BMW recalls vehicles with defective crankcases

BMW recalls vehicles with defective crankcases

November 6, 2017 admin

 

Woodcliff Lake, N.J. – Nov. 6, 2017 – BMW of North America has recalled more than 740,000 vehicles potentially equipped with defective crankcases, according to documentation submitted to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects numerous models, including:

  • 2008-2011 BMW 128I sedans.
  • 2007-2011 BMW 328I sedans.
  • 2007-2011 BMW 525I sedans.
  • 2007-2011 BMW 528I sedans.
  • 2007-2011 BMW 530I sedans.
  • 2007-2011 BMW X3 sport utility vehicles.
  • 2007-2011 BMW X5 sport utility vehicles.
  • 2007-2011 BMW Z3 coupes.

The German automaker has yet to indicate what percentage of the vehicles referenced in the recall contain the defective parts.

The Defect

The models included in this action could contain defective crankcases with positive crankcase ventilation valve heaters that are prone to short-circuiting. These features pose a serious threat to occupants, as they increase the risk of fire. This could occur during operation or when the vehicle is stationary and switched off.

Timeline of Events

In early 2009, BMW received a field incident report referencing a 2007 X5 SUV that had sustained heat damage, according to an incident chronology document submitted to the NHTSA. The car company inspected the vehicle and reviewed the information in the report. These inquires failed to yield a root cause. As a result, BMW initiated a field monitoring program. In late 2009, the automaker received another incident report addressing a 2006 BMW 3 Series sedan with heat damage. BMW received additional reports in early 2010 and later determined that many vehicle owners dealing with heat damage had likely extinguished the resulting fires on their own. The organization launched a parts-return program to collect components from the damaged vehicles for testing.

Between 2011 and 2012, the car company performed internal tests on the returned parts using microscopy, ultrasound and X-ray technology. These analyses revealed that the PCV valve heaters in the affected models were prone to degradation. Those that fully broke down were cited as the root cause of the heat damage. Since no injuries or accidents had been reported, BMW chose to hold off on issuing a recall and instead decided to reinitiate field monitoring.

In 2016 and early 2017, BMW Canada revisited the PVC valve heater issue at the request of Transport Canada. Further analyses revealed that affected vehicles could “age out” of the condition. The testing also showed that the damage occurred between the second and eighth year of ownership. With this new information in hand, BMW met with the NHTSA in October 2017 and submitted a Part 579 report detailing ongoing field monitoring, as well as potential mitigation actions that may work in the U.S. market. The automaker then reviewed internal manufacturing and supplier records to determine the extent of the problem.

BMW decided to conduct a voluntary safety recall Oct. 25.

The Solution

BMW intends to direct dealers to replace PCV valve heaters in affected vehicles free of charge. The company plans to notify both dealers and owners Dec. 18. However, owners in need of more immediate assistance can contact BMW customer service at (800) 525-7417. They can also reach out to the NHTSA directly through its Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.

 

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Chrysler recalls vehicles with defective occupant restraint features

Chrysler recalls vehicles with defective occupant restraint features

November 3, 2017 admin , ,

 

Auburn Hills, Mich. – Nov. 3, 2017 – Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has recalled more than 414,000 vehicles potentially equipped with defective occupant restraint controllers, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects models across multiple brands, including:

  • 2012 Jeep Liberty sport utility vehicles manufactured between June 17, 2011 and Aug. 16, 2012.
  • 2012-2013 Chrysler 200 midsize sedans produced between June 25, 2011 and Jan. 15, 2012.
  • 2012-2013 Dodge Avenger midsize sedans produced between June 25, 2011 and Jan. 15, 2012.

FCA speculates that approximately 5 percent of the vehicles named in the recall contain defective parts.

The Defect

The models referenced in the action may come equipped with damaged ORC assemblies that are prone to jumper resistor failure, a condition that materializes following prolonged electrical overstress. ORC shutdown may cause the active headrests in affected vehicles to malfunction. This poses a serious risk to occupants involved in collisions, as the lack of AHR support may increase the likelihood of cranial concussion. That said, FCA has yet to receive field reports connecting the defective ORC assemblies to any accidents or injuries.

The air bag warning light normally illuminates in vehicles with defective ORC assemblies.

Timeline of Events

On July 2, 2013, FCA launched a voluntary safety recall for 2012 Jeep Liberties, 2012-2013 Chrysler 200s and 2012-2013 Dodge Avengers, after discovering that these vehicles contained integrated power modules that were causing ORC failure and inhibiting AHR operation, according to a chronology document. Dealers reprogrammed the TIPM units in these models to address both issues. Almost four years later on May 16, 2017, the NHTSA contacted FCA and notified the company of several driver complaints referencing the three models included in the 2013 recall. These reports described instances in which the air bag warning light turned on with no clear explanation, apparently indicating some safety feature malfunction. On May 19, the FCA Vehicle Safety and Regulatory Compliance group launched an investigation into the reports. One day later, the auto conglomerate ordered parts from the field for analysis. The NHTSA opened a concurrent inquiry June 1.

Throughout June and August, FCA received 13 ORC assemblies from the vehicles mentioned in the initial NHTSA reports. In July, the car company determined that at least two parts showed signs of jumper resistor failure due to electrical overstress. On Aug. 11, FCA engineers pinpointed a third part that ceased working following overstress and on Oct. 2, they encountered a fourth problematic component. Two days later, the FCA Vehicle Regulations Committee determined that a voluntary safety recall was necessary.

As of Sept. 29, FCA has received 122 vehicle owner questionnaires, 367 customer assistance inquiry requests and 2,453 warranty claims related to defective ORC equipment.

The Solution

FCA intends to direct dealers to replace the ORC assemblies in affected vehicles free of charge, according to a recall acknowledgment document submitted to the NHTSA. The vehicle manufacturer will notify both dealers and owners on or about Nov. 29. The latter should expect to receive word from FCA via first-class mail. Owners in need of more immediate assistance can contact FCA customer service at (800) 853-1403. Callers should use the internal recall identification code T56. Owners can also reach out the NHTSA directly using its vehicle safety hotline at (888) 327-4236.

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Subaru recalls performance cars with defective audio equipment

Subaru recalls performance cars with defective audio equipment

November 1, 2017 Sean Reyes

Recall Masters  – November 1, 2017

Subaru recalls performance cars with defective audio equipmentgain

Subaru of America has recalled more than 9,100 vehicles possibly equipped with defective audio equipment, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects 2015 Subaru WRX performance sedans with production dates ranging from Jan. 17, 2014 to April 9, 2015. Subaru suspects 100 percent of the vehicles referenced in the action contain the defective equipment.

The Defect

The affected sedans likely feature factory-installed subwoofers positioned so that they abut luggage stowed in the trunk. This contact can loosen the subwoofer’s wiring, causing complete disconnection. Should these charged fixtures meet the metal frame of the subwoofer, an intermittent short may occur and damage to integrated circuit components. In some cases, the broken IC parts can generate constant electrical current, leading the subwoofer to overheat and increasing the likelihood of a fire. This poses an obvious safety threat to occupants…

Read the entire article on the Recall Masters website

Sean ReyesSubaru recalls performance cars with defective audio equipment
Subaru recalls performance cars with defective audio equipment

Subaru recalls performance cars with defective audio equipment

November 1, 2017 admin

 

Cherry Hill, N.J. – Nov. 1, 2017 – Subaru of America has recalled more than 9,100 vehicles possibly equipped with defective audio equipment, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects 2015 Subaru WRX performance sedans with production dates ranging from Jan. 17, 2014 to April 9, 2015. Subaru suspects 100 percent of the vehicles referenced in the action contain the defective equipment.

The Defect

The affected sedans likely feature factory-installed subwoofers positioned so that they abut luggage stowed in the trunk. This contact can loosen the subwoofer’s wiring, causing complete disconnection. Should these charged fixtures meet the metal frame of the subwoofer, an intermittent short may occur and damage to integrated circuit components. In some cases, the broken IC parts can generate constant electrical current, leading the subwoofer to overheat and increasing the likelihood of a fire. This poses an obvious safety threat to occupants.

Owners with vehicles containing the defective equipment have reported hearing crackling noises. Subaru suggested turning off the car audio system to silence these sounds.

Timeline of Events

In January 2017, Subaru received a field report detailing an instance of subwoofer overheating in a 2015 WRX performance sedan. Two months later, quality assurance personnel at the automaker took possession of the subwoofer and amplifier from the vehicle named in the report. In April, the Japanese automaker shipped the parts to the supplier, Harman International Industries, for analysis. On April 28, Harman submitted its findings. Engineers at the audio company had discovered that the IC features in the subwoofer sustained damage due to overstress. They also found that an electrical short had occurred when the subwoofer wire made contact with the metal support frame. However, Harman could not identify the root cause of the short. As a result, Subaru launched its own investigation to better understand the origin of this electrical disturbance.

In May 2017, Subaru received another field report from a dealer in Australia. Again, the company requested and received the parts involved for evaluation. Four months passed before engineers at the company uncovered the root cause: contact between the subwoofer and luggage. On Sept. 29, Subaru decided to conduct a safety recall. The organization notified dealers Oct. 9.

The Solution

The automaker has directed dealers to inspect the subwoofer wires and install wire retainer clips in affected vehicles free of charge, according to a recall acknowledgment document from the NHTSA. In some cases, dealers may replace the subwoofers altogether, a repair that Subaru has also pledged to subsidize. Owners should have received notification Oct. 31 via first-class mail. Those that did not can contact Subaru customer service personnel at (800) 782-2783. Callers should use the internal recall identification code WTQ-76. Owners in need of further assistance or information can also contact the NHTSA using its vehicle safety hotline at (888) 327-4236.

 

adminSubaru recalls performance cars with defective audio equipment

Kia recalls vehicles with pinion gear plugs [Video]

November 1, 2017 admin ,

Hello, and welcome to another vehicle recall update.

Kia Motors America has recalled more than three hundred and forty-two thousand vehicles possibly equipped with loose pinion plugs. The campaign affects 2014-2016 Kia Soul and Soul EV subcompact cars. The South Korean automaker estimates 1 percent of the vehicles referenced in the action contain the defective parts.

The affected models could contain loose pinion plugs that may force the pinion gear to separate from the steering gear assembly, resulting in dimensioned maneuverability and increasing the risk of an accident.

Kia plans to direct dealers to re-bond the pinion plugs in affected vehicles with new and improved adhesive.  Owners should expect to receive notification via first-class mail sometime between November sixteenth and November twenty-fourth, two-thousand and seventeen.

Stay tuned for more vehicle recall breaking news.

adminKia recalls vehicles with pinion gear plugs [Video]

Mercedes recalls vehicles with defective steering columns [Video]

November 1, 2017 admin ,

Hello, and welcome to another vehicle recall update.

Mercedes Benz U-S-A has recalled nearly five hundred thousand vehicles possibly equipped with defective steering columns. The campaign affects two dozen models. However, Mercedes speculates that a mere one percent of the vehicles named in the recall contain the defective parts.

Affected models could contain steering columns with broken clock springs. These damaged fixtures inhibit steering column grounding, risking the sudden occurrence of electrostatic electricity strong enough to cause inadvertent air bag deployment. This poses a serious safety risk to occupants.

Mercedes plans to direct dealers to add steering column grounding components to all vehicles, free of charge, as a precautionary measure. The car company will notify dealers this month and contact owners via first-class mail December twelfth, two-thousand and seventeen.

Stay tuned for more vehicle recall breaking news.

adminMercedes recalls vehicles with defective steering columns [Video]

Hyundai recalls vehicles with defective seat belts [Video]

October 30, 2017 admin ,

Hello, and welcome to another vehicle recall update.

Hyundai Motor America has recalled more than four-hundred and forty-three thousand vehicles possibly equipped with defective seat belt assemblies. The campaign affects 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonata and 2011-2015 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid sport utility vehicles.

These models feature front seat belt assemblies with pretensioner components that may not fasten properly, posing a serious safety hazard to occupants.

Hyundai has directed dealers to inspect and, if necessary, repair the pretensioner parts in these models. The automaker will reimburse owners for any required work. Individuals affected by this recall should have received notification via first-class mail on or around October twelfth, two-thousand and seventeen.

Stay tuned for more vehicle recall breaking news.

adminHyundai recalls vehicles with defective seat belts [Video]
Volkswagen recalls vehicles with defective auxiliary heaters

Volkswagen recalls vehicles with defective auxiliary heaters

October 24, 2017 Sean Reyes ,

Recall Masters  – October 24, 2017

Volkswagen recalls vehicles with defective auxiliary heaters

The Volkswagen Group of America has recalled more than 216,000 vehicles possibly equipped with defective auxiliary heaters, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects multiple models, including:

  • 2013-2016 Audi A4 sedans and A4 Allroad station wagons produced between March 2, 2012 and July 31, 2015.
  • 2013-2016 Audi A5 coupes and cabriolets produced between March 8, 2012 and July 31, 2015.
  • 2013-2016 Audi Q5 sport utility vehicles produced between April 7, 2012 and July 31, 2015.

The German automaker estimates 100 percent of the vehicles named in the recall contain the defective parts.

The Defect

Affected models contain auxiliary heaters with defective electrical connectors prone to contact corrosion. Mechanical wear and movement is known to cause this condition, which can lead to overheating, melting of nearby wires and even engine fires. This poses a serious threat to occupants. However, Volkswagen has yet to receive reports linking the defective auxiliary heaters to any accidents or injuries…

Read the entire article on the Recall Masters website

Sean ReyesVolkswagen recalls vehicles with defective auxiliary heaters
BMW recalls vehicles with defective occupant detection features

BMW recalls vehicles with defective occupant detection features

October 24, 2017 Sean Reyes

Recall Masters  – October 24, 2017

BMW recalls vehicles with defective occupant detection features

MW of North America has recalled more than 85,000 vehicles potentially equipped with defective front passenger-side occupant detection mats, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects 2006-2010 BMW X-3 sport utility vehicles with production dates ranging from Nov. 20, 2005 to Aug. 31, 2010. The German automaker suspects roughly 9 percent of the models referenced in the recall contain the defective features.

The Defect

The vehicles named in this campaign could contain front passenger-side occupant detection mats prone to fatigue-based cracking. BMW engineers speculate that high volumes of passenger entries and exits, combined with the dimensions of the vehicle floor board area, lead to the development of micro-fissures that eventually interrupt underlying conductive pathways and cause complete failure of the occupant detection system. This poses a serious hazard to passengers, as such a failure may inhibit air bag activation in the event of a crash. However, BMW has not received reports linking the defect to any accidents or injuries…

Read the entire article on the Recall Masters website

Sean ReyesBMW recalls vehicles with defective occupant detection features
Volkswagen recalls vehicles with defective auxiliary heaters

Volkswagen recalls vehicles with defective auxiliary heaters

October 24, 2017 admin

 

Auburn Hills, Mich. – Oct. 24, 2017 – The Volkswagen Group of America has recalled more than 216,000 vehicles possibly equipped with defective auxiliary heaters, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects multiple models, including:

  • 2013-2016 Audi A4 sedans and A4 Allroad station wagons produced between March 2, 2012 and July 31, 2015.
  • 2013-2016 Audi A5 coupes and cabriolets produced between March 8, 2012 and July 31, 2015.
  • 2013-2016 Audi Q5 sport utility vehicles produced between April 7, 2012 and July 31, 2015.

The German automaker estimates 100 percent of the vehicles named in the recall contain the defective parts.

The Defect

Affected models contain auxiliary heaters with defective electrical connectors prone to contact corrosion. Mechanical wear and movement is known to cause this condition, which can lead to overheating, melting of nearby wires and even engine fires. This poses a serious threat to occupants. However, Volkswagen has yet to receive reports linking the defective auxiliary heaters to any accidents or injuries.

Timeline of Events

In February 2015, the car company received customer complaints detailing instances of overheating. From March 2015 to May 2016, Volkswagen investigated the claims and worked with its German supplier, Mahle Behr GmbH and Co. KG to identify a root cause and develop a solution. In June 2016, the Audi Product Safety Committee decided to conduct a service campaign to update the climate control modules in affected vehicles. The group also called for more investigations, which concluded in September 2017.

On Sept. 28, Volkswagen issued a voluntary safety recall to further address the issue.

The Solution

The automaker intends to direct dealers to replace the auxiliary heaters in models subject to the action free of charge, according to an NHTSA recall acknowledgement document. Volkswagen has yet to release a notification timeline for dealers or owners. However, owners in need of immediate help can contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at (88) 327-4236.

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