Electric Cars « California Lemon Law blog

A potential safety issue has been identified in a small number of 2022-2024 Ford F-150 Lightning Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). The problem affects the high voltage battery cells, which may have a manufacturing defect that can cause an internal short circuit. This defect is due to misaligned electrodes in the battery cells, which can occur over repeated charge and discharge cycles.

The issue was first brought to Ford’s attention in October 2024, when a fire was reported in a 2022 model year F-150 BEV. Further investigation revealed two additional fires in 2022 and 2023 model year vehicles, prompting Ford to launch a broader inquiry into the matter. Although no physical samples were initially available for analysis, Ford’s Field Review Committee authorized a program to collect and evaluate additional samples from the field.

The subsequent tear-down analysis of the returned battery arrays revealed evidence of misaligned electrodes in the high voltage battery cells. The supplier also found that eight stacker machines between two production lines had produced cells with cathode shift, which did not meet the design requirements. This manufacturing concern resulted in overlap that fell short of the required standards. Notably, some of the cells from vehicles that experienced fires were manufactured during this time frame.

On February 18, 2025, Ford learned of a fifth report of a vehicle fire and decided to approve a safety recall. The recall affects certain 2022-2024 Ford F-150 Lightning BEVs, and owners are advised to take precautions until the repair is completed. Specifically, owners should only charge their vehicles to a maximum of 80% battery capacity to minimize the risk of an internal short circuit.

To address this issue, dealers will inspect and replace the high voltage battery array as necessary. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on March 17, 2025. Ford’s recall number for this issue is 25S18, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned a campaign number of 25V-131.

The 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi has been plagued by a series of problems, including a critical safety recall that has left many owners concerned about their vehicle’s reliability and safety. This article talks about the issues affecting these vehicles, including recall 23S33, and provide you with essential information to help you navigate this situation.

Recall 23S33: A Fire Risk in the Trunk Area

In recent months, Ford has issued a voluntary recall (23S33) for certain 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi models due to a potential fire risk in the trunk area. According to the defect report, the high-voltage battery in these vehicles can overheat, causing a fire that may spread to other parts of the vehicle. This defect can occur when the vehicle is being driven or parked. It’s not uncommon for owners to experience symptoms such as:

A burning smell while driving
The vehicle displaying a “Stop Safely Now” message
A loss of power within seconds
A fire breaking out in the trunk area

Other Problems Affecting the Ford Fusion Energi

In addition to the recall, many owners have reported other issues with their 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi vehicles. Some common problems include:

Transmission Issues: Owners have complained about rough shifting, hesitation, and failure to engage gears properly.
Electrical System Malfunctions: Faulty wiring, faulty sensors, and software glitches have caused a range of issues, including erratic behavior from the vehicle’s systems.
Battery Drain: Some owners have experienced premature battery drain, which can leave them stranded.

Lemon Laws and Your Rights

If your 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi has been plagued by repeated problems, you may be entitled to relief under state or federal lemon laws. These laws are designed to protect consumers from defective vehicles and provide a range of remedies, including refunds, replacements, and compensation for damages.

Conclusion

The 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi recall is a serious issue that affects not only the vehicle’s safety but also its overall reliability. If you’re an owner of one of these vehicles, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest developments and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your passengers. By understanding your options and rights under lemon laws, you can navigate this situation with confidence and ensure that your voice is heard.

A critical safety concern has been identified in some 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV all-wheel drive vehicles. The problem affects the adaptive cruise control (ACC) system which may fail to engage the brakes as expected. This defect, acknowledged by General Motors (GM), poses a significant risk of accidents and underscores the importance of timely corrective actions.

Discovery and Investigation

GM first became aware of the issue in October 2024 when a GM engineer reported an incident involving a test vehicle through the company’s Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program. The report indicated that the ACC system on a 2025 Equinox EV failed to bring the vehicle to a complete stop as anticipated. Following this, GM initiated an investigation, which revealed a software calibration issue in the brake system control module (BSCM) specific to all-wheel drive models not equipped with Super Cruise.

The investigation found that the incorrect software calibration prevented the BSCM from properly receiving commands from the ACC feature to apply brakes. This critical malfunction can lead to situations where the vehicle does not sufficiently slow down or stop when adaptive cruise control is engaged, relying on the driver’s timely intervention to avoid potential collisions.

While GM has confirmed five field complaints related to this condition, fortunately, there have been no reported accidents or injuries associated with it. However, the potential for increased risk due to delayed or insufficient braking when relying on the ACC feature is a serious safety concern that necessitates immediate attention.

Symptoms and Driver Action

Drivers of affected vehicles may notice instances where the vehicle does not slow down adequately when adaptive cruise control is engaged. In such cases, it is crucial for drivers to manually apply the brakes to safely slow or stop the vehicle, mitigating the risk of a crash.

Corrective Measures and Recall

To address this safety issue, GM dealers will update the software calibration in the brake system control module of affected vehicles. This corrective action aims to ensure that the adaptive cruise control functions as designed, providing drivers with the expected level of safety and performance. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed on March 3, 2025 , outlining the necessary steps and information for vehicle owners.

This recall is identified by GM’s reference number N242481530 and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-012. Vehicle owners can use this identifier to verify if their vehicle is included in the recall and to track the progress of the corrective actions.

If you are an owner of a 2025 Chevy Equinox EV all-wheel drive vehicle, it is essential to be aware of this safety issue and to take proactive steps. Stay informed about any communications from GM regarding this recall.

A critical issue has been identified by Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Jaguar) affecting a small number of 2019 Jaguar I-PACE vehicles that underwent an improper interim repair under recall number 24V-633 . The problem arises from the high-voltage battery’s potential to overheat due to incorrect completion of safety recall software updates.

Discovery and Investigation

The issue came to light following an internal review of warranty claims for interim recall remedy H514 . It was found that several retailers had not correctly completed the H514 safety recall software updates, leaving affected vehicles with the safety defect. Investigations showed that some retailers had either not started or incorrectly completed the required repairs.

Risks and Consequences

According to the defect report, an incorrectly repaired vehicle is at risk of experiencing a vehicle thermal overload condition, which can manifest as fire or smoke. This increases the risk of injury to occupants and bystanders, as well as potential property damage. Notably, vehicle owners will not be aware that their vehicle’s interim repair was not done correctly.

Owner Precautions and Repairs

To mitigate these risks, owners are advised :

Park Outside : Park the vehicle outside, away from structures.
Charge Limitation : Limit charging to a maximum of 80% until the recall repair is completed.

Dealers will update the battery energy control module software as an interim repair. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed on February 7, 2025 , providing detailed instructions for addressing this issue.

Final Repair and Resolution

As a final resolution, Jaguar plans to repurchase the affected vehicles under recall number 24V-633. The recall is identified by Jaguar’s number H529 and the NHTSA campaign number is 24V-927.

Audi has announced a safety defect affecting certain high-voltage battery modules in its 2022-2023 Q5 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) and A7 PHEV models. The recall is necessary due to the risk of thermal events, which may cause smoke or even fires.

According to Audi, the root cause of the issue is still under investigation, but current analysis suggests that manufacturing deviations at a supplier of battery modules may be to blame. The company has been working closely with its supplier, Samsung SDI, and conducting comprehensive analyses of affected batteries to determine the conditions and circumstances that trigger thermal events.

The recall affects approximately 50 high-voltage batteries from non-U.S. markets, as well as an additional batch of batteries collected from field incidents in the United States. Audi has also received reports of other vehicles outside of these specific models, which are also under investigation.

To mitigate the risk, Audi plans to install advanced onboard diagnostic software, which will detect potential issues with battery module performance and alert the driver before problems may occur. The software is expected to be available in the second quarter of 2025.

In addition to the software update, Audi will offer two interim remedies for vehicles affected by this recall:

Vehicles with online data: Affected modules or high-voltage batteries must be replaced.
Vehicles without online data: Customers will be instructed not to charge their vehicle from external sources or via the combustion engine until the new software becomes available.

To date, Audi reports no injuries, crashes, or fires related to this issue in the United States market. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk will be mailed on January 24, 2025, with a second notice to follow once the final remedy is available.

Vehicles Affected:

2022-2023 Audi Q5 PHEV
2022 Audi A7 PHEV

Recall Numbers:

Volkswagen’s number: 93AA
NHTSA campaign number: 24V-898

Interim Remedies:

Vehicles with online data: Replacement of affected modules or high-voltage batteries.
Vehicles without online data: Instructed not to charge vehicle from external sources or via combustion engine until new software becomes available.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is facing serious concerns from owners, with a reported 130 complaints, 10 recalls, and 303 manufacturer communications. As this model hits the market, many drivers are voicing their frustration over problems that range from safety-critical issues to major mechanical failures. The list of concerns brings into question whether some of these vehicles could qualify for a buyback under California’s Lemon Law. Here’s an in-depth look at the problems plaguing the 2024 CX-90 PHEV.

Top Complaints About the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

Consumer reports and complaints have highlighted four major areas of concern: forward collision avoidance, engine performance, electrical systems, and steering. These issues are not just minor inconveniences; they could pose significant safety hazards for drivers and passengers.

Forward Collision Avoidance: Numerous drivers have reported malfunctioning collision-avoidance systems, with false positives causing the brakes to activate unexpectedly. The risk of being rear-ended due to this sudden and unnecessary braking is a valid concern, especially on busy roads or highways.
Engine Issues: Many drivers have experienced engine problems, with some vehicles failing to restart after the i-stop feature engages, and others reporting a complete shutdown while in motion. This kind of unreliability in the engine system poses a clear danger, especially at high speeds.
Electrical Problems: Complaints about electrical malfunctions are widespread. The Dash Electrical Supply Unit (ESU) has been known to fail, affecting vital functions like the defroster, seat belt warnings, and battery cooling systems. Given the reliance of PHEVs on complex electrical systems, these issues are alarming and inconvenient.
Steering Concerns: A sudden loss of power steering assist is a particularly dangerous defect, making it difficult for drivers to control the vehicle. This kind of failure can occur without warning, putting both the driver and surrounding traffic at risk.

Recalls Highlight Safety and Reliability Concerns

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV has been subject to a staggering 10 recalls, indicating widespread problems that extend beyond individual cases. Here are some of the most notable recalls:

Engine Restart Failures: The i-stop feature, which automatically shuts off the engine to save fuel when idling, may prevent the engine from restarting, leading to potential stranding.
High-Voltage Battery Cooling System Issues: Faulty software in the ESU may lead to critical functions, including battery cooling and safety alerts, failing during startup.
PCM and ECM Software Malfunctions: Problems with the powertrain and engine control modules can illuminate warning lights and result in a sudden loss of drive power.
Inverter Software Errors: In plug-in hybrid models, improper software may lead to a total power loss when driving in electric mode.
Sudden Braking: The automatic braking system has a tendency to activate unexpectedly, posing a serious collision risk.
Power Steering Failures: An assembly issue with the worm gear can cause power steering assist to be lost without warning, making the vehicle difficult to steer.
Camera Malfunctions: Rear view and side cameras may not display properly due to software errors, which is a clear safety compliance issue.
Unexpected Engine and Motor Shutdown: Critical errors in the hybrid system software can cause both the engine and electric motor to shut down unexpectedly.
Pedestrian Warning Sounds: Missing software in the AVAS amplifier can result in incorrect pedestrian alert sounds, failing to meet federal safety standards for hybrid and electric vehicles.

California Lemon Law: What You Need to Know

California has some of the strongest Lemon Law protections for consumers. If your vehicle has repeated, unresolved problems that impair its use, safety, or value, you may be entitled to a buyback or replacement. Under the California Lemon Law, a car manufacturer must either replace your vehicle or refund your money if they cannot fix a substantial defect within a reasonable number of attempts.

So, what counts as a substantial defect? Issues that compromise your safety or significantly impact the car’s performance typically qualify. For instance, if your 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV loses power while driving, suddenly engages the brakes, or suffers from major electrical failures, these could be considered substantial defects.

If you’ve taken your vehicle in for multiple repairs for the same issue without a permanent fix, you might have grounds for a Lemon Law claim. It’s important to keep detailed records of all service visits, recall repairs, and communication with Mazda to strengthen your case.

Next Steps for Owners

If you’re dealing with repeated, unresolved issues with your 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV, consulting with a Lemon Law attorney can help clarify your options. California’s Lemon Law is designed to protect you from being stuck with a faulty vehicle. Given the ongoing recalls and widespread complaints, many owners may find themselves in a position to take advantage of these consumer protections.

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a popular choice for families and adventurers alike, known for its spacious design, modern features, and reasonable price point. However, recent models (2021-2024) have experienced a series of issues that have frustrated owners and raised safety concerns. These common problems affect Santa Fe vehicles with GDI engines.

Common Issues Affecting the 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

Fuel Injector Problems Leading to Stalling
A major concern for many Santa Fe owners is the vehicle’s fuel injector system. Faulty fuel injectors can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, especially in models with GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engines. These issues have led to numerous complaints of the vehicle stalling while driving, creating hazardous situations on busy roads.
Loss of Power
Some owners report a sudden loss of power while driving, particularly when accelerating or maintaining speed on the highway. This loss of power can be alarming and dangerous, especially in situations where acceleration is necessary, such as merging or overtaking. Many drivers have reported that their Santa Fe either stalls entirely or hesitates significantly before regaining power, often triggering check engine or warning lights.
Persistent Check Engine Light
For Santa Fe models across 2021-2024, the check engine light has become a frequent visitor. Many owners report that the light comes on without clear resolution, even after multiple trips to the dealership. While the check engine light could signify any number of issues, the combination of repeated lights and related powertrain issues has led to frustration and concerns about reliability.

Complaints and Recalls for Each Model Year

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

Owners of the 2021 model have raised concerns about fuel system problems, including fuel leaks at the pipe connection and improperly tightened fuel pipes. Powertrain complaints are also prevalent, with owners describing issues such as failure to accelerate and hesitation while driving. Recalls include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard: Due to water accumulation, an electrical short could lead to a fire.
Loss of Drive Power: A transmission oil pump malfunction can cause total power loss.
Inadequate Windshield Bonding: Improper bonding during manufacturing may cause the windshield to detach in a crash.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2022 Santa Fe has seen similar powertrain issues, with some owners reporting a sudden inability to accelerate and warning lights like “Check Hybrid System.” The “phantom braking” issue has also emerged, where the emergency braking system activates without reason, nearly causing accidents. Recalls for the 2022 model include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
Loss of Drive Power
Turbocharger Oil Supply Pipe Leak: A cracked oil supply pipe could lead to leaks in the engine compartment.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

In the 2023 plug-in hybrid models, forward collision avoidance issues have led to abrupt braking in traffic. Complaints also include poor acceleration response, with significant delay or lag from the time the accelerator is pressed to when the vehicle actually moves. Key recalls include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
Seat Belt Pretensioners May Explode: This recall affects the front seat belt pretensioners, which may explode upon deployment in a crash.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

For the latest 2024 model, powertrain and electrical issues are significant. Some drivers report the vehicle losing motive power and experiencing flickering dashboard screens. Complaints include blacked-out instrument panels, “Transmission System Check” warnings, and persistent audio issues that continue even when the vehicle is off. Recalls for this model include:

Unintentional Airbag Deployment or Deactivation: Damaged wiring harnesses can lead to unintended airbag activation or deactivation.
Vehicle Roll Away from Software Error: A transmission software error may result in a roll-away when the vehicle is parked.
Obstructed Rear-View Camera Image: A trailer parking assist message may obstruct the rear-view camera, violating rear visibility standards.

Should You Be Concerned?

These issues have led to frustration for many Hyundai Santa Fe owners. If you’re experiencing any of the above problems, it’s essential to address them promptly for your safety. Keep an eye out for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Hyundai, and report any persistent issues to your dealer.

What’s Next?

The 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offers many attractive features but has also faced considerable challenges, particularly with its powertrain and fuel injector systems. If you’re dealing with ongoing issues, it’s crucial to know your rights, especially if repairs have been ineffective. Lemon laws may protect you if your vehicle has recurring problems that affect its performance or safety. Consider consulting with a lemon law professional to discuss options if repairs haven’t resolved the issue.

Owning a car should be about convenience and freedom – not worry over performance and safety. If you’re having trouble with your Santa Fe, stay informed, stay safe, and know your options.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into potential fire hazards associated with Enel X Way USA’s JuiceBox Level 2 residential EV chargers. Prompted by several complaints received by the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), this evaluation aims to determine the extent and safety implications of electrical arcing and thermal incidents reported by users of these chargers. This probe focuses on the potential for fire risks arising from electrical malfunctions and the company’s recent operational shutdown announcement.

Summary of Complaints Filed with ODI

ODI has received six Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) concerning alleged incidents involving the JuiceBox Level 2 charger. These complaints raise serious concerns regarding potential fire hazards that may arise while charging electric vehicles at home. The following highlights from the complaints showcase the range of issues reported:

Total Home Loss Due to Explosion: One complaint involves a significant incident where a vehicle owner claims that charging their EV with a JuiceBox led to an explosion in their garage. This catastrophic event resulted in a fire that destroyed the home entirely.
Car Fire in Driveway: Another complaint describes an incident where a vehicle caught fire in the driveway while connected to a JuiceBox charger. The details of this incident underscore concerns about charger reliability and the potential for dangerous outcomes.
Electrical Malfunctions and Circuit Breaker Issues: Four additional complaints describe issues with electrical malfunctions that caused circuit breakers to trip and charging cycles to be disrupted. These electrical disruptions may indicate underlying issues with the chargers’ compatibility or durability under varying conditions.

Enel X Way’s Operational Shutdown and Potential Impact on User Safety

In an unexpected development, Enel X Way North America announced its intention to cease operations in the United States and Canada by October 11, 2024. A notification was sent to JuiceBox owners on October 2, 2024, which was also posted on the company’s website. This cessation of operations could potentially impact several aspects of the product’s performance and user experience:

Software and App Support: As Enel X Way discontinues its North American presence, questions remain about the continuity of the charging app and supporting software. Given that many smart chargers rely on connected software for updates and safety monitoring, the lack of support could leave users with outdated or unsupported technology.
Customer Support and Warranty Services: The cessation of operations may also impact the company’s ability to provide customer support, particularly regarding ongoing technical issues, troubleshooting, or warranty claims for JuiceBox chargers.

ODI Preliminary Evaluation and Safety Scope

In response to these serious complaints, ODI has opened a Preliminary Evaluation to examine the safety and reliability of JuiceBox Level 2 chargers. The purpose of this evaluation is to assess the scope, frequency, and potential hazards associated with these products. The investigation seeks to determine:

Risk of Fire and Explosion: By evaluating complaints of thermal events, such as the explosion in the garage and the driveway car fire, ODI aims to understand the risk factors and whether the JuiceBox charger’s design or operational faults are contributing factors.
Electrical Stability and Safety Consequences: ODI’s analysis will also delve into the frequency of electrical malfunctions and whether these events pose a risk of property damage, personal injury, or loss of life.
Impact of Software and Operational Changes: With the discontinuation of Enel X Way North America’s operations, ODI is concerned about the potential safety implications arising from the lack of app and software support. The investigation will evaluate if and how this operational change might exacerbate existing safety concerns or introduce new risks.

Affected Vehicles and Part Numbers

The ODI investigation includes a review of incidents involving various EV models that utilized the JuiceBox Level 2 charger. The vehicles associated with these complaints include:

Chevrolet Bolt EV (2018)
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (2018)
Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2022)
Hyundai Ioniq 6 (2023)

Additionally, the specific product part under scrutiny is the Enel X JuiceBox Level 2 Charger.

Steps for Consumers and Further Information

For EV owners who currently use the JuiceBox Level 2 charger, awareness of this investigation is crucial. Users are encouraged to follow any guidance issued by the NHTSA and consider consulting with licensed electricians to ensure proper installation and safe operation of their EV chargers.

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Category Archives: Electric Cars

Certain 2022-2024 Ford F-150 Lightning BEVs May Have A Battery Defect

Ford Fusion Energi Problems: Understand the Risks and Your Options

2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV Adaptive Cruise Control Issue

2019 Jaguar I-PACE Fire Risk