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GM recalls trucks with faulty EPS software

GM recalls trucks with faulty EPS software

August 15, 2017 admin ,

 

Warren, Mich. – Aug. 15, 2017 – General Motors has recalled nearly 700,000 vehicles suspected of containing faulty electronic power steering software, according to documents filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects 2014 Chevrolet Silverado LD pickup trucks manufactured between Jan. 30, 2013 and Sept. 4, 2014, as well as 2014 GMC Sierra LD pickups with production dates ranging from Jan. 29, 2013 to Sept. 4, 2014. GM estimates that 2 percent of the vehicles named in the recall contain the defective EPS software.

The Defect

Vehicles referenced in the recall could potentially contain EPS software prone to sudden shutoff during low-voltage maneuvers such as low-speed turns. The software normally fails within a one-second span, when system voltage measurements drop below 8.8 volts. With the EPS disabled, operators have difficulty navigating the vehicle. This poses a serious safety risk to owners, passengers and other drivers. However, GM has yet to receive any field reports connecting the defective software to any accidents or injuries.

Timeline of Events

On Feb. 2, 2017 GM opened an internal investigation into EPS software installed in some vehicles after receiving multiple customer complaints and vehicle owner’s questionnaires mentioning momentary loss of EPS function. Throughout February and April, the automaker reviewed the collected customer complaints, warranty claims and VOQs to determine if the vehicles referenced in these reports shared similar mechanical features. GM did indeed find technical links between the models and launched an extended field investigation to gather more data, eventually discovering that faulty software was the root cause of the EPS failures.

Over the course of April and May, GM engineers conducted internal tests at the company’s testing facility in Milford, Michigan in an effort to recreate the and evaluate the EPS problem. The automaker was able to gain a deeper understanding of the defective software and its impact on driveability. Engineers discovered that the EPS software stalled in particularly low-voltage situations and required at least 9 volts of electricity to maintain proper operations.

In June, the GM Open Investigation Review re-evaluated the original reports collected in February. On June 22, the car company’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority announced that an official safety recall was necessary. GM notified dealers of the campaign Aug. 7, according to internal documentation submitted to the NHTSA.

The Solution

The automaker has ordered dealers to update the EPS software in affected models with a new iteration released May 19. The repairs are to be administered free of charge. GM plans to notify owners via first-class mail beginning Aug. 15. Those in need of more immediate assistance can contact GM customer service at (800) 462-8782 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.

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Infiniti recalls sedans with defective fuel pump software

Infiniti recalls sedans with defective fuel pump software

August 11, 2017 admin

 

Franklin, Tenn. – Aug. 11, 2017 – Nissan North America has recalled more than 14,000 Infiniti sedans possibly equipped with defective fuel pump control module software, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects 2016-2018 Q50 models produced between March 10, 2015 and April 5, 2017, as well as 2017 Q60 models with production dates from July 30, 2015 to April 5, 2017. Nissan suspects 100 percent of the vehicles referenced in the recall contain the defective software.

The Defect

The models involved in the recall could include FPCM software that references the incorrect fuel pressure map and, as a result, may not effectively filter gasoline from the reserve tank to the primary tank when its fuel levels drop. This could result in complete engine shutoff, as the small amount of fuel left in the main tank is inaccessible to the fuel pump. This scenario could increase the likelihood of an accident and poses a serious safety risk to vehicle operators. However, Nissan has yet to receive any field reports connecting the defect to any accidents or injuries.

Timeline of Events

In December 2016, the car company received a report from the U.S. market detailing an Infiniti sedan that experienced fuel pump issues. Nissan launched an investigation immediately. More than a month later, engineers succeeded in replicating the problem in-house, using parts retrieved from the vehicle named in the initial report. In March 2017, the automaker launched a monitoring program to collect more data on the defect and assess its impact.

One month later, engineers involved in the initial investigation submitted evidence connecting the issue to the fuel pressure mapping components in the vehicle’s FPCM software. Nissan amended the software at the point of production and then reached out to the NHTSA. However, the car company had not yet gathered enough information to launch an official safety recall and continued to monitor the field for more data related to the fuel pump defect. This program lasted until early July, by which point Nissan had collected enough field insights to initiate a recall.

The car company met with NHTSA officials for the final time on July 12, launched an official safety recall July 19 and notified dealers July 27.

The Solution

Nissan has ordered dealers to reprogram the FPCM software in affected vehicles, free of charge, according to internal documentation submitted to the NHTSA. The automaker plans to notify owners via first-class mail by Aug. 21. Those in need of more immediate assistance can contact Infiniti customer service representatives at (800) 662-6200 or call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.

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Fuel tank flange issue could lead to greater recall

Fuel tank flange issue could lead to greater recall

July 25, 2017 admin

 

Auburn Hills, Mich.—July 25, 2017—One recall from earlier this year could be the sign of future Volkswagen recalls, according to an article in Car and Driver. The case involves defective flanges, which could crack, possibly because the material could deteriorate.

Volkswagen is just one of several manufacturers with possible complications from this issue, and all reportedly stem from the part itself, a Continental Automotive Systems product. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is looking into the matter.

As the source described, a crack in the flange could also lead to a fuel leak. Major auto companies like Ford and General Motors could have to recall vehicles if they find evidence of the risk. The article quoted a statement from Elizabeth Weigandt, a Ford representative, on the company’s awareness of the issue.

“It’s unclear at this point whether Ford vehicles are affected,” she said. “We are reviewing the matter and will cooperate with NHTSA, as we always do.”

A Part 573 Safety Recall Report submitted to the NHTSA in March said that 20,908 Volkswagen Touareg vehicles were part of that company’s recall, with the model years ranging from 2007 to 2010.  The larger amount of vehicles were produced between 2006 and 2010. This report said that the components could weaken over time due to oxidization and internal pressure. The report said that March was the company’s “date of determination.”

The resolution to this earlier recall involved fitting the affected flanges with a protective cover. The report said that a fuel smell may indicate the issue, and that there were apparent similarities between this recall and another one for Audi vehicles.

A Volkswagen dealership communication said that the resolution could require a full replacement if the flanges are cracked. The fuel leak could present a hazard if fire is present.

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Honda recalls vehicles with fuel hose issues

Honda recalls vehicles with fuel hose issues

July 19, 2017 admin

 

Torrance, Calif. – July 19, 2017 – American Honda Motor Company has recalled dozens of vehicles possibly equipped with defective fuel feed and fuel purge hoses, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid sport utility vehicles manufactured between March 23 and May 8, 2017. The car company is unsure at this time what percentage of the vehicles named in the recall contain the defective components.

The Defect

Affected vehicles may come equipped with misrouted fuel feed and fuel purge hoses. As a result, vibrations from the engine may push the fuel feed hose against the breather pipe. This contact could, over time, damage the fuel feed and fuel purge hoses and lead to leaks. This increases the risk of an engine fire and endangers owners. However, Honda has not received reports of accidents or injuries related to the defect as of June 29.

Timeline of Events

Honda engineers discovered the misrouted fuel feed and fuel purge hoses during a routine quality check conducted June 7, 2017. The automaker immediately launched an internal investigation involving an evaluation of assembly processes and additional vehicle inspections. The inquiry concluded June 16. On June 29, Honda decided to conduct a voluntary safety recall. The car company contacted dealers a day later.

The Solution

Honda has directed dealers to evaluate the fuel feed and fuel purge hoses in affected vehicles and replace and reroute them if necessary, according to the NHTSA. Dealers are to make these repairs free of charge. Honda plans notify owners via first-class mail by July 31. Those who need more immediate assistance can contact Acura Client Relations at (888) 234-2138 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.

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Toyota recall Lexus vehicles after discovering tie rod problems [Video]

July 18, 2017 admin

Lexus ES 350 drivers may encounter loud noises and steering issues while driving their vehicles. If so, their cars could be one of the one thousand, seven hundred and sixty that are part of a new recall action, according to a statement from Toyota.

The manufacturer said that these vehicles, with the 2017 model year, could have been assembled improperly, with loose lock nuts threatening the steering control of the vehicle. The resolution will go beyond these parts and see dealers replace entire tie rod assemblies where necessary. Though Toyota didn’t give a strict date for this action, it said owner notification was scheduled for mid-July.

Owners will not have to pay for the repairs, and should look for signs that their car might move to either side during a drive.

adminToyota recall Lexus vehicles after discovering tie rod problems [Video]

BMW recalls vehicles with flawed reflectors [Video]

July 18, 2017 admin ,

Woodcliff Lake, N.J.—July 18, 2017—According to one of the latest BMW recalls, some vehicles may have reflector problems that put their occupants at risk. Consumer Affairs reported that several BMW models could have less rear reflection than needed to comply with safety standards. With these inadequate reflectors, vehicles could be harder to see on the road.

The recall includes several xDrive, ActiveHybrid 5 and x series types, with the model years ranging from 2013 to 2014. In total, the source said that this encompasses almost 14,000 vehicles. The fix is scheduled for July 24. BMW will replace the reflectors to increase visibility and comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

BMW Blog said that the manufacturer has had other recalls recently, such as one for ninety-two vehicles with tail light issues.

adminBMW recalls vehicles with flawed reflectors [Video]
Nissan recalls vehicles with defective Takata air bags

Nissan recalls vehicles with defective Takata air bags

July 17, 2017 admin ,

Franklin, Tenn. – July 17, 2017 – Nissan North America (OTCMKTS:NSANY) has recalled more than 515,000 vehicles believed to contain defective Takata air bag assemblies, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign includes 2007-2011 Nissan Versa sedans and 2007-2012 Versa hatchbacks. 

Recall summary

Affected vehicles could come equipped with air bag assemblies using Takata PSDI-5 inflators. These fixtures, which use calcium sulfate desiccant, emit metal fragments when deployed, putting drivers and passengers in grave danger.

This campaign follows numerous other recalls related to Takata air bag components. Since 2004, dozens of automakers have been forced to conduct safety recalls and orchestrate the removal and replacement of over 100 million Takata air bags, Bloomberg reported. The company finally filed for bankruptcy last month, citing financial damage brought on by multiple multimillion-dollar fines and settlements. Takata will pay $975 million in restitution costs to victims and carmakers and $25 million in fines as part of a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice.

The PSDI-5 and other Takata inflators caused hundreds injuries and 17 reported deaths, according to Bloomberg.

The repair

Nissan is still working on a workable solution and plans to work with an alternative parts manufacturer to produce safe air bag inflators for the Versa, according to the NHTSA. When the remedy is available, the automaker plans to instruct dealers to install the replacement parts, free of charge. Nissan will send interim recall notification letters to owners sometime at the end of September.

Is your vehicle part of the recall?

Over 515,000 vehicles were originally part of this recall. As of July 30, 2019, – the last date for which information was available – 238,431 airbags had been replaced. To see if your car still needs to be repaired, use MotorSafety’s free lookup tool.

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Mercedes recalls vehicles with defective parking brakes

Mercedes recalls vehicles with defective parking brakes

July 16, 2017 admin

 

Montvale, N.J. – July 16, 2017 – Mercedes-Benz USA has recalled more than 5,000 vehicles possibly equipped with defective parking brake components, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Association. The campaign affects 2016 Smart Fortwo compact cars manufactured between June 16, 2015 and Aug. 12, 2016. Mercedes estimated that 1 percent of the total number of vehicles named in the recall contain the defective parts.

The Defect

The vehicles referenced in the campaign could contain bowden cables with defective lock nuts, which may loosen over time and result in an increase in parking brake lever travel. The holding force of the parking brake might decrease as a result. This presents a serious safety hazard for owners, especially those who regularly park their vehicles on inclines and engage the parking brake. However, Mercedes-Benz has not received any field reports connecting the defect to accidents or injuries.

Timeline of Events

Daimler Automotive Group, which owns Mercedes-Benz, received a field report in mid-2016 that summarized an instance in which the parking brake on a customer’s vehicle failed to engage properly. The company immediately initiated a root-cause investigation to understand the cause of this mishap and ascertain whether a more widespread mechanical issue existed. Engineers involved in the inquiry immediately pinpointed a problem with the lock nut on the bowden cable. DAG then contacted its suppliers to identify possible fabrication issues.

In late 2016, the DAG team investigating the defect discovered that installation of the parking brake during the assembly process may have affected the microencapsulation process, resulting in lock nut hardware prone to slippage. During the opening months of 2017, the car company tested the affects of the defective lock nut assembly. In April, engineers performed additional tests, this time assessing how the feature stood up to vehicle vibrations. Two months later, DAG engineers were able to replicate the original customer complaint via multiple parking brake lever application and release. The automaker then reviewed manufacturing records to determine what vehicles might contain the defect.

In July 2017, DAG decided that the defect presented a serious safety risk to owners and launched a recall campaign. The organization notified dealers soon after.

The Solution

DAG has ordered dealers to replace the lock nuts in affected vehicles free of charge, according to additional documentation submitted to the NHTSA. The repairs are covered under existing new car warranties and therefore are not subject to official reimbursement plans. Owners should expect to receive notification in September. Those in need of more immediate assistance can contact Smart customer service at (877) 496-3691. 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 damaged alternator diodes

Chrysler recalls vehicles with damaged alternator diodes

July 14, 2017 admin , ,

Auburn Hills, Mich. – July 14, 2017 – Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has recalled an estimated 442,214 vehicles potentially equipped with damaged alternator diodes, according to a company press release. The campaign affects a variety of models across multiple brands, including:

  • 2011-2014 Chrysler 300 sedans
  • 2011-2014 Two-door Dodge Challenger sports cars
  • 2011-2014 Four-door Dodge Charger sports cars
  • 2011-2014 Dodge Durango sport utility vehicles
  • 2012-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee sport utility vehicles

Approximately 318, 781 of the vehicles originated from U.S. dealers, while 37,504 are circulating the Canadian and Mexican markets. The remaining 85, 292 are outside of the North American Free Trade Agreement zone. FCA estimates 100 percent of the vehicles named in the recall contain the defective part, according to documentation filed with the National Highway Transportation Administration.

The Defect

Vehicles named in the recall are suspected to contain alternators with diodes susceptible to thermal fatigue failure stemming from overstressed electric hydraulic power steering systems. In the event of a diode failure, the alternator ceases supplying the engine with electricity, leading to the unexpected loss of multiple features, including the antilock braking system, the electronic stability control system and the engine control module. In some cases, the vehicle my cease operation entirely. The diodes can also short circuit and cause fire, heat and smoke to rise from the engine.

FCA has received reports of two accidents related to the faulty diodes. However, the car company has yet to receive notification of any injuries connected to the defect.

Timeline of Events

FCA has not released details into the internal investigation that uncovered the problem. The company is expected to notify dealers on or around Aug. 24.

The Solution

FCA will direct dealers to replace the alternators in affected vehicles, free of charge, according to a recall acknowledgement document filed with the NHTSA. Owners should expect to receive notification via first-class mail on or around Aug. 24. However, those in need of more immediate assistance can contact the FCA U.S. Customer Care Center at (800) 853-1403 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.

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Battery risks lead to large Honda recalls

Battery risks lead to large Honda recalls

July 14, 2017 admin

 

Torrance, California—July 14, 2017—In certain Honda vehicles, an issue with the battery sensor could lead to a risk of fire as the result of an electrical short. According to a Part 573 Safety Recall Report from Honda, submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration July 12, more than 1.1 million vehicles are potentially involved.

The Defect

The risk comes from the chance of moisture coming into contact with the affected vehicle batteries. If this happens, the battery could short out and subsequently cause a fire. The moisture could potentially enter the batteries, the report said, because of spaces in the battery sensor casing. All of the vehicles in this recall are Honda Accord types, with the model years ranging from 2013 to 2016.

Timeline of Events

  • March to August, 2015: A chronology document, also filed with the NHTSA, said that the first claim related to this issue (a “thermal event” from under the car hood) surfaced in Canada on March 3, 2015. The following months saw the manufacturer attempt to counter the problem through temporary checks.
  • June to July, 2016: The summer months of this year saw Honda implement a new design while also receiving reports of the defect in the U.S. for the first time, after previously hearing a claim from China.
  • June 2017: The company decided to initiate a recall at this time. Though there have been no injuries or accidents associated with the issue to date, the car company has recorded four “thermal events” in the U.S. alone and several more worldwide.

The Resolution

The original dealer notification date was June 30, and owner notification will begin on July 31, as the report said. Depending on the condition of the battery sensor, the dealer may do a temporary or more final repair.

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