Tag Archives: break fluid leak

Brake Pressure Switch Short May Cause Fire In Chevy Trucks

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General Motors. LLC (GM) has decided that a problem exists in certain 2019-2023 Chevrolet 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD medium-duty trucks. The brake pressure sensor assembly could leak brake fluid into the brake pressure switch and cause an electrical short circuit.

GM opened an investigation in August 2022 following reports of a vehicle fire on a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado medium-duty truck. As part of that investigation, GM reviewed field data potentially related to the problem and warranty returned brake pressure sensors.

While a series of tests failed to duplicate the condition, in January, a warranty-returned sensor and harness were identified as exhibiting signs of heat damage. This part was subjected to more detailed analysis, including X-ray scans and a chemistry laboratory analysis. The results from these analyses revealed the presence of brake fluid past the diaphragm seal, into the brake pressure switch, and through the actual wire harness into the pump’s fuse circuit. An inspection of the returned components also revealed delamination of the corrosion-inhibiting sealant, which allowed slow seepage of the brake fluid past the diaphragm seal.

According to the defect report, a zinc-nickel plating and sealant used to inhibit corrosion within the pressure sensor assembly may cause delamination of the sealant which results in small fragments of sealer underneath the diaphragm during assembly which allows brake fluid to slowly seep past the seal and into the pressure switch. The brake fluid may seep into the sensor’s electrical components and short the brake pressure switch and the associated fuse. If brake fluid shorts the brake pressure switch and the fuse, the circuit can generate enough heat and could result in a fire. An under-hood fire may occur when the vehicle is off and possibly unattended.

Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the master cylinder pressure sensor and inspect the wire harness. If the harness is damaged, it will be replaced as well. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed on May 29, 2023. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. GM’s number for this recall is N222375270 and the NHTSA campaign number is 23V-266.

Ford And Lincoln Vehicles Investigated For Brake Hose Ruptures

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Automotive Defect Investigation The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is continuing to investigate certain Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans for front brake hoses that could prematurely rupture.

The vehicles under investigation include:

2013-2018 Ford Fusion
2013-2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid
2013-2018 Lincoln MKZ
2013-2018 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

In August 2020, Ford issued a safety recall (NHTSA campaign number 20V-469) for certain 2015-2018 Ford Edge and 2016-2018 Lincoln MKX vehicles, because these vehicles were experiencing premature brake hose (jounce hoses) rupturing. The investigation that led to the recall found that the problem was due to localized failures of the internal reinforcement braid because of cyclic fatigue during suspension and steering movement. The recalled part was introduced into Ford Edge production on June 25, 2014, and was taken out of production on December 21, 2017. The recall had dealers replacing both front brake jounce hoses with a newly revised braid material and performing a brake system bleed.

The ODI has continued to receive complaints alleging front brake hose failures on 2013-2018 Ford Fusion and 2013-2018 Lincoln MKZ vehicles that were not included in the Safety Recall (20V-469). Customer complaints allege the brake hoses are rupturing and leaking brake fluid, with little to no warning. The leaked brake fluid can cause drivers to experience a soft brake pedal, increased pedal travel, and/or extended braking distances. The ODI has received over 50 complaints related to this problem. One complaint alleged a crash as the result of a failed brake hose.

Lemon laws are state and federal laws that provide protection for consumers who buy or lease cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles and other consumer goods. The goal of such lemon laws is to provide compensation to consumers for defective products that fail to meet the standards of quality and performance asserted in manufacturers’ warranties.

If your vehicle is experiencing repeated problems like the ones listed above, it could be a Lemon. Know your Lemon Law Rights. If you have any questions about your rights and the California Lemon Law, please call our office at 1-888-395-3666 and get some great Lemon Law advice!

Ford Escape And Lincoln MKC Brake Fluid Leaks

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Ford is asking the owners of certain 2018 Ford Escape and 2018 Lincoln MKC vehicles to return to their dealership for a problem affecting the brakes. According to the defect report, incorrect front brake jounce hoses may have been installed and could contact adjacent components during normal driving conditions. This could result in premature wear of the hoses and a potential brake fluid leak. Loss of brake fluid will increase the distance needed to stop the vehicle. Drivers will be alerted of a problem through an illuminated brake fluid warning light.

Dealers will inspect the brake hoses, replacing incorrect ones as necessary. Owners wanting more information about the problem can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 18S04 and the NHTSA campaign number is 18V-104.