BMW Recalls Hybrid Model Over Fuel Tank Flaw

BMW Recalls Hybrid Model Over Fuel Tank Flaw

February 22, 2017 admin

Westwood, N.J. – Feb. 22, 2017 – BMW has recalled more than 19,000 hybrid-electric models due to a serious fuel tank vent design flaw. The recall affects i3 four-door sedans with range extender engines produced between 2014 and 2017, according to a report from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

The Defect

BMW i3 models in this series feature closed engine compartments. Inside, one section of the fuel tank vent line makes contact with the rubber-coated B+ battery cable. In some cases, this friction causes the fuel tank vent line to abrade, leaking flammable vapor into the engine compartment and increasing the likelihood of a fire.

Timeline of Events

In November 2016, a dealer overseas reported the issue and hypothesized that the fuel tank vent line was chafing against the nearby B+ battery cable. Engineers from the German automaker conducted expansive field tests to see if the problem was common among i3 models at other dealerships. On Jan. 17, 2017, BMW personnel reviewed collected diagnostic data and determined that the issue was indeed widespread. Engineers performed further evaluations to better understand how the fuel tank vent line might degrade over time.

Soon after, BMW surveyed manufacturing records to determine which models might be affected. On Feb. 2, the automaker began the voluntary recall process. Dealers received notification Feb. 10. No vent line-related injuries have been reported.

The Solution

BMW has ordered all dealers to inspect the fuel tank vent lines in affected models and offer replacements if necessary. Additionally, all recalled i3s are to be outfitted with clips that keep fuel tank vent lines and B+ battery cables separate and prevent chaffing. Dealers will administer the repairs free of charge. The recall is scheduled to begin April 3.

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GM Recalls Sports Cars Due to Air Bag Defect

GM Recalls Sports Cars Due to Air Bag Defect

February 21, 2017 admin , ,

Warren, M.I. – Feb. 21, 2017 – General Motors Co. has recalled more than 91,000 Pontiac and Saturn sports cars with defective air bags. The recall affects Pontiac Solstice coupes and convertibles, as well as Saturn Sky roadsters produced between 2005 and 2009, according to documentation from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

The Defect

Both vehicles are equipped with passenger air bag suppression systems that leverage seat sensors to determine if passenger safety features should be deployed in the event of a crash. The sensors used in these systems can bend and become damaged over time with repeated passenger contact. In some cases, these devices can malfunction completely and inhibit air bag deployment, even when occupants are present. This presents serious safety risks, as passengers could be left without protection when an accident occurs.

Timeline of Events

In April 2016, an owner submitted a defect petition requesting that GM investigate the PPS systems in Solstice and Sky models. Roughly one month later, the automaker opened an internal inquiry. The NHTSA made GM aware of additional complaints soon after and, in July, solicited warranty information for potentially vehicles. On Dec. 15, GM launched an official investigation. Engineers met with NHTSA officials throughout December and January 2017. The automaker’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority initiated a recall Jan. 19 and notified dealers Jan. 26.

The Solution

GM has not yet developed a workable solution to the problem, according to documents filed with the NHTSA. There is no timetable for when a solution might be available but dealers have been advised to address customer concerns. Consequently, the automaker has updated its Global Warranty Management system so dealership personnel can effectively respond to individuals who may own affected vehicles. GM also advises Solstice and Sky owners to contact customer service for additional assistance.

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Lamborghini Recalls Rare Sports Cars Due to Fire Risk

Lamborghini Recalls Rare Sports Cars Due to Fire Risk

February 20, 2017 admin

Bologna, Italy – Feb. 20, 2017 – Lamborghini is recalling almost 1,500 vehicles due to improperly handled fuel vapors. The recall impacts Aventatdor sports cars produced between 2012 and 2017, according to documents from the National Highway Safety Transportation Administration. It also extends to various special-edition Aventatdor models, including the Anniversario and the extremely rare Veneno Coupe.

The Defect

When the fuel tank is overfilled and road conditions are particularly harsh, gasoline can spill over into the carbon canister. The fuel can then seep into the evaporative emission control system via engine purge valves. Here, the fuel can potentially damage essential EVAC components, allowing improperly treated vapors to circulate and ignite with exhaust gases. This can lead to an engine fire, which poses obvious safety risks for occupants.

Lamborghini and the NHTSA say this situation is more likely to develop with repeated idle revving. Additionally, vehicles with aftermarket exhaust systems are more susceptible than those with stock components.

Timeline of Events

The Italian automaker received several owner complaints in 2015 that detailed instances of irregular idle activity and sudden engine shutoff. Lamborghini technicians investigated the claim and discovered a link between these occurrences and carbon canister saturation. In January 2016, the company concluded that overfilled fuel tanks were the real culprit after further testing, including sessions with Aventatdor models modified with aftermarket parts.

The Resolution

Lamborghini has instructed dealers to upgrade EVAC systems in affected vehicles free of charge. This includes swapping out installed purge valves for high-performance models that prevent overfilling. Officials for the car company began notifying dealers Feb. 17 and are expected to reach out to owners starting Feb. 24.

The Aventatdor comes with an manufacturer’s suggested retail price between $400,000 and $500,000, according to Car and Driver.

adminLamborghini Recalls Rare Sports Cars Due to Fire Risk
Chrysler Recalls 300 and Charge Models Over Loose Bolts

Chrysler Recalls 300 and Charge Models Over Loose Bolts

February 16, 2017 admin ,

Auburn Hills, Mich. – Feb. 16, 2017 – Chrysler has recalled more than 69,000 vehicles due to loose driveshaft bolts. The recall affects Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger all-wheel-drive sedans produced between 2014 and 2017, according to documentation from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Defect

The affected all-wheel-drive models feature abnormally loose driveshaft bolts. These fixtures can slacken to such an extent that the driveshaft disconnects completely and the vehicle loses power. This poses a serious hazard to drivers and can result in injury. There have been no reports of related injuries, according to the car manufacturer.

Timeline of Events

  • In January 2016, police departments across the country reported loose driveshaft bolts in interceptor versions of the Dodge Charger. Chrysler investigated the claim, and one month later evaluated fabrication procedures at its assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario.
  • On March 2, 2016, Chrysler launched an additional investigation into consumer models with the same driveshaft assembly. This included all-wheel-drive Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 models produced between 2014 and 2017.
  • On June 30, 2016, the automaker advised engineers at the Brampton plant to increase the torque on driveshaft bolts to achieve optimal clamp load. Field reports following this change showed no signs of looseness.
  • Between June 2016 and February 2017, Chrysler collected and analyzed vehicle and warranty data to determine the scope of the problem.
  • On Feb. 3, 2017, Chrysler closed its review, identifying 69,298 potentially affected models.
  • On Feb. 7, 2017, the vehicle manufacturer initiated a voluntary recall.

The Solution

Chrysler has directed dealers to replace the driveshaft bolts in affected models free of charge. The recall is scheduled to begin March 31, 2017. Owners should expect to receive notice soon.

 

adminChrysler Recalls 300 and Charge Models Over Loose Bolts
Mazda Recalls Sedans With Broken Seats

Mazda Recalls Sedans With Broken Seats

February 15, 2017 admin

Washington, D.C. –  Feb. 15, 2017 –  Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that it will recall almost 174,000 vehicles due to faulty driver seats. The recall affects 2011 Mazda 2 subcompacts, along with Mazda 3 and Mazdaspeed 3 compacts produced in 2010 and 2011, according to documentation from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Defect

Faulty seat height adjustment links lie at the heart of the problem. These fixtures are abnormally weak in the affected models and can loosen, or in some cases detach completely, causing the driver seat to recline dramatically. This increases the likelihood of an accident.

Timeline of Events

Several Mazda owners have filed NHTSA complaints mentioning the issue. The earliest dates back to April 2012, when one Mazda 3 owner in Decatur, Alabama discovered that the adjustment rail on the front driver seat had snapped. Another Mazda 3 owner in Port Jefferson Station, New York filed a complaint earlier this month, telling the NHTSA that the adjustment link gave way suddenly during operation. The driver urged the agency to address the issue with Mazda.

“The manufacturer should have a recall on this problem immediately before someone gets killed,” the complaint read.

The NHTSA submitted the official recall Feb. 8 and contacted Mazda five days later.

The Resolution

Mazda dealers have been instructed to evaluate affected vehicles, specifically the driver seat adjustment link. If this fixture is cracked, on-site personnel will replace it entirely with a modified part. Should the adjustment link show no damage, it will be reinforced with an additional bracket. Mazda has also advised dealers to install two extra push nuts per link in these cases. These repairs will be performed free of charge.

The carmaker is expected to notify all dealers by March 15, while owners should receive confirmation by March 31.

adminMazda Recalls Sedans With Broken Seats
Recently Produced Trucks Part of Bumper-Related Toyota Recalls

Recently Produced Trucks Part of Bumper-Related Toyota Recalls

February 14, 2017 admin

Torrance Calif. — Feb. 14, 2017 — Some of the 2016 and 2017 Toyota Tundra vehicles produced in recent years could be subject to a new recall for exterior issues that could affect safety. Late in January, a safety recall report appeared online in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall database, describing an ongoing effort.

The Defect

According to the report, the issue involved bumper resin brackets on the rear steps of these vehicles. These brackets may not be able to withstand some damage, the source said, and could weaken the bumper, causing it to fall off if someone stepped on it. The problem seems to stem, at least in part, from the use of ineffective brackets, and affects 72,847 vehicles produced within a time span of more than a year, from July 29, 2015 to Dec. 22, 2016.

Timeline of Events

  • Early 2016: Although a Toyota field report claimed that a customer had broken off a piece of a vehicle bumper, the company was unsure of the source of the defect and determined that it was not due to “external influence,” according to an official chronology.
  • Mid 2016 to Early 2017: Further investigation by the company revealed the link between initial damage to bumper brackets and subsequent damage to the bumper itself. More reports about this issue also spurred Toyota’s efforts to discover the cause, eventually leading to 40 total related warranty claims (only seven of which are confirmed).
  • Early 2017: The recall safety campaign was confirmed Jan. 18 and the manufacturer reported it Jan. 24. The Recall Acknowledgement letter submitted to the NHTSA is dated for Feb. 6, 2017.

The Resolution

While the dealer notification date has already passed, the owner notification dates were listed to fall between Feb. 15 and March 25, 2017.  The remedy will reportedly involve replacing the bumper tread covers in affected vehicles, as well as steel brackets to replace those made of resin.

adminRecently Produced Trucks Part of Bumper-Related Toyota Recalls
Ford Safety Compliance Recall Addresses Display Issues

Ford Safety Compliance Recall Addresses Display Issues

February 13, 2017 admin

Dearborn, Mich. — Feb. 13, 2017 — As part of a joint recall announcement, Ford Motor Company recently explained an effort to correct an instrument cluster display problem. Affected vehicles could end up failing the Federal Motor Vehicles Safety Standard if the instrument clusters lose power.

Released in January, the statement has added timeliness because the issue is increasingly likely in cold conditions. The company noted that the recall involved around 8,000 vehicles, with 6,792 of them in the U.S. and the rest in Canada and Mexico.

The Defect

The Part 573 Safety Recall Report said that the panel cluster’s display could fail to show important indicators. These include some warning chimes and lights, as well as the transmission gear a driver has currently selected. The display could be affected for up to several minutes, leaving the driver confused and liable to make a critical mistake. This is a particular risk while driving in low temperatures, as this could cause the power supply to function incorrectly.

Timeline of Events

  • Oct. 4, 2016: The earliest production date for the affected Ford F-150 vehicles.
  • November 2016: Multiple display problems caused Ford to halt the F-150 from shipping, with the company undertaking an investigation based on initial observations.
  • December 2016: Ford and the supplier, Visteon, continued looking into the matter as engineers discovered the link between the defect and cold temperatures. While Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group asked for more details, the engineering department investigated further.
  • January 2017: The offending power supply chip was discovered, and the Ford’s Field Review Committee approved the recall after review, similar to another recall announced around the same time.

Resolution

The recall report said that owner notification would be finished by Feb. 13, 2017. The repair, covered by the affected vehicles’ original warranties, would reportedly involve reprogramming the instrument clusters as necessary, with no cost to the consumer.

adminFord Safety Compliance Recall Addresses Display Issues
Pair of 2016 Models Part of New Ford Recalls

Pair of 2016 Models Part of New Ford Recalls

February 10, 2017 admin

Dearborn, Mich. — Feb. 10, 2017 — A shared defect has two different Ford models from 2016 included in a new recall. This action stems from structural issues within just 17 vehicles across these models, which had already prompted attention.

The Defect

The apron joints on the left side of floor pans in affected vehicles are, according to documents from the NHTSA, incorrectly welded in these autos. The 17 vehicles included in the recall are all in the U.S. and cover 2016 Ford Focus and C-Max vehicles from the company’s Michigan assembly plant. Both of the models were produced in the last full week of October last year.

As the source described, the improper welding means the fronts of these vehicles would be weakened, making them more susceptible to damage. In a Jan. 26 statement, Ford said that no accidents or injuries were yet connected to this problem.

Timeline of Events

  • Oct. 25, 2016: The day before the first production for both of these brands. The joints were actually already repaired before the vehicles were originally released with rivets, but later tests showed possible dangerous errors in the process.
  • Jan.  17, 2017: After two months of analysis, the manufacturer’s Field Review Committee approves the recall action, which is covered under the original vehicle warranties and will therefore be free of charge for owners. The decision only came after the Critical Concerns Review Group prompted analysis in an earlier response.

Resolution

To fix the issue, car owners will be instructed to take the vehicles to their dealer to get them fixed. This could involve inspecting the rivets and replacing as needed. While the original Part 573 Safety Recall Report said the dealer notification date was set for Jan. 25, owners are not slated for notification until the first full week of March.

adminPair of 2016 Models Part of New Ford Recalls
Nissan Recalls Altima Vehicles for Rear Door Problem

Nissan Recalls Altima Vehicles for Rear Door Problem

February 7, 2017 admin

Washington, D.C. – Feb. 7, 2017 – A Nissan recall could target certain newer Altima models over possible door latch concerns. This represents the most recent door-related issue for this vehicle in a series of several.

The Defect

This recall affects 341,005 Altima vehicles with the 2015, 2016 and 2017 model years. According to the recall acknowledgement statement submitted Jan. 18, a poorly routed lock could mean the rear door in some of these vehicles accidentally opens when the rear window is lowered. This is because the latch-lock cable in affected vehicles could interfere with the window regulator.

Timeline of Events

According to an official Part 573 Recall Report, the manufacturer noticed the defect between July and August. Although Nissan determined the cause by the start of October, it didn’t confirm the need for a recall until later in the year, making the official decision on Jan. 10, 2017. Despite early estimates that this was confined to a single vehicle, later tests showed how the production process could create the same defect again.

Resolution

As of this writing, there was no official owner notification date listed on the latest recall report. However, the initial acknowledgement did state that the fix would involve an update to the cable to prevent this issue in the future.

Last January, a different Nissan recall concerned the hood latches in 2013, 2014 and 2015 Nissan Altima vehicles. That error left affected vehicles at risk of opening hoods while driving, as the secondary latches stuck in open position. A patch will reportedly make the door’s sealing screen more effective, as the vehicle accommodates the proper cable housing.

The recall affected 846,000 vehicles subject to earlier recalls, and the 2016 recall was meant to replace the earlier efforts as dealers installed more up-to-date hood latches into these vehicles.

adminNissan Recalls Altima Vehicles for Rear Door Problem
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