The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into some 2009 Mazda CX-9 sport utility vehicles (SUV) after reports of a high number of warranty claims for servicing brakes. Reports found that the high number of warranty claims on brakes was due to an internal brake fluid leak from the master cylinder into the vacuum booster. Drivers reported reduced brake effectiveness and extended stopping distances. A preliminary evaluation has been opened to assess the scope, frequency and safety consequences of the alleged defect. If the investigation should lead to a recall, about 40,000 vehicles could be affected.

General Motors has announced a recall for certain 2012 Buick LaCrosse luxury sedans to reprogram the electronic brake control module. The problem is being blamed on a system calibration error that will not properly detect a sensor malfunction. The driver could experience wandering in the steering and an inability to maintain a constant speed. LaCrosse owners wanting more information on the recall can contact Buick at 1-866-608-8080.

General Motors has also announced a recall for some 2012 Chevrolet Impala vehicles to reroute the power steering hose. According to GM, the hose could be damaged by heat from the catalytic converter. In the presence of an ignition source, an engine fire could occur. Impala owners wanting more information on the recall can contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438.

Nissan is recalling certain 2011-2012 Altima sedan manufactured between April to June 2011 at the Canton, Mississippi plant. An incorrectly torqued transverse link bolt could become loose while driving resulting in the driver hearing a rattling or feeling a vibration while driving. If the bolt comes off completely, the driver could experience difficulty controlling the car. Nissan will replace the transverse link bolts and nuts making sure they are tightened to the proper torque. Owners wanting more information on the recall can contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

Toyota is recalling certain 2011 Lexus RX350 vehicles equipped with vehicle dynamics integrated management (VDIM) systems. The hydraulic control valves in this system may have been incorrectly calibrated which could lead to the right front wheel not being controlled properly when the anti-lock brake system (ABS) or the vehicle stability control system (VSC) is activated. This could lead to an increased stopping distance and/or a failure to adequately correct a vehicle slide. Owners wanting more information on this recall can contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

Ford will be recalling over 26,000 trucks for a component in the brake light switch that does not comply with the federal motor vehicle safety standards. The multifunction switch shipped with a sub-component (slider) could become deformed resulting in the loss of turn signals, tail lights, hazard warning flashers and brake lights. Loss of any of these lights could increase the chances of an accident. Owners wanting more information about the recall can contact the Ford Motor Company customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332. The vehicles involved in this recall include:

Honda is recalling certain ST1300 motorcycles because they could experience a loss of brakes. When the rear suspension of the motorcycle is repeatedly bottomed out, the rear brake reservoir hose may become damaged leading to a brake fluid leak. The rider will experience a loss of rear brake performance and could eventually lose braking power completely. The motorcycles involved in this recall include:

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating brake problems with the 2007-2008 Nissan Altima, after receiving twenty complaints of loss of braking power. Altima drivers complained that the “brake warning” light would come on intermittently while driving, and after taking in the vehicle for service, were told that the brake master cylinder was leaking and needed replacement. If the investigation should lead to a recall, almost 440,000 2007-2008 Altimas could be affected.

In 2008-2009, Nissan recalled over 160,000 2007-2008 Sentra vehicles for the same problems.

General Motors is recalling certain 2011 Chevrolet Express and 2011 GMC Savanna minivans due to a problem that could lead to a loss of brake power. During manufacturing, the right rear brake hose may have been installed too close to the tire. If the hose should repeatedly contact the tire or rim, it could lead to a loss of brake fluid and eventually reduced or complete loss of brakes. Owners receiving recall notices can take their vehicles to their local dealers, where technicians will inspect and secure the hose for sufficient clearance. For more information on the recall, contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, GMC at 1-866-996-9463 or www.gmownercenter.com.