Volkswagen is recalling certain 2012 Audi A6 sedans manufactured between April and May 2011. Because of a problem with the stitching process of the curtain air bag, the air bag may not deploy properly leaving occupants unprotected. Volkswagen will notify owners, starting January, and will replace both the left and right curtain air bags. Owners wanting more information about the recall can contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.
Tag Archives: auto safety
NTSB Wants Total Phone Ban For Drivers
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.
Ford Wheel Stud Fractures
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.
Nissan Rogue Power Steering Problems
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.
Unexpected Brake Travel In Subaru Vehicles
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.
Chevy Volt Investigated For Fire
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into General Motors electric hybrid vehicle, the Chevrolet Volt. The investigation comes after a battery fire consumed three vehicles at their test facility, two weeks after performing side impact and rollover tests. Follow-up tests to simulate the incident resulted in two out of three vehicles resulting in a thermal reaction within the battery. According to the NHTSA there have been no reports of real world crashes resulting in fire.
GM has assured customers the the Chevy Volt’s fire risk after an accident is lower than any standard gas engine vehicles. The company said that the vehicles OnStar safety system notifies the company of any crashes involving a Chevy Volt and a team is dispatched within 48 hours to drain the battery. GM has offered to buy back vehicles or offer loaner cars at the customers request. If the investigation should lead to a recall, over 6,000 Volts could be affected.
Contaminated Brake Systems In Chrysler Vehicles
Chrysler is recalling a small number of 2012 Dodge Journey crossover and 2012 Fiat 500 subcompact cars for a possible contamination of the vehicles’ brake system. A report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that approximately 350 vehicles built between October 24 to October 26, may have power steering fluid in their brake systems. The improper fluid could degrade seals throughout the system, eventually causing the system to fail. Owners wanting more information on the contamination problem can contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Intermittent Seatbelt Warning in GM Trucks
General Motors (GM) has issued a recall for some 2012 Chevrolet Colorado and 2012 GMC Canyon trucks for a problem with the driver safety belt buckle electrical connector. According to reports filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the connectors terminals may not fit snugly with the connector pins. The intermittent connection could leave the driver with no visual or audible warning to fasten their seat belt. This failure to comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards could increase the risk of injury in the event of an accident. Owners wanting more information on the recall can contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 and GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
