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BMW Issues Recall Due to Takata Air Bag Defect

BMW Issues Recall Due to Takata Air Bag Defect

March 3, 2017 admin ,

Westwood, NJ – March 3, 2017 – BMW is the latest car manufacturer to recall vehicles containing Takata Corporation air bag assemblies, according to records from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall impacts around 840,000 vehicles and applies to  several models, including:

  • 2008-2013, 1 Series coupes
  • 2008-2013, 1 Series convertibles
  • 2007-2013, 3 Series coupes
  • 2007-2013, 3 Series convertibles
  • 2006-2011, 3 Series sedans
  • 2006-2012, 3 Series sports wagons
  • 2013-2015, X1 sports activity vehicles
  • 2007-2010, X3 sports activity vehicles
  • 2007-2013, X5 sports activity vehicles
  • 2008-2014, X6 sports activity vehicles

Recall summary

The front air bag assemblies in affected models contain defective driver-side air bag inflator modules and propellant tablets. In the event of a crash, these fixtures can rupture, propelling sharp metal fragments throughout the cabin and causing serious harm to drivers and passengers. Inspectors have since connected the problem to shoddy fabrication practices in plants in Monclova, Mexico and LaGrange, Georgia. While no BMW drivers or passengers have been harmed due to Takata air bag equipment, the defective fixtures have injured and killed individuals operating vehicles from other manufacturers.

On January 21, 2016, Takata announced that some vehicles in the U.S. contained faulty air bar inflators and propellant tablets. BMW reviewed the announcement and discovered that some of its models contained PSDI-5 inflators, which were indeed deemed defective by Takata engineers. This equipment had originated from the Monclova and LaGrange facilities, as well as another Takata production hub located in Freiberg, Germany. BMW reviewed its fabrication records and decided to issue a recall. The automaker notified dealers February 5.

The repair

BMW has ordered dealers to replace the front driver-side air bag assembly, free of charge. However, supplies are limited at the moment, meaning some customers may have to wait. Owners are expected to receive confirmation March 31.

Is your vehicle part of the recall?

Over 800,000 vehicles were originally part of this recall. As of April 9, 2021 – the last date information was available – 631,588 airbags had been replaced. To see if your car still needs to be repaired, use MotorSafety’s free lookup tool.

adminBMW Issues Recall Due to Takata Air Bag Defect
Headrest Standards Concerns Lead to Chevrolet Recalls

Headrest Standards Concerns Lead to Chevrolet Recalls

March 2, 2017 admin

Detroit — Mar. 02, 2017 — Some Chevrolet Cruze vehicles reportedly have issues with the recliners that could leave the vehicle noncompliant with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Because of this, General Motors Co. targeted 17,197 possibly affected vehicles in the U.S. as part of a recently announced recall action.

The Defect

GM Authority recently reported on the decision. According to the source, the recall would center around improperly secured head restraints. Chevrolet Cruze vehicles from either the 2016 or 2017 model years are part of GM’s concerns. {if they’re just part which vehicles are the rest of GM’s concerns?}

During a crash, the headrests could potentially separate. This not only would put the drivers in possible danger, but would also go against FMVSS 202a the standard that deals with head restraints and comes with height and placement demands.

Timeline of Events

  • July 19-20, 2016: According to an official chronology from GM, the company’s suppliers discovered a welding issue with the affected car brackets on the 19th, and then took measures to improve it the following day, though GM did not learn of this until later.
  • Sept. 16-21, 2016: Three warranty claims for vehicles reportedly containing this defect come to GM’s attention.
  • Nov. 2, 2016: The manufacturer discovered and reported the bracket issue affecting the seat backs.
  • Nov. 21, 2016: GM learned about the supplier actions, among other things, after reaching out to them. 
  • Jan. 9, 2017: The company reviewed the case through its Open Investigation Review board.
  • Jan 19, 2017: After examining relevant computer simulations two days earlier, the company’s Safety and Field Action Decision Authority made the noncompliance recall official.

The Resolution

As a repair document released through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said, the fix procedure will take two separate operations: an initial inspection and a follow-up installation, if necessary, to replace the seat back frame.

adminHeadrest Standards Concerns Lead to Chevrolet Recalls
More Than 5,500 Vehicles Involved in Volvo Recalls

More Than 5,500 Vehicles Involved in Volvo Recalls

March 1, 2017 admin

Rockleigh, N.J. — Mar. 01, 2017 — Three different models of light 2017 vehicles from Volvo are included in a new recall action and may suffer from a fault that could put vehicle occupants in danger. Exactly 5,529 vehicles were said to be included in the recall, although the official Part 573 Safety Recall Report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration did not list a percentage. The recall includes XC90, S90 and V90CC vehicles.

The Defect

The report described the process that could affect certain vehicle parts as “hydrogen embrittlement.” According to this source, the air bag curtains were assembled, in some cases, by faulty bolts treated by Polish supplier Autoliv Poland Sp. Z O.o.

These bolts could potentially weaken over time, eventually leading the inflatable curtain air bags to fall out of place, failing to protect those in the vehicle. There could be noticeable noise before this occurs, the report added, and it could fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 226, “Ejection Migration.”

Timeline of Events

  • Nov. 14, 2016-Jan. 31,2017: Affected models go through production.
  • Feb. 10, 2017: Volvo’s Critical Concern Management Team began preparing for the recall following an initial vehicle report.
  • Feb. 16, 2017: An ongoing investigation continued as the Part 573 report was submitted. Dealer notification also began, extending until Feb. 23.
  • Feb. 24, 2017: The acknowledgement statement for the recall appeared.

The Resolution

Although owner notification is not set to begin until April 1, the manufacturer has already planned for actions to fix the defective bolts, including an inspection and replacement process. Last year, the Volvo S90 was part of an unrelated air bag recall, regarding an air conditioning fault that could gradually affect air bag deployment by leaking moisture into the vehicle’s interior. The fix required replacing an air conditioning drainage hose in some cases.

adminMore Than 5,500 Vehicles Involved in Volvo Recalls
Chevrolet Suburban Recall To Fix Outside Mirror Issues

Chevrolet Suburban Recall To Fix Outside Mirror Issues

February 28, 2017 admin

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.

adminChevrolet Suburban Recall To Fix Outside Mirror Issues
Volkswagen Recalls Audi Vehicles for Engine Fire Concerns

Volkswagen Recalls Audi Vehicles for Engine Fire Concerns

February 23, 2017 admin

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.

adminVolkswagen Recalls Audi Vehicles for Engine Fire Concerns
BMW Recalls Hybrid Model Over Fuel Tank Flaw

BMW Recalls Hybrid Model Over Fuel Tank Flaw

February 22, 2017 admin

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

The Defect

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

Timeline of Events

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

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

The Solution

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

adminBMW Recalls Hybrid Model Over Fuel Tank Flaw
GM Recalls Sports Cars Due to Air Bag Defect

GM Recalls Sports Cars Due to Air Bag Defect

February 21, 2017 admin , ,

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

The Defect

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

Timeline of Events

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

The Solution

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

adminGM Recalls Sports Cars Due to Air Bag Defect
Lamborghini Recalls Rare Sports Cars Due to Fire Risk

Lamborghini Recalls Rare Sports Cars Due to Fire Risk

February 20, 2017 admin

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

The Defect

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

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

Timeline of Events

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

The Resolution

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

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

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

Chrysler Recalls 300 and Charge Models Over Loose Bolts

February 16, 2017 admin ,

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

The Defect

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

Timeline of Events

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

The Solution

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

 

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

Mazda Recalls Sedans With Broken Seats

February 15, 2017 admin

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

The Defect

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

Timeline of Events

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

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

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

The Resolution

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

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

adminMazda Recalls Sedans With Broken Seats
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