Tag Archives: automobile fire

BMW Relay Defect Could Lead To Fire

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BMW of North America has announced another significant recall related to the electrical system, this time involving more than 145,000 vehicles. This latest action, filed under NHTSA Campaign Number 25V-644, highlights the risk of a starter motor overheating due to an electrical overload after repeated starting attempts. The issue poses a serious fire hazard and requires immediate attention from affected owners.

What’s the Problem?

BMW reports that in certain vehicles, the starter relay can overload the starter motor, leading to overheating. Overheating of electrical components within the starter can increase the risk of a fire, whether the vehicle is in operation or parked.

The recall affects the following BMW models:

  • 2020 BMW 340i
  • 2019-2020 BMW X5
  • 2020 BMW X6
  • 2020–2025 BMW 840i
  • 2020–2022 BMW 740Li
  • 2019–2020 BMW X7

BMW Engine Starter Replacement

BMW dealers will correct the problem by replacing the engine starter.. Importantly, this recall also applies to vehicles that were previously repaired under recall 24V-576—owners of those vehicles will need to have their cars repaired again.  

  • Owner Notification Letters: Scheduled to begin mailing on November 17, 2025.
  • If your vehicle is affected, schedule an appointment with your BMW dealer for the repair.
  • Be aware of potential warning signs such as difficulty starting, electrical smells, or unusual sounds from the engine bay.
  • As a precaution, consider parking your vehicle outdoors until repairs are complete.

BMW’s repeated starter relay recalls underscore the importance of taking electrical issues seriously. Even if you’ve had a previous recall repair completed, your vehicle may still be affected and require another fix. Safety should come first—make sure your BMW is repaired promptly once recall notifications are issued.

BMW and Toyota Supra Fire Risk

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BMW and Toyota have announced a voluntary safety recall affecting certain 2019–2022 BMW models and 2020–2022 Toyota Supra vehicles due to a potential fire risk involving the engine starter relay. The issue arises when water makes contact with the relay, which over time may corrode and compromise the electrical connection. While corrosion can make it difficult or impossible to start the engine, in more severe cases it can cause the relay to short-circuit and overheat. This overheating poses a significant fire hazard, as a thermal event could occur not only while the vehicle is being driven but also when it is parked with the ignition off.

BMW launched an engineering investigation in July 2024 after reports of thermal events in certain vehicles. Over the following year, engineers analyzed field cases, conducted parts tear-downs, and tested water ingress scenarios in an attempt to replicate the failure. Although no single cause was definitively confirmed, BMW identified production periods that may be at risk. On September 16, 2025, the automaker initiated a recall. Toyota conducted its own review of records and confirmed no U.S. reports of Supra incidents to date, but vehicles remain included in the recall as a precaution.

Owners of affected vehicles are strongly advised to park outdoors and away from buildings until repairs are complete. Dealers will address the issue by replacing the engine starter at no cost to customers. Interim recall notices will begin mailing on November 14, 2025, with a follow-up notice sent once replacement parts are available. The recall is listed under NHTSA Campaign Number 25V-636.

Affected Vehicles Include:

  • 2019–2021 BMW 330i
  • 2021–2022 BMW 430i
  • 2021–2022 BMW 430i Convertible
  • 2020–2022 BMW 530i
  • 2020–2022 BMW X3
  • 2020–2022 BMW X4
  • 2019–2022 BMW Z4

If you own one of these vehicles, stay alert for recall notifications, and in the meantime, take the precaution of parking your vehicle outside until the remedy is performed.

Fire Risk Safety Defect Identified in 2023–2026 Chevrolet Corvette Models

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General Motors (GM) has announced a serious safety defect that may affect certain 2023–2026 Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The issue is linked to models equipped with a left-side radiator and fan combination, which are found in Corvette Z06 and ZR1 models.

According to GM, excess fuel spilled into the fuel-filler pocket during refueling could leak onto hot radiator surfaces and potentially ignite. This dangerous condition raises the risk of a vehicle fire, even while the car is turned off.

What Is the Chevrolet Corvette Fire Risk Defect?

In the affected vehicles, the fuel-filler pipe and recessed pocket sit directly above the left-side radiator and cooling fan. If a refueling spill occurs—especially if a gas pump fails to shut off properly—the spilled fuel may leak onto the radiator.

When the fan is running, it can draw spilled fuel through the radiator, vaporize it into the engine compartment, and expose it to ignition sources. If ignited, this can result in a sudden vehicle fire.

GM’s investigation confirmed that at least four Corvette fire incidents were connected to this defect, two of which involved malfunctioning gas station pumps that failed to shut off properly.

Timeline of GM’s Safety Investigation

  • June 10, 2025 – GM received a report through its “Speak Up for Safety” system after a social media post claimed three Corvettes caught fire during fueling within 30 days.
  • June 12, 2025 – A GM-owned Corvette test vehicle caught fire while refueling.
  • June 17, 2025 – GM officially opened a product investigation.
  • June 20, 2025 – Engineers identified distinct burn patterns on the left-side radiator of the test vehicle.
  • July–August 2025 – Controlled fuel-spill simulations showed that fuel leaks in vehicles with a left-side radiator could ignite under specific conditions, replicating the burn damage seen in real-world fires. Vehicles without this radiator design did not ignite.
  • August 14, 2025 – GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) decided to launch a safety recall.

Models Affected by the Safety Recall

While the issue involves Corvettes from model years 2023 through 2026, GM confirmed the left-side radiator/fan combination is only used in:

  • Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (2023–2026)
  • Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (2023–2026)

All confirmed fire incidents involved Corvettes equipped with this radiator design.

Risks to Drivers and Passengers

If fuel leaks during refueling and reaches an ignition source, the risks include:

  • Vehicle fire while stationary
  • Potential injuries or fatalities (two incidents reported minor injuries)
  • Damage to property and fueling stations

GM’s Recommended Precautions for Corvette Owners

Until repairs are completed, Corvette owners should take the following precautions:

  • Always ensure the fuel nozzle is fully inserted into the filler pipe.
  • Do not overfill the gas tank; stop after the pump clicks off once.
  • Always turn off the engine before refueling.
  • Be cautious at gas stations with malfunctioning or leaking pumps.

The Official Fix

GM has announced that dealers will:

  • Install a protective shield to divert spilled fuel away from hot components.
  • Begin mailing owner notification letters on October 6, 2025.
  • Send a second letter once permanent parts and remedies are available.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned this defect campaign number 25V-536.

Can Lemon Law Help Corvette Owners?

If your 2023–2026 Chevrolet Corvette has experienced repeated problems, you may have rights under the California Lemon Law and other state lemon laws.

The law may entitle you to:

  • A repurchase (buyback) of your Corvette
  • A replacement vehicle
  • Or cash compensation if your car qualifies as a lemon

Since the defect involves a serious safety risk, owners should act quickly. Consulting with an experienced Lemon Law attorney can help determine if your Corvette qualifies for relief. If repeated safety issues, downtime, or repair delays affect your Corvette, you may qualify for protection under Lemon Law.

Brake Pressure Switch Safety Defect in Chevrolet Silverado Medium Duty Trucks

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General Motors (GM) has confirmed a serious safety defect affecting certain 2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado Medium Duty trucks. This issue involves the brake pressure sensor assembly, which may allow brake fluid to leak into the electrical components of the brake pressure switch. Over time, the defect can lead to short circuits, loss of brake system function, and even under hood fires, creating a significant risk of property damage and personal injury.

What Models Are Affected?

The following Chevrolet Silverado Medium Duty trucks are included in this safety defect:

  • 2019 Chevrolet 6500
  • 2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 4500
  • 2019–2021, 2023–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 5500
  • 2019, 2021–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 6500

Trucks produced before 2019 use a different brake sensor design and are not affected. Certain 2024 Silverado Medium Duty models built with a brake switch wire harness that includes silicone sealant are also excluded.

Why This Is a Safety Concern

If brake fluid leaks past the diaphragm seal into the electrical portion of the brake pressure sensor:

  • The switch and fuse can short circuit.
  • The circuit may generate excessive heat, leading to a fire risk.
  • A fire can occur even when the vehicle is parked and unattended.

This is not only a performance issue but a direct safety hazard for owners and the public.

Chronology of Events Leading to the Defect Finding

The journey to identifying this defect spans several years, beginning with earlier issues and continuing into 2025:

  • April 13, 2023 – GM issued NHTSA Recall 23V-266 addressing zinc sealant fragmentation in brake pressure sensors that could cause brake fluid leaks and under hood fires.
  • October 11, 2024 – GM’s quality team received a report of unintended brake pump activation in a 2023 Silverado Medium Duty truck that was not part of the earlier recall. The issue was escalated through the Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program.
  • November 24, 2024 – GM opened a formal investigation after discovering brake fluid in the wiring harness of the newer sensor design.
  • December 18, 2024 – Another field report surfaced involving a 2021 Silverado truck already repaired under the 23V-266 campaign. GM’s analysis confirmed fluid intrusion.
  • January 2025 – Additional warranty-returned parts tested positive for brake fluid contamination in the harness.
  • March 3, 2025 – GM and International Motors partnered with Akron Rubber Development Lab (ARDL) for material analysis.
  • April 24, 2025 – Testing revealed that the rubber diaphragm was degrading due to the supplier’s use of an unauthorized chemical that reacted with brake fluid.
  • April 30, 2025 – GM identified one confirmed fire among 160 reports and began deeper field analysis.
  • May 28, 2025 – GM inspected the affected vehicle and concluded the fire was linked to the defect.
  • June 5, 2025 – GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) determined a safety defect existed in 2019–2024 Silverado Medium Duty trucks.

The Cause of the Safety Defect

Investigations revealed that a supplier used an unauthorized chemical in the rubber diaphragm of the brake pressure sensor assembly. This material degraded when exposed to brake fluid, allowing leaks into the sensor’s electrical system and creating the potential for fires.

Warning Signs Owners May See

Drivers may notice a “Service Brake System” warning light on the dashboard as the defect develops. GM advises that vehicles should be parked outdoors and away from buildings until the problem is corrected.

The Fix for Silverado Owners

GM’s remedy involves replacing the brake pressure switch wire harness with an improved design.

  • Interim owner notifications were mailed on July 29, 2025.
  • A second notification will be sent once parts are fully available.
  • Vehicles that were previously repaired under Recall 23V-266 will also require the updated repair.

GM has assigned this campaign number N242482680, and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-390.

Kia Telluride Recall: Fire and Rollaway Risks Affect Over 400,000 SUVs

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Kia’s popular SUV, the Telluride, is now under recall — again. This time, the issues are far more serious than a glitchy infotainment system or a faulty sensor. Kia has confirmed two separate safety defects that could put drivers and passengers at risk of vehicle fires or unintended rollaways.

If you’re a California driver, and especially if your Telluride is still under warranty, these problems could also qualify you for protection under the California Lemon Law.

What’s going wrong?

There are two major defects involved in this recall, both affecting 2020 through 2024 Kia Tellurides:

  1. Fire risk: The power seat motor may overheat and catch fire. The problem is linked to the seat adjustment knob, which can become stuck and cause the motor to continue running even when it shouldn’t. This can lead to electrical overheating and a real risk of interior fires — even when the vehicle is parked.
  2. Rollaway risk: In a separate issue, improperly assembled driveshaft components can cause the vehicle to roll away while in park, especially if the parking brake isn’t engaged. This is clearly a serious safety hazard.

What is Kia doing about it?

Kia dealerships will:

  • Install protective brackets around the seat switches and replace adjustment knobs where needed
  • Inspect and replace intermediate shafts related to the rollaway issue

Repairs are currently ongoing. Kia has not yet indicated widespread part delays, but given the scope of the recall, some wait times are possible.

What to know about California Lemon Law

California’s Lemon Law doesn’t just cover cars that have persistent engine problems — it also applies to major safety issues like these. If your Telluride has:

  • Been in the shop multiple times for the same defect
  • Been out of service for 30 or more days total
  • Or if the fire or rollaway problems persist after attempted repairs

You may be eligible for a buyback, replacement vehicle, or financial compensation. You also don’t have to pay legal fees — manufacturers are required to cover them if your case qualifies.

What you should do:

  • Review your repair history — especially any seat or drivetrain work
  • Contact your dealership to complete the recall repair if you haven’t already
  • Document everything — repair orders, communication with service staff, even photos if you’ve noticed unusual smells or damage
  • Reach out to a Lemon Law professional if your Telluride has been unreliable or unsafe

It doesn’t matter how new your SUV is — if it puts you or your family at risk, California law is there to protect you. If you’re tired of dealing with safety concerns or have lost trust in your Telluride, we’re here to help you understand your rights — and take the next step if your vehicle qualifies as a lemon. Call us at 888-395-3666 or fill in the free Lemon Law case review form at the top of this page.

Volkswagen Atlas Recall: Engine Cover Defect Raises Fire Risk

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If you drive a 2024 or 2025 Volkswagen Atlas or Atlas Cross Sport, there’s a recall you should know about — and it’s not something to ignore. Volkswagen has recalled approximately 177,000 vehicles because a loose engine cover could come into contact with hot engine parts, increasing the risk of fire.

For California drivers, this issue may also open the door to a Lemon Law claim, especially if repairs have been delayed or your vehicle has shown signs of repeated defects.

What’s the issue?

According to Volkswagen, the engine cover may not be properly secured, and during driving, it can shift out of place. If it comes into contact with the exhaust manifold or other high-temperature components, it could melt or ignite — which is a clear safety risk.

This is the kind of problem that’s easy to overlook — until it becomes dangerous.

What’s being done?

Volkswagen dealerships are currently performing repairs, which may include either removing or properly securing the engine cover. Owners should be notified, but if you’re concerned about your vehicle, you can contact your local dealer to ask if you’re affected.

Why it matters under California Lemon Law

If your vehicle is under warranty and has a serious safety defect, California’s Lemon Law is designed to protect you. That includes issues that:

  • Create a fire hazard or compromise safety
  • Require multiple repair attempts
  • Keep the car in the shop for long periods

Even if this is the first recall you’ve faced, if your Atlas has had other issues, or if this repair takes a long time to complete, it may be worth exploring whether your vehicle qualifies as a lemon.

What you should do:

  • Check your repair history and note any previous service visits related to engine components or unusual smells
  • Schedule a repair with your dealer as soon as possible
  • Keep every service invoice and communication
  • Speak with a Lemon Law professional if your vehicle has been unreliable or unsafe

You don’t need to wait for something to go wrong. If your Atlas has had repeated problems or spent too much time off the road, you may be eligible for a refund or replacement.

California law gives you real options — and you don’t need to pay anything upfront to find out if your case qualifies. We’re here to help you understand your rights and take the next step.

Audi Q5 Quattro Fire Risk: Improperly Tightened Cylinder Head Cover Screws

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Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) has issued a recall for certain 2022-2024 Audi Q5 Quattro and Q5 Sportback Quattro vehicles due to a potential problem with the cylinder head cover screws. The screws may have been improperly tightened, which can cause them to loosen over time, leading to engine oil leaks from the cylinder head cover screw holes.

According to the defect report, the issue is attributed to varying tightening torques during the screwing process of the cylinder head cover, resulting in a potentially insecure screw connection and compromised sealing of the cylinder head cover. If engine oil comes into contact with hot parts of the engine, it can cause a fire. Owners are advised to be vigilant for signs of smoke in the engine compartment and to safely park their vehicle immediately if they notice any unusual odors or smoke.

The recall was prompted by customer complaints received by Audi in May 2023, which reported oil leaking from cylinder head covers of Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI vehicles. An investigation was launched, and a root cause analysis suggested that screws with burrs caused during the manufacturing process may have damaged the cylinder head cover surface, leading to oil leakage and potential torque reduction over time.

Despite implementing manufacturing improvements, Audi continued to monitor the field and recognized an increase in oil leak claims in early 2024. In response, the company issued a Technical Service Bulletin instructing dealers to inspect the cylinder head cover screws and replace any loose screws. Further analysis by the engine plant revealed the potential for improperly torqued cylinder head cover screws, leading Audi to review the screwing process with its supplier and implement changes.

However, despite these efforts, the U.S. market reported an increase in field claims of oil leakage and thermal event incidents between November and December 2024. Audi inspected and analyzed these cases, evaluating potential root causes and contributing factors. The company’s Product Safety Committee ultimately decided to conduct a safety recall for the affected vehicles on April 30, 2025.

To date, Audi has received 2,539 potentially related warranty claims of oil leaks in the U.S. and eleven thermal event cases. Early engine oil leaks can be difficult to detect, but advanced cases may be accompanied by an unpleasant odor or smoke in the engine compartment when the engine is hot.

To address the issue, dealers will inspect and replace the screws as necessary. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on July 8, 2025. The recall is identified by Audi’s number 15ZK and the NHTSA campaign number 25V-294. Owners of affected vehicles are advised to contact their local dealership for further information and to schedule an inspection and repair if necessary.

Hyundai Palisade Electric Oil Pump Issue

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Hyundai Motor America has announced a safety recall affecting a limited number of 2025 Hyundai Palisade vehicles due to a potential problem with the controller for the electric oil pump (EOP). The issue, which may cause an electrical short and increase the risk of a vehicle fire, is attributed to an insufficient seal on the EOP controller housing.

According to Hyundai, the problem was first identified in March 2025, when the company was notified of a potential issue involving the electric oil pump installed on a model year 2025 Palisade produced in Ulsan. An investigation revealed that a damaged spring in the tooling used during manufacturing may have compromised the hermetic sealing of the EOP controller housing, allowing moisture to accumulate on the printed circuit board and increasing the risk of electrical shorting.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was informed of the issue, and after reviewing the findings, Hyundai decided to conduct a safety recall of all affected model year 2025 Hyundai Palisade vehicles in the U.S. The recall aims to replace the EOP controller and associated wiring harness, if necessary, to prevent any potential fires.

Symptoms and Precautions

Drivers of affected vehicles may notice a burning or melting odor or an illumination of the Malfunction Indicator Light. While owners can continue driving their vehicles, Hyundai recommends parking them outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed as a precautionary measure.

Recall Remedy and Notification

Hyundai will notify all owners of the subject vehicles by first-class mail, instructing them to bring their vehicles to a Hyundai dealer for replacement of the EOP controller. The recall remedy is expected to begin on July 4, 2025. Owners can contact Hyundai’s customer service or visit the NHTSA website for more information on the recall.

The recall number assigned by Hyundai is 278, and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-291. Affected owners are encouraged to follow the instructions provided in the notification letter to ensure their vehicle is repaired promptly and safely.

In conclusion, while the electric oil pump issue affects only a small number of 2025 Hyundai Palisade vehicles, it is essential for owners to be aware of the potential problem and take necessary precautions to prevent any accidents. By following the recommended steps and cooperating with Hyundai’s recall efforts, owners can ensure their vehicle is safe to drive and minimize any risks associated with this issue.