Chevrolet Suburban Recall To Fix Outside Mirror Issues

Recall Masters – February 28, 2017


Chevrolet Suburban Recall To Fix Outside Mirror Issues

Because of problems with exterior mirrors, some Chevrolet Suburban vehicles are going to be part of a non-compliance recall action, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

A possible safety issue with these mirrors led to concern over noncompliance with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, specifically No. 111, which concerns “rear visibility.” This standard calls for outside mirrors to provide a “view of a level road surface” for the driver.

The Defect
The glass in these mirrors was the source of the issue: Instead of the flat mirror needed for these vehicles, the affected units reportedly came with right-side convex mirrors, possibly distorting drivers’ views while in motion. The recall order included 214 Chevrolet Suburban heavy-duty vehicles with the 2016 and 2017 model years fitted with mirrors from the Michigan-based supplier Magna Mirrors of Americaf…

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Sean ReyesChevrolet Suburban Recall To Fix Outside Mirror Issues

Chevrolet Suburban Recall To Fix Outside Mirror Issues

Warren, Mich. — Feb. 28, 2017 — Because of problems with exterior mirrors, some Chevrolet Suburban vehicles are going to be part of a non-compliance recall action, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

A possible safety issue with these mirrors led to concern over noncompliance with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, specifically No. 111, which concerns “rear visibility.” This standard calls for outside mirrors to provide a “view of a level road surface” for the driver.

The Defect

The glass in these mirrors was the source of the issue: Instead of the flat mirror needed for these vehicles, the affected units reportedly came with right-side convex mirrors, possibly distorting drivers’ views while in motion. The recall order included 214 Chevrolet Suburban heavy-duty vehicles with the 2016 and 2017 model years fitted with mirrors from the Michigan-based supplier Magna Mirrors of America.

Timeline of Events

  • June 15 to Nov. 10, 2016: The affected Suburban vehicles go through the production process.
  • November 2016: After a line operator notices an incorrect mirror label, General Motors Co. issues an order to stop work on the affected models.
  • December  2016: The manufacturer’s Open Investigation Review team considers the matter as investigations reveal the glass issue and possible FMVSS violation.
  • January 2017: GM officially launches the noncompliance recall through its Safety and Field Action Decision Authority. The Manufacturer’s Report Date is listed as Jan. 12.  

The Resolution

The Part 573 Safety Recall Report said that dealers would replace the previous mirrors with compliant ones, based on FMVSS 111. The glass would be both flat and non-magnifying so as to match the weight-based vehicle requirements and provide an accurate view for drivers.

The safety bulletin related to the recall said that the repair would simply involve two units of the same mirror, and that it would come from GM Customer Care and Aftersales for this necessary replacement supply only, not shelf stock.

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Maserati Recalls Luxury Vehicles Over Improper Seat Wiring

Englewood Cliffs, N.J. – Feb. 27, 2017 – Maserati has recalled more than 39,000 vehicles due to improper seat wiring. The recall affects Ghibli and Quattroporte sedans and Levante crossover sports utility vehicles produced between 2014 and 2017, according to documentation from the National Highway Safety Transportation Administration.

The Defect

The seat-wiring layouts in these vehicles interfere with internal adjustment motor housing, grinding against associated various metal fixtures. This wears down cables over time and causes seat-adjustment features to cease operation. In some cases, this constant friction can lead to electrical shorts and possible vehicle fires.

Timeline of Events

  • In December 2015, Maserati launched an investigation after an owner in Korea reported seat harness damage. The inquiry focused on the parts supplier Lier, which fabricated the seat wiring and adjustment motor assemblies.
  • In January 2016, Lear offered an explanation: The wiring layout was contacting the motor assembly and causing damage. Throughout the month, Maserati received nine additional complaints.
  • During the following month, another complaint came in – this one included the occurrence of an electrical fire. The automaker and its parts provider analyzed the issue and confirmed the cause.
  • By the close of April 2016, Maserati had developed a solution. Technicians for the company were ordered to install felt strips and clamping devices to separate seat wiring and adjustment motor components.
  • In September 2016, a Levante owner filed a seat malfunction complaint. Maserati added the vehicle to its list of affected models.

The Solution

The car manufacturer has agreed to install new seat wiring layouts in affected vehicles. Dealers are to make the repairs free of charge. Maserati will begin notifying impacted owners March 21, 2017. Every customer should receive an official communication within 60 days of this date. Parts will be available within 90 days of the schedule contact date.

MotorSafety.orgMaserati Recalls Luxury Vehicles Over Improper Seat Wiring

Volkswagen Recalls Audi Vehicles for Engine Fire Concerns

Auburn Hills, Mich. — Feb. 23, 2017 — A problem with some Audi vehicle engine pumps could lead to overheating and possible fire risk, according to a recent recall. The company’s action specifically responds to the cooling units in some engines. The official Part 573 Safety Recall Report said that the recall potentially involves 342,867 vehicles, all of which are believed to contain the defect.

The Defect

This report also stated that the problem is seen in certain TFSI engines, and that the problematic component comes from German supplier Fa. Bühler. Affected engines reportedly may have a faulty cooling system, containing debris that could block the coolant pump.

This could, in turn, keep necessary coolant from the engine and cause it to start a fire after overheating. Some of the affected models included A4, A5 and A6 vehicles as well as the Q5. Model years range from 2013 to 2017 across all of these vehicle classes.

Timeline of Events

  • 2015-2016: Reports from the field prompt an investigation into possible cases of overheating.
  • Dec. 2016: The Product Safety Committee meets and decides on the recall after further investigation reveals the cause. Audi also started producing updated software to help remedy the problem.
  • Jan. 2017:  Volkswagen submits the safety recall report to the National Highway Traffics Safety Administration.

The Resolution

With the software production completed, dealers can now instruct the power supply to shut off to avoid overheating. The dealer notification date was listed as Feb. 13, while the owner notification was set to begin seven days later. A manufacturer’s notice to dealers instructed them not to deliver pre-owned vehicles which could be part of this recall until after the fix.

A separate instructions section for dealers said that there will be no need for physical replacement parts for this procedure other than software, except in some extremely rare cases. After the install, owners should be able to tell if there’s coolant blockage through the Electronic Power Control lamp.

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BMW Recalls Hybrid Model Over Fuel Tank Flaw

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

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

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.

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Chrysler Recalls 300 and Charge Models Over Loose Bolts

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.

 

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Mazda Recalls Sedans With Broken Seats

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.

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