Laguna Hills, CA – November 28, 2018 – Lotus Cars Limited (Lotus) is recalling certain 2018 Lotus Evora vehicles due to a potential danger in case of a crash should the steering column not collapse correctly. Vehicles affected are 2018 model year Lotus Evora (all variants). The potential number of units affected is 40.
The Defect
According to the NHTSA Recall Safety Report, during a vehicle crash event, the steering column is designed to partially collapse and help dissipate a portion of the crash energy. On some assemblies, the screw securing the steering column cartridge, which supports the column during the collapse process, has been found to be finger tight only.
If the screw is loose but remains engaged in the thread, there is expected to be no adverse effect on vehicle crash performance. However, if the screw disengages from the thread, in the event of a frontal collision, the steering column may not properly collapse to absorb some of the impact energy. If the steering column does not collapse as intended in a crash, it can increase the risk of injury to the driver and possibly any passengers.
Timeline of Events
Lotus has been notified that a small number of Evora steering columns have been assembled incorrectly, which could compromise the performance of the part in a vehicle crash.
A mis-build issue of the steering column assembly fitted to the Evora model range has been identified in a small number of vehicles manufactured between 17/04/2018 to 02/10/2018. As a result, the steering column cartridge screw may not have been tightened to its specified torque of 5 Nm
The manufacturer of the steering column corrected the recall condition by re-setting the torque wrench used in the assembly process. Correctly assembled steering columns were introduced into vehicle production with effect from 10/10/2018.
The Solution
Lotus will notify owners, and dealers will correct the steering column assembly, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Lotus customer service at 1-800-245-6887. Lotus’ number for this recall is 2018/01R. Owners may also call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153). The NHTSA Campaign Number for this recall is 18V-781.
