A recent investigation into engine fires in some 2011 Chevrolet Cruze vehicles has been widened to include some 2012 models. The investigation was open last March after complaints of engine fires was reported in two 2011 Chevy Cruze vehicles, but additional reports of fires in some 2012 vehicles has lead the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to include the newer models. According to the investigation reports, the probe is focusing on electrical wiring and the transmission control module. If the probe leads to a recall, over 370,000 vehicles could be involved.
Tag Archives: Manufacturer defect
Lexus GS350 Steering Problem
Toyota will be recalling a small number of 2013 Lexus GS350 cars manufactured between December 12, 2011 to February 7, 21012. The Problem is with the programming for the variable gear ratio steering (VGRS) system. If the engine is restarted immediately after the vehicle has been parked and the steering wheel is turned, the steering wheel could become off centered. Off centered steering will result in an unexpected maneuver which could result in a crash. Toyota will notify owners who can take in their vehicles to have the VGRS system updated. For more information about the problem, contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Ferrari Crankshaft Manufacturing Error
Approximately one hundred 2011-2012 Ferrari 458 high performance sports cars will be recalled in the United States for a manufacturing problem that could lead to engine damage. The problem was found by Ferrari as they did a routine inspection of one of their fleet vehicles. According to the recall report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a programming error in the factory caused the crankshaft to be formed incorrectly. The error could lead to excessive engine vibration and eventually engine seizure. Ferrari will notify owners who will be given the option of having their engines repaired or replaced. Owners wanting more information on the problem can contact Ferrari at 201-816-2600.
Ford F150 Airbag Problem
Ford will be recalling certain 2012 F-150 trucks to replace the Occupant Classification System Module (OCSM). The OCSM is a system that classifies the size of the occupant in the passenger seat and deploys the airbag accordingly. In certain F-150 trucks, the incorrect software for the system may have been installed. The result would be the airbag not deploying properly increasing the risk of injury to the passenger. Ford will notify owners of the problem and will replace the OCSM free of charge. Owners wanting more information can contact the Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.
Inaccurate Reverse In Ford Transmission
Ford has announced that they will be recalling certain vehicles because the transmission range selector (TRS) may have been calibrated out of specification for reverse gear. The transmission may not go into reverse as expected, “R” may not be illuminated on the dashboard to signal to the driver that the vehicle is in reverse, and the back up lights may not illuminate when the vehicle is in reverse. These conditions will increase the chance of injury for drivers and pedestrians. Ford will be notifying owners of the problem starting at the end of June, and dealers will inspect and replace the TRS as necessary. Owners wanting more information about the problem can contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. The vehicles involved in the recall include:
BMW 3 Series Head Restraint Safety
BMW has announced that they will be recalling certain 2012 3-Series vehicles because the head restraints fail to comply with the Federal motor vehicle safety standards. According to the recall report, when the head rest is in the highest position it exceeds the downward movement limitations of 25mm. The head restraint could move down during a crash, increasing the risk of neck injuries. BMW will be notifying owners in May and will correct the problem by attaching a clamp to the front seat head restraint posts. Owners wanting more information about the problem can contact BMW customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417.
VW Routan Rear Hub Assemblies
Volkswagen is recalling a small number of 2012 Routan minivans for a problem with the right hand rear hub and bearing assemblies. According to VW, the vehicles affected were built between November 15 to November 21, 2011, and were installed with a hub and bearing assembly that was not fully machined by the manufacturer. The assemblies could wear out prematurely, leading to wheel separation and an increased risk of an accident. Owners wanting more information on the problem can contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987. Last week, Chrysler issued a similar recall involving certain 2012 Chrysler Town and Country and 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan minivans.
Honda CR-V And Pilot Headlight Problem
Honda has announced a recall for certain 2002-2004 CR-V and 2003 Pilot vehicles because of a manufacturing problem that could lead to loss of low beam headlights. According to the recall report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tension on the switch wiring harness could lead to excessive wear of the terminal, increasing the electrical resistance. The terminal ends could melt leaving the driver without low beam headlights. Honda will repair or replace the harness and lighting switch as necessary. Owners wanting more information on the problem can contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
