NTSB Wants Total Phone Ban For Drivers

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On Tuesday, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) called for a nationwide ban on the use of cell phones and text messaging devices while driving. With over a decade of investigations, the group found that as mobile devices become cheaper and more powerful, the problem of distracted driving has also increased. Right now, 9 states ban the use of hand held phones, and 35 states ban texting while driving, but the NTSB is urging states to go one step further. They have recommended that every state adopt a law that will stop the use of hands free devices as well. According to Deborah Hersman, chairwoman of the NTSB, “Our safety concerns are not just about drivers keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, but it is also about keeping people focused on the act of driving.”

The Alliance for Automobile Manufacturers, agrees that the problem of driving while distracted needs to be addressed, but it also defends integrated systems that allow drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while sill staying connected. “Consumers have come to expect 24/7 connectivity, changing and enforcing that could be difficult.” The complete ban on phone use by drivers would also impact many car makers who offer integrated hands-free and voice-activated systems.

Toyota and BMW Share Technology

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An agreement between BMW and Toyota, will have the two automobile makers collaborating on environmentally sustainable technology in the auto industry. BMW will supply Toyota with 1.6 and 2.0 liter engines for their struggling European line, and both companies will work together to develop car battery technology for electric and hybrid vehicles. The alliance will increase efficiency, reduce costs, and allow vehicles to be brought to market more quickly. Because BMW and Toyota operate in different segments of the market, it is unlikely they will encountering competitive conflicts.

Ford Wheel Stud Fractures

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Ford has announced a recall for certain 2010-2011 Ford Fusion and 2010-2011 Mercury Milan vehicles equipped with 17 inch steel wheels. The recall comes after a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigation in January, where customers complained of cracking wheel studs on their low mileage vehicles. Ford said drivers could experience vehicle vibration leading to the wheel separating from the vehicle completely. Owners wanting more information on the recall can contact the Ford customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.

Auto Sales Strong In November

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GM sales strong in ChinaThe end of 2011 looks promising for the auto industry as vehicle sales climb almost 14% in November. Analysts predict that lower gas prices and a wider availability of Japanese automobiles, could lead the industry reaching its highest December sales in two years. The Big Three automobile manufacturers showed the biggest increases with Chrysler sales up almost 50%, Ford up 13%, and General Motors up 7%.

According to Edmunds.com, “Many consumers who held off buying a new vehicle because of the uncertain economy, or because of inventory shortages that caused prices to jump, are now making a purchase. The result is a “mini-bubble” that will most likely end in early 2012.

Alternatives To Buy Here Pay Here Auto Sales

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Studies have shown that low-income people can increase their income, are more involved in the community, and have better access to healthcare when they have their own transportation. It is also estimated that one in four needy families do not have a car. The U.S. Transportation Department plans to spend over $100 billion on roads, bridges, public transit, and rail projects, but has little money allocated to help the poor purchase a car. Some feel that the government actually made it harder with programs like “Cash For Clunkers”. The program resulted in higher priced used automobiles by removing almost 700,000 running vehicles from roads. In some states, people receiving government aid are restricted to how much they can spend on a vehicle, leaving them with an unreliable car or no car at all.

Consumers that need a car, but have bad credit, feel they have no alternative but to turn to Buy Here Pay Here dealers. These dealerships advertise themselves as providing a valuable service to consumers, as they make big profit off the misfortune of others. Prices and interest rates are high, and the chance of having your vehicle repossessed is one in four, allowing the dealership to sell vehicles over and over again.

There is about 160 nonprofit organizations nationwide that try to provide affordable used cars to needy families. Some receive public funds, but for the most part they operate on donations and can help only a small percentage of families that need it. Rep. Gwen Moore (WI-04) has tried for years to get the government to help the poor buy cars. In 2005 and again in 2007, she sponsored legislation to provide $50 million a year for low-income car ownership programs. Both bills were rejected.

Nissan Rogue Power Steering Problems

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Nissan is recalling certain 2011 Rogue compact crossover SUV’s built between August 10, 2010 and October 30, 2010. According to the recall report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a problem with the power steering assist could make it difficult for the driver to steer the vehicle. Nissan said that a circuit board may have been positioned improperly on the Electric Power Steering (EPS) assist control units, leading to extra stress on the solder terminals. The solder joints could crack and the connections could separate from the board. Owners wanting more information on the recall can contact Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

Honda Airbag Problems Continue

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The Center for Auto Safety (CAS) is pushing for a civil penalty against Honda Motor Co. for an airbag defect linked to two deaths and almost twenty injuries. The recall which now involves a total of over 2.7 million vehicles, first started in 2008, and has been expanded several times. According to the report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the airbag could deploy with too much pressure sending metal fragments that could injure occupants in the vehicle. According to the CAS, Honda failed to disclose what they knew about the recall, which resulted injuries that should have been prevented. The vehicles involved in this recall include:

Owners wanting more information about the recall can go to http://owners.honda.com/recalls or call (800) 999-1009; Acura owners can go to http://owners.acura.com/recalls or call (800) 382-2238.

Unexpected Brake Travel In Subaru Vehicles

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Subaru is recalling some 2012 Impreza sedans and wagons, 2012 Legacy and, 2012 Outback vehicles after customers complained about the increase in the amount of brake pedal travel. According to the recall report, these vehicles may have a master brake cylinder that could malfunction, leaving the driver to misjudge the amount of brake pedal required to slow or stop the vehicle. Subaru will inspect and replace any affected master brake cylinders free of charge. Owners wanting more information about the problem can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.