In a recent announcement, Ford has highlighted a critical concern affecting a specific subset of its 2023 Ford Explorer vehicles. The issue revolves around the right-front lower fastener connecting the steering knuckle and strut, which may either be loose or missing altogether. This problem can have significant repercussions on the vehicle’s performance and safety.

A loose or missing connection between the knuckle and strut can lead to improper tire alignment, potentially causing steering pulls or requiring increased steering effort. Moreover, the proximity of the brake hose to the tire in this compromised setup poses an additional risk. If the hose comes into contact with the tire, it may sustain damage resulting in a brake fluid leak, ultimately leading to a loss of braking ability. These circumstances significantly elevate the likelihood of a crash, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Upon receiving a report of a missing fastener,Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) initiated an investigation at the beginning of January 2024. The Plant Vehicle Team (PVT) at the Assembly Plant promptly identified the issue during a routine warranty claim review. Further analysis revealed that the primary double spindle fixture tool responsible for securing the right front knuckle-to-strut fasteners was offline for repairs during a specific period. This temporary setback affected a limited number of vehicles, with Ford confirming that out of 121 Explorer rotations, only one vehicle was found to have a missing fastener. Nonetheless, the company is taking proactive steps to address the concern.

While Ford has not identified any vehicle owner questionnaires (VOQs) related to this condition, it’s crucial for affected vehicle owners to remain vigilant. Signs of potential issues include a visually detectable tire leaning inward at the top or changes in steering effort or pull. Additionally, if there are any indications of tire contact with the strut or spring seat, such as abrasion damage or a burning smell, prompt action is necessary.

In response to this concern, Ford has announced a field action to have the affected vehicles inspected. Dealers will thoroughly examine the fasteners and take appropriate measures, such as tightening or installing them as needed, to rectify the issue. Affected vehicle owners can reference Ford’s recall number 24S04 and the corresponding NHTSA campaign number 24V-091 for further information and to schedule inspections.

Importance of Keeping Records for Lemon Vehicles:

Maintaining detailed records of repairs and maintenance for your vehicle is essential, especially if you suspect that your vehicle might be a lemon. Lemon laws vary by jurisdiction, but generally, they provide recourse for consumers who have purchased a defective vehicle that the manufacturer has failed to repair adequately within a reasonable number of attempts.

Keeping comprehensive records serves several purposes. Firstly, it provides documentation of the issues you’ve experienced and the attempts made to address them, which can be crucial evidence if you need to pursue legal action under lemon laws. Additionally, it helps establish a pattern of recurring problems, strengthening your case for a vehicle replacement or refund.

Furthermore, detailed records can expedite the repair process by providing technicians with essential information about past issues and repairs. This can help diagnose and resolve problems more efficiently, minimizing inconvenience for you as the owner.

In summary, maintaining thorough records of repairs and maintenance is not only good practice for vehicle ownership but can also be invaluable if you find yourself grappling with a lemon. By documenting issues and repairs diligently, you empower yourself to assert your rights as a consumer and seek appropriate recourse if necessary.

Jeep Wrangler 4XE The Jeep Wrangler 4XE plug-in hybrid has faced a series of challenges that have left many owners questioning the reliability of their vehicles. Reports from owners highlight a range of issues, from stalling engines that cannot be restarted to transmission errors, battery defects, and more serious safety concerns.

One common complaint among Wrangler 4XE owners is the vehicle’s tendency to stall unexpectedly, leaving drivers unable to restart the car. This issue is not just inconvenient but poses a significant safety risk, especially if it occurs in traffic or remote areas. Additionally, there have been reports of defective batteries and blown fuses, further contributing to the vehicle’s unreliability.

Transmission problems are another significant issue, with some owners experiencing leaks and errors, alongside instances where the shifter becomes stuck in park, rendering the vehicle immobile. Warning lights, such as the check engine light and power steering light, frequently accompany these mechanical failures, along with messages indicating the need to “Service Electronic Stability.”

Charging issues have also been a point of frustration. Errors like “Service Charging System” have been reported, alongside malfunctions in the Power Inverter Module (PIM), further complicating the ownership experience. In some cases, these electrical issues lead to a complete loss of power, preventing the vehicle from starting.

More alarming are reports of oil leaks from the exhaust and rear undercarriage, with one vehicle diagnosed with a bad pinion seal on the rear axle at merely 241 miles on the odometer. The recurrence of such leaks, accompanied by smoke and the potential risk of fire, underscores the severity of the Wrangler 4XE’s problems.

The erratic behavior of the vehicle’s transmission and propulsion systems, including sudden stops in the middle of highways and unintended acceleration that has led to property damage, raises significant concerns about the safety and reliability of the Jeep Wrangler 4XE.

For owners facing these daunting issues, California’s Lemon Law provides a beacon of hope. This law is designed to protect consumers who have purchased or leased new vehicles covered by a manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty. If a vehicle proves to be defective and cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, the manufacturer is required to either replace the vehicle or refund the purchase price to the consumer.

Under the California Lemon Law, owners of the Jeep Wrangler 4XE experiencing repeated failures that substantially impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety may be entitled to relief. It’s essential for affected owners to keep detailed records of all repairs and attempts made to address the issues, as these documents will be crucial in pursuing a lemon law claim.

The myriad of problems faced by Jeep Wrangler 4XE owners highlights the challenges in the automotive industry’s shift towards electrification, especially in models that are expected to perform under the demanding conditions for which Jeeps are renowned. For those grappling with these defects, understanding and utilizing the protections offered by the Lemon Law can provide a pathway to resolution and ensure that manufacturers are held accountable for the reliability and safety of their vehicles.

Automobile Rebuild Tites

Vehicles with rebuilt titles in the United States represent a unique category in the automotive market. Understanding what a rebuilt title is, its implications, and the pros and cons of purchasing such vehicles is crucial for any potential buyer or current owner.

What is a Rebuilt Title?

A rebuilt title is assigned to a vehicle that was previously deemed a total loss by an insurance company due to extensive damage or theft and then repaired to a roadworthy condition. This title indicates that the vehicle has been restored after significant damage.

How a Vehicle Gets a Rebuilt Title

  1. Damage and Insurance Assessment: Initially, a vehicle is given a salvage title when it’s considered a total loss by an insurance company, typically due to severe damage, flood, fire, or theft.
  2. Repair and Restoration: The vehicle is then repaired, often by a private individual or a repair facility.
  3. Inspection: After repairs, the vehicle undergoes a state-mandated inspection to ensure it meets safety standards.
  4. Rebranding as Rebuilt: Once it passes inspection, the vehicle’s title is rebranded from salvage to rebuilt.

Identifying a Vehicle with a Rebuilt Title

The title document itself will clearly state if it is a rebuilt title. Additionally, vehicle history report services can provide this information based on the vehicle identification number (VIN).

Impact on Automobile Insurance

  • Limited Insurance Options: Many insurers are hesitant to cover rebuilt title cars or offer limited policies excluding collision and comprehensive coverage.
  • Higher Premiums: Those that do offer full coverage might charge significantly higher premiums due to the perceived higher risk.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Rebuilt Title Vehicle

Pros

  1. Documented Repair Work: Sellers of rebuilt title cars often provide detailed documentation of repairs, offering more insight into the vehicle’s condition than typical used car transactions.
  2. Significant Discounts: These vehicles are generally much cheaper, with potential discounts up to 50% compared to cars with clean titles.

Cons

  1. Safety Risks: There’s an inherent risk in the vehicle’s safety standards, as the extent and quality of repairs can vary.
  2. Limited Insurance Coverage: Difficulty in securing comprehensive insurance coverage is a significant drawback.
  3. Financing Challenges: Most major banks are reluctant to finance vehicles with rebuilt titles.
  4. Voided Warranty: Manufacturer warranties are typically voided once a vehicle is marked as salvage or rebuilt.
  5. Low Resale Value: These vehicles have a lower resale value and may be challenging to sell, as some dealerships avoid buying them.

Owning a vehicle with a rebuilt title can significantly impact the applicability and process of invoking the California Lemon Law. This law is designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles with substantial manufacturing defects. However, when it comes to vehicles with rebuilt titles, the situation becomes more complex. Typically, these vehicles are excluded from coverage under the California Lemon Law because they are not new and have been extensively repaired after being deemed a total loss. The law primarily covers vehicles under the original manufacturer’s warranty, which is often voided in the case of a rebuilt title. Additionally, the history of significant damage and subsequent repairs makes it challenging to attribute any new defects directly to the manufacturer’s responsibility, a key criterion under the Lemon Law. As a result, owners of vehicles with rebuilt titles may find it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to seek remedy under this law for any issues that arise with their vehicle.

Vehicles with rebuilt titles present a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. While they offer an affordable option with potentially well-documented repair histories, the drawbacks in terms of safety, insurance, financing, warranty, and resale value are significant. It’s essential for buyers to weigh these factors carefully, conduct thorough research, and consider their willingness to accept the risks associated with a rebuilt title vehicle.

Certain 2021-2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E cars might face a power problem due to an overheated high voltage battery contactor, potentially leading to an increased risk of accidents.

In June 2022, Ford’s Field Review Committee (FRC) gave the green light to a Field Service Action (FSA) named 22S41, specifically designed to tackle concerns regarding the overheating of the high voltage battery main contactor in select 2021-2022 Mustang Mach-E vehicles. To fix this issue, dealers updated the software for the Secondary On-Board Diagnostic Control Module (SOBDMC) and the Battery Energy Control Module (BECM). The enhanced SOBDMC software keeps an eye on the contactor’s temperature and smartly reduces the battery’s power output to prevent further damage. Meanwhile, the upgraded BECM software checks the contactor’s resistance to identify any damage, then it generates a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and lowers the vehicle’s power to avoid more harm.

At the time of approving this FSA, Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) and Electrical Propulsion Engineering (EPE) teams found the software updates for BECM and SOBDMC to be a suitable way to minimize the safety risks linked to power loss. The software update, by monitoring contactor resistance, warns customers if the resistance exceeds a certain limit. Alongside the warning, the software reduces power to prevent further contactor damage and the associated power loss risk. Even with the reduced power, customers can safely accelerate to highway speeds. This approach was also reviewed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

In June 2022, Ford Motor Company decided to issue a safety recall (NHTSA Recall 22V-412) for 48,924 model year 2021-2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles produced between May 27, 2020, and May 24, 2022. This recall was prompted by concerns about high voltage battery contactors overheating, primarily due to direct current (DC) fast-charging and repeated full-throttle pedal events. This overheating could lead to arcing or deformation of the electrical contact surfaces. If this occurs, the contactor could either remain open or get welded shut. An overheated contactor that opens while driving may lead to an immediate loss of power without re-engagement.

Following consumer complaints, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) initiated a Recall Query (RQ) for 2021-2022 Ford Mach-E vehicles included in Recall 22V-412. These vehicles had previously received a remedy involving a Secondary On-Board Diagnostic Control Module (SOBDMC) software update to monitor contactor temperature and reduce battery power to protect the contactor, as well as a Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) software update to monitor contactor resistance and reduce vehicle power in case of an overheated contactor.

To address this issue, dealers will replace the high voltage battery junction box. This recall is identified by Ford as 23S56, and the corresponding NHTSA campaign number is 22V-687. Vehicles included in this recall that were previously repaired under recall 22V-412 will need to have the new remedy completed.

The 2021 Porsche Taycan, with its promise of cutting-edge design and electric power, appeared to be a remarkable addition to the world of electric vehicles. However, it has encountered a series of repeated vehicle problems, predominantly concerning its electronics. A total of 13 recalls have shaken the reputation of this luxury electric car, raising doubts about its reliability.

1. Incorrect Brake Pad Wear Indicator (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V-347, May 2023) One of the most recent issues has been the inaccurate activation of the brake pad wear indicator. This not only creates an unnecessary panic for owners but can also lead to unneeded brake replacements, adding to financial and environmental concerns.

2. Seat Belt Warning System Malfunction (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V-176, March 2023) In March 2023, a recall was issued due to a malfunction in the seat belt warning system. This is a crucial safety feature in any vehicle, and its reliability is paramount.

3. Loose Retaining Ring May Cause Dislodged Air Strut (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-921, December 2022) In December 2022, a recall was prompted by the potential for a loose retaining ring to dislodge the air struts. This poses risks to the vehicle’s safety and passenger well-being.

4. Vehicle Display Malfunction (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-404, June 2022) Another electronic problem emerged in June 2022 with a recall addressing vehicle display malfunctions, emphasizing the importance of user-friendly interfaces in modern vehicles.

5. Driver and Passenger Seat Wire Harness Damage (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-278, April 2022) Reports of wire harness damage in driver and passenger seats led to a recall, underscoring the need for safety and comfort in the Taycan.

6. Child Seat Anchors May Be Obstructed (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-100, February 2022) In February 2022, a recall highlighted the potential obstruction of child seat anchors, compromising child safety in the Taycan.

7. Suspension May Be Misaligned (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-052, February 2022) Two separate recalls in February 2022 and March 2021 dealt with suspension issues. These problems included suspension misalignment and components not being tightened properly, affecting the vehicle’s stability and safety.

8. Incorrect Activation of Hazard Lights (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-794, October 2021) Another problem in October 2021 was the incorrect activation of hazard lights, which may confuse and inconvenience drivers.

9. Pressure Input Rod On Brake Booster May Be Loose (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-697, September 2021) A recall in September 2021 addressed the potential of a loose pressure input rod on the brake booster, which could impact braking efficiency.

10. Seat Belt Locking Retractor Malfunction (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-608, August 2021) August 2021 witnessed a recall due to seat belt locking retractor malfunctions, once again emphasizing safety concerns.

11. Software Error Can Cause Loss of Motive Power (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-486, June 2021) One of the most troubling recalls in June 2021 reported that a software error could lead to a loss of motive power, compromising safety and performance.

12. Front Lower Trailing Arms Not Forged Correctly (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-362, May 2021) In May 2021, it was discovered that the front lower trailing arms were not forged correctly, raising manufacturing concerns regarding suspension components.

13. Suspension Components Not Tightened Properly (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-157 March 2021.) Loose suspension components may detach, causing a sudden loss of vehicle stability and control, and increasing the risk of a crash.

These repeated vehicle problems with the 2021 Porsche Taycan cast doubts on its reliability. As electric vehicles gain popularity, customers are seeking dependable alternatives. For Taycan owners facing these recurring issues, the California Lemon Law can be a saving grace.

California Lemon Law:

The California Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers from persistently defective vehicles. If your Porsche Taycan is suffering from repeated issues that impair its safety, use, or value, the California Lemon Law may offer recourse. Under this law, if your vehicle continues to have issues after a reasonable number of repair attempts, you may be entitled to a refund or replacement.

The electronic problems experienced by the 2021 Porsche Taycan raise concerns about the quality control in manufacturing. Potential buyers should consider the reliability of this luxury electric vehicle carefully. For those who’ve already invested in the Taycan and are facing repeated vehicle problems, the California Lemon Law could be the solution to rid themselves of a problematic vehicle and seek compensation for their troubles.

General Motors (GM) will be contacting the owners of certain 2022-2023 model year Chevrolet Bolt EUVs about a defect that pertains to motor vehicle safety, specifically concerning the Webasto high-voltage portable charging cords that come with these vehicles. The issue revolves around incorrect software within these charging cords, which may fail to discontinue charging if the ground connection is lost.

Discovery of the Defect

The discovery of this safety concern began with a supplier plant audit conducted on March 8, 2023, by GM’s quality engineer. During this audit, it was uncovered that an incorrect hardware/software combination was being used in the production of portable charging cords for the Chevrolet Bolt EUV. GM initiated a review of the situation on April 18, 2023, and subsequently reported it to GM’s Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program. This led to the official commencement of a product investigation on May 9, 2023.

The Safety Risk

GM’s investigation revealed a crucial mismatch between the software and hardware in the affected charging cords. Under specific circumstances, this mismatch could hinder the software’s ability to properly interpret information from monitored circuitry. Consequently, the cord assembly’s internal processor might fail to detect a ground loss promptly, leading to a delay in halting further charging. Particularly at high ambient temperatures and under limited conditions, users might experience a brief electric shock lasting just 1/40th of a second.

Affected Vehicles and Recall Decision

GM’s investigators managed to identify 374 specific serial numbers for the parts affected by this defect, tracing them back to the production period when these potentially flawed components were used. During this period, GM produced 10,825 vehicles, out of which 9,423 are located in the United States. Importantly, as of now, GM is not aware of any field incidents related to this condition.

Recognizing the potential safety risks associated with this issue, on August 24, 2023, GM’s Safety and Field Action Decision Authority made the crucial decision to conduct an equipment safety recall.

How the Recall Affects Users

For individuals who have been using the portable charging cord with their Chevrolet Bolt EUV, there is a potential risk of being exposed to unprotected high voltage if the cord set loses its ground connection during use. This increases the risk of a very brief electrical shock.

To address this safety concern, GM dealerships will inspect and replace the portable charging cord as necessary. Users are encouraged to contact their local GM dealership or visit GM’s official website to check if their vehicle is affected by this recall. The recall is identified by GM as N2324073000, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned it the campaign number 23E-065.

Is your Chevrolet Bolt EV a Lemon?

For Chevrolet Bolt owners who believe they may have been sold a “lemon” vehicle or are experiencing repeated issues with their Bolt, the California Lemon Law can provide a potential solution. The California Lemon Law is a legal framework that offers protection to consumers who have purchased or leased defective vehicles, including those with safety concerns like the Chevrolet Bolt recall.
Under the California Lemon Law, if a vehicle experiences recurring issues that substantially impair its use, safety, or value, and the manufacturer fails to repair it after a reasonable number of attempts, the vehicle may be eligible for a buyback or replacement. If you suspect that your Chevrolet Bolt is a lemon due to issues beyond the recent recall, it is advisable to consult with a qualified attorney experienced in lemon law cases to explore your options and seek a resolution.

In conclusion, the Chevrolet Bolt recall underscores the importance of prompt action by manufacturers to address safety concerns. If you own a Chevrolet Bolt and are concerned about its safety or repeated issues, understanding your rights under the California Lemon Law can provide a potential avenue for relief and resolution. Always prioritize your safety and the safety of others on the road when it comes to vehicle recalls and defects.

ford-mustang-mach-e

In the realm of electric vehicles (EVs), the 2021-2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E gained significant attention for its sleek design and promising performance. However, beneath its exterior allure, a complex challenge emerged that put the spotlight on battery-related issues. In June 2022, Ford Motor Company took steps to issue a safety recall (NHTSA Recall 22V-412) for a range of Mustang Mach-E vehicles, acknowledging battery problems that had the potential to impact both safety and performance.

2021-2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E Battery Recall

The safety recall was prompted by concerns related to high voltage battery main contactors. These components, integral to the functioning of the vehicle’s battery system, were at risk of overheating. The primary culprits behind this issue were the effects of direct current (DC) fast-charging and frequent aggressive acceleration events, which placed excessive stress on these contactors. Overheating, led to arcing or deformation of the electrical contact surfaces. Perhaps the most alarming consequence was the potential for a contactor to remain open, resulting in a sudden loss of motive power during driving. This raised significant safety concerns due to the increased risk of accidents resulting from unexpected power loss.

The Office of Defects Investigation

The recall was further complicated by the involvement of the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI). Following the initial recall (22V-412) involving approximately 48,924 vehicles, the ODI received a series of consumer complaints. These complaints highlighted incidents of high voltage battery main contactor failures even after the prescribed remedy had been implemented. This indicated that the initial software updates, aimed at temperature monitoring and power reduction, might not have fully resolved the underlying issues. This discrepancy called into question the effectiveness of the initial recall and the adequacy of its remedy.

Ford’s Response

In response to the ongoing concerns, Ford issued a Technical Service Bulletin TSB 23-2020 which focused on replacing the High Voltage Battery Junction Box (HVBJB) in the affected vehicles. The HVBJB is a crucial component that facilitates the connection between various parts of the high voltage battery system. Consumers who had experienced a loss of motive power post the initial recall were directed towards this bulletin. The bulletin aimed to ensure that the remedy for the contactor failures was comprehensive and addressed any lingering issues.

Addressing The Problem

The complexity of addressing battery-related problems in the 2021-2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E underscored the challenges of integrating advanced EV technology into mainstream vehicles. The initial recall and its subsequent developments shed light on the interplay between software solutions and hardware replacements. While software updates were intended to mitigate the risks, the need for a hardware replacement (HVBJB) became evident as consumer complaints persisted.

Conclusion

The battery problems encountered by the 2021-2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles served as a valuable lesson for both automakers and consumers in the evolving world of electric vehicles. The recall (22V-412), the Office of Defects Investigation’s involvement, and Ford’s multi-faceted response emphasized the importance of thorough and quick problem-solving in this rapidly advancing domain. As the automotive industry continues to innovate, experiences like these pave the way for safer and more reliable electric vehicles in the future.

2021-2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E Lemon Vehicle

If you find yourself grappling with persistent issues in your 2021-2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicle, the California Lemon Law can offer you a potential lifeline. Designed to protect consumers from purchasing or leasing defective vehicles, this law provides a pathway to relief if your vehicle is deemed a “lemon.” If your Mustang Mach-E experiences substantial defects that impair its use, safety, or value, and these issues persist despite a reasonable number of repair attempts within the vehicle’s warranty period, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund of the purchase price. The California Lemon Law serves as a crucial safeguard, empowering you to take decisive action to address your vehicle’s ongoing problems and helping you move forward with confidence.

Vehicle safety is paramount, and when vehicle manufacturers fall short in ensuring your protection, it’s essential to understand your rights as a consumer. In a recent development, General Motors (GM) has issued a recall affecting certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EVs due to potential issues with the passenger side instrument panel airbag. If you’re a Chevrolet Bolt EV owner facing this concerning situation, a Lemon Law lawyer can be your ally in navigating this complex scenario. Read on to discover more about this recall, its implications, and how legal expertise can safeguard your rights.

The recall revolves around a crucial safety component – the passenger side instrument panel airbag. Certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Bolt EVs may have been manufactured with an alarming problem that could lead to improper airbag deployment. The concern arises when the airbag perforation is missing or compromised. In such cases, the passenger side airbag may not deploy as intended during a crash, significantly increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.

GM was made aware of this potential safety issue in June 2023 when a supplier quality engineer received notification from a supplier about the possibility of some 2022 and 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EVs lacking the necessary passenger side airbag perforation. Following this notification, an investigation was launched, and a specific group of vehicles, totaling 403, was identified as suspects in the potential defect.

Owners of the affected Chevrolet Bolt EVs will be contacted by GM with specific instructions. It is essential to heed this call to action. Returning to your dealership for a passenger side instrument panel airbag replacement is imperative. This action will ensure your vehicle’s airbag system functions correctly, safeguarding your safety and the well-being of your passengers. To facilitate the recall process, GM has assigned a unique recall number: N232414170. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has designated this recall with the campaign number 23V-567.

If you find yourself entangled in this recall, you might encounter challenges in coordinating the repair process with your dealership or facing uncertainties about your legal rights. This is where a Lemon Law lawyer becomes an invaluable asset. With their expertise, they can help you navigate the legal intricacies, ensuring that your rights are upheld and that the manufacturer takes the necessary steps to address the defect promptly. Your Lemon Law lawyer will guide you through the process, ensuring you receive the compensation and resolution you deserve.