIGATIONS EA02-025 AND EA05-005.

A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION HAS BEEN OPENED TO ASSESS THE FREQUENCY, SCOPE AND SAFETY CONSEQUENCES
OF THE ALLEGED DEFECT.

And, speaking of fires:

2007 Volvo S60, V70, V70XC, CX90.

On certain vehicles, the electric cooling fan control unit's metal cover may not have received the specific corrosion protection
during the manufacturing process. Moisture ingress as a result of cover corrosion could lead to an electrical short that may
initiate a fire. Dealers will replace the cooling fan.

20/03/07

Honda Motor Corp. said today that it was recalling about 165,000 vehicles from the 2005-06 model years to deal with potential
engine problems. Honda said the recall affected 2005 models of the Acura RL, TL and TSX sedans, 2005 Honda Accord coupes,
sedans and hybrids, 2005 Odyssey minivans and 2006 Ridgeline trucks.

The move is part of a global recall because of similar problems, said Honda. Details on the total number of vehicles and the
number of countries where the vehicles were sold were not immediately available.

Honda discovered that sealer material leaked onto a coil wire inside the fuel pump relay on some of the vehicles.
The wire can become brittle and snap, causing the engine to stall or fail to start.

Honda has received "multiple complaints" of vehicles stalling or failing to start.
There have been no injuries or crashes linked to the defect.

Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pump relay free of charge.
The recall is expected to begin in early April.

9/03/07

Chrysler Group says it will recall over 489,000 vehicles, including recent models of the Jeep Liberty, Dodge Durango and its
new Dodge Avenger sedan. The recall was the second by Chrysler in weeks. In late February, the No. 4 U.S. automaker recalled
almost 51,000 vehicles to reprogram software for anti-lock brakes. (See below). Chrysler said it was recalling 328,424 Durango
SUVs because of the risk of overheating linked to an integrated circuit in the instrument cluster of the vehicles. 
The recall covers 2004 to 2006 model year SUVs, Chrysler said.

Chrysler also said it was recalling 10,994 of its recently released 2008 model Dodge Avenger sedans because of a problem
with the door latches.

In a third recall, the automaker said it would service up to 149,605 Jeep Liberty vehicles because of a problem with the
blower motor in the air-conditioning system. Chrysler said in some cases the motors could fail, particularly in hot weather.

That recall affects 2006 and 2007 model-year Jeep Liberty vehicles.  

Unfortunately for Tom LaSorda and crew, these recent recalls are not exactly the best foot the Chrysler Group would like to
put forward for potential bidders that are considering purchasing the automaker.

28/02/07

26/02/07

Volkswagen of America Inc. said Monday it will recall 790,000 vehicles in Canada and the United States because of problems
with the brake light switch. The recall involves several vehicles: 1999-2006 model years of the Golf and GTI; 2001-2005 Jettas;
2001-2007 New Beetles; and the 2004 R32. It expands upon a recall announced last year of some Jettas and New Beetles
because of the same defect. Volkswagen told the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that brake light switches
in the vehicles could malfunction if they were improperly installed. The automaker said the light could either remain on or not
function, which would fail to provide other motorists with the proper braking signal and potentially lead to a crash.
In some vehicles with automatic transmissions, a faulty brake light could work in tandem with the shift interlock to immobilize
the vehicle and require towing. Last year, VW recalled 362,000 Jetta and New Beetle sedans because of similar problems
with the brake lights.
That recall affected Jettas from the 1999-2002 model years and New Beetles from the 1998-2002 model years.

23/02/07

19/02/07

Honda Motor Co. is notifying 6 million owners of Hondas and Acuras that they are entitled to warranty extensions and
in some cases, payments because their odometers rolled up miles too quickly. That made warranties expire too soon and hit
some lease customers with excess-mileage penalties. A lawyer in the lawsuit that resulted in Honda's moves now is aiming at
Nissan Motor Co., alleging that its Altima sedans back to 2002 roll up miles 2.5% to 3% too fast.

Nissan has filed a motion to dismiss the case, but wouldn't say more because it doesn't comment on pending litigation.

The lawyer, James Holmes of Henderson, Texas, says he's tested Toyotas and, oddly, found them to routinely register slightly
fewer miles than actually driven. Detroit brands, he says, "by and large are perfect." Holmes suspects odometers deliberately
are set fast to help automakers trim warranty costs. But the car companies say they're just following an industrywide standard
that allows a variation of a few percentage points in odometer accuracy. The Society of Automotive Engineers' voluntary
standard is plus or minus 4%, no more than 4 miles high or low in every 100 miles.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says it doesn't regulate odometer accuracy.

Honda says its odometers were accurate to within 3.75% on the high side and 1% on the low side, within the SAE standard.
But it says it will extend the warranty mileage 5% and will pay lease-mileage penalties because of fast odometers, at least $6
million just for overcharges on vehicles leased directly from Honda.

Starting with 2007 models, Honda tightened its odometer accuracy and centered in on 0% variation. Vehicles covered in the deal:
2002 to 2006 Hondas and Acuras bought from April 13, 2002, to Nov. 7, 2006.
Some 2007 Honda Fits also are included.

27/01/07

If you have a Chevy Cobalt built between 2005 and 2006 that does NOT have the optional roof-mounted side impact airbags,
you could be getting a recall notice in the mail soon. Apparently Chevy (and presumably the NHTSA) discovered that there isn't
sufficient padding to meet federal requirements in these vehicles, and unacceptable head injuries could result in a collision.
Scary to think there's an acceptable amount of injury that would be tolerated, but anyway.
As a fix, dealers will add "energy absorbing plastic" to the headliner trim to help soften the blow should your head strike the
headliner in a crash. The recall affects 98,000 Cobalts on the road.

19/01/07

Once again, Toyota is performing a voluntary recall of its Tundra pickup and Sequoia full-size SUV for ball joints that may
wear out too quickly. In May of 2005 see below) Toyota recalled 775,000 Tacomas, 4Runners, Tundras and Sequoias
for the same issue, and the NHTSA has been investigating the issue since then.
This time around, Toyota is recalling 553,000 Tundras and Sequoias built from 2004 through 2007.
Anyone who has had a bad ball joint knows not only the irritation they cause, but also the potential for something dangerous
to happen. The front suspension where these ball joints are located will make terrible knocking sounds, but in some instances,
owners have reported that their worn ball joints have lead to losing control of the vehicle, rollovers and even the trucks
collapsing on their front wheels!  Toyota blamed the first recall in 2005 on the ball joints potentially being scratched
during their assembly. Toyota has given no such reason for the recent recall, but it is acting in cooperation with the
NHTSA to correct these issues that could be very dangerous for owners of the potentially affected vehicles.
Toyota will be notifying those owners in February of the recall, and will replace both the left and right front ball joints at no charge.

17/01/07

If you drive a 2004 or 2005 Honda Accord, you might want to be a little more careful than usual.
The sensor on these vehicles that detects the drivers height and weight in the seat , may have been attached in the wrong
place and also over tightened, as well. The real issue is that the wiring to the sensor could break and cause the sensor to fail,
illuminating the airbag warning light and causing the bag, in a crash, to inflate at full pressure.
This could increase the risk of injury from the airbag for smaller drivers in a frontal crash. If your airbag warning light is currently
illuminated, on these model years only,  you should take it to your local Honda dealer ASAP.

24/12/06

 DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group will recall over 68,000 of its newest vehicles, including the just-released Dodge Nitro
sport utility vehicle and the Jeep Compass. Chrysler said that 62,339 vehicles from its 2007 model-year line-up would be
recalled to fix a brake system problem it said could cause drivers to lose control. Chrysler said 11 models across all three
of its brands were affected by the recall with notices scheduled to go out to registered owners in February. In addition to the
Nitro and the Compass, 2007 models covered by the recall are the Chrysler Sebring, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger,
Dodge Magnum, Dodge Caliber, Jeep Commander, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Liberty, the company said.
Chrysler said some of the vehicles could suffer a failure of a computer that controls the brakes, causing a loss of anti-lock
and brake distribution systems, traction control and speedometer functions.
The automaker said no accidents or injuries had been reported as a result of the brake glitch. The company said owners
of the models covered by the recall should take their vehicles to Chrysler Group dealers for inspection if the instrument
panel ABS warning light is illuminated.
Separately, Chrysler said it would recall 6,086 of its Sebring sedans to reprogram the heating and cooling systems
because of a problem with windshield defrosting.

8/12/06

Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced safety recalls to address two issues in some 2006 and 2007 model year Passat
sedans, and in some 2007 model year Passat wagons. Some of the affected 2006 model year Passat vehicles have a wiper
motor that may fail during heavy rain due to excessive moisture entering the wiper motor.
If this happens, reduced visibility could result. Also, some 2.0T engine-equipped 2006 and 2007 Passat sedans and some
2007 Passat wagons may have a power brake vacuum line that may fracture and become disconnected at low ambient
temperatures. If this happens, the brake power assist can become inoperative, and the driver will experience increased
effort to apply the brake and therefore possible increased vehicle stopping distance.
Approximately 62,000 vehicles in the United States and Canada could be potentially affected.

22/11/06

Nissan is recalling four models to allow for repairs to headlights, stoplights and ignition locks.

A steering wheel lock that can engage when the automatic transmission is not placed in park has prompted
the company to recall 2007 Maximas and 2005-2006 Muranos.
Dealers will inspect and, if required, replace the steering wheel lock assembly.

Nissan is also recalling 2004-06 Infiniti Q45s because they were made with stoplights that don't meet standards.
Dealers will install updated rear combination lamp assemblies.

Ford: More than 13,600 Fords have door latches that are prone to freezing because water can get into the mechanism.
Transport Canada says the problem has been discovered on the 2005 Five Hundred and 2005-2006 Freestyle.

Water might eventually wash out grease in the latches, leaving them to freeze in winter. If that happens, the door latch
pawl might not return to the latched position when the door is closed, allowing the door to open while the vehicle is in motion.

Ford is also recalling the 2006 Escape Hybrid: an intermediate shaft in the driveline can fracture because of improper heat
treatment prior to the part being installed in the vehicles.

Kia: The 2006 Kia Sedona needs a little realigning done to a wiring harness to prevent it from contacting the steering column.
The problem is limited to cars with adjustable brake pedals.

General Motors: Crash testing has revealed that 2007 Chevrolet Aveos and Pontiac Waves are prone to fuel leakage
during a front-end collision. Transport Canada says crashes not only rupture the fuel lines, they caused four short circuits
in the fuse block, the combination of which allowed the fuel pump to continue running, allowing fuel to be pumped onto the
ground.

The NHTSA says Ford, Volvo and Chrysler are recalling a total of about 300,600 vehicles.

Ford gets off relatively light and is bringing in 422 Crown Vics and Mercury Grand Marquis to replace improperly
secured windshields.

Volvo, however, will install new software to fix speed controls on more than 170,000 cars.
Models affected include the 1999-2000 C70 coupes and convertibles, S60, S70, S80, V70, V70XC and XC70.

And just as Chrysler is getting rid of the Pacifica, it'll be seeing 127,928 of them coming back for new fuel pumps and powertrain
control module software. The affected crossovers were built from Aug. 1 to Sept. 30, 2004. DaimlerChrysler is also sending
Jeep Compass owners updates to their cars' manuals. NHTSA said the books omitted a required rollover warning.

25/10/06

Loose carpets and leaking engine oil are two problems Toyota wants to fix in nearly 30,000 vehicles sold since 2000.
Oil can leak into the wiring of an improperly moulded crankshaft sensor on about 15,000 Prius and Echo models from
2001-2002 and cause their engines to stall. If that happens, the engine will not restart.
Dealers will replace the crankshaft position sensor. A second Toyota recall, this one involving 14,500 vehicles, was
made necessary after investigators discovered that clips designed to hold a carpet in place don't work and can allow
the carpet to interfere with operation of the accelerator. The problem can be found on the 2004-2006 Lexus RX 330
and RX 400H, and Highlander and Highlander HV models. Dealers will install new clips.

Nissan also has a problem with a crank sensor that can lead to stalling in the engines of the 2003 Altima and Sentra.
Dealers have been instructed to reprogram the sensor. The Nissan Versa hasn't been on dealers' lots long, but it faces
its first recall - to calibrate its odometer in kilometres instead of miles. The American measurement can be found in
about 1,000 vehicles equipped with a continuously variable transmission. Dealers will recalibrate the device or replace
it with one meant for the Canadian market.

Audi: Side-curtain airbags might need replacing in the 2006 A3 because of a malfunctioning part. In certain vehicles,
either the left or the right side curtain airbag inflation module might leak. In the event of an accident, the airbag may not
inflate as designed.

Cadillac's 2004-05 XLR roadster is being recalled by General Motors because the turn signal and parking light bulbs
are defective and can burn out prematurely. Dealers will replace the bulbs and their sockets.

20/10/06

Nissan Motor Co. has begun recalling about 132,000 vehicles globally, including 80,000 in North America, because of an
ignition key defect.There have been no reports of injuries related to the defect InJapan, Nissan is recalling about 51,000 X-Trail
and Murano sport utility vehicles produced from August 2004 to July 2006.Overseas, the Tokyo-based manufacturer is recalling
about 70,000 Muranos in North America, 300 in Taiwan and 800 in Singapore, she said. No X-Trails have been sold overseas.
Also being recalled for the same defect are 10,000 Maxima sedans in North America.Some of the rods connecting the ignition
part with parts that start the engine are too long, so the cars sometimes don’t start properly. Occasionally, the engines start even
when the ignition is turned off and the driver moves the steering wheel.

12/10/06

Ford will recall close to 140,000 Five Hundreds and Mercury Montegos, along with over six thousand Hybrid Escapes.
The cause of the recall on the Five Hundred and its Mercury stable mate is a faulty door latch that may allow water to enter
the mechanism and, if the water freezes, could cause the door to open while the sedan is in motion.
The recall will affect 2005-2006 model year vehicles. On 2006 Escape Hybrids, Ford has found that the drivetrain shaft could
fracture and, in turn, may cause the vehicle to move even if the 'ute is in the 'Park' position.
Ford dealers are instructed to inspect and replace the part if it's necessary.

04/09/06

Jaguar dealers throughout the world are being asked to cease sales of 2006 and 2007 XJ sedans, due to a fuel leak that
has left many new owners with gasoline on their garage floors and a bad smell in the house. Apparently, the leak is from
the fuel tank itself, not the filler pipe or fuel lines running to the engine. Although there is no estimate of how many sedans
are currently on the road, dealers have been asked to suspend the sale of vehicles with VINs G49701 through H13209.
Jaguars' spokesperson was unable to elaborate on whether the problem is a manufacturer issue or a supplier issue,
but at this time, Jag is not ruling out a recall of the XJ.

02/08/06

DaimlerChrysler has issued a recall on all 2002-2006 Liberty SUVs, affecting more than 800,000 of the manufacturers
"Trail Rated" SUVs. According to the automaker, a front suspension lower ball joint can separate under excessive use.
The problem has already received over a 100 complaints with three injuries possibly attributed to the problem.
This is not the first time Chrysler has issued a recall on the Liberty or its ball joints.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched an investigation this year on the 2004 Liberty after receiving
complaints. And, in 2003, the automaker recalled over 300,000 Liberty SUVs with, you guessed it, problems with the ball joint.
That issue, though, was attributed to shipping and installation problems and not the part itself.
Chrysler will repair the recalled part at no cost.

29/07/06

DaimlerChrysler is recalling more than 260,000 Jeep Grand Cherokees because of breaking cooling fan blades
and seat fires. The hot seats can be found in 112,000 Grand Cherokees from the 2003 and 2004 model years,
equipped with seat heaters.
Apparently the passenger-side seat can overheat, a problem which led to at least 32 vehicle fires.
The cooling fan recall affects about 150,000 Grand Cherokees equipped with the 4-liter six-cylinder engine and sold in the
2000 and 2002 model years. Blades can break off the fan while it's running, potentially injuring anyone within range if the
hood is open. The NHTSA has received nearly 200 complaints about the problem.

18/07/06

Toyota has issued a voluntary recall) for the crankshaft position sensor on some 2001-2002 Toyota Echo and Prius models.
The sensor may become disconnected due to an improper seal allowing engine oil to seep into the sensor's connector.
Worst case scenario is the sensor becomes disconnected while driving and the engine stalls without being able to start back
up again. The recall affects 26,200 Echo and 8,500 Prius models. No accidents have occurred resulting from the problem
and no instances of the sensor becoming disconnected have so far been reported.

15/07/06

BMWs' most recent recall includes 46,000 5-, 6-, and 7-Series models built between January 9th and April 18th of this year
and sold throughout the world. The problem apparently involves defective rubber bushings in the rear shocks that could loosen
and lead to handling problems and loss of vehicle control. BMW blames its supplier for the issue that was caught before anyone
was injured as a result, but the recall will cost the German automaker an estimated 16 million euro.

29/06/06

Volkswagen took another hit today in its push to improve quality in its core brand, announcing a recall of 34,000
Passats worldwide because of clutch problems. The recall affects Passats built between April and May 2005
equipped with 2-liter TDI engines and six-speed manual transmissions.
The company had previously announced recalls for the Golf, and Jetta gas engined cars with the same problem.

18/06/06

Four types of the Audi A6 from the 1998 to the 2000 model years are being recalled again because a previous recall to fix
the head light switch may have been improperly performed. The improper installation could lead to an electrical short and fire
under the dashboard on the driver's side of the car. On some Audi A6, A6 Avant, S6 and S6 Avant cars, while attempting
the remedial repair for the previous recall a plastic cover may not have been securely installed by the Audi technician.
If the cover is not properly installed to the drivers side support crossmember, the headlight switch wiring harness could
contact the crossmember and cause an electrical short. Audi has not yet provided a remedy or an owner notification schedule

15/06/06

Honda Motor Co. will recall and repair a combined 561,594 units of the Odyssey, CR-V and Step Wgn models globally
to fix a faulty ignition switch that could cause the engine to stop. The recall and repairs would cost the company around 
$23.70 million. Of the total, most units are in Japan and were built between October 1994 and May 1997. Most of the recalls
outside Japan cover the Odyssey minivan sold in North America. No accidents were reported overseas, while five people
in Japan suffered burns from contact with melted ignition switches. 

31/05/06

Toyota to Recall 320,000 Priuses

Toyota Motor Corp. will begin a global voluntary recall of nearly 320,000 of its hot-selling Prius gasoline-electric hybrid sedans
to repair a potentially faulty steering system component. The campaign will involve about 170,000 vehicles sold in the U.S.
That represents about two-thirds of the 268,000 sold since the hybrids introduction here in July 2000.
Toyota, noting that no accidents or injuries had been reported, said it would begin sending letters in mid-June to owners of 2004
through early 2006 models of the popular hybrid. The company asked that owners wait to make service appointments until they
received notices because not all Priuses were involved.
Priuses built after November 2005 and sold as 2006 models will not be affected by the recall because Toyota changed suppliers
and the later models don't have the faulty component.
The Prius recall does not involve any of the car's propulsion system components but a potentially understrength piece of the steering
shaft assembly that could loosen or crack.

27/05/06

Volkswagen AG is recalling 362,000 cars in the United States because a brake light switch may malfunction. The models involved
include the Jetta sedan from 1999-2002 model years, Jetta III from 1999-2000 model years and the New Beetle from 1998-2002
model years. The brake lights could become inoperative, or remain on if installed incorrectly during a previous recall.

Separately, General Motors Corp. is recalling 30,793 Chevrolet Corvette cars from the 2005-2006 model years as the adhesive
between the roof panel and the frame may separate and the roofs could fly off.  If there is a complete separation, the roof panel
may detach from the vehicle and it could strike another vehicle and cause injury and property damage.

12/05/06

6/05/06

DaimlerChrysler's popular LX-platform vehicles, the 300, Dodge Magnum and Dodge Charger are being recalled over brake issues.
The automaker announced Friday that it will be sending notices to some 45,000 owners about a possible brake fluid leak that has
resulted in at least nine engine fires. Vehicles affected are all 2006 models using the 2.7-liter V6 engine.
In addition, DCX also announced that it is recalling almost 7,000 six-speed Jeep Wranglers due to clutch problems.
According to the automaker, the hydraulic clutch's master cylinder rod can fracture, inhibiting normal  shifting.

1/05/06

26/04/06

Twenty-three-thousand 2005 Cadillac SRX and STS sedans and another 11-thousand 2001 Saab 9-3 passenger cars
are recalled for some pretty serious safety problems. The Cadillac's are in trouble because the rear suspension might not work.
The vehicle's toe links aren't welded correctly potentially causing a crash.
With the Saab it's the fuel pump giving owners headaches.
These cars have faulty fuel lines and fittings damaged when the cars were made.

14/04/06

GM is recalling almost 13,000 Buick Lucerne and Cadillac DTS sedans because of faulty power steering hoses.
The hoses on some of the 2006 models of those GM cars equipped with V8 engines are prone to separate and leak
steering fluid. That could cause drivers to loose steering power at low speeds or trigger engine fires.
GM will replace the defective parts

8/03/06

Owners of about 6,000 Audi and Volkswagen models will get new fuel pumps after the discovery that the old ones
can quit before their time. The premature failure could cause engines to stall or shut down unexpectedly and lead to an accident.
Models involved are the 2003 Audi A4 and A6 and the 2003 VW Passat.

Cadillac: A fuel problem is also behind the recall of 2005-2006 Cadillac CTS and STS models.
A control module fails to warn drivers of low fuel levels. Dealers will reprogram the module.

Mini Cooper: A handful of 2006 Mini Coopers will be checked for weak welds that could lock their transmissions in gear.
The Minis are equipped with continuously variable transmissions. Dealers will inspect laser-weld connections between the
gear selector rod and lock plate and replace transmissions where necessary.

6/03/06

Nissan is recalling some 466,000 of its X-Trail worldwide due to a potentially defective fuel inlet pipe. According to Nissans
recall, an 'inappropriate' pipe coating (probably none) could result in a rusty filler pipe (primarily in 2000-2004 models),
causing a gasoline leak.
Thus far, the automaker has received word of 49 defective pipes, but no injuries have resulted.Globally, the recall affects about
177,000 European and 142,000 Japanese X-Trails, with the rest being sold elsewhere.

28/02/06

Honda: Some 2006 Honda Civic Coupes may have a faulty electronic component used to sense weight on seats and deploy
airbags in a crash. The part might fail to suppress the passenger airbag deployment when the weight of an infant or small child
is detected in the front seat. 

Nissan: Nissan has agreed to recall almost 21,000 Muranos after discovering their fuel tanks can be punctured by road debris.
Dealers will install a tank shield on 2003-2006 models.

Cadillac: A small number of 2006 Cadillac STSs with all-wheel drive and 3.6-litre engines have been recalled because an
electronic torque-monitoring device wasn't connected at the factory. The absence of this function could affect throttle control.

Saturn: Some 2006 Saturn Ion Quad Coupe Red Line cars have failed the lighting test. When the fog lamps are turned on,
the parking lamps, tail lamps, licence-plate lamp and side marker lamps do not automatically turn on as required.

Ford software virus 13/02/06

Ford Motor is recalling 211,432 2006 Ford F-150 and Lincoln Mark LT pickup trucks to fix a software bug in the instrument cluster.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the software problem could prevent the Antilock Brake System
warning light from illuminating if an ABS failure occurs. The fix involves a dealer recalibration of the instrument module.

And another hot time. 8/01/06

Chrysler Group said Friday it would recall about 265,000 sedans after receiving dozens of complaints of engine fires.
The recall involves 1999-2000 Dodge Stratus, Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus sedans equipped with the 2.4-liter engine.
Chrysler has received 168 reports of fires through November 2005. The automaker said the high-pressure power steering hose
may experience premature aging because of heat and could leak power steering fluid, creating the potential of a fire in the engine
compartment. Gates said the company had received one report of minor smoke inhalation. Under the recall, the hose, which carries
coolant into the power steering system, will be replaced. Gates said temperatures inside the engines of the vehicles were higher
than normal, and the automaker was trying to figure out why. The replacement hoses will be more resistant to heat.
The recall involves about 210,000 vehicles in the United States and about 55,000 vehicles in Mexico and Canada.

A hot time in the old town tonight!! 4/01/06

Nissan is recalling nearly 11,000 Maxima sedans to fix a wiring problem that could cause a fire in the power seats.
An incorrectly routed wiring harness for the power lumbar support on the 2004-2006 models is susceptible to pinching or chafing.
This can cause an electrical short that could ignite the harness cover.

DaimlerChrysler is recalling about 3,500 Mercedes-Benz cars dating to 1998 after it was learned their brake lights may fail
due to heat from the bulbs that melts and deforms sockets.Dealers will replace the rear lamp assemblies on the 1998-2004
SLK-Class vehicles.

Subaru will ask owners to bring in 2006 Foresters and Imprezas to repair a wiring problem that can prevent the vehicles
from starting. A wire leading to a control module may be pinched by a security cover. It can also cause stalling.

Battery cables on three 2005 Ford models can contact the vehicle frame and cause a short circuit.
Dealers will reroute the positive cable on the 2005 Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car.

Mazda Again 4/01/06

Mazda  has issued a recall to owners of its 2003 Protégé. The issue involves screws used to mount the intake manifold
shutter valve that may loosen due to engine vibration or normal actions of the valve. Signs that the screws have become
undone include rough idling noise, a malfunction indicator or engine misfire. Mazda encourages all owners to bring their
vehicles in for inspection. The inspection takes approximately four hours to complete and the company states it will replace
the screws and gaskets or, if necessary, the entire intake manifold, all free of charge.

Ranger and MazdaB Pick up trucks. 10/12/05

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is scrutinising Ford’s evergreen Ranger and Mazda B-Series twin. 
The crux of their preliminary investigation, a wiring issue that reportedly disables the compact pickup’s taillights, rally style.
Some 510,000 2003-2005 models are affected. The crux of the problem is a short circuit in a wiring harness that can blow
the fuse governing the taillamps.  Both Ford and Mazda have issued TSBs (Technical Service Bullitins) to their dealership body,
alerting them of the concern.

Durango ABS gremlins. 10/12/05

In other recall news, Daimler-Chrysler is set to recall some 19,000 2006 Dodge Durangos, most of which probably have yet to
find their way into customer’s hands.  A kink in the software has reportedly been found in the anti-lock braking system, causing
rear brake lockup.

Ford said today it was recalling nearly 224,000 vehicles because their windshield wipers may malfunction. The National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration said the windshield wiper motor on the vehicles may have been produced without grease being
applied to the output shaft gear. Inoperative windshield wipers could cause a crash due to impaired visibility. Trucks, SUVs, pickups
and cars are all involved in the recall. Vehicles affected, all from the 2006 model year and mostly in the United States, include the
Escape, Expedition, Explorer, F-150, Ranger, Taurus, Mark LT, Navigator, Mariner and Mountaineer, Ford E-150, E-250, E-350
and E-450.

Ford Recalling Cars for Fuel Tanks 17/11/05

About 225,000 new Ford vehicles, including the company's new Freestyle/Five Hundred/Montego full-size sedans and crossover,
will be recalled. In the first recall, the vehicles have fuel-tank straps that could break, causing the fuel tank to rest on the vehicle's
driveshaft or exhaust system, which could in turn result in a fire. In the second recall action are the 2005 versions of the
Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis sedans and the Lincoln Town Car.
Those vehicles will be recalled for a bad battery cable that could be frayed by an attaching bolt, leading to fire.

Volvo Extending Throttle Warranties

Meanwhile, Ford's Volvo brand has reached a deal with California transportation officials to extend the warranty on more than
350,000 vehicles with defective throttles. The throttle on some Volvo models can become corroded, leading to slowdown and
a loss of power. Volvo will warrant the part for up to ten years or 200,000 miles. The action is not an official recall, though a
Volvo spokesperson said up to 94 percent of affected vehicles could experience the problem during the warranty. 

Here we go again!  11/11/05

Honda Motor Co. recalled about 25,000 Civics on Thursday because the accelerator pedal was improperly installed on some
2006 models, which could cause a crash. If the pedal is improperly installed, it could come loose, cause the throttle to stick and
raise the potential for a crash. Honda spokesman Sage Marie said there have been no crashes or injuries linked to the issue.
Most of the 25,298 vehicles under recall in the United States have not yet been sold. A dealer inspecting the vehicles discovered
the problem in late September and reported it to the automaker, leading to an internal investigation.

Prius Recalled for Stalling 14/10/05

The newest generation of Toyota's Prius will be recalled for a stalling problem linked to the vehicle's complex engine-control software.
About 75,000 copies of the 2004-05 Prius will be brought back for reprogramming to cure the glitch, which can cause warning lights to
come on and can cause the gas engine to shut down, leaving the driver under only battery power to slow down safely.

Chrysler Transmissions 10/10/05

Chrysler has announced a recall of nearly 600,000 vehicles. Around 300,000 Jeeps, Chrysler 300/Dodge Magnum, Dodge Durango
and Dodge Dakota/Mitsubishi Raider models, made in the 2005 model-year, are to be recalled for an automatic transmission problem
which may prevent the selection of park mode. A further 283,000 Dodge Ram pick-ups (2003-2005) are being recalled for a similar
problem.

Roofs that rain glass at Cadillac 27/09/05

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it was investigating reports that the large sunroof on Cadillac SRXs
has shattered while driving at highway speeds, showering passengers with glass. It identified 10 reported injuries consisting
of minor cuts and scrapes linked to four consumer complaints.  General Motors Corp. spokesman Alan Adler said about
30,000 vehicles had the broad sunroof, which became a standard feature on models with V8 engines in 2005.
The sunroof exposes the second row of seats when opened and is about 6 square feet. One owner, who was not identified,
told the government that the sunroof collapsed in mid-August, injuring six people while the 2005 model was traveling at
60 m.p.h. to 65 m.p.h. The people were treated at a hospital for cuts.

Mazda 5 production halted after fires 22/09/05

Mazda has stopped production globally of its new 5 MPV and recalled 2,700 units in North America for exhaust system-related fires.
Three fires due to heat buildup in the system have been reported, and that Mazda's North American dealers have been ordered to stop
selling the car until the cause of the fires has been found and a solution is in place.
US customers were told to return their vehicles immediately and will be given replacement transport at no cost. Mazda reportedly has told customers they will be without their 5s for at least 30 days.  The production halt affects all 5s globally, but Japan and Europe have not issued recalls or stop-sale orders, as those countries' versions have different engine specifications and engine management control units. The spokesman said that the cause of the fires has not been determined. The car went on sale in June, and has also been launched in Europe
and some Asia-Pacific markets.

Ford trucks 10/09/05
Ford, in its massive action, will bring back 3.8 million trucks and SUVs for a problem with cruise control switches that can lead to fires.
In the fifth-largest recall ever in U.S. auto history, Ford will recall the 1994-2002 F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and Lincoln Navigator because cruise-control switches have been linked to fires in some 550 complaints, three of which have been linked to deaths.
The switches can be affected by leaky brake fluid and can corrode, leading to fire. Ford already had recalled 800,000 vehicles from the
2000 model year for a similar problem.

Toyota trucks
In the second recall, Toyota said it would begin an action on 978,000 SUVs and trucks for a problem with power steering systems.
A linkage from the steering unit to the wheels can break, leading to a loss of steering, although the problem presents itself when involved
vehicles are stopped. The Toyotas included in the recall are the 1990-95 4Runner SUV, 1989-95 Truck 4WD, and 1993-98 T-100 pickup.

GM recalling 800,000 Pickups, SUVs 2/09/05
General Motors said Tuesday that it is recalling about 800,000 sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks because corrosion is affecting
the antilock brake system. GM said the recall involves 1999-2002 model years of the Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Silverado,
Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Sierra, GMC Yukon and GMC Yukon XL.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an
investigation in late April of more than 1.2 million GM pickups and SUVs in 20 states because of questions involving the antilock brakes.
The investigation is pending. Road grime can wedge its way into a plastic piece that covers the ABS sensor near the wheel hub,
resulting in salt corrosion. The corrosion leads the sensors to activate the ABS system at speeds of 3.7 miles an hour to 10 mph,
requiring a longer stopping distance. With 2003 models, the ABS system was changed so it would start at speeds of 15 to 20 mph.
GM said there have been 228 crashes reported through the end of May, including 10 minor injuries.
That is the most recent data available. No fatalities have been reported. The company recalled about 150,000 pickups in Eastern
Canada in November 2004 from the same model years because of the condition in the antilock brakes.

2006 Hyundai Sonata 24/07/05
An overly sensitive Electronic Stability Control may activate unnecessarily, reducing engine power and braking one of the wheels.
Dealers will reprogram the ESC Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit.

2005 Hyundai Tucson
On some vehicles, the parking brake lever ratchet pawl was not properly manufactured and may damage the ratchet's teeth.
This may prevent the parking brake from engaging or could allow it to release after being engaged.
Dealers will replace the parking brake lever assembly.

2003-2005 Nissan Murano
On some models, equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), an open circuit in the alternator can occur due to wire
fatigue or higher engine compartment temperature in the Murano compared to other Nissan models.
When an open circuit occurs, the charge warning lamp comes on. If the driver continues to drive in this condition,
the vehicle will operate normally for about one hour. After that time, the battery voltage will drop to a level that causes the engine control
module to go into a fail safe mode and reduce the vehicle speed for about ten minutes. Then the engine will stop running.
Dealers will replace the alternator with an updated version.

Kia, Toyota Recall Minivans 22/07/05

Kia Motors and Toyota Motor Co. are recalling their popular minivans.
At Kia, the Sedona is being recalled for the second time in three months because of a defect with the vehicle's throttle cable.
The 2003-05 Sedona may be subject to a sticky throttle cable that could be especially problematic in cold weather.
About 118,000 Sedonas could have the problem, which results from water leaching in around the cable and freezing.
Dealers will remedy the problem for free.

KIA COP OUTS 13/07/05

Kia will recall four models to fix steering problems in some, fuel leaks in others, and wheels and bearings that can crack in the remainder.
Of about 20,000 vehicles involved, more than half are 2003-2005 Sedona vans equipped with alloy wheels.
Transport Canada says moisture can enter the rear hub and damage the wheel bearing.
Under certain conditions, this can result in the failure of the bearings and loss of control.
Dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the hub assemblies. Inspectors have discovered a problem with some 2005 Kia Spectras
that were shipped to Canada, but not yet distributed to dealers. Transport Canada says sections of a steering tie rod could crack or fail
because of a manufacturing flaw. New steering racks will be installed. Possible fuel leaks spurred the recall of about 2,100 new Sportage sport-utilities that, like the Spectras, were shipped to Canada but not distributed to dealers.
The safety agency says a faulty O-ring in a vapour chamber would allow fuel to leak from a full tank.
Kia corrected the problem before releasing the vehicles. A manufacturing flaw could cause wheels to crack on almost 6,000 Kia Rio
compacts from the 2001 year. A crack could cause noise and vibration, and in a severe case, could lead to a crash if the wheel separates
from the vehicle.
 
About 15,000 mid-size Saturn sedans and wagons are being recalled so dealers can replace rear light sockets and/or entire tail light assemblies. Included are the 2000-2002 LS and 2000-2004 LW.

VW in the hot seat. 8/07/05

Volkswagen AG is recalling nearly 40,000 Jetta sedans in the United States because fuel could leak and start a fire,
federal safety regulators said Thursday. Jettas from the 2005 model year are involved in the recall.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said a fuel supply line clamp might not be properly positioned,
which could lead to a leak. Volkswagen said it knows of no deaths or injuries related to the defect, which was reported to
the company by a small number of owners. "We don't know of any fires whatsoever because of this, but we think it is important
to act quickly and reassure new Jetta owners about our commitment to their safety and satisfaction,"
Len Hunt, Volkswagen's executive vice president, said in a statement.

Ford Motor Co. is recalling the 2006 Ford Expedition and 2006 Lincoln Navigator because the left-side tires could have tread
damage caused by a sharp piece of steel they might have encountered during manufacturing.
There are 10,061 vehicles involved in that recall, NHTSA said.

Feds Examine Expedition for Wipers 21/06/05

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that it has begun investigating whether the windshield wipers
on the Ford Expedition are defective. About 650,000 vehicles could be affected if the agency determines a recall is necessary.
In vehicles from the 1999-2001 model years, there is a potential for water to leak into the vehicle and damage the windshield
wiper mechanism.
The NHTSA has logged 20 complaints over the issue.

Ford Recall Affects 260,000 Trucks 14/06/05

About 260,000 Ford vehicles are being recalled for a stalling problem. The vehicles in question are full-size Ford F-Series pickups,
Excursion SUVs and Econoline vans, many outfitted with Ford's 6.0-liter diesel engine. In the affected vehicles - about 180,100 of
which have the diesel engine - a faulty fuel-injection control module could lead to stalling. The vehicles are from the 2004-05 model years.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that two minor injuries have been linked to the issue.
Ford is also investigating the 2003 F-Series Super Duty with the diesel engine for other engine-performance issues.
Additionally, Ford is recalling 78,675 Super Duty trucks for fuel lines that separate from the main fuel bundle.

Kia to recall minivans 26/05/05

Kia Motors America Inc. said it's recalling more than 37,000 minivans because of possible damage to a rear wheel bearing that could
cause a crash. Kia said a defect might exist on 37,358 Kia Sedona minivans from the 2003-05 model years that have alloy wheels. Company engineers found that moisture can accumulate around the small steel cap that seals the rear hub and bearing assembly on alloy wheels and lead to damage to the wheel bearing. The company said a failure can occur without warning and cause a crash. The majority of the vehicles, more than 26,000, are from the 2004 model year. Owners are expected to be notified in early June. They will be able to take their vehicles to Kia dealers to have the rear hub seals inspected and replaced, if necessary, at no charge.

Mercedes, Kia and Chrysler vans. 24/05/05

Mercedes-Benz sedans as far back as 2003 are being recalled to replace a pump that could result in
reduced braking power. A piston in the pump can be out of tolerance and can cause the power-assist function to fail.
The recall affects 2003-2005 E-Class and SL-Class vehicles and 2006 CLS-Class cars.

About 1,700 new 2005 Kia Sportages need to be modified with updated software to prevent an onboard computer from
applying the brakes when not needed.

Volkswagen is recalling just over 9,000 Golfs and GTIs from the 1999 and 2000 model years because of possible fuel leaks.

Power liftgates on 2003 Chrysler minivans needs a new control module, about 3,000 Grand Caravans equipped with the
option are affected.

Toyota Recalling Tacoma / Sequoia / Tundra & 4 Runner. 18/05/05

Toyota will recall the U.S.-made Tacoma compact pickup truck, the Sequoia sport-ute and Tundra pickup, and the 4Runner sport-utility
vehicle, all the results of a flaw in the vehicles' suspensions. The total of recalled vehicles will be about 790,000. The defect involves front suspension components that can deteriorate if scratched. The problem stems from a defective ball joint, which can make the vehicles
difficult to steer. The recall includes 2001-2004 model year Tacoma trucks, 2001-2002 4Runners, and 2002-2004 models of the
Sequoia and Tundra. It is one of the largest recalls in the company's history.

General  Motors Recalling More Than 2 Million Vehicles:  25/04/05

The center safety belt in the second row of the SUVs and pickups, typically used for child seats, was riding high on the occupant's
stomach or abdomen. There could be a reduced protection in that portion of the body in the event of a crash.

The company also announced recalls for the following vehicles:

-- More than 330,000 1500 Series Chevrolet Suburban and Yukon XL from the 2000-2001 model years for potential overheating
of fuel pump wires that could lead to engine stalling. There were no known crashes or injuries related to the problem.

-- More than 142,000 1500 Series Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups from the 1999-2002 model years and 2500/3500
Series pickups from the 2001-2004 model years with manual transmissions for parking brake friction. 

-- More than 69,000 Buick Lacrosse and Buick Allure 2005 models from Canada for a bent clip that holds part of the brake.
If the clip comes off, it would lead to brake loss and a crash, Adler said. There has been one minor crash from the issue.

-- More than 39,000 Buick Rendezvous and Pontiac Azteks from the 2004 model year for intermittent stalling or failure to start
because of a faulty ignition relay. GM said it was aware of one minor crash but no injuries.

-- More than 22,000 Saturn L Series Wagons from the 2002-2004 model year because they were built with a center and passenger
side rear seat belt anchors that do not comply with U.S. and Canadian safety standards.

Hyundai, Kia Recalling SUVs 1/04/05

Hyundai and Kia will recall about 38,000 vehicles because their stability-control systems could be flawed. The vehicles involved in the recall
are 30,558 Hyundai Tucson and 7619 Kia Sportage SUVs; the vehicles share much of their basic structures and powertrains. The recall
affects 2005 models of the vehicles. The stability control systems on the affected vehicles could cause vehicles to slow through reduced
engine power or application of a brake on one of their wheels.

Mercedes-Benz Recalls 1.3 Million Cars 1/04/05

The largest single recall in its history will be launched soon by Mercedes-Benz, just as the company is trying to right quality problems that have dragged down its performance. DaimlerChrysler says it will recall about 1.3 million vehicles because of problems with voltage regulators, battery-control software, and braking systems. The recall includes Benz vehicles outfitted with gas V-6 and V-8 engines, manufactured between June 2001 and November 2004, according to wire reports, as well as some E-Class and CLS-Class cars built between January 2002 and January of this year, and E-Class, CLS-Class, and SL-Class cars built from June 2001 through January 2005. Several hundred thousand vehicles sold in the U.S. are included in the recall; a spokesperson told the Wall Street Journal that no accidents, nor any injuries, had resulted from the problems.

Toyota Echo - rusty floor pans. 28/03/05

Toyota is repairing or replacing floors in every Echo sold in Canada after the discovery of rust on some of the subcompacts in
high-salt, high-humidity regions, such as Quebec and Ontario since 1999. The free program will make necessary the removal of
carpets, descaling of metal and application of a sealer, some asphalt sheeting and epoxy bonding agent.

Toyota Recalling Tacoma: 16/02/05

The 2005 Toyota Tacoma is being recalled for problems with its parking brake.
The Associated Press reports that Toyota will recall 22,228 Tacomas with automatic transmissions because the parking brake
has a lock nut that may not be tightened properly. It can loosen and fall off, leading to a loss of braking.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received eight complaints on affected Tacomas, but no reports of injuries.

GM Trucks: 11/02/05

General Motors Corp. is recalling nearly 200,000 vehicles because of various safety defects.
The largest recall is of 155,465 pickups, vans and SUVs-- including the Hummer H2 -- because of possible brake malfunctions.
All of the affected vehicles are from the 2004 and 2005 model years and have Bosch hydro-boost brake assemblies.
They are the Chevrolet Avalanche, Express, Silverado and Suburban; the GMC Savana, Sierra and Yukon XL; the GMC
Topkick and Chevrolet Kodiak commercial trucks; and the Hummer H2.

Ford Recalls Focus 8/02/05

The Ford Focus is being recalled for faulty rear-door latches. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has initiated the recall of 358,857 Foci, the Associated Press reports, because the rear doors' latches could corrode and leave them unable to close properly.
The recall involves Focus four- and five-door models sold as 2000-2002 models in 20 states and the District of Columbia.
Thirty-three complaints concerning the defect have been lodged with the NHTSA.

Honda Motor Co. recalls Accord sedans 2/02/05
And other cars to fix an ignition flaw that can allow the vehicles to roll after they are parked and the key is removed. The National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration said Tuesday that the recall covers some 1999-2002 Accords, as well as 1999-2000 Accord coupes, all 1997 through 2001 Prelude coupes and some 1999-2000 Acura TLs. No accidents or injuries were reported in connection with the recall.
About 15 months ago, Honda recalled more than 650,000 cars, minivans and SUVs to fix the same problem. NHTSA received complaints in October that additional vehicles could have the problem and asked the automaker to investigate, according to the recall letter.
There were 169 complaints, 28 incidents and three injuries in the prior recall.

Ford Recalling 792,000 Pickups, SUVs: 27/01/05

Ford’s full-size pickups and SUVs from the 2000 and 2001 model years will be recalled for a potential fire hazard.
The recall includes the F-150 and SuperCrew pickups as well as the Expedition/Lincoln Navigator sport-utes.
The vehicles have cruise-control switches that could short-circuit, causing a fire.
Owners can have the switches deactivated free of charge until replacement parts are available.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has logged 36 reports of fire in affected vehicles.

GM again:12/01/05

General Motors Corp. is recalling 98,221 Chevrolet and GMC pickups, vans and SUVs because the steering wheels and brakes might not
work properly. All the vehicles involved are from the 2000 model year. They are the Chevrolet C/K and Silverado pickups and Suburban SUV
and the GMC Savana van, Sierra pickup and Yukon XL SUV. A hydraulic pump driveshaft can fracture in the vehicles. That causes immediate loss of power steering assist and can result in loss of braking assist. Drivers still can steer and use their brakes but with difficulty. GM plans to notify owners about the recall next month. Dealers will repair the vehicles for free.

There's no Escape. 28/12/04

Ford Motor Co. recalled 262,113 Escape sport-utility vehicles to repair a defect in the rear gate, the second recall of the vehicles in the last
two weeks. The latest recall covers 2001 through 2005 models whose rear lift gate could fly open during a crash, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on its Web site. Another 49,800 of Mazda Motor Corp.'s Tribute SUVs, similar to the Escape, were recalled for the identical defect. On Dec. 13, Ford recalled 470,245 SUVs from the 2002 through 2004 model years because the accelerator might get stuck. Ford also faces a U.S. safety investigation of wheel cracks on 146,000 Crown Victoria sedans used as police cars and taxis because earlier recall repairs might not have eliminated the flaw.

GM Recalling Minivans for Door Problem 24/12/04
The power sliding side doors on General Motors' minivans are the focus of a recall to be performed by the company, wire reports indicated Thursday evening. GM will recall 717,302 of its minivans sold from the 1997 model year to date because the power sliding side doors feature a handle that could injure a user's hands or wrists while in motion. Included in the recall are the 1997-2005 Chevrolet Venture; the 1997-1999 Pontiac TranSport Montana; the 2000-2005 Pontiac Montana; and the 1997-2004 Olds Silhouette. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has recorded 21 complaints about the handles on the doors. Repairs will be available beginning in March.

Volkswagen Recalls Golf, GTI, Jetta 24/12/04
More than 300,000 Volkswagen compacts are on the recall list for problems with lights, fuel pumps and airbags. The first and widest recall applies to Golf, GTI and Jetta cars sold in the 2000-2002 model years. VW says these cars have hazard lights that could lose functionality as they age, because of high electrical current in the turn-signal bulbs. The second recall affects the 2004-2005 Golf, Jetta, New Beetle and Passats; some 19,284 of them have a leaking diesel fuel pump that could catch fire, and require a new fastener that will contain the fuel properly. In the final service action, the German automaker will examine as many as 447,000 2001-2003 Golf, GTI and Jetta cars because the NHTSA has received 107 complaints that side-impact airbags were activated improperly. VW hasn't officially recalled any vehicles for the latter issue.

Framed!!  10/12/04
Federal regulators have asked the Chrysler Group to voluntarily recall about 600,000 Dodge Durango and Dakota pickup trucks, the company said Thursday. At least 100 of the trucks from the model years 2000 to 2003 have had failures of an important suspension joint. In most cases, the failure causes the truck's frame to collapse. In a few cases it has led to a wheel coming off. There has been one report of an injury, which the company said was not life-threatening. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been investigating the problem for several months. Earlier this week, the agency sent a letter to Chrysler, requesting that it recall the trucks.

Ford Looking Over Explorers/Mountaineers 23/11/04

As many as 740,000 owners of Ford Explorers and Mercury Mountaineers will be examined by the company's dealers to ensure that their automatic transmissions are performing as expected, Ford said on Tuesday. Some 2004 Explorers and Mountaineers are noisy when
shifted from park to reverse, the AP reports. The problem comes from being filled with the wrong transmission fluid. Ford will pay for the
repairs to the vehicles, most of which still are under warranty. The AP notes the problem is not technically a recall since the safety of the
drivers and passengers is not at risk.

ION Recalled for Headlights 21/11/04

GM says it's recalling about 200,000 Saturn IONs in the U.S. and Canada due to problems with the headlights and turn signals.
GM says the cars' daytime running lights and front turn signals could have bulbs that lose contact and fail to light.
The recall involves 178,798 IONs sold in the United States and 18,513 sold in Canada .
The Saturns will be repaired free of charge.

Toyota Recalling Prius 19/11/04

Toyota will recall twelve vehicle lines and a total of 544,172 cars worldwide, according to a late report from Reuters.
Among the vehicles included in the recall is the hybrid Prius. The vehicles have brake lights that could fail as a result of faulty switches.
The vehicles affected by the recall include those manufactured from January 1999 to August of 2004.

GM Recalling 1.5 Million Vehicles 5/11/04

General Motors will recall its mid-size sport-utility vehicles for a defect in taillamps. GM says its 2002-2004 Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, Oldsmobile Bravada and 2004 Buick Rainier models have taillamps that could fail, leaving drivers vulnerable to accidents.
The vehicles involved include 946,817 SUVs. In addition to the SUV recall, GM will recall the '03 Cavalier/Sunfire twins for taillamp and
turn-signal problems, for another 339,008 vehicles; the 2003 Chevy Malibu, Pontiac Grand Am and Olds Alero for sticky accelerator pedals, adding another 204,317 vehicles; and a final recall of the new Cadillac XLR and 2005 Corvette for brake-fluid leaks in a total of 5914 vehicles.
All told, the recalls add up to another 1.5 million recalled vehicles at a time when GM is trying to reduce warranty costs and improve the quality image of its vehicles.

Chrysler Recalls Minivans 2/11/04

DaimlerChrysler's American arm said on Monday that it would recall about 240,000 minivans because of a problem with the vehicles' radios.
The problem, an electrical short caused by water leaking into the radios, has resulted in nine reported fires in the speakers of the affected vehicles. Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans from the 2001-2002 model years are affected; repairs will be completed
for free. Chrysler also is recalling about 11,100 Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus vehicles from the 2005 model year because the
seatbelts in the rear are not fastened properly. Dealers will tighten the bolts that fasten the left and right rear passenger safety belts to
the car's structure.

Misaligned Jeeps:  11/10/04

Jeeps that tend to drift onto the shoulder don't exactly fit the company's idea of "off-road" vehicles. Owners of some 2001-2005 Wranglers, 2001-2004 Grand Cherokees and 2001 Cherokees may complain about vehicles that like to loll about when traveling on the highway. When repeated adjustments don't correct the problem or alignments can't be performed at all, company officials say replacing one or both upper front ball joints may be required. No coverage outside the warranty is offered, which is shameful because a part so integral to the safety of the vehicle should remain intact long after the rest of the thing has rotted in the junkyard.

Excursion jerk:

Some of you may look at the Ford Excursion behemoth and think "Excursion jerk" refers to the drivers. Well, not this time. (Hey, they're only selling 5,000 units a year, so I can afford to be offensive.) It seems that some 2004 Super Duty models of this Grand Behemoth with the 6.0-liter engine may experience a jerking motion, a miss or a stumble after deceleration down a long grade in cruise control. Recalibrating the powertrain control module should smooth things out.

Rattled timing:

Like ball joints, the timing chain would be another part one would rather not hear from. Ever. But owners of some 1999-2002 Ford Explorers,
and 2001-2002 Explorer Sport Tracs, Explorer Sports and Rangers with the 4.0 single overhead-cam engine are complaining about a rattle noise from the timing chain. Replacing the chain, primary timing tensioner, chain guide, jackshaft and crankshaft sprockets and some accessory parts should quiet things down. But expect to kiss your baby goodbye for a little while; there are a lot of things to take out to get at the timing chain. And don't expect any help outside the warranty coverage.

Noisy pillar:

Another part that ought to keep quiet and do its job would be the A-pillar, which is the piece of metal that runs from the hood to the roof.
Owners of some 2004 Honda Odyssey minivans are complaining of a squeak from just below this part. Honda officials say increasing the clearance between the two pieces of sheet metal below the A-pillar should quiet things down. But here's where we separate the automakers
from the autofakers: Honda says in the TSB that it will evaluate outside warranty coverage case by case.

Intermittent unstable idle:

This is a problem with Hyundai engines, both the 2.4-liter and the 3.5-liter, dating from 1999. An intermittently stuck EGR solenoid valve is the culprit. No word of coverage outside the warranty.

Trunk thump:

Owners of some 2003-2004 Jaguar S-Type vehicles may notice a thump from the rear, when shifting a manual or accelerating an automatic. Bushing inserts on the differential mount bushings should stop the noise. No mention of coverage outside the warranty.

No control:

I try not to delight too much in the misfortune of drivers of big, beastly vehicles like the 2004 Nissan Titan and Armada. (I drive an old Volkswagen Bug, so I need these guys to be happy and paying attention to the road.) So I'll not gloat about the cruise control on these things being inoperative. It's just jealousy talking. Adjusting the cruise control- cancel switch should get these tanks moving at a steady pace. No mention of coverage outside the warranty.

RPM fluctuation:

Owners of some 2004 Plymouth Neons may complain about a revolution-per-minute "bump" with the air conditioner on or an rpm sag when changing the accelerator position. The fix involves reprogramming the vehicle's computer. No mention of extra warranty coverage.

Frozen throttles 10/10/04

Audi of America, Inc. today announced that it is voluntarily recalling 28,363 A6s in the U.S. from model years 1998 and 1999.
All 1998-1999 model year Audi A6 vehicles equipped with a 2.8-liter V-6 five-valve engine and automatic transmission that are
registered in cold weather states are included. Audi has determined that, in rare cases while driving at a steady rate of speed for a
considerable period of time and during extremely low ambient temperatures (below +5 degrees F), the throttle on affected vehicles may
not return to idle position due to ice accumulating in the throttle body. In this instance the driver can apply additional brake force or take
other actions (such as shifting into Neutral, turning off the ignition, etc.) to positively stop the vehicle. In the absence of such action,
the vehicle may maintain speed when the driver expects the vehicle to slow.

Ford There With Recalls, Too 08/10/04

Ford's revamped Freestar/Monterey minivans will be recalled because of issues with wheel hubs.
Ford says the first recall will affect 35,401 Ford Freestar minivans and 4630 Mercury Montereys.
The 2004 model year vehicles can suffer wheel hub cracks.
The vehicles were recalled last November, because power steering lines were found to be defective.
Ford also announced a recall of about 1700 F-Series trucks from the 2004 model year; that recall involves the
seams of the truck's fuel tanks.

TSX Among the Recalled 08/09/04

The Acura TSX is one of the vehicles involved in a recall issued by Honda. Honda says it will recall 158,187 cars sold in Japan,
the United States, and 39 other countries to fix problems with lights: in the TSX recall, tape used to seal wiring leading to the
vehicle's rear lights fails, as do the lights themselves as a result. About 40,060 Acura TSXs could be affected by the problem.

VW, Chrysler Have Sludge Problems 01/09/04

AsToyota did in the past two years, Volkswagen and Chrysler are now facing sludge problems in their most popular models.
It's the not-liquid leftovers from used engine oil that accumulates in piston cylinders, creating sluggish performance and even
damaging engines severely enough to require replacement. In Volkswagen's case, the sludge allegations are levied against its
1.8-liter, turbocharged four-cylinders found in many 1997-2004 Audis and VWs, including the Passat and A4. Volkswagen is
notifying owners of more than 400,000 vehicles in the U.S. of the problem and has even offered to replace some engines.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has logged less than 16 complaints of the VW problem thus far.
In Chrysler's case, the company has been petitioned by the Center for Auto Safety to extend warranties on the 2.7-liter V-6
it used in much of its 1998-2002 lineup, including its popular minivans. Toyota in 2002 said it would extend warranties and
pay for engine replacements in sludge complaints, provided owners could prove they had changed their oil as recommended
by the company.

Federal regulators are investigating reports of failing rear door latches on the 2000 Ford Focus. 26/08/04

NHTSA has received 17 complaints that one or both rear doors opened while the Focus was moving, usually while
the driver was turning a corner. In some of those cases, drivers reported that the back doors opened even though
they should have been locked. Ford Motor Co. said it is cooperating with the investigation.

The company has received 16 additional complaints and 28 warranty claims regarding rear door latches.
No injuries from the alleged defect have been reported.

There are approximately 261,000 Focus vehicles from the 2000 model year on the road.

NHTSA said Tuesday it has upgraded its investigation, a step that often comes before a vehicle recall.

Lincoln Navigator liftgates don't like hot weather 13/08/04

Delayed engagement: A whole slew of Chrysler owners are finding their transmissions just don't want to move them.

The list of vehicles affected includes the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica; 2003-04 Chrysler 300M and Concorde, and Dodge Stratus and Intrepid;
2003 Jeep Liberty, Cherokee and Wrangler, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Town and Country, Voyager; and 2003 Dodge Neon and Caravan.

The fix involves replacing the transmission's front pump assembly and checking the transmission control module for the latest software revision. The bulletin says repair is reimbursable only within provisions of the normal warranty.

A hot reversal: Owners of some 2003-04 Lincoln Navigators are enjoying an optional built-in thermometer with their new $40,000 SUV.
They know it's more than 90 degrees outside when the power liftgate stops closing and reverses direction before it's halfway shut.

This option, however, is not pleasing all the owners, who say they would rather have the liftgate shut completely on the first try, thank you.

Ford officials say the left side motor encoder needs to be replaced. That is, unless the liftgate reverses direction just as it's about ready
to latch. Then the problem most likely is a misaligned door. No extra coverage outside the warranty is mentioned.

Oil on the badge: General Motors says it's facing oil leaks from 2003 Chevrolet Impalas with the police package.

If the oil leaks from the right side of the engine, it may be coming from the oil cooler adaptor. The company will replace the slip-on oil lines with threaded fittings. This is covered only under the warranty.

More delays: While Chrysler owners wait for their transmissions to catch up with them, some GM SUV owners are hoping their vehicles will switch into four-wheel drive sometime before sliding off the road.

Owners of some 2002-04 Chevrolet Trailblazer and Trailblazer EXT; GMC Envoy, Envoy XL and XUV; Oldsmobile Bravada; and 2004 Buick Rainier models complain their front wheels are not coming to the rescue quickly enough after they start to slip and slide.

Models from 2002 will need a new transfer case module, and all the model years need the module reprogrammed.

No extra warranty coverage is indicated.

Squeaky turns: Owners of some 2001-03 Toyota Highlanders are complaining of a squeak or shudder noise when turning.
A new steering column hole cover should quiet things. No coverage outside warranty is mentioned.

Leaky Nissans: Oil on the driveways of owners of 2003 Nissan Frontiers and 2003-04 Nis san Xterras is probably coming from the
transfer case front cover.

To stop the leak, Nissan says, replace the main gear and front cover oil seal. No coverage outside the warranty period is mentioned.

The car of the open door: Some 2003 Mazda6 models won't let the doors close in extremely cold weather.
Mazda says new grease and rubber stoppers are being used in production to stop this problem before it starts now.
Owners who faced this problem last winter may need new door latches.

There is no mention of coverage outside the warranty.

GM Recalling 200,000 Buicks 13/08/04

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that some recent Buick sedans have low-beam headlamps that don't meet minimum safety requirements. Thus, some 199,793 Buick Century and Regal sedans from the 1999 model year will be recalled, because the inadequate low beams would make it difficult to read road signs. Reuters reports that GM has had more recalls thus far in 2004 than in all of 2003.

Some 1.2 Million GM SUVs May Get Recalled  11/08/04

DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group plans to recall 831,000 minivans that may have weak power steering hoses that could pose a fire hazard, the company said Wednesday. Owners of the 2002, 2003 and 2004 minivans with V-6 engines will receive letters informing them of the problem in September. The recall will apply to Dodge Caravans and Grand Caravans, and Chrysler's Voyager and Town & Country models. A hose that carries power steering fluid may become weak with age and leak fluid, which could start a fire under the hood. Cold weather is believed to aggravate the problem. replacement parts will be available in early September. About 681,000 of the vans are in the United States and 150,000 in Canada. Twenty-three fires have been reported in recent months in the minivans, mostly in Canada, but none have led to injuries or accidents.

The company also is recalling immediately 2,000 Dodge Rams from 2004 with 4.7-litre engines. An alternator wire can hit a valve, causing a short circuit and possibly a fire. No incidents have been reported in the Rams.

VUE in NHTSA Study 27/07/04

The VUE could also be the target of a safety recall if an investigation finds that suspension problems are causing the vehicle to roll over. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is studying complaints that the VUE has a flaw in the left-rear suspension that arises in emergency maneuvers; the suspension pieces can fail, as the NHTSA observed when it tested two VUEs on its own. An investigation can turn into a full recall if the NHTSA determines there is an engineering defect.

BMW Recalls V-8, V-12 Cars 15/07/04

Ford recalls more than 170,000 defective vehicles 8/07/04

Ford Motor Co. said Wednesday it has voluntarily recalled about 171,000 of 2003 and 2004 model vehicles for a variety of defects.

The largest group includes 92,000 of 2003 F-Series Super Duty pickup trucks and Excursion sport utility vehicles.

There may be a problem with the battery ground connection to the engine block on models with six-liter diesel engines.
In the worst case, a smoldering fire could result from a loose ground connection.
There have been 35 reports of alleged fires related to the problem, but no accidents or injuries.

Ford also has recalled 25,800 of 2004-model Ford Taurus, Thunderbird and Mercury Sable vehicles due to defective welding
on the frame of the power front seat. The car seats may become loose and squeak or rattle.

Honda Recalls More Vehicles 1/07/04