Bologna, Italy – July 11, 2018 – Lamborghini has approximately 1,700 vehicles potentially equipped with defective engine software, according to documentation submitted to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects 2012-2018 Lamborghini Aventador Coupes and Roadsters produced between March 22, 2011, and Oct. 14, 2017.
The Italian automaker suspects all of the vehicles referenced in the action contain the defective parts.
The Defect
Affected vehicles contain engines that may suddenly stall when running at fewer than 2,000 revolutions per minute. Unexpected engine shutoff may inhibit braking and steering functionality, ultimately increasing the likelihood of an accident. The defect therefore poses a serious risk to occupants. However, Lamborghini has yet to receive reports connecting the defect to any collisions or injuries.
Timeline of Events
Lamborghini received multiple field reports throughout the final months of 2017 that outlined instances of stalling. The sports car manufacturer launched an internal investigation in response and identified problematic engine software as the root cause of the issue. Apparently, the affected vehicles had been outfitted with engine management programs with incorrect fuel flow estimations, a flaw that results in unexpected stalling in low-RPM situations.
Members of the Lamborghini Product Safety Committee convened June 6, 2018, and decided to launch a voluntary safety recall campaign.
The Decision
The automaker intends to direct dealers to update the engine software in affected vehicles free of charge, according to an NHTSA recall acknowledgement document. The company will notify dealers July 27, 2018, and reach out to owners via registered mail Aug. 31, 2018. Owners in need or assistance prior to the start of the recall campaign can speak with Lamborghini customer service personnel by calling (866) 681-6276. Callers should the internal recall reference code L73X-R.02.18. Owners can also connect with the NHTSA directly using its Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.
