McLaren Sennas Recalled Over Compromised Engine Harness

McLaren Sennas Recalled Over Compromised Engine Harness

October 30, 2019 Sean Reyes

Laguna Hills, CA – Oct. 28, 2019 – McLaren Automotive announced it’s recalling a select number of Senna vehicles due to the possibility the model’s engine harness makes contact with a metal link pipe heat shield. This may result in chafing, which could ultimately damage the wiring and perhaps cause the engine to power down. Such a scenario increases the risk of crash for motorists.

McLaren has not announced when it intends to inform registered owners about this 2018-2019 Senna recall, but when the automaker does so, operators are encouraged to bring their car to an area dealer for a free repair.

The Defect

In filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, U.K.-based automaker McLaren is recalling an estimated 129 2018-2019 Senna two-door sports cars nationwide. The fear is that a constituent part of the engine harness may weaken and touch a metal link pipe heat shield. The abrasive rubbing that may ensue over time could cause the heat shield wrap to breach, exposing circuitry bunched within the harness itself. A number of potential consequences may occur as a result of the harness contacting the heat shield, including loss in engine power, reduced torque or the engine stalling. Any of these outcomes raises the risk of a crash.

Timeline of Events

McLaren first received warning about this engine issue back on Aug. 1, so it decided to run some tests to see if the scenario would play out in trial analysis. The inquiry concluded that while there was evidence of chafing, it wasn’t so significant as to expose the wiring in the harness bundle.

Nevertheless, the next day McLaren began a comprehensive investigation into whether the issue was anomalous or systemic and why it happened in the first place. Seventy-two hours later, on Aug. 5, results confirmed the issue was not isolated and a full-on voluntary recall was warranted. This decision was made on Aug. 14.

The Solution

Although the British nameplate has not given any indication as to when motorists will be notified, it does know how to fix the problem. Those informed by first-class mail should bring their Sennas to an authorized dealer. The repair will come at no cost to owners.

For more information on the 2018-2019 Senna recall and others that are recent, visit MotorSafety.org.

Sean ReyesMcLaren Sennas Recalled Over Compromised Engine Harness
Hyundai Issues Two Recalls Related to Loose Parts

Hyundai Issues Two Recalls Related to Loose Parts

October 30, 2019 Sean Reyes

Laguna Hills, CA – Aug. 4, 2022 – Hyundai Motor America has remedied issues with 732 2019 Ioniq Hybrid and 2020 Elantra vehicles due to issues with the lower control arm ball joints that could detach and cause accidents. Additionally, 3 of these Hyundai Tucson models have been categorized as unreachable and 1 has been removed from the recall. One group of 2019 Ioniq Hybrid and 2020 Elantra vehicles were remedied in 2019, four groups in 2020, and one more group was remedied in 2021 for this issue with the lower control arm ball joints.

Laguna Hills, CA – Oct. 28, 2019 – Hyundai Motor America, an automaker with few recalls to speak of in 2019, is issuing advisories to owners of its 2019 Ioniq Hybrid and 2020 Elantra vehicles. There are two separate issues for the 2020 Elantra, one involving the lower control arm ball joint – which may also affect the Ioniq Hybrid – and the other potentially loose wheel lug nuts on the passenger-side right-rear wheel. Either of these problems manifesting themselves raises the risk of a crash and subsequent injury.

The small-scale recall is expected to begin shortly after Christmas. Owners who receive notifications alerting them to these problems are advised to contact their nearest Hyundai dealer so the appropriate repair work can be performed, which will be free of charge.

The Defect

Hyundai is recalling a total of 792 models over performance issues that could lead to the loss of control for operators of the compromised automobiles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The vehicles involved are as follows:

  • 2019 Ioniq Hybrid
  • 2020 Elantra

The Ioniq Hybrid and Elantra may have lug nuts that weren’t installed snuggly enough during the manufacturing and assembly process, which are believed to be on the back-right side of the vehicle. The 2020 Elantras may also have ball joints whose fasteners could be poorly tightened, which may cause the lower control arm to detach completely.

In either of these cases, a wheel or ball joint separating from the vehicle raises crash risk concerns that may also lead to an injury for the parties involved.

Timeline of Events

Whenever safety recalls are publicized – whether mandatory or voluntary – NHTSA publishes a Part 573 Safety Recall Report. These summarize recalls by detailing vehicle information – type, body style, power train, etc. It also includes data on when the cars were assembled and a chronology that pinpoints the months that certain actions were taken, such as when precisely the automaker discovered a potential issue. This report was not available at press time, however.

Prior to these most recent Hyundai recalls, the last one occurred back in January. At the time, Hyundai removed 100,000 Santa Fe Sport and Sonata vehicles from the marketplace. This was done mainly for confirmation purposes to ensure that fuel tubes to the high-pressure pumps were installed correctly. The fuel tube recall took place originally in 2015 and 2017, according to a Hyundai press release.

During this same month, Kia Motors – an affiliate of Hyundai – recalled approximately 68,000 Optima, Sorento and Sportage models over engine fire fears resulting from defective high-pressure fuel lines.

When safety recalls are announced, automakers opt to extend the warranties in place  so they’re for more years or additional miles. Motorists affected by the most recent Hyundai recalls may want to get in touch with dealership they bought their automobiles from to find out more.

The Solution

While it’s unclear how many of the nearly 800 potentially problematic Hyundai contain the aforementioned flaws, owners should prioritize getting their vehicles checked out to know for sure. The Fountain Valley, California-based nameplate will distribute notifications by first-class mail starting Dec. 27. If appropriate, the parts in question will either be replaced or simply tightened.

For more information on these most recent Hyundai recalls or for other safety issues, visit MotorSafety.org. Enter your VIN in to determine if you may be one of the 25% of car owners who has an unaddressed recall.

Sean ReyesHyundai Issues Two Recalls Related to Loose Parts
Another Recall Ordered For Subaru Impreza and Crosstrek Vehicles

Another Recall Ordered For Subaru Impreza and Crosstrek Vehicles

October 30, 2019 Sean Reyes

Laguna Hills, CA – Oct. 29, 2019 – Approximately 205,000 hatchbacks and SUVs distributed and manufactured by Subaru of America are due to be recalled over concerns that the engine may power off as a result of a faulty PCV valve. The vehicles in question, Impreza and Crosstrek, are also subject to a separate recall related to potentially damaged electronic control modules.

This particular Impreza and Crosstrek recall is scheduled to occur Dec. 13, which is the day Subaru expects to distribute notifications to owners informing of this engine cooling issue. Those who receive the communiques should bring their automobile to an area Subaru dealer so a repair can be arranged. There will be no charge for the fix, if one is needed.

The Defect

In paperwork submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Subaru is getting ready to recall 205,000 Imprezas and Crosstrek vehicles – model years 2017 through 2019 and 2018, respectively – after discovering the positive crank ventilation valve may be compromised in certain automobiles. Made from aluminum, the PCV valve may crack and cause the components within it to fall into the engine itself. Such a scenario could prevent the engine from functioning and lead to a crash should the engine turn off or cause the automobile to stall.

Timeline of Events

NHTSA maintains a portal that consumers can use to see when recall takes place and the events that led up to actions requiring correspondence with government traffic safety officials. Among the documents typically made available is what is known as a Product 573 Safety Recall Report. It chronicles recall-specific investigations on a month-to-month basis and also describes the proposed remedy to rectify the safety issues in question. However, this report was not made available at press time.

Several Product 573 Recall Reports have been revealed by NHTSA in 2019 overall, and for Subaru in particular. One stemmed from faulty brake pedal mounting brackets that Subaru became aware of over the summer and another for defective driveshafts. The driveshaft problem first came to Subaru’s attention in June and the voluntary recall became official less than a month later.

The Solution

As to the Impreza and Crosstrek recall, Subaru says it’s aiming to inform all the parties for whom this safety risk applies beginning Dec. 13. In the mailers set to be distributed, owners will be asked to bring their automobiles to a dealership so a repair order can get underway, assuming the PCV valve is damaged. This can only be determined by bringing the car in for inspection. If a problem is found, the PCV valve will be replaced free of charge.

It’s very possible that you’re driving a car that may be subject to a recall. Find out for sure by entering your VIN at MotorSafety.org.

Sean ReyesAnother Recall Ordered For Subaru Impreza and Crosstrek Vehicles
Ill-Mounted Spoiler Sparks Recall of Select Mercedes-Benz Wagons

Ill-Mounted Spoiler Sparks Recall of Select Mercedes-Benz Wagons

October 25, 2019 Sean Reyes

Laguna Hills, CA – Oct. 25, 2019 – Mercedes-Benz USA has launched a small-scale recall on certain station wagons, over fears that the spoilers attached to the rear portion of these vehicles may dislodge and fall off, creating a roadway hazard that could result in a crash were people are injured. The models involved include the 2019 E450 4Matic Wagon, 2017-2018 E400 4Matic Wagon and 2018-2019 E63S 4Matic Wagon.

The luxury automaker began apprising owners of this rear spoiler recall Oct. 18. Recipients can take their automobile back to the dealer so a new spoiler can be installed if it’s deemed appropriate. There is no cost for this fix.

The Defect

Approximately 4,765 Mercedes-Benz station wagons are newly subject to a nationwide recall notice, as the rear spoilers mounted onto the trunks of these vehicles may detach, according to paperwork submitted to and compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The station wagons in question include the following:

  • 2017-2018 E400
  • 2018-2019 E63S
  • 2019 E450

It’s possible that these spoilers may ultimately fall from their perch when motorists are out on the road. This could create a hazard that causes motorists to swerve or strike a trailing vehicle and perhaps result in an accident where people are hurt.

Timeline of Events

This problem first came to the luxury automaker’s attention in October 2018, after a single instance in which the spoiler on an E-Class model fell from its mount. A follow-up investigation into the circumstances surrounding the problem determined that the defective spoiler was likely caused by human error, installed by a worker who was on the job temporarily, according to NHTSA filings. Approximately 16 other station wagons had the same issue and each were recalled to correct the errantly affixed spoilers.

Roughly a year later, however, Daimler AG – the parent company of Mercedes-Benz – was made aware of other instances in which the rear spoilers were improperly installed and that the problem was not isolated to human error but rather a manufacturing flaw.

Out of an abundance of caution, DAG implemented a voluntary recall on certain station wagons that it had reason to believe were affected. The company estimates that 5% – or 238 automobiles – of the recalled population have the defect. They were likely manufactured somewhere between early October of last year and early-to-mid January.

The rear spoiler recall is the latest safety issue Mercedes-Benz has come across over the last year or so. Like many of its contemporaries, MB was also affected by air bag defects, as the luxury automaker recalled nearly 288,800 models in late February. The company administered a separate recall in late December involving 6,000 vehicles, which contained faulty steering rack locknuts.

The Solution

The luxury automaker is partnering with the NHTSA to ensure that motorists pertaining to the rear spoiler recall are notified. If owners have not already received mailers making them aware of this issue, they should at any time, as the notices were sent out Oct. 18. Dealers were informed a week earlier. There is no deadline to have this problem corrected and the repair is for free.

For more information on existing Mercedes-Benz recall, visit MotorSafety.org and click on the “Mercedes-Benz” hyperlink.

Sean ReyesIll-Mounted Spoiler Sparks Recall of Select Mercedes-Benz Wagons
Nearly a Half-Million Subarus Recalled Due to Stall Risk

Nearly a Half-Million Subarus Recalled Due to Stall Risk

October 25, 2019 Sean Reyes

Laguna Hills, CA – Oct. 25, 2019 – A massive recall is about to get underway for Subaru of America, after the automaker discovered certain Impreza and Crosstrek vehicles – whose model years stretch from 2017 to 2019 – may have faulty engine control modules. Specifically, despite the engine being turned off, the ECM may continue to run, a circumstance that has the potential to cause a short circuit or blown fuse. This could lead to an accident if either of these outcomes take place while motorists are traveling.

The automaker expects to inform registered car owners of this 2017-2019 Subaru recall by Dec. 13. Recipients are encouraged to then bring their vehicles to their local dealership so diagnostic test can be performed. This will determine whether the ignition coil requires replacing or if some other modification. Whatever is deemed necessary, there will be no charge for parts or labor.

The Defect

Approximately 466,205 Crosstrek SUVs and Impreza hatchbacks are due to be recalled by Subaru, according to documents prepared by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It appears that the engine control module, which manipulates the actuators controlling the internal combustion engine, fails to power down when the engine is shut off. Left unchecked could result in a blown fuse or short circuit of the engine. Either scenario dramatically increases the risk of the automobile stalling and the possibility that the operator encounters an accident.

Timeline of Events

Typically when safety recalls are ordered, the NHTSA produces what is known as a Part 573 Safety Recall Report. This document details the various elements of an automotive recall, including a chronology of how a performance or safety issue came to light and what led the automaker to make the decision that it did regarding the recall. These particulars were not available in the NHTSA’s portal at the time of publication.

Subaru prides itself on its safety record and is a perennial favorite to receive recognition for building some of the safest automobiles on the road from the likes of J.D. Power and Associates and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute and Kelley Blue Book. In fact, last year, the Camden, New Jersey-headquartered nameplate landed seven models on IIHS’ Top Safety Pick+ list, two of which were the Crosstrek and Impreza, specifically the sedan and 5-door option. Others that received the highly coveted honorific  included the Subaru Outback, WRX, Ascent and Legacy.

In order to be included among IIHS Top Safety Pick+ selections, vehicles must undergo a battery of tests that analyze how well they hold up in the event of a crash at a high rate of speed, including front, side, rollover and how well the head restraints prevent passengers from experiencing a head or neck injury. Vehicles must received a “good” rating for these tests. Headlights must also receive a “good” rating, while the front crash prevention test must elicit a “superior” or “advanced” score.

“Each year we continue to improve and innovate the safety features in our vehicles for our customers, said Thomas Doll, CEO and president at Subaru of America, in a press release. “For the Subaru brand to lead the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards with seven winners reflects our commitment to making safety the top priority in our vehicles.”

The Solution

The recall is anticipated to begin officially on Dec. 13, the first day in which Subaru plans to distribute mailers to owners of the models in question. Recipients are urged to bring their vehicles to an area Subaru supplier so the ECM can be inspected and the engine coil replaced or modified. Some of these automobiles may also need to have their front exhaust pipes swapped assuming ignition coil damage is confirmed.

For more information on the 2017-2019 Subaru recall as well as any others announced within the last few months, please visit MotorSafety.org to get the details.

Sean ReyesNearly a Half-Million Subarus Recalled Due to Stall Risk
Toyota yanks over 928,200 cars with faulty Takata airbags

Toyota yanks over 928,200 cars with faulty Takata airbags

October 25, 2019 Sean Reyes ,

Laguna Hills, CA – October 24, 2019 – Toyota is recalling more than 928,200 models of various types due to concerns that the air bags installed in these vehicles’ dashboards and steering wheels could explode upon deployment in a crash and hurl deadly shrapnel at the driver or passengers.

A total of 17 different model types are included in this recall action, several of which are under Toyota’s luxury brand. Here’s a partial list:

  • 2007-2012 Lexus ES350
  • 2010-2017 Lexus GX460
  • 2006-2012 Lexus IS 250
  • 2010-2015 Lexus IS 250c
  • 2006-2012 Lexus IS 350
  • 2010-2016 Toyota 4Runner
  • 2003-2013 Toyota Corolla
  • 2009-2010 Toyota Corolla Matrix
  • 2004-2005 Toyota RAV4
  • 2002-2007 Toyota Sequoia

The defect

Toyota has announced the recall of 928,203 models because the air bag inflators may be faulty. The propellant used to inflate the air bags once triggered may degrade in high-humidity environments, which could lead to an explosion of the air bag itself. Sharp objects within the unit could cause serious injury or death should they strike the passenger or driver.

Timeline of events

As previously noted, Toyota is one of several automakers impacted by air bag recalls, as millions of automobiles have returned to dealerships so their original bags can be swapped out for fully operating ones. In fact, all of the listed vehicles were a part of a separate air bag recall for the same problem. This is the second and final phase of the original recall. The errant air bags in question were developed by Takata, which filed for bankruptcy in 2017. According to Reuters, at least 24 people have been killed worldwide as a result of rupturing air bags. Of these deaths, 16 took place in the U.S.

Just because there are recall notices out on numerous makes and models doesn’t mean that they’re all attended to, despite owners’ receipt of notifications. In 2018, however, repair rates improved rather sharply among several models. These included the 2006 Ford Ranger (82% in October 2018 from 6% in January 2018), and multiple 2001-2003 Honda models, with an overall 96% repair rate by the end of 2018, according to NHTSA data.

Several of the automobiles subject to this latest air bag recall were also involved in a previous one that was announced in February. That one affected 1.2 million vehicles, among them 2010-2016 4Runner, 2011-2013 Corolla and 2011-2013 Corolla Matrix vehicles.

The solution

Starting November 15, Toyota will begin distributing notifications via first-class mail informing owners of this most recent air bag recall. Before this, however, each car will be inspected to determine the nature of the problem and the appropriate corrective action. For example, the driver and/or passenger air bags may be defective. Whatever the case may be, the inflator, air bag assembly or both will be swapped out. This repair is free, and the fix should take approximately one hour to complete.

Is your vehicle part of the recall?

Over 928,000 cars were originally part of this recall. As of April 9, 2021, 545,271 airbags had been replaced. To see if your car still needs to be repaired, use MotorSafety’s free lookup tool.

Note: June 8, 2021

We have noticed a large number of readers are interested in this recall. For that reason, we have added the last section to allow the driver to check if his or her car is part of the recall and reflect the most up-to-date information on the recall’s completion rates. The article has also been updated to reflect the latest editorial standards.

Sean ReyesToyota yanks over 928,200 cars with faulty Takata airbags
Loose Wheel Arch Forces Recall for Certain Audi SUVs

Loose Wheel Arch Forces Recall for Certain Audi SUVs

October 23, 2019 Sean Reyes

Laguna Hills, CA – Oct. 23, 2019 – Volkswagen Group of North America has announced it’s recalling nearly 174,300 Audi SQ5 and Q5 sport utility vehicles due to an improperly installed wheel arch cover that may loosen during the course of driving.

Should it detach, it may result in an accident for the owner or another motorist. All the vehicles have model years between 2018 and 2020.

Operators are encouraged to remove their SUVs from the road and heed this Audi SQ5 and Q5 recall by bringing their vehicles to an authorized VW or Audi dealership. Should it be deemed necessary, the faulty clips securing the rear wheel arch trim will be swapped out for fully operating ones.

The defect

In filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Volkswagen stated that it seeks to recall 174,278 Audi SQ5 and Q5 SUVs from the marketplace over an apparent manufacturing flaw affecting the rear wheel arch cover, which may have not been appropriately affixed to the wheel during the course of assembly. 

The part’s disconnection from the car could present a road hazard that may result in a crash and the potential for injury.

Timeline of events

Typically, when the details of recalls are made publicly available by NHTSA, the agency provides written details that document how the recall came about, what the results were when officials investigated the nature of these issues and when they occurred.

However, these specifics were not published before the notice went to press.

This isn’t the first recall for Audi or VW in 2019. In August, VW informed NHTSA that it was recalling approximately 7,000 Audi E-Tron’s – an all-electric vehicle – worldwide due to fears that its onboard battery may start a fire. This recall was not just in the U.S., but worldwide as well.

Prior to that, VW also recalled an estimated 138,000 Audi vehicles – specifically A3 E-Tron, A3 Cabriolet, S3, and R3 – because of an onboard computer issue that prevented the system from recognizing the installed air bags.

Motorists affected by these recalls should have already received notifications either from VW, NHTSA or both via first-class mail.

The solution

As for the Audi SQ5 and Q5 recall – which is the automaker’s best-selling model – VW believes it has the remedy that will fix the rear wheel arch cover so it stays put.

As such, drivers who received notifications – which are due to be sent out by Nov. 1 – should take their SUVs off the road so that they can bring them to their local VW or Audi dealership.

A mechanic will inspect the automobile to see if a fix is necessary. Should it be, the clips securing the front portion of the rear wheel arch trim will be replaced so the hold is snug.

For more information on the Audi SQ5 and Q5 recall, please visit MotorSafety.org. You can also use our website to see if there are any existing recalls from this automaker or others so you can take the appropriate measures that ensure your car is always safe to drive.

Sean ReyesLoose Wheel Arch Forces Recall for Certain Audi SUVs
BMW Launches Massive Recall Due to Backup Camera Glitch

BMW Launches Massive Recall Due to Backup Camera Glitch

October 23, 2019 Sean Reyes

Laguna Hills, CA – October 23, 2019 – BMW of North America is poised to recall an extraordinarily large number of models due to a backup camera system snafu that may prevent motorists from seeing what’s behind them while shifting into reverse.

Affecting potentially 257,500 vehicles, a handful of the models that may contain this camera glitch include:

  • 2018 – 2020 540d
  • 2018 – 2020 640i xDrive Gran Turismo
  • 2018 – 2020 Rolls Royce Phantom
  • 2018 – 2020 530 ixDrive
  • 2018 – 2020 540i xDrive
  • 2018 -2020 X3 sDrive
  • 2018 -2020 X3
  • 2018 – 2020 M40i,
  • 2018 – 2020 X3 M and Z4 sDrive models

Motorists affected by this BMW recall are urged to bring their vehicle to a local BMW dealer so the system can be updated with the appropriate software. There will be no charge for the repair if one is required.

The defect

As documented by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, BMW intends to recall an estimated 257,481 2018 – 2020 model year vehicles because the backup camera can be manipulated in such a way that prevents the display from appearing on the driver’s screen.

In addition to the 2020 Toyota Supra and 2018 – 2019 Rolls Royce Cullinan and Phantom, over 20 BMW models may have faulty backup cameras in place. These included but aren’t limited to the following:

  • 330i
  • 530e
  • 530i
  • 540d
  • 540i
  • 640i
  • 740 Le
  • 740Li
  • 745 i3
  • 750Li
  • 840i
  • M340i
  • M5
  • M550i
  • M850i

Multiple X models, as well as the Z4, are also a part of the recalled BMW model population. 

Timeline of events

In mid May, NHTSA’s Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance reached out to BMW in order to obtain details on the performance of the automaker’s X4, specifically in terms of how the rear view camera system was functioning from an overall performance standpoint.

Roughly three weeks later, BMW provided the OVSC with an exhaustive report of the backup camera unit, which led to a meeting regarding compliance rule FMVSS 111.

The minutes from this confab revealed that the units may be out of compliance, specifically Section 5.5.6 of FMVSS 111, which pertains to rear visibility.

In 2014, NHTSA mandated that all 2018 models have backup cameras as standard inclusions to guard against the potential for serious injury, particularly to young children who may be out of motorists’ view when putting their cars in reverse.

Concerned that other backup cameras may be out of compliance aside from certain X models, BMW decided to launch a voluntary recall on additional models for which there was sufficient evidence to suggest they may be compromised.

It’s possible that all of the 257,481 automobiles involved may contain this flaw.

Some of the models affected by this BMW backup camera recall also have other separate safety recalls in effect. For example, a small portion of M340i models may have rear headrests that could fold down improperly during operation.

Additionally, M40i vehicles are subject to a voluntary recall over a seat defect that appears to emanate from a welding issue.

The solution

The fix appears to be as simple as updating the software that’s used to make the backup camera functional. Motorists thusly advised by first-class mail are encouraged to bring their car to a dealer so these units can be fully inspected.

The software refresh will come at no cost. Operators can expect to receive a notification in late November or December, as the automaker intends to distribute the notices starting November 19.

For more information on the BMW backup camera recall or others announced by different manufacturers, visit MotorSafety.org. Be sure to have your VIN information available, which you can use to see if your car is subject to an existing recall.

Sean ReyesBMW Launches Massive Recall Due to Backup Camera Glitch
BMW sedans, convertibles recalled over deadly Takata airbags

BMW sedans, convertibles recalled over deadly Takata airbags

October 22, 2019 Sean Reyes ,

Laguna Hills, CA – October 22, 2019 – BMW is pulling over 3,900 models from the marketplace due to the possibility that installed air bags are compromised. In the event of an accident that the air bags to deploy, sharp metal fragments could break through them, potentially leading to a severe injury.

The recall includes the following vehicles:

  • 2000 – 2002 325i
  • 2000 – 2002 325xi
  • 2000 – 2002 323Ci
  • 2000 – 2002 325Ci
  • 2000 – 2002 330Ci

The defect

The cause of this issue is believed to be the propellant used in the release of the air bags. The propellant has the potential to break down over time due to exposure to high levels of humidity and temperature cycling.

Timeline of events

The 2000 – 2002 BMW air bag recall is one of several that have affected the auto industry tracing back several years.

The Office of Defects Investigation arm of the NHTSA opened a sweeping inquiry into this issue back in June 2014 after learning of six separate incidents where air bags ruptured, which involved five vehicle manufacturers.

The ODI determined that the common link between them all was the manufacturer of the air bags – Takata – and the locations of where these air bags were installed. All six took place in either Florida or Puerto Rico.

These events led to a much wider investigation of Takata air bags and their potential to cause serious injury to motorists.

All told, at least 37 million automobiles had been equipped with 50 million defective air bags manufactured by Takata, according to the most recent statistics available from the NHTSA. Repair rates among automakers with Takata air bags installed rose 30% in 2018 compared to the previous year.

“Communicating the urgency for recall repairs with the help of stakeholders and DMVs is proving effective to protecting lives on our nation’s roadways,” NHTSA Deputy Administrator Heidi King said at the time.

This isn’t the first time this year that BMW has been affected by an air bag safety issue. In June, the luxury automaker announced it was recalling approximately 2,000 SUVs whose air bags were installed improperly.

Prior to that, around 1,700 2-Series, 3-Series and 4-Series models were also recalled because of compromised passenger knee air bags.

The solution

As for the 2000 – 2002 BMW air bag issue, the luxury automaker is getting ready to start distributing mailers that will inform owners about this problem. BMW says it will begin sending the notifications out starting November 25.

Recipients of the safety notices are urged to bring their vehicle to a local dealer. If appropriate, a replacement air bag will be installed free of charge.

Is your vehicle part of the recall?

Over 3,900 airbags were originally part of this recall. As of April 9, 2021 – the last date for which information is available – 1,425 airbags had been replaced. To see if your car still needs to be repaired, use MotorSafety’s free lookup tool.

Note: June 8, 2021

We have noticed a large number of readers are interested in this recall. For that reason, we have added the last section to allow the driver to check if his or her car is part of the recall and include the most up-to-date information on the recall’s completion rates. The article has also been updated to reflect the latest editorial standards.

Sean ReyesBMW sedans, convertibles recalled over deadly Takata airbags
Software Malfunction Leads to Lamborghini Recall

Software Malfunction Leads to Lamborghini Recall

October 21, 2019 Sean Reyes

Laguna Hills, CA – Oct. 17, 2019 – Earlier this month, Lamborghini announced the recall of certain 2017-19 Aventador S Coupè and Aventador S Roadster vehicles. The reason for the action involves the engine management software used for both vehicles, which, due to a defect, may cause the engine to stall while coasting toward a stop.

While the recall involves a relatively small number of vehicles (approximately 441), it is nonetheless a vital one: According to the manufacturer, no warning is likely to precede the stall on the affected automobiles. Additionally, all of the vehicles included in the recall are expected to contain the defect, without exception.

The Defect

As a result of the flaw, the engine might unexpectedly turn off under very specific conditions. The safety recall report issued by Lamborghini describes those conditions exactly: “The affected vehicles might, under certain driving conditions (accelerator pedal released in the idle approach to a stop) present an engine stall event without warning,” the document explained. “The engine can switch off approaching a stop at idle, increasing the risk of an accident.”

Lamborghini’s documents also note that the defect occurs because the engine management software “doesn’t assure the idle minimum revs in order to maintain the engine running.” The remedy for the defect will involve dealers installing new engine management software that can maintain the proper level of minimum revs while the vehicle is idle.

Timeline of Events

First knowledge of the defect came by way of field reports describing cases of alleged engine stalls involving the related vehicles, which reached Lamborghini sometime during May 2019. Following additional complaints received shortly thereafter, an investigation was launched.

“Results from the investigation revealed a risk of vehicle stalling,” stated the manufacturer’s chronology report. “On Sept. 25, 2019, the matter was presented at the Product Safety Committee, [at which point the] decision to conduct a safety recall was made.”

The specific vehicles containing the defect have been identified using vehicle identification numbers. They were all manufactured between December 2016 and June 2019.

The Solution

Owners of the vehicles included in the field action should be notified via mail by the end of 2019. They will be instructed to arrange an appointment with an authorized Lamborghini dealer to have the updated engine software – which is free of the defect that necessitated this recall – installed on their automobiles.

Those with further questions can read Lamborghini’s “frequently asked questions” document for the recall or contact the manufacturer’s customer service line at (866) 681-6276. And for more information on other recent vehicle recalls, visit MotorSafety.org.

Sean ReyesSoftware Malfunction Leads to Lamborghini Recall
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