Isuzu and Chevrolet trucks recalled for starter motor cable issue

Pleasanton, CA – September 11 2020 –Isuzu Motors Ltd. (NASDAQ:ISUZY) has recalled 4,352 Isuzu and Chevrolet trucks that were manufactured by a joint venture between the two manufacturers.

A cable that connects the starter motor to the vehicle’s frame may break, making it impossible to start the engine. The cable issue also creates a risk of fire. The recall includes:

  • 2018-2021 Isuzu FTR medium-duty trucks
  • 2018-2021 Chevrolet 6500XD commercial trucks

Recall summary  

When the driver starts the vehicle, an electrical current flows through the cable to the starter motor. Here are the problems generated by a broken cable:

  • If the cable is broken, the electrical current moves through the power steering hose. 
  • When a driver attempts to start the truck repeatedly, the heat from the electrical current may melt and rupture the power steering hose.
  • The ruptured hose may leak power steering fluid onto a hot engine or exhaust surface, creating the risk of a fire. Drivers have reported seeing smoke coming from the engine compartment.

Risks 

A fire in the engine compartment can injure the vehicle occupants. Additionally, if the driver loses control of the vehicle due to a fire, other vehicles, pedestrians, and property may be at risk.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimated over 171,000 engine fires annually from 2014 to 2016. 

What to do in the event of a fire?

If you try to start the truck and your vehicle catches fire:

  • Remove the key from the ignition.
  • Get all of the occupants away from the vehicle.
  • Call 911.

The repair

To fix the issue, dealers need to replace the ground cable on affected Isuzu FTR and Chevrolet 6500XD vehicles, and inspect the power steering hose. If the hose is damaged, it will also be replaced. All repairs will be free of charge. The recall  is set to begin on October 16th.

Is your vehicle part of this recall?

Over 4,300 vehicles are included in this Isuzu and Chevrolet truck recall. To see if your car is one of them, use MotorSafety’s free vehicle identification number(VIN) look up tool.

Ken BoydIsuzu and Chevrolet trucks recalled for starter motor cable issue