S2000toIS350

Happy Monday

Chrysler minivan recall

Airbags going off on the wrong side of the vehicle, a classic

Enjoy!

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/08/c...gs-may-deploy/

Hoovey689

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2013 Hyundai Santa Fe probed by NHTSA over axle failure

According to Reuters, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched a preliminary evaluation of the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe after receiving two complaints of broken front axles on vehicles with fewer than 5,000 miles on their odometers. Naturally, a broken axle could result in the loss of control of the vehicle, especially if it occurs at high speed. It's not immediately clear if the investigation centers on the five-seat Sport, the seven-seat model or both.

No actual recall has yet been issued, and "no safety defect has been identified," according to a statement Hyundai released to Reuters, which added, "Hyundai will, of course, take any actions necessary to ensure the safety of our customers if the information gathered during the investigation indicates that action is appropriate."

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/10/2...-axle-failure/

Hoovey689

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NHTSA again questioning GM, this time over mild hybrid recall

Less than a week after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had questioned the adequacy of a General Motors recall from 2009 on the Pontiac G6, saying it might have needed to be much broader, it is putting the automaker under the microscope again for another potential recall issue. This time around, NHTSA is investigating whether GM did enough in a recent recall of eAssist-equipped models, namely the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco and the 2012-2013 Buick Regal and LaCrosse.

The recall was announced back in May on these mild-hybrid sedans for an issue with the generator that could cause the vehicle to stop running and possibly even lead to a fire in the trunk. According to The Detroit News, the investigation was launched because even after the vehicles were recalled, a fire was still reported. As a part of the recall, a total of 43,000 vehicles were tested, but only 22,000 received a new generator control module. The article says that the post-recall fire happened on a vehicle that had its module inspected but not replaced.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/12/n...hybrid-recall/

Hoovey689

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Mercedes under investigation by feds over faulty, possibly flaming taillights

According to The Detroit News, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedans over the possibility of faulty taillamps that, in some situations, may even catch fire. Some 218,000 C-Class vehicles are being investigated, all of which are from the 2008 and 2009 model years.

NHTSA has reportedly received 21 statements from owners citing the brake lights or turn signals dimming or failing to light. In some cases, drivers reported a burning smell, a few noting that some of the vehicle's electrical parts had melted. What's even more alarming is that some drivers reported smelling smoke or seeing burn marks in the trunk. One driver even reportedly saw small flames coming from the rear lamp connector when the trunk was open.

Scary stuff, to be sure, though NHTSA says that this problem hasn't caused any injuries. Still, the government agency will investigate the problem further to see if this actually warrants a recall.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/15/m...ossibly-flami/

Hoovey689

iTrader: (16)

Chrysler recalls 2013 Ram pickups, 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Chrysler's spate of successful products is about to be marred by a trio of recalls. The Pentastar is recalling 51,477 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there have been no reported accidents, injuries or deaths related to the affected vehicles.

The largest action covers the Ram 1500, which is seeing 45,961 trucks being recalled. Models built between June 26, 2012 and February 5, 2013 are being recalled due to a potential software issue in the electronic stability control. Apparently, the system can be randomly deactivated upon vehicle startup.

Chrysler is also recalling 4,458 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee models. Covering everything but the SRT models, the potentially defective SUVs were built between January 14 and March 20, 2013. This recall focuses on "premium headlights," which means cars equipped with LED running lights. During the switch from the bright daytime running lamp setting to the low-intensity parking light setting, an electrical spike can cause one of the Jeep's computers to go into a safe mode, turning off the LEDs. This violates Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Finally, Chrysler is recalling 1,058 Ram 4500 and 5500 heavy-duty pickups. The action covers vehicles manufactured between January 22 and March 8, 2013 due to an incorrect bolt attaching the track bar to the frame. If the bolt breaks or falls off while driving, drivers may lose control of the vehicle.

Owners of effected models will be notified to report to their dealers for free repairs or retrofits, with all three recalls kicking off in August.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/17/c...rand-cherokee/

Hoovey689

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Honda recalls select 2013 Accords over fuel tank neck

Honda and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have announced a recall for 1,659 model-year 2013 Honda Accord vehicles. The affected Accords are Low-Emission Vehicle II rated cars manufactured between January 15 and April 5 of 2013.

The recall is pursuant to a fuel tank neck that might be out of specification, and the variance could result in the fuel pump not properly sealing with the fuel tank. As you might guess, a bad seal here could result in a gasoline leak, posing a fire risk. As of this writing, there have been no reports of fires because of this problem.

Honda will reach out to owners of affected 2013 Accords, directing dealers to replace the cars' fuel tank, nut and O-ring gasket. Expect the notifications when the recall begins in earnest on August 1.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/19/h...uel-tank-neck/

Hoovey689

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GM reportedly recalling select 2014 Silverado, Sierra pickups over airbag issue

General Motors is recalling 843 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Crew Cab pickups, due to a fault with the vehicle's airbags. According to GM, the airbags may not inflate properly in the event of a crash. There haven't been any crashes or injuries associated with this recall, which is always good. Naturally, repairs will be free of charge, and GM will begin contacting affected owners soon.

GM has a lot hanging on the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. Not only is it banking over $12,000 per vehicle on these trucks, as reported by Automotive News, but GM is counting on the Sierra and Silverado to take the fight to cross-town rivals Ford and Ram. The F-150 and Ram 1500 have been on a tear over the past few years, with fresh updates, advanced powertrains, and plenty of solid press while the GM trucks have been waiting for the 2014-model-year upgrades.

It's still entirely too early to judge the Sierra and Silverado, particularly as those 843 recalled trucks make up barely two percent of the over 40,000 units moved so far. But, as AN rightly states, these trucks are the most important vehicles to come out of GM since bankruptcy, with about 60 percent of global profits relating to pickups and SUVs. Starting an introduction of such a big product with a recall, however small, is not the preferred way to do things.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/21/g...ierra-pickups/

Hoovey689

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Mitsubishi recalling 2013 Outlander Sport for suspension issue

Just 305 units of the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport are the subject of a recall over a potential suspension issue. Crossovers made from January 17-25 of this year might suffer from a bad weld on the front left strut's stabilizer link. If it fails, damage to the brake hose or tire could result, in turn making steering or braking control of the compact CUV more difficult.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/22/m...pension-issue/

Hoovey689

iTrader: (16)

NHTSA gives okay for three automakers to skirt tire-related recalls

BMW, Honda, and Mercedes-Benz are all going to avoid small recalls, after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued petitions for "findings of inconsequential noncompliance" to the three manufacturers, according to Tire Business. Basically, the petitions allow the brands to avoid recalls for some very, very minor issues.

BMW had tire placards on 364 X6 M CUVs that stated the car could only handle four passengers, when in reality it had room for three in the back. Actual plausibility of fitting three real humans in the slope-roofed Bimmer aside, the Munich-based manufacturer argued it was inconsequential, as the placards were correct regardless of the number of passengers.

Honda's case focused on 212 2011 and 2012 Acura TSX sedans equipped with 18-inch wheels. The TPMS systems on these cars were set for 17-inch wheels, rather than the larger hoops, but even with the lower settings, the tires maintain adequate load capacity.

Finally, Mercedes-Benz was the luckiest to get off, as it faced recalling 1,479 C-Class sedans built from March 2011 to August of the same year. While this affected the most cars, it's far and away the least consequential for the German brand - the tire placards identify the spare tire size incorrectly. As the inflation levels were correct, there was no point in issuing a recall.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/25/n...-tire-recalls/

Hoovey689

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2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid recalled over lack of roof padding

Ford is recalling 33,021 units of its 2013 C-Max Hybrid not equipped with optional panoramic roof panels. During testing, the model in question returned testing results for occupant head injuries that fell outside of criteria laid out in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard. The issue puts occupants at greater risk of injury in the event of a crash if they are in an affected car.

The recall will begin August 19, at which time C-Max Hybrid owners can take their cars to dealers to have energy-absorbent material installed between the headliner and roof.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/29/2...-roof-padding/

Hoovey689

iTrader: (16)

Lotus recalling certain 2011 Evora S models for possible oil leak, fire

Last year about 80 examples of the 2011 Lotus Evora S were recalled over an issue with the oil feed pipe. The same number of 2011 Evora S', but with different manufacture dates, are back in the recall box again for a very similar issue; this time it's the engine oil cooler hose that could rupture and spray oil either onto the rear wheels or a hot engine part. Neither of those cases is good, and the latter could potentially lead to a fire.

Lotus is working on a solution, so a recall date hasn't been announced. The bulletin below from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has more information. Report Receipt Date: JUL 16, 2013

NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V314000
Component(s): ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Potential Number of Units Affected: 80

Vehicle Make Model Model Year(s): 2011 LOTUS EVORA
Manufacturer: Lotus Cars USA, Inc.

SUMMARY:
Lotus Cars USA, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2011 Evora supercharged vehicles equipped with a manual transmission and manufactured September 2010 through September 2011. The engine oil cooler hose may chafe and rupture resulting in oil loss.

CONSEQUENCE:
Engine oil may be ejected onto the road or rear wheels which could cause a reduction in vehicle control and potential engine failure, increasing the risk of a crash. Engine oil sprayed onto a heat source may also lead to a vehicle fire.

REMEDY:
The remedy for this recall campaign is still under development. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Lotus at 1-770-476-6564. Lotus' campaign number is 2013/03R.

NOTES:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/29/l...ible-oil-leak/

Hoovey689

iTrader: (16)

Nissan recalling 13k Versa Note hatchbacks

Nissan is recalling 13,000 of its new 2014 Versa Note hatchbacks due to an issue with various bolts used to assemble the vehicle. Considering the Versa Note was only recently put on sale, this news must be driving Nissan nuts (we couldn't resist), but presumably the lion's share of these vehicles are still at dealerships.

According to a report from The Detroit News, there are two separate issues. The first has to do with the latches for the rear seats, which include bolts that may not be strong enough to keep the seats upright in the event of a crash. The second relates to the bolts that attach the body to the undercarriage. Apparently they may not have been tightened properly, and in rare cases may be missing altogether. No injuries or accidents have been reported from either issue.

Owners are being told to report to dealers for the fixes, with notifications coming in mid-August.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/31/n...te-hatchbacks/

Hoovey689

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Ford to pay $17.35 million over Escape recall

Ford had a bit of a recall spree around this time last year, with a pair of issues on the then-new 2013 Escape, followed by a recall of 423,000 2001 to 2004 Escapes because they might accelerate of their own accord. Accordingly, Uncle Sam pasted Ford with a $17.35 million fine because it took too long to inform customers, according to a report from Automotive News.

Ford agreed to settle with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, accepting the fine but not admitting fault. The recall, which afflicted Escapes with the 3.0-liter V-6 along with 217,000 Mazda Tributes from 2001 to 2006 and 2008, was due to faulty gas pedals that could stay down after a driver removed their foot.

Ford issued a statement regarding the fine, saying, "We take the safety of our customers seriously and continuously evaluate our processes for improvements. While we are confident in our current processes for quickly identifying and addressing potential vehicle issues, Ford agreed to this settlement to avoid a lengthy dispute with the government."

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/08/01/f...escape-recall/

Hoovey689

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Toyota recalling 342k Tacomas due to faulty seatbelt pretensioners

Toyota is voluntarily recalling 342,000 Tacoma Access Cab pickups, produced between 2004 and 2011. The wide-ranging recall is due to faults in the screws that attach the belt pre-tensioner to the belt retractor. There are concerns that the screws can loosen themselves over time, especially if the access door is opened and closed with too much force. It's important to note that the recall only covers the driver and front passenger seat, and is limited to just the Access Cab trucks. Other body styles aren't affected.

If the screws come loose, the pre-tensioner and retractor spring could separate from the belt entirely, which would be bad news in a crash. There's no mention of injuries or accidents due to the faulty pre-tensioners. Owners affected by the recall will be notified soon, and asked to come in for recall service.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/08/07/t...pretensioners/

Hoovey689

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Morgan 3 Wheeler recall issued for brake fluid reservoir label

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is recalling 139 Morgan 3 Wheelers, built between October 2012 and July 2013. The recall relates to issues with the brake fluid reservoir, which despite the serious function, is being brought in for quite a silly reason.

See, there's nothing wrong with the fluid reservoir itself. It doesn't leak or spontaneously combust, or anything like that. It just doesn't have a warning statement attached, meaning the recalled 3 Wheelers don't conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 122, regarding Motorcycle Brake Systems.

According to the NHTSA website, the "operator may not be warned of the brake fluid reservoir filling requirements." Not surprisingly, there have been no reported injuries or accidents due to the missing label. Morgan is going to be in touch with owners and the spattering of Morgan dealers around the US. It's unclear if a dealership visit will be necessary to apply the warning sticker, or if they'll just be mailed out to owners.

http://www.autoblog.com/2013/08/08/m...heeler-recall/