Category Archives: Lemon Alert

Mazda MX-5 Miata Air Bag Control Module Safety Concern

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Mazda will soon be reaching out to the owners of specific 2016-2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata vehicles due to a software issue affecting the airbag control module. This problem, first identified in April 2023, stems from a calibration error that may result in the front airbags deploying with excessive force during a crash. As a consequence, these vehicles fail to meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for Occupant Crash Protection, potentially endangering the safety of both drivers and passengers.

Mazda became aware of the issue during the development of new airbag sensors for future models. During this process, engineers uncovered a misconfiguration in the calibration tool used to set up the airbag control modules. This discovery prompted Mazda to reevaluate and reassess the settings in control modules from earlier vehicle models. Through a series of rigorous simulation tests, Mazda found that the collision detection sensitivity in the 2016-2023 MX-5 Miata models could lead to improper airbag deployments that do not comply with safety standards.

The problem particularly arises during minor collisions, where the airbags may deploy with a force higher than intended. This excessive force poses an increased risk of injury to vehicle occupants, especially in situations where airbag deployment should be less aggressive. Although the issue seems isolated to the MX-5 Miata, Mazda has taken steps to conduct similar tests across other vehicle models to ensure that the problem does not affect a broader range of vehicles.

To resolve this issue, Mazda dealers will perform a software update on the Sophisticated Air Bag Sensor (SAS) control module of the affected vehicles. This update is designed to re-calibrate the airbag deployment system to meet FMVSS 208 standards, ensuring that airbags deploy at appropriate force levels in the event of a collision. Mazda has scheduled owner notification letters to be mailed starting November 17, 2024, alerting owners to the recall and the necessary repairs.

Mazda’s recall number for this issue is 6924I, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned campaign number 24V-695 to this recall. It is crucial for MX-5 Miata owners to have their vehicles inspected and repaired as soon as possible. Doing so will not only bring the vehicles back into compliance with federal safety regulations but also ensure the continued safety of all passengers in the event of an accident.

Electrical Issues Affecting 2024 Ford Explorer and Bronco Sport Models

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battery problemsFord Motor Company has announced two significant recalls affecting its 2024 Explorer and Bronco Sport vehicles. Both recalls involve electrical issues that could potentially lead to serious problems for vehicle owners. Here’s what you need to know about each recall:

2024 Ford Explorer Recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V-685)

Ford is recalling certain 2024 Explorer models equipped with 3.3L Hybrid engines. The issue stems from the 12-volt battery cable, which may chafe against the Belt-integrated Starter Generator (BiSG). If this occurs, it could lead to a short circuit.

This kind of electrical short can cause the vehicle to lose power, increasing the risk of a crash. In some cases, the short circuit could also result in a fire hazard. Ford is taking action to notify owners and replace or repair affected parts to ensure safety.

Key Concerns:

  • Affected Vehicles: 2024 Ford Explorers with 3.3L Hybrid engines
  • Problem: 12-volt battery cable could chafe against the BiSG, leading to a short circuit
  • Risks: Potential loss of power and fire hazard

2024 Ford Bronco Sport Recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V-683)

The second recall involves certain 2024 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. In these models, the body and powertrain control modules may fail to detect changes in the state of charge of the 12-volt battery. This issue can lead to incorrect readings and could affect the vehicle’s performance.

If the control modules fail to detect the battery’s actual charge, the vehicle may stall unexpectedly, which could increase the risk of an accident. Ford plans to update the control module software to fix the issue.

Key Concerns:

  • Affected Vehicles: 2024 Ford Bronco Sport
  • Problem: Control modules may not detect changes in the battery’s state of charge
  • Risks: Vehicle stalling unexpectedly, raising the likelihood of accidents

Ford will notify owners of the affected vehicles and instruct them to take their cars to authorized dealers for inspection and repair. The repairs, include replacing cables or updating control module software.

If you own a 2024 Ford Explorer Hybrid or Bronco Sport, it’s important to stay alert for communication from Ford about these recalls. In the meantime, you can also contact Ford’s customer service or visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to check if your vehicle is part of the recall. By addressing these issues promptly, Ford aims to prevent potential accidents and ensure the continued safety of their customers.

Ford And Lincoln Engine Intake Valves May Break

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Ford Motor Company (Ford) have discovered a defect affecting certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.

The following vehicle models are affected by this recall:

2021-2022 Ford Bronco
2021-2022 Ford Edge
2021-2022 Ford Explorer
2021-2022 Ford F-150
2021-2022 Lincoln Aviator
2021-2022 Ford Bronco

In January 2022, an investigation was opened into certain 2021 Lincoln Aviator and Nautilus vehicles equipped with 2.7L and 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engines after 22 instances of engine failure were reported within three months of service. The issue involved left-hand engine intake valve fractures, which led to catastrophic engine damage and Loss of Motive Power (LOMP). A tear down analysis confirmed intake valve fractures in 251 engines from warranty repairs.

Ford traced the problem to intake valves exceeding the hardness specification due to faulty grinding processes by the supplier. The intake valve material was changed for vehicles produced after October 31, 2021, to improve robustness.

On May 5, 2022, Ford opened an internal investigation into early intake valve fractures, and on May 27, 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began its own investigation after receiving reports from Ford Bronco owners. NHTSA expanded the scope of the investigation in July 2022.

On September 29, 2023, NHTSA expanded their investigation to include all 2021 and 2022 Ford/Lincoln models with 2.7L and 3.0L engines. As of August 9, 2024, Ford reported 811 global warranty claims and 267 field reports related to fractured intake valves. On August 16, 2024, Ford’s Field Review Committee approved a field action to address the issue.

Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 7, 2024. Ford’s number for this recall is 24S55 and the NHTSA campaign number is 24V-635.

Jeep Gladiator And Wrangler Instrument Panel Failure

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Jeep Instrument Panel FailureFiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) US have decided that there is a safety related problem affecting certain 2020-2024 Jeep Gladiator and 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The recall was prompted by an issue that could cause the instrument panel cluster (IPC) to fail, leading to a blank display. This defect may occur due to an internal short circuit, which could compromise the instrument panel’s functionality and cause the vehicle to fall out of compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 101, which governs controls and displays in vehicles.

The problem was first identified by FCA’s Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance (TSRC) organization, which had received reports of blank IPCs in affected models. Following this, the TSRC conducted a detailed analysis, including reviewing patterns of IPC failures and performing warranty part return inspections. After collaborating with suppliers and conducting rigorous testing, it was determined that the IPCs in certain vehicles might experience an internal short circuit, causing the display to go blank unexpectedly.

A non-functional instrument panel cluster is a serious concern, as it can result in drivers losing access to critical vehicle information such as speed, fuel levels, and warning indicators. This increases the risk of accidents and reduces the driver’s ability to make informed decisions while operating the vehicle.

On August 30, 2024, FCA US decided, through its Vehicle Regulations Committee, to issue a safety recall for the affected vehicles. The recall applies to Jeep Wrangler models manufactured between 2018 and 2024, as well as Jeep Gladiator models produced from 2020 to 2024. To address the issue, FCA will replace the faulty instrument panel cluster in affected vehicles.

The recall is identified as FCA campaign number 30B, and the corresponding National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number is 24V-652.

Jaguar I-Pace Battery Could Overheat

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Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Jaguar) are reaching out to the owners of specific 2019 Jaguar I-PACE vehicles regarding a significant safety concern involving the high-voltage battery. The issue, which could potentially cause the battery to overheat, has prompted a recall to ensure the safety of the vehicle owners.

This recall comes after a series of events beginning in July 2024, when Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group identified a problem related to a warranty report. The issue involved a fuel injector with a missing o-ring support disc, which could lead to fuel system malfunctions. Ford’s Supplier Technical Assistance team, in collaboration with the supplier, conducted an in-depth review of images taken during the production of all fuel injectors to pinpoint the parts that could be affected. They then compared these findings to vehicle production records to identify the specific vehicles at risk.

On August 16, 2024, Ford’s Field Review Committee evaluated the concern and decided to approve a field action to address the problem. Up to that date, Ford had identified 10 reports of vehicles with fuel injectors missing the crucial o-ring support disc. Fortunately, there have been no reports of fires, accidents, or injuries related to this condition. However, the potential risk was significant enough to warrant immediate action.

Jaguar is advising all affected vehicle owners to take precautionary measures until the recall repair is completed. Specifically, owners are urged to park and charge their vehicles outdoors and away from any structures. This precaution should continue for 30 days even after the repair has been completed, ensuring the safety of both the owners and their surroundings.

As an interim solution, Jaguar dealerships will update the software of the battery energy control module to help mitigate the risk. However, the final, long-term remedy for the issue is still being developed. Jaguar plans to send out official owner notification letters by October 18, 2024, providing detailed instructions on the next steps. For reference, Jaguar has assigned the recall number H514, and it has been registered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under the campaign number 24V-633.

It’s important to note that this isn’t the first recall related to this issue. The same vehicles were previously recalled under multiple recall numbers, including 24V-085 (H471), 23V-709 (H459), and 23V-369 (H441). If you own one of these vehicles, you will need to have the latest remedy performed, even if your vehicle has already undergone previous repairs for this issue.

Cadillac Lyriq Defective Brake Performance

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A potential safety issue has been identified in certain 2023-2024 Cadillac Lyriq all-wheel-drive vehicles. This defect could affect the vehicle’s braking performance, posing a risk to drivers and passengers.

The investigation into this issue began in May 2024, when General Motors (GM) received reports of two minor accidents allegedly caused by a sudden loss of braking. Both incidents were suspected to be linked to a software problem within the vehicles’ Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). In addition to these accidents, GM was also alerted to a separate field complaint that, while not resulting in an accident, seemed potentially related to the same problem.

To get to the bottom of the issue, GM’s investigation team gathered and analyzed field data from various sources. Despite the initial reports, they found no additional cases that could be connected to this defect. However, through careful analysis, they determined that the problem could indeed occur, but only in extremely rare situations. Specifically, the issue arises when a false ABS event occurs on a dry road at speeds under 25 mph. During this event, if a particular series of wheel movements takes place, the ABS system might continue to release brake pressure in the vehicle’s service brake system, even when it shouldn’t.

Fortunately, GM has confirmed that no injuries or fatalities have been associated with this condition. However, given the potential risk, GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) decided in August 2024 to issue a safety recall for the affected vehicles.

The defect report explains that under certain rare braking conditions on dry surfaces at speeds below 25 mph, the ABS may become overly sensitive. If the ABS falsely activates and a specific sequence of wheel movements occurs, the system might continue to release brake pressure, which can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the service brakes. This could lead to a reduction in stopping performance or even cause the brakes to become inoperative, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.

To address this issue, GM has made an update to the electronic brake control module software. This update can be installed either through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by visiting a GM dealership. If you own one of the affected vehicles, GM urges you to take action as soon as possible. The recall number for this issue is N242453471, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number is 24V-598.

Airbag Issue in 2021 and 2024 Nissan Titan Vehicles

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A recent safety concern has emerged for a small number of 2021 and 2024 Nissan Titan vehicles due to a potential issue with their Air Bag Control Unit (ACU). This problem, if left unaddressed, could increase the risk of injury to occupants in the event of a crash.

In May 2024, Nissan was alerted by their airbag supplier about a production error that involved a missing spacer between the ACU fastener and the base plate. This spacer plays a critical role in ensuring that the ACU is properly secured. Without it, there is a risk that the fastener could interfere with the vehicle’s floor pan, leading to the fastener becoming loose. If this occurs, the airbag may deploy late or not at all, which could significantly increase the risk of injury during a crash.

Upon learning about the problem, Nissan and the supplier conducted a thorough audit. They discovered that 531 affected parts had been shipped to Nissan’s Canton, MS Plant. Fortunately, 528 of these parts were identified and quarantined before they could be installed in vehicles. However, three parts had already been installed in 2024 Nissan Titan vehicles that had been shipped.

In June 2024, the supplier identified additional affected parts included in a service part kit, of which 41 were shipped to Nissan. Nissan was able to quarantine and scrap 37 of these parts, but four had already been installed in 2021 Nissan Titan vehicles during repairs.

On July 19, 2024, after further assessment, Nissan confirmed that the absence of the spacer could indeed cause interference with the floor pan, potentially leading to loose fasteners and compromised airbag deployment.

As a result of these findings, Nissan decided on July 29, 2024, to initiate a Voluntary Safety Recall for the seven affected vehicles—three from the 2024 model year and four from the 2021 model year. While there have been no reports of accidents or injuries related to this issue, Nissan is taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of its customers.

Nissan will address the issue by replacing the ACU in the affected vehicles. Owners of these vehicles will receive notification letters starting September 19, 2024. The recall number assigned by Nissan is PD120, and the corresponding National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number is 24V-580.

Although the number of vehicles affected is small, this recall is a critical step to ensure the safety of Nissan Titan drivers and passengers. If you own a 2021 or 2024 Nissan Titan, keep an eye out for the notification letter and get the the necessary repairs.

2021 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator PCM Software Update

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A select number of Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator vehicles that were previously repaired under NHTSA recall number 23V-116 are now slated for a crucial Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software update.

In February 2023, FCA US LLC’s Vehicle Regulations Committee launched a safety recall (19A) targeting specific 2018-2023 Jeep Wrangler and 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator models with manual transmissions. This recall was triggered by reports of potential overheating of the clutch pressure plate due to friction. Such overheating could cause the pressure plate to fracture rapidly, leading to cracks or holes in the transmission case. This damage could result in the expulsion of heated debris from the transmission case, posing safety risks to vehicle occupants and other road users.

By June 2024, FCA’s Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance (TSRC) organization received reports of vehicles stalling after undergoing the 19A recall remedy. An investigation focused on specific 2021 Jeep Wrangler and 2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles with manual transmissions that had received the initial remedy under FCA US Recall ID 19A / NHTSA Recall 23V-116. The investigation found that these vehicles might encounter an issue with the Revolutions per Minute (RPM) reduction feature in the PCM software.

The issue was traced to a suspect software release that began on June 19, 2024. This software release introduced a malfunction affecting the RPM reduction feature. The release period ended on June 26, 2024, when the software was withdrawn from availability. Affected vehicles were identified using PCM scan data, ensuring precise identification of those needing further attention. It was confirmed that similar vehicles not included in the recall either lacked manual transmissions or were not updated with the problematic software version.

The remedy involves updating the PCM software in the affected vehicles to ensure the RPM reduction feature operates correctly. This update aims to eliminate the risk of stalling and enhance overall vehicle performance.

Owners of the affected Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator models will receive notification letters by August 15, 2024. These letters will provide detailed instructions on how to proceed with the necessary software update.

For reference, FCA US LLC has assigned the number 92B to this recall, and the NHTSA campaign number is 24V-572. It is crucial for vehicle owners who had previously completed repairs under recall 23V-116 to ensure this new remedy is completed to maintain vehicle safety and reliability.