A chronological list of recalls and recall news.
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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.
22/04/08
Honda recalls 353K Accords over windshield wiper
motor
Honda said
Wednesday the recall involves Accords from the 2003 model year.
The automaker says water could enter an area near
the windshield wiper motor and cause corrosion.
The corrosion
could cause the electrical circuit breaker inside the motor
area to fail and could prevent the
motor from working, potentially leading to a crash.
No injuries
or crashes have been attributed to the wiper problem.
Dealers
will inspect the windshield wiper motor and install a cover over the motor
if no signs of corrosion
are present. If there is corrosion, they will replace
the motor.
5/04/08
If you are one of the nearly
half-million people driving a 1999-2005 Volkswagen Passat,
note that every gasoline-powered
Passat (the list includes the 1.8-liter I4, 2.0-liter
I4, 2.8-liter V6, and 4.0-liter W8) is being recalled for a
heat shield issue.
Apparently, the shield near the catalytic converter
on some automatic-equipped cars may be damaged, so VW wants the
dealers to check them out and add additional shielding
if necessary.
While
it has your attention, Volkswagen has also found some faulty
fuel lines on cars with the 1.8-liter turbocharged engine,
and some of the all-wheel-drive equipped cars
may have damaged fuel tank ventilation valves.
No accidents or injuries have been reported from
any of the problems.
VW will begin notifying owners on May 30 08.
ALSO ON THIS DATE:
Anyone who's rolling in a 2007-2008
Chrysler Sebring or Dodge Avenger, take note.
Chryslerberus is recalling all 181,000 of those
vehicles sold during that time to fix an electrical defect that
affects unused
connectors on the tire pressure monitoring system.
Apparently, corrosion can cause a short, and owners could experience
their vehicles failing to start, stalling once
underway, or some other affectations of the electrical components,
including the
cruise control. Formal notices are going to be
sent out later this month, and dealers have been instructed to
locate the
problem and seal the affected circuits.
16/03/08
GENERAL
MOTORS
Some small G.M. cars may have an oil leak behind
the starter. In T.S.B. 08-06-01-002 issued on Feb. 5,
the company said 2007 Chevrolet Cobalts and HHRs,
Pontiac G5s and Saturn Ions and Vues with 2.2-liter engines
may leak oil from the oil pressure switch. The
switch should be replaced.
Also, the warranty for 2002-5
Vues and 2003-4 Ions with continuously variable transmissions
has been extended.
In T.S.B. 04020A issued on Jan. 22, G.M. said
the transmissions are now warranted for five years or 75,000
miles,
from three years or 36,000 miles. Customers who
already paid for eligible repairs may be reimbursed.
Steve Janisse, a Saturn spokesman, said the transmissions
had “exhibited a high failure rate.”
HONDA
Some Civics may have uneven or rapid tire wear,
a roaring noise from the rear or a shake at highway speeds.
In T.S.B. 08-001 issued on Feb. 8, Honda said
some 2006-7 Civics may need an upper control arm kit added to
the rear
suspension and a four-wheel alignment.
Also, the inner front fender
may rub the tire on some Pilots. In T.S.B. 08-005 issued on
Jan. 29, Honda said that after the
engine warmed up, the front inner fender on some
2006-7 Pilots could became deformed and make contact with the
tire.
Honda recommends replacing the inner front fender
and securing it to the bumper with an additional screw.
For vehicles out of warranty,
Honda may offer, at the discretion of the district service
manager, some help paying for
the fixes.
HYUNDAI
Some 2003-8 Tiburons are pulling or drifting
to one side. In T.S.B. 08-SS-001 issued Jan. 25, Hyundai said
angle
adjusting bolts in the suspension may be needed.
JAGUAR
Some 2008 X-types are stalling. In T.S.B. K016
issued on Feb. 1, Jaguar said this may be from low-resistor
spark plugs in some vehicles. The plugs should
be replaced.
MAZDA
There may be rust on the windshield-wiper arms
on some 2004-7 Mazda 3s. In T.S.B. 0900508 issued on Feb. 7,
Mazda said the rust on the hinges of the wiper
arms might be caused by too-thin paint film on the retainer hinge.
Replacing the arm should fix the problem.
TOYOTA
In T.S.B. EL005R-06 issued on Jan. 25, Toyota
said the temperature gauge on some 2005-6 Camrys could read hot
even
when the temperature was normal, especially when
the vehicle was restarted while the engine was still warm from
being
previously driven. The cars need an updated temperature
gauge.
15/03/08
Subject: Upcoming Safety Recall 07035 Potential
Under hood Fire - 3.8 L Supercharged Engine
Models: 1997-2003 Buick Regal GS
1997-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP
With 3.8 L V6 Supercharged Engine
General Motors will be announcing a safety
recall involving certain 1997-2003 model year Buick Regal GS
and Pontiac Grand Prix GTP vehicles equipped
with a 3.8 L supercharged engine.
These vehicles may experience an under hood
fire. The fires may be caused by drops of engine oil being deposited
on the
exhaust manifold through hard braking. If the
manifold is hot enough and the oil runs below the heat shield,
it may ignite into
a small flame in and in some instances the fire
may spread to the plastic spark plug wire channel.
Most cases have occurred five to ten minutes
after the vehicle has been turned off.
If a fire occurs, it may cascade through the
engine compartment causing vehicle damage and in some cases,
the fire may
spread to structures where the vehicle was parked.
A total of 207,542 U.S. vehicles are involved.
We are currently working with our suppliers to obtain parts
required to launch
a safety recall in the near future. However,
in the interim, a customer advisory letter is being sent to all
customers of record to
inform them of this situation. This letter
will also provide three important precautions the customer should
take:
1) Do not park the vehicle in a garage, car
port or other structure.
2) If a burning odor is detected, the customer
should take their vehicle to a dealer for inspection.
3) Customers should use premium fuel (91 octane
or higher) as recommended in their vehicle owner's manual.
Use Technical Service Bulletin 08-06-04-019
to service their vehicle.
1/03/08
Honda
Motor Co. issued two separate recalls for its Acura TL sedan
today to address potential fires under the hood and fix
problems with the windshield wiper motor. Honda
said it was recalling 273,000 2004-2008 TLs because prolonged
high
temperatures underneath the engine hood could cause the power steering
hose to deteriorate, causing the hose to crack
and leak power steering fluid.The automaker said the fluid could leak
onto a hot catalytic converter and lead to smoke
and a possible fire. Acura said there had been
no fires or injuries reported.
In the second action, Honda said it
was recalling
129,600 TLs from the 2004-05 model year to
address a potential failure of the circuit breaker inside
the windshield wiper motor.
If the circuit breaker fails, it could prevent
the wiper from working and increase the likelihood of a crash.
There have been no reports of crashes or injuries
tied to the windshield wiper issue. For the first recall, dealers will
install a
new heat-resistant power steering hose free
of charge. For the second, dealers will inspect the windshield
wiper motor and
replace the motor if they find signs of corrosion.
1/02/08
FoMoCo sent out a directive today that approximately
225,000 vehicles are being re-recalled after it was discovered
that the wiring harness used during the original
recall wasn't quite up to snuff. The second round of recalls
involves a faulty
fuse that doesn't offer enough protection
if a short circuit occurs. Ford won't be notifying owners
until the middle of next month.
The full list of vehicles* includes...
- 1992-2003 Econoline
- 1992-98 Crown Victoria/Grand
Marquis
- 1993 Bronco
- 1995-97 F-series stripped
chassis
- 1993-95 Taurus SHO
- 1992-95 Town Car
- 1993 F series
*Only
gasoline-powered models are affected.
19/01/08
Up to 34,000 Honda Fits from 2007 and 2008
are being recalled for a faulty sensor that detects child
seats or out-of-position
passengers. In states that use road salt,
the salt-infused water from melting snow on the driver's shoes
can leak beneath the
carpet and corrode the wires for the Occupant
Detection System (ODS). Severing that connection means that
the passenger's
front and side airbags will go off even if
a child is in the front seat.
21/12/07
General Motors Corp. said Friday
it was recalling about 313,000 passenger cars and crossover
vehicles to fix a fluid leak
that could lead to the driver losing control
of the vehicle.
The recall involves 275,936 vehicles
in the United States, including the 2005-2007 Cadillac CTS and STS sedans,
2005-2007 Cadillac SRX crossovers, and 2006-2007
Pontiac Solstice and the 2007 Saturn Sky convertibles.
About 38,000 additional vehicles are under
recall in Mexico, Canada, the Middle East and Asia, GM said.
GM said the seal on the rear
axle pinion, which provides power to the wheels, does not
meet all specifications and
could leak fluid. GM spokeswoman Carolyn
Markey said the leak could lead to the drivewheel jamming up
and locking
while the vehicle is being driven, possibly
causing the driver to lose control.
There has been one crash reported
in which the rear wheels locked because of the leak and
hit another car.
In a separate incident, a driver reported
an injury after moving around in the car as the vehicle lost
control.
Markey said there have been "a
higher than normal" number of warranty claims because of the problem.
17/12/07
Honda has issued a recall for the power
steering hose on Acura RLs. The high temperatures created
by the V6 under the
RL's hood are apparently causing some cracks
to form in the power steering hose that can lead to fluid
leaking onto the
catalytic converter, resulting in a fire.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration
issued the
recall, but no injuries or fires have been
reported as of yet. Approximately 43,200 Acura RLs are affected
by the recall.
29/11/07
Toyota announced today that it's issuing
a worldwide recall of about 250,000 vehicles, including 34,400
Lexus models in the U.S.,
for potential cracks in their fuel pipes.
The Japanese domestic market was hit hardest by the recall,
with some 215,020 cars affected
including the Crown, Mark X and a few
Lexus models built between December 2003 and December 2005.
In the U.S., only particular 2006 Lexus
GS300, IS 250 and IS 350 models are being recalled. No accidents
have been reported
due to the cracked fuel pipes that could
leak, but Toyota will be replacing the old ones with newly
designed fuel pipes when the
recall begins next month. Another recall
is the last thing that Toyota needs right now.
Already saddled with a high number of
recalls this year and reeling from being knocked by Consumer
Reports, the Japanese
automaker is struggling to maintain its
reputation for high quality while chasing General Motors
to become the world's largest
automaker.
27/11/07
Drivers
of the Chevrolet Uplander, Saturn Relay, Buick Terraza,
and Pontiac Montana are complaining about a serious
sliding door problem, where the doors
will open while the vehicle is in motion. More than two dozen
complaints have been
received by the National Highway Traffic
and Safety Administration, yet there have been no recalls.
Consumers have complained of having the
door pop open at speeds exceeding 45mph and most complaints
filed have
dealt with 2005-2006 models. In the past,
service managers from GM dealerships have previously said
there is a quick fix for
the problem and they have issued a preliminary
report on how to fix the issue, blaming it on doors sensors
being affected by debris.
However, there are plenty of consumers
who are returning to the dealer time and time again, only
to hear that the service manager
can't diagnose and/or fix the problem.
If you find that you are dealing with
an intermittent sliding door problem, be specific as to when
the problem is happening.
How fast are you traveling?
What are the road conditions?
What are the weather conditions?
Do you have problems closing the doors?
Does the door lock?
All of this information is very important
to the service department when it comes to diagnosing the
problem.
Make sure that each time you pick up
your vehicle, you receive a repair invoice which clearly
outlines your complaints
and the repairs.
23/11/07
Nissan recalling
650,000 Altimas and Sentras
NIssan has issued a recall
for over 650,000 2002 and 2005-06 Altimas and Sentras sold
with the company's 2.5L four-cylinder
engine, which may suddenly stop running.
The problem lies with the crankshaft position sensor, which
can overheat and stop
sending signals to the car's computer
brain. If the signal break is too quick for the ECU to diagnose
the problem, it stops the
engine, which obviously could be extremely
inconvenient depending on what the driver's doing at the
time.
All it takes to fix the problem, however,
is for Nissan dealers to reprogram the ECU, which they'll
do free of charge, of course.
If you've got an affected vehicle, expect
a notification from Nissan around December 10th.
23/11/07
Some
owners of General Motors trucks and sport utility vehicles
said they are frustrated with the company's offer to help
with broken speedometers. Hundreds of
GM truck owners have complained about broken speedometers
in full-size GM pickups and SUVs built in
2003 and 2004. The company
said as many as 3.5 million vehicles could be affected.
GM recently offered to fix the speedometers
for free, but only on trucks with less
than 70,000 miles.
GM declined to talk about the issue The company
said it decided against a recall because it doesn't view
a broken speedometer
as a safety issue.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration agrees
with GM. The agency says a broken speedometer is a
customer-satisfaction issue, not a
safety concern.
GM says dealers have the discretion to authorize free
repairs in cases where the mileage is close to the limit.
People with broken speedometers should contact the dealer
to see if their vehicles are covered.
23/11/07
General Motors Corp. recalled 20,000
Saturn cars for repairs including fixing a timing
chain.
In 2.2-liter, four-cylinder versions
of the Saturn cars, Detroit-based GM will replace
the engine's timing chain, which could
separate while the motor is running
and boost the chance of a crash. For 8.1-liter, eight-cylinder
versions of the Silverado and Sierra,
GM will replace the crankshaft
position sensor, which can fail and stall the engine.
The recalls cover 11,97420 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra
trucks and 20,514 Saturn L-Series cars from the20
2001
model year.
26/10/07
Toyota Motor Co. said Tuesday it would
cover the costs of repairing doors on up to 600,000 Sienna
minivans, after learning
from consumers that a part can fail,
causing doors to shut unexpectedly.The letters will be
mailed Nov. 2
The problem is with the front doors
on the driver's and passenger's sides, rather than the
van's sliding doors.
When the door is open, it's supposed
to be held in place by the door check mounting panel.
When the part fails, the door swings
freely. It's difficult to say whether the Sienna door problem
is widespread, partly because
it might not surface for years on
some vehicles.
But Toyota now says it will pay for
the repairs on Siennas up to five years old with 100,000
or fewer miles on them.
The defect was caused by bad spot
welds. Siennas are built at the company's factory in
Princeton, Ind. Toyota doesn't
consider the defect a safety issue,
although a door that closes unexpectedly could be hazardous
to small children.
"Most of the time, people are just annoyed
by a 'popping noise' they hear" when the welds are weak.
Toyota is offering to reimburse consumers
who have already paid up to several thousand dollars
to have their Sienna doors fixed.
If the bad welds are broken or cracked,
the entire door assembly has to be replaced at a cost of
several thousand dollars.
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.
3/08/07
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
Heavyweights are being advised
against sitting in the rear of Honda's 2006
Civic Hybrid until a potential electrical
problem is repaired.
Transport Canada says
weight on the rear seat can compress a metal cover
and rubber cap that protect
an electrical terminal,
causing a short circuit in the car's motor assist
system. The short circuit
would cause a fuse to blow,
which in turn would stall
the engine. Dealers
will install a plastic cover over the rubber cap that
covers the electrical cable.
Honda Accord seats could
trigger airbag unexpectedly: A seat with a different
problem is behind the recall of 2004-05
Honda Accords equipped
with power seats. Those cars have seat sensors
that control the power of the airbags and a
harness from the sensors
was incorrectly attached. That can lead to faulty
information being sent to the control module,
which means the airbags
would be deployed at full power all of the time. Dealers will replace the seat
position sensor
wiring harness.
Mercedes to replace faulty wipers:
Two versions of Mercedes Benzs' new compact
car are being recalled to allow
mechanics to replace
a faulty wiper switch. The 2006 B200 and B200T are
affected. The insulation
leading to the
combination switch might
wear off, causing the rear or front wiper to malfunction.
Improper operation
of the wiper
system in severe weather
could reduce the driver's visibility and potentially
cause a crash.
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
Land Rover is recalling 33,000
Freelander SUVs in the U.S. to fix a faulty brake
light switch.
All Freelanders built
at the company's Solihull, U.K., plant between September
2001 and May
2005 could be affected.
In a posting
on its Web site, the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration says the brake lights
on some 2002-'05 models
stay illuminated even when the brake pedal is not
depressed. Warning lights for hill descent control,
traction control and
cruise control could also light up. Land Rover dealers
have been instructed to install new switches of the
same design in March
and then to replace them in May when a re-engineered
unit becomes available.
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
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A.,
Inc., will launch a voluntary Special Service
Campaign involving approximately 60,700
four-cylinder
Highlander sport utility vehicles from the 2001 through
2003 model year and 159,100 RAV4 sport utility vehicles
from the 2001
and 2002 model year. The Malfunction Indicator Light,
also known as the "check engine" light, on certain
RAV4
and Highlander
may inadvertently illuminate due to an issue with
the program logic in the Engine Control Module (ECM).
This light does
not affect the operation of the vehicle. The affected
RAV4 and Highlander were produced from July 24,
2000
to August 22,
2003. There have been
80 cases of this condition reported in the Highlander
and RAV4. Toyota will mail to
owners of the
involved vehicles a Service Campaign notification
via first class mail in mid-December. Owners are requested
to contact their
local Toyota dealer for reprogramming of the ECM
with improved logic. Reprogramming will be done at no
charge to the
owners of the vehicle and will take approximately
30 minutes, depending on the dealer's work schedule.
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
Volvo is recalling
some 250,000 of its vehicles worldwide. Affected
models include the S40 sedan, V50 wagon and the
popular
XC90 SUV. According to the manufacturer, fuel
hoses in the S40 and V50 could be damaged by engine
heat while there is a
potential problem with the XC90's steering arm.
There have been no reported accidents by either problem.
The automaker will repair all potentially affected
vehicles free of charge.
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
General Motors is recalling about
400-thousand pickup trucks after
federal safety regulators got several complaints
regarding
defective brake lights. The affected
vehicles are the 2004-through-2006 Chevy Colorado
and GMC Canyon.
GM says the brake lamps on some vehicles may
stop working or remain on. On vehicles with cruise
control, that function
also becomes inoperative. A spokesman says the
company isn't aware of any crashes as a result
of the problem.
Dealers will replace the brake lamp switch assembly
at no charge.
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 recalls
nearly 224,000 vehicles to fix
wipers 18/11/05
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
General Motors Corp.
said Monday it is recalling more than 2 million vehicles,
including nearly 1.5 million sport utility vans and
pickup trucks that have
seat belt design problems. The world's largest automaker
said there were only a few minor injuries
associated
with the six separate recalls
and said owners would be formally notified
of the problems by mail in the coming weeks.
Among the vehicles affected,
the company was recalling 1.48 million
SUVs and pickups from the 2003-2005 model years,
including the Chevrolet
Silverado Crew Cab, Suburban, Tahoe, Avalanche;
Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade
EXT,
GMC Sierra Crew Cab, Yukon
XL, Yukon, and the Hummer H2s.
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.