Category Archives: Electric Cars

2023 Nissan Leaf EV Brake Line Damage

Posted on by

Nissan has determined that certain 2023 model year Nissan Leaf EVs may have a damaged right hand brake tube that could result in a brake fluid leak.

Nissan first became aware of the potential problem in January 2023 when a Nissan technician noticed a 2023 Nissan Leaf EV being assembled with a damaged right hand brake tube assembly. Nissan collected the affected parts and began an investigation. The investigation included a parts audit of 975 brake assemblies which revealed twenty-five (25) damaged right hand brake tubes at the actuator connection bend. Nissan also conducted a yard audit of 395 vehicles and found five (5) with a scratched or damaged right hand brake tube. These parts were quarantined and the vehicles were put on a quality hold.

According to the defect report, an investigation with the supplier determined that the incorrect tooling was used to align the brake tube into the pipe bending jig. Because the brake tube was misaligned, the tooling clamped the pipe in the incorrect position and caused scratching, and in some cases deformation of the tube, at the actuator bend.

Nissan performed corrosion and stress tests on two (2) of the worst case condition parts to evaluate the effect of the damaged brake tube on brake performance over time. Nissan concluded that the brake performance could be degraded and could lead to extended stopping distances possibly without prior warning. Nissan decided to conduct a Voluntary Safety Recall to recall all potentially affected LEAF vehicles to inspect the right-hand brake tube and replace any damaged brake tube assemblies.

Owners receiving notices will be asked to return to their dealers to have the right-hand brake tube inspected for damage. If damage is found, the affected brake tube will be replaced. Nissan’s number for this recall is PC976 and the NHTSA campaign number is 23V-362.

Stall From Unsecured Fuse Inside High Voltage Battery

Posted on by

Addressing the Issue of Unsecured Fuses and Steps to Take if Your Vehicle is Affected

Jeep Wrangler Plug-In Hybrid Electric vehicles (PHEV) have gained popularity for their eco-friendly features and impressive performance. However, recent reports have surfaced regarding a potential safety concern that could affect certain 2022-2023 models. The FCA Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance (TSRC) organization has identified an issue with an unsecured fuse inside the high voltage battery, which may result in an unexpected loss of drive power.

Discovery of the Issue:
In February 2023, the FCA TSRC organization received its first report of a fuse melting in the HV battery of a 2022 Jeep Wrangler PHEV, drawing immediate attention to the matter. A subsequent incident involving another 2022 Jeep Wrangler PHEV with the same problem prompted the initiation of a comprehensive investigation.

Root Cause and Potential Impact:
The investigation revealed that an incorrect fastener used during vehicle production could increase resistance and generate excess heat at the 200 amp fuse interface. The prolonged exposure to high temperatures could cause the fuse to fail, leading to a loss of motive power. Drivers experiencing this issue might notice a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated, changes in drivability, and/or noise originating from the HV battery pack assembly.

Suspect Period and Population:
The suspect period for this issue spans from January 10, 2022, when the incorrect fasteners were introduced, to September 20, 2022, when the use of incorrect fasteners ceased. The identification of the suspect population was determined through careful examination of vehicle and supplier manufacturing records.

Recall and Resolution:
To address this safety concern, Jeep has issued a recall, known as recall number 53A by Chrysler and NHTSA campaign number 23V-303. Owners of affected vehicles will receive notifications instructing them to visit their authorized dealerships. At the dealership, the battery fuse will be inspected, and if necessary, replaced to ensure proper functionality. Additionally, the battery assembly will undergo inspection for signs of charring or discoloration on the bus bars, and if required, will be replaced as part of the resolution process. It is crucial to respond promptly to recall notifications and schedule an appointment with your dealership.

Taking Action if You Suspect Your Vehicle is Affected:
If you believe your Jeep Wrangler PHEV falls within the suspect population or are experiencing any symptoms associated with this issue, it is essential to take the appropriate steps. Firstly, check if you have received a recall notification from Jeep. The notice will provide instructions on how to proceed and schedule an appointment with an authorized dealership. If you have not received a notification but suspect your vehicle may be affected, you can directly contact your local dealership to inquire about the recall and share your concerns.

Conclusion:
The discovery of an unsecured fuse issue affecting certain 2022-2023 Jeep Wrangler Plug-In Hybrid Electric vehicles is a matter of utmost importance. If you suspect that your vehicle is part of the affected population or are experiencing any relevant symptoms, it is crucial to act swiftly by following the instructions provided in the recall notification or reaching out to your local dealership.

Electrical Short In Battery Of Kia Soul EVs

Posted on by

Kia will be contacting owners of certain 2015-2019 Kia Soul EVs about a problem that could result in a short circuit in the high voltage battery pack and a potential vehicle fire.

Kia first became aware of the problem in May 2022 when they received reports of smoke from the battery vents located under the passenger seat on a 2017 Kia Soul EV. Kia records showed that the vehicle’s high-voltage battery had been previously replaced under warranty. In October Kia received a second report, involving a 2018 Soul EV. The customer reported the smell of smoke just before the vehicle stalled. Kia performed CT scans and a tear-down analysis for both vehicles but the results were inconclusive due to thermal damage and water intrusion from fire suppression.

As Kia investigated the first two reports they received a third customer complaint of popping noises and smoke coming from the cup holders of a 2018 Soul EV in Hawaii. Kia and the battery supplier inspect vehicle #3 and performed a tear down analysis which found the heat damage was limited to the battery case assembly. The preliminary investigation results were inconclusive and the battery was shipped to the manufacturer for further analysis.

According to the defect report, an electrical short between the anode and cathode of the battery cells can occur with the high-voltage battery pack assembly case. The cause of the electrical short circuit is unknown but believed to be caused by abnormally excessive precipitate within the battery cells.

Although the cause of the electrical short circuit is unknown, Kia has decided to recall all 2018-2019MY Soul EV vehicles equipped with an E400 battery and certain 2015-2017MY Soul EV vehicles that had the high voltage battery replaced under warranty with E400 battery.

Dealers will update the battery management system software with new software that will illuminate the EV warning light, limit charging capacity, and reduce vehicle power if an abnormal voltage is detected. If this occurs, the battery will be replaced. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on May 26, 2023. Kia’s number for this recall is SC267 and the NHTSA campaign number is 23V-218.

There have been three (3) thermal incidents limited to the battery case assembly with no injuries, no crashes, and no fatalities.

Is Your Volkswagen ID.4 A Lemon?

Posted on by

The Volkswagen ID.4 is a popular electric vehicle that has been making waves in the automotive industry since its release in 2021. However, like any other vehicle, the ID.4 has not been immune to problems, complaints, and recalls.

One of the most significant problems reported by ID.4 owners is related to the vehicle’s software. There have been multiple complaints of the software malfunctioning, resulting in issues such as loss of power, sudden deceleration, and even complete shutdown of the vehicle. These issues have led to multiple recalls of the ID.4, with Volkswagen issuing software updates to address the problem.

Another complaint reported by ID.4 owners is related to the vehicle’s charging capabilities. There have been complaints about the charging process being slow or inconsistent, with some reports that the vehicle fails to charge altogether. While this issue has not led to any recalls, it is something that Volkswagen needs to address to ensure that the ID.4 remains a competitive electric vehicle option.

There have also been several complaints regarding the ID.4’s braking system. Some drivers have reported that the brakes are unresponsive, while others have complained about excessive brake wear. These issues have not resulted in any recalls, but they are cause for concern and something that Volkswagen needs to address to ensure the safety of its drivers.

In addition to these issues, there have been a few recalls associated with the Volkswagen ID.4. The most recent recall involves certain 2023 ID4 rear-wheel drive vehicles. The 12-Volt battery charging cable may contact the steering column shaft and cause the cable insulation to wear, possibly resulting in a short circuit. As a precaution, owners of affected vehicles are advised to park outside and away from structures and other vehicles due to the potential risk of a vehicle fire.

In conclusion, while the Volkswagen ID.4 is a promising electric vehicle option, it has had its fair share of problems and complaints. From issues with the software to problems with the charging and braking systems, there are areas where Volkswagen needs to improve the vehicle. However, it is reassuring to see that Volkswagen has been proactive in addressing these issues, with recalls and software updates aimed at improving the driving experience and ensuring the safety of its drivers.

Slow Battery Replacement On Some Chevrolet Bolt EVs

Posted on by

We are still receiving inquiries concerning Chevy Bolts. GM continues to work on replacing the batteries in the 2017-2021 Bolts, but it seems as though progress has slowed dramatically in the replacement of the 2020 and 2021 vehicles. In the meantime, GM continues to sell 2022 and now 2023 with the new generation batteries, which of course begs the question as to why the batteries in the 2022 and 2023 Bolts are not first finding their way into the 2020 and 2021 Bolts. Unfortunately, we do not have an answer to this. We will continue to accept Chevy Bolt cases until every Bolt owner can be assured that their vehicle is safe for their family.

The Chevrolet Bolt was one of the first electric vehicles to gain mainstream popularity. It was marketed as an affordable and practical EV with a range of over 200 miles on a single charge. However, the Bolt has been plagued with battery problems that have affected its reliability and safety.

One of the main issues with the Bolt is the slow replacement of its battery. Unlike gasoline-powered cars, EV batteries are not interchangeable, and replacing them can take weeks or even months. This is because the process involves removing the entire battery pack, shipping it to a specialized facility, and replacing it with a new one. The slow replacement process has left many Bolt owners stranded without their cars for extended periods.

Despite these battery problems, GM is still manufacturing new Bolt vehicles. This has raised concerns among consumers about whether the company has fully addressed the underlying issues with Bolt’s battery. GM has released several recalls related to the battery problem, including 20V-701, 21V-560, and 21V-650. These recalls aim to fix the issue by updating Bolt’s software to prevent battery fires and reducing the charging capacity to prevent battery degradation.

However, the repeated problems with the Bolt’s battery have led many to question its reliability. If a car experiences the same problem repeatedly, it may be considered a “lemon.” A lemon is a car that has a substantial defect that cannot be fixed despite multiple repair attempts. In the case of the Bolt, repeated battery problems could mean that the car is defective and not fit for purpose.

If you own a Chevy Bolt and have experienced repeated battery problems, contact us at 1-888-395-3666 to explore your options. Lemon laws protect consumers from defective products and ensure that they receive compensation or a replacement vehicle if their car is a lemon.

In conclusion, the Chevy Bolt’s battery problems have affected its reliability and safety. The slow battery replacement process has left many owners stranded without their cars for extended periods. Despite several recalls, the repeated battery problems have raised concerns about the Bolt’s reliability and whether it is a lemon. If you own a Chevy Bolt and have experienced repeated battery problems, it is crucial to explore your options under the lemon law and protect your rights as a consumer.

Nissan Ariya EV – Loose Steering Wheel

Posted on by

Nissan has initiated a voluntary safety recall for certain 2023 Nissan Ariya EVs that underwent a recent port modification activity to replace the steering wheel due to a quality issue. The modification required the replacement of the vehicle’s steering wheel, which could have led to an inadvertent application of incorrect torque settings to the steering wheel bolt by the technician. In certain cases, the steering wheel bolt may not have been installed, causing the steering wheel to experience some play or potentially separate from the steering column if pulled toward the driver. This can increase the risk of a crash. Owners are advised to contact their dealer immediately for transport and repair if they notice excessive play or looseness in the steering wheel.

Nissan first became aware of the issue in January 2023, following a report from one of their dealers about a loose steering wheel found on a 2023 Ariya vehicle. An investigation found the steering wheel center bolt was completely missing. After receiving a second report of a loose steering wheel and missing steering wheel bolt on another 2023 Ariya vehicle in February, Nissan opened an investigation and identified that both vehicles had been serviced by the same technician during the port modification activity.

In response, Nissan launched a dealer quality action to inspect the steering wheels on 418 Ariya vehicles in dealer inventory that was previously repaired as part of the port modification activity. One additional Ariya vehicle with a loose steering wheel was identified during the audit, and an investigation found that the incorrect torque had been applied to the affected steering wheel bolt during the port modification activity. Out of an abundance of caution, Nissan decided to conduct a voluntary safety recall to remedy all vehicles included in the port modification activity.

To address the issue, dealers will replace the steering wheel bolt, and Nissan’s recall number for this issue is PC956, while the NHTSA campaign number is 23V-131.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV Fuel Leak Could Lead To Fire

Posted on by

A small number of 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles (PHEVs) could experience fuel tank leaks that could increase the risk of a fire. Occupants may detect a fuel smell and/or visible fuel leak associated with this condition.

The problem began in December 2022 when Hyundai first heard of reports of leaking fuel from the fuel tanks of certain 2022 model year Santa Fe PHEVs. Hyundai continued to investigate the condition with the supplier, and based on manufacturing information provided by the supplier, identified the suspect population of Hyundai vehicles likely equipped with defective fuel tanks to be between April 7, 2022, through April 9, 2022.

According to the defect report, certain fuel tanks may have been improperly manufactured, resulting in a fuel leak at the seam between the tank halves. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire. Based on this information, Hyundai decided to conduct a safety recall to replace the fuel tank assemblies on the suspect vehicles in the U.S. and Canadian markets.

Description of the Cause: Insufficient molding caused by a malfunction of the material grinder prior to mold extrusion.

Owners receiving notices will be asked to return to their dealers to have the fuel tank inspected and replaced as necessary. Owners who detect a fuel smell and/or visible fuel leak associated with this
condition should contact their Hyundai dealership immediately. Hyundai’s number for this recall is 240 and the NHTSA campaign number is 23V-028.

As of the date of this filing, Hyundai has confirmed no unique incident reporting a fuel leak in the U.S. There are no confirmed crashes, injuries, or fires related to this condition. This recall was decided based on three (3) incidents occurring in Europe.

GMC Hummer EV High Voltage Battery Leak

Posted on by

General Motors (GM) has decided that a battery defect exists in certain 2022-2023 GMC Hummer EVs and 2022 BrightDrop EV600s. While GM works to develop a fix for this condition, owners will receive interim notifications alerting them of the problem. Once a remedy becomes available, GM will send a second notification with a time frame for repairs.

GM first became aware of the problem in July 2022 after receiving Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) submissions relating to potential electrocoating and urethane sealing issues in certain Hummer EV battery packs. After further investigation, two manufacturing errors were identified.

  1. Under cured electrocoating along certain portions of the battery tray.
  2. Improper urethane seal repair could result in poor urethane seal adhesion in battery packs built during specific build windows.

According to the defect report, flanges on the battery pack enclosure may have been improperly primed or electrocoated, inhibiting proper adhesion of the urethane sealant. If water enters the battery pack enclosure and causes a battery pack malfunction, one or more malfunction indicator lamps may illuminate and the driver information center will display a warning message.

GM is aware of two field reports and a relevant report involving a GM test vehicle. All three vehicles had water leaks at urethane seals that had been repaired by the battery pack supplier during pack assembly. Water inside the battery packs triggered the vehicles’ onboard diagnostics, and the drivers received notification of a battery-pack malfunction.

GM is not aware of any accidents, injuries, or fires related to this condition. GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) decided to conduct a safety recall on vehicles containing packs with potentially improperly repaired urethane seals.

The remedy is currently under development. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed on November 28, 2022. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. GM’s number for this recall is N222380031 and the NHTSA campaign number is 22V-771.