loss of drive power – California Lemon Law blog

Owners of certain 2021-2025 Ford Bronco SUVs should be aware of a newly announced safety defect affecting the vehicle’s powertrain. Identified under NHTSA Campaign Number 26V-236, this issue impacts approximately 4,922 vehicles and centers around a potentially serious problem with the connection between the transmission and transfer case.

What’s the Problem?

The recall stems from a misalignment that can occur during previous service repairs involving the transmission or transfer case. If these components are not properly aligned when reassembled, it can lead to premature wear of critical internal splines, specifically the transmission output shaft splines and transfer case input splines.

Over time, this wear can reduce the ability of these parts to properly transfer power from the engine to the wheels.

Why This Matters

If the spline wear becomes severe, drivers may experience:

Loss of motive power while driving
Failure of the vehicle to properly engage “Park”
Vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not applied

These conditions significantly increase the risk of a crash, particularly if the issue occurs unexpectedly while driving or when the vehicle is parked on an incline.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Ford notes that affected drivers may notice early warning symptoms before a failure occurs, including:

Grinding noises
Clunking sounds
Unusual vibrations

If you’re experiencing any of these issues—especially after recent drivetrain service—it’s worth getting your vehicle checked immediately.

How Ford Discovered the Issue

Ford first flagged the problem in November 2025 after reviewing warranty claims on 2022–2023 Bronco models reporting noise, vibration, and drive engagement failures. By December, the issue was escalated internally, and a deeper investigation revealed similar cases across 2021-2025 models.

Engineers ultimately determined that improper alignment during past repairs was the root cause. Testing confirmed that even slight misalignment could reproduce the same wear patterns seen in failed components.

To address this, Ford updated its service procedures on February 26, 2026 to ensure proper alignment during repairs going forward.

How Many Vehicles Are Affected?

While nearly 5,000 vehicles in the U.S. had undergone relevant repairs prior to the updated procedures, only a small number of confirmed cases have been reported so far 26 vehicles globally as of March 2026.

What’s the Fix?

Dealers will:

Inspect the transmission-to-transfer case joint
Replace the transmission and/or transfer case if necessary

Recall Timeline

April 27, 2026: Interim notification letters sent to owners
July 2026 (anticipated): Final remedy available and follow-up letters sent

Ford has assigned this recall the internal number 26S26.

What Should You Do?

If you own a 2021–2025 Bronco:

Watch your mail for official recall notifications
Pay attention to any unusual drivetrain noises or behavior
Always use your parking brake when parked (especially on inclines)
Contact your local Ford dealer if you have concerns

Final Thoughts

This recall highlights how even routine service work can introduce issues if not performed precisely—especially in complex drivetrain systems. While the number of confirmed cases is relatively small, the potential safety risks make this an important issue for Bronco owners to take seriously.

Mercedes-Benz has determined that there is a safety defect affecting over 24,000 Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The problem is related to an issue with the drive shaft universal joint. This part plays a critical role in how power is delivered to your wheels, and when it fails, the consequences can be serious.

What Vehicles Are Affected?

This recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-216) applies to select 2018–2020 Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC models, including:

E-Class (Sedan, Wagon, Coupe, Cabriolet)
S-Class (Sedan, Coupe, Convertible)
Maybach S 560 4MATIC

Specifically, models like the E 400, E 450, S 450, S 560, and Maybach S 560 are included.

What’s the Problem?

Mercedes-Benz has identified that increased wear may occur in the universal joint (U-joint) on the drive shaft. This is due to insufficient production parameters from a supplier, which can lead to premature degradation over time.

The real issue begins when:

The U-joint loses lubrication.
Wear accelerates.
The joint can fracture under load.

At that point, the connection between the transfer case and front axle transmission may fail entirely.

Why This Matters (Safety Risk)

If the universal joint fails, the vehicle can experience a sudden loss of propulsion—meaning it may stop delivering power to the wheels without warning.

That creates a dangerous situation:

Loss of acceleration in traffic.
Reduced ability to maneuver.
Increased risk of a crash.

Mercedes-Benz notes that while some warning signs may appear, they are not guaranteed to be noticed before failure.

Warning Signs to Watch For

In some cases, drivers may notice early symptoms such as:

Unusual noises from underneath the vehicle.
Vibrations while driving, especially under acceleration.

However, these signs can be subtle—or completely absent—making this issue particularly concerning.

What Caused the Issue?

The root cause traces back to a supplier manufacturing process that did not meet optimal parameters. Over time, this can result in:

Improper wear patterns.
Reduced durability of the U-joint.
Increased likelihood of failure under normal driving conditions.

What Mercedes-Benz Will Do

Mercedes-Benz dealers will:

Inspect the drive shaft.
Replace it if necessary.
Perform all repairs free of charge.

This recall highlights how even a single component failure within the drivetrain can have major safety implications. If your vehicle is affected, it is worth addressing promptly—even if you have not noticed any symptoms. A quiet drivetrain today does not guarantee it will stay that way tomorrow. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed beginning June 2, 2026.

(Recall: SB-25-16-005 / NHTSA Campaign 25V-690)

If you own or are considering buying a 2025 Model 3 or 2026 Model Y from Tesla, there’s a safety issue you should know about. Certain vehicles built between early March and mid-August 2025 are affected by a battery pack contactor fault that may result in an unexpected loss of drive power. This article explains what the issue is, which vehicles are affected, what the risks are, and what owners should do next.

What is the issue?

Tesla has determined that certain 2025 Model 3 and 2026 Model Y vehicles are equipped with a battery pack contactor manufactured with an InTiCa solenoid that may have a poor coil termination connection.

If the contactor opens unexpectedly while the vehicle is in drive, the driver loses the ability to apply torque through the accelerator pedal, resulting in a loss of propulsion. This sudden loss of drive power could increase the risk of a collision.

There is no warning prior to the failure. However, when it occurs, the driver receives an immediate visual alert on the user interface instructing them to safely pull over.

Which vehicles are affected?

2025 Tesla Model 3 vehicles manufactured between March 8 and August 12, 2025.
2026 Tesla Model Y vehicles manufactured between March 15 and August 15, 2025.

Tesla estimates roughly 13,000 vehicles in total are affected, including around 5,000 Model 3s and nearly 8,000 Model Ys produced within those date ranges.

Timeline of Investigation & Recall

August 8, 2025: Tesla’s Field Reliability team began investigating service cases where vehicles were unable to enter drive and high coil resistance was detected in the pack contactor.
August 8 – September 26, 2025: Tesla collected contactors from the field and performed detailed failure analysis.
September 29 – October 2, 2025: Tesla reviewed the failure analysis results, along with repair and production records.
October 3, 2025: Tesla completed its investigation and determined the scope of affected vehicles, initiating a voluntary recall.
December 9, 2025: Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed to customers.

As of early October 2025, Tesla had identified 36 warranty claims and 26 field reports related to this issue, with no known injuries, collisions, or fatalities.

What is the remedy?

Tesla Service will correct the problem by replacing the high-voltage battery pack contactor. The updated parts do not include the defective InTiCa solenoid and have improved coil termination connections. The repair takes approximately one hour to complete, and Tesla will notify all affected owners by mail.

Why this matters

Safety risk

A sudden loss of propulsion without warning can be dangerous, especially when driving at highway speeds or in traffic. While no injuries have been reported, Tesla’s recall emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue promptly.

Financial and resale considerations

Unresolved recalls can affect resale value, financing, and insurance. Ensuring the recall repair is completed not only improves safety but also helps preserve the vehicle’s long-term value.

What owners should do if their Tesla vehicle is affected.

Schedule a service appointment through the Tesla app or by contacting your nearest Tesla Service Center.
Pay attention to alerts while driving. If a visual warning or loss of power occurs, pull over safely and contact Tesla support immediately.
Keep documentation of the recall repair for future reference or resale.
If buying used, confirm with the seller that any open recalls have been completed.

This recall serves as a reminder that even advanced electric vehicles like Tesla are not immune to hardware issues. While Tesla can often fix software defects through over-the-air updates, mechanical components such as contactors and solenoids require physical inspection and replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does this recall affect all 2025 Model 3 and 2026 Model Y vehicles?
A: No. Only vehicles built between March and August 2025 with the affected InTiCa solenoid contactor are included.

Q: My car feels fine — do I still need the repair?
A: Yes. The failure can occur without warning, so even if your car shows no symptoms, Tesla recommends completing the replacement.

Q: How long will the repair take?
A: The contactor replacement typically takes about one hour and is performed free of charge.

Q: Can I continue driving before the repair?
A: Tesla advises that owners continue driving normally but schedule service as soon as possible. If your vehicle shows a propulsion loss alert, pull over safely and contact Tesla.

Conclusion

If you drive a 2025 Tesla Model 3 or 2026 Model Y, this recall deserves your attention. The contactor defect can cause sudden loss of drive power, posing a potential safety risk. Tesla is replacing the affected parts at no cost to owners, with notifications beginning December 2025.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA US LLC) has identified a serious issue affecting certain 2022–2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) vehicles. A software error within the Hybrid Control Processor (HCP) can result in a sudden loss of drive power, creating potential safety risks for drivers and passengers.

What’s the Problem?

The issue stems from the Battery Pack Control Module (BPCM) microprocessor. In some vehicles, the microprocessor may become overloaded and reset. During specific reset events, the HCP may misinterpret signals from the BPCM, causing the system to incorrectly shut down propulsion.

This defect could lead to a loss of drive power while operating, increasing the risk of a crash if drivers are unable to maintain control of their vehicles.

When Were the Vehicles Built?

The suspect period began on July 23, 2021, when the faulty HCP software was introduced into production, and ended on August 29, 2025, when FCA placed affected vehicles under plant control. Engineering records and assembly plant data were used to define this production window.

Chronology of Events

The chronology of events surrounding the discovery of the software problem in certain 2022–2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) vehicles began on May 1, 2025, when FCA US LLC received a Preliminary Information Request from NHTSA’s Office of Defect Investigations, followed by FCA’s response on May 23, 2025. A supplemental request from NHTSA arrived on June 23, 2025, with FCA responding on July 14, 2025. Meanwhile, on June 24, 2025, FCA’s Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance (TSRC) team opened an investigation into loss of propulsion complaints in Jeep Grand Cherokee PHEVs. Between June and August 2025, FCA US TSRC worked with FCA US Engineering to review the issue, analyze possible failure modes, and identify the suspect vehicle population. By August 18, 2025, FCA had recorded 96 customer assistance records, 110 field reports, and 320 service records related to the issue, though no accidents or injuries had been reported. Finally, on August 28, 2025, FCA’s Vehicle Regulations Committee concluded that a defect affecting motor vehicle safety potentially exists in all affected vehicles.

Recall Information

Chrysler Recall Number: 73C
NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V-576
Affected Vehicles: Certain 2022–2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV)

At this time, the remedy is still under development. FCA US expects to begin mailing owner notification letters on October 23, 2025.

Final Thoughts

The Jeep Grand Cherokee PHEV recall highlights the challenges of integrating advanced hybrid technology with complex vehicle software systems. While no accidents or injuries have been reported, the risk of propulsion loss makes this a critical safety concern.

Owners are encouraged to stay informed, act quickly once notifications arrive, and ensure their vehicles are repaired as soon as the remedy becomes available.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into certain Ford Bronco and Maverick vehicles due to concerns with their electrical systems. The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation in January 2024 to investigate allegations of loss of motive power in model year 2021 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles.

What’s Happening?

In April 2024, Ford issued a safety recall (24V-267) covering 456,565 model year 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and model year 2022-2023 Ford Maverick vehicles. The recall addressed occurrences of loss of motive power resulting from sudden degradation of the 12V battery during the drive cycle. When the battery failure occurs, consumers may experience a complete loss of engine power without the ability to restart, accompanied by the loss of 12V accessories, including hazard lights.

The Remedy

The recall remedy consists of software updates to the body control module and powertrain control module, which were designed to provide improved detection of the 12V battery state of charge during the drive cycle and provide warning to consumers if the battery is degraded.

New Concerns Arise

Despite the recall, the ODI has since received 15 reports from vehicle owners describing loss of motive power incidents for model year 2021 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles that received the 24V-267 recall remedy. Consumers describe that prior to the loss of motive power, there were no warnings related to the 12V battery or vehicle electrical system. Additionally, multiple consumers reported that after the vehicle was towed to the dealership following the loss of motive power, the event was diagnosed to the 12V battery, and a battery replacement was the only required repair.

What’s Being Done About It?

The NHTSA has opened an investigation (RQ24014) to further examine this issue. The agency will review the data and determine if additional action is necessary to ensure public safety.

What to Do Next

If you own one of these vehicles and have experienced a loss of motive power, it’s crucial to:

File a report : Share your experience with the NHTSA by submitting a complaint on their website.
Stay informed : Keep an eye on this investigation and any updates from the manufacturer or the NHTSA.

Your safety is paramount, and staying proactive can help prevent potential electrical system failures and keep you safe on the road.

Key Facts

Affected Vehicles: Certain Ford Bronco and Maverick models (2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Ford Maverick)
Component: Electrical System
NHTSA Action Number: RQ24014
Opened From: November 15, 2024–Present

Low Oil Pressure Warning Ford Motor Company have identified a critical issue in certain 2024-2025 F-150, 2024 Expedition, and 2024 Lincoln Navigator vehicles equipped with the 3.5L GTDI engine. A misaligned engine cup plug has been found to potentially result in a rapid oil leak, posing serious safety risks.

The Problem: Misaligned Engine Cup Plug

The defect stems from a misalignment of the hydraulic press used to insert engine cup plugs into the cylinder head bore during assembly. This misalignment, approximately 1.5 mm off center, distorts the cup plug, reducing its retention within the bore. This defect may result in:

Rapid Oil Leak: A misaligned plug can cause sudden, large-volume oil loss.
Increased Fire Risk: Oil leaks in the presence of hot engine or exhaust components may lead to a fire.
Loss of Motive Power: A sudden loss of oil can result in reduced engine performance or a complete loss of motive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Warning Signs for Customers

Drivers of affected vehicles may notice several warning signs, including:

Low Oil Pressure Warning: A warning light on the instrument cluster.
Burning Smell or Smoke: White smoke or a burning odor from the engine compartment.
Oil Leak or Engine Noise: Visible oil leakage or unusual noises from the engine.

Discovery and Investigation

The issue first came to Ford’s attention in October 2024 during a vehicle evaluation at the Kansas City Assembly Plant. A 2024 F-150 equipped with the 3.5L GTDI engine experienced a significant oil leak caused by the expulsion of a 13mm engine cup plug on the exhaust side.

Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) conducted an investigation and tear down analysis. They found no damage to the cylinder head bore but discovered that the cup plug was off center. The misalignment was traced back to maintenance work on the cylinder head assembly line at the Cleveland Engine Plant between September 9, 2024, and September 16, 2024. Other stations were confirmed to have proper alignment.

Field Action and Customer Notification

As of October 30, 2024, Ford has not received any warranty claims or field reports from customers regarding this issue. However, the company is taking measures to ensure customer safety:

Field Action Approval: Ford’s Field Review Committee approved the recall on November 1, 2024.
Dealer Inspections and Repairs: Dealers will inspect the cup plug alignment and replace any misaligned plugs.
Customer Notifications: Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed by December 2, 2024.

Recall Details

Ford Recall Number: 24S70
NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V-851

Next Steps for Vehicle Owners

Ford advises owners of the affected 2024-2025 F-150, 2024 Expedition, and 2024 Lincoln Navigator vehicles to monitor for any signs of the defect and to schedule an inspection with their dealer once notified. This precautionary recall aims to address the issue and ensure vehicle safety and reliability.

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a popular choice for families and adventurers alike, known for its spacious design, modern features, and reasonable price point. However, recent models (2021-2024) have experienced a series of issues that have frustrated owners and raised safety concerns. These common problems affect Santa Fe vehicles with GDI engines.

Common Issues Affecting the 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

Fuel Injector Problems Leading to Stalling
A major concern for many Santa Fe owners is the vehicle’s fuel injector system. Faulty fuel injectors can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, especially in models with GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engines. These issues have led to numerous complaints of the vehicle stalling while driving, creating hazardous situations on busy roads.
Loss of Power
Some owners report a sudden loss of power while driving, particularly when accelerating or maintaining speed on the highway. This loss of power can be alarming and dangerous, especially in situations where acceleration is necessary, such as merging or overtaking. Many drivers have reported that their Santa Fe either stalls entirely or hesitates significantly before regaining power, often triggering check engine or warning lights.
Persistent Check Engine Light
For Santa Fe models across 2021-2024, the check engine light has become a frequent visitor. Many owners report that the light comes on without clear resolution, even after multiple trips to the dealership. While the check engine light could signify any number of issues, the combination of repeated lights and related powertrain issues has led to frustration and concerns about reliability.

Complaints and Recalls for Each Model Year

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

Owners of the 2021 model have raised concerns about fuel system problems, including fuel leaks at the pipe connection and improperly tightened fuel pipes. Powertrain complaints are also prevalent, with owners describing issues such as failure to accelerate and hesitation while driving. Recalls include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard: Due to water accumulation, an electrical short could lead to a fire.
Loss of Drive Power: A transmission oil pump malfunction can cause total power loss.
Inadequate Windshield Bonding: Improper bonding during manufacturing may cause the windshield to detach in a crash.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2022 Santa Fe has seen similar powertrain issues, with some owners reporting a sudden inability to accelerate and warning lights like “Check Hybrid System.” The “phantom braking” issue has also emerged, where the emergency braking system activates without reason, nearly causing accidents. Recalls for the 2022 model include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
Loss of Drive Power
Turbocharger Oil Supply Pipe Leak: A cracked oil supply pipe could lead to leaks in the engine compartment.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

In the 2023 plug-in hybrid models, forward collision avoidance issues have led to abrupt braking in traffic. Complaints also include poor acceleration response, with significant delay or lag from the time the accelerator is pressed to when the vehicle actually moves. Key recalls include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
Seat Belt Pretensioners May Explode: This recall affects the front seat belt pretensioners, which may explode upon deployment in a crash.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

For the latest 2024 model, powertrain and electrical issues are significant. Some drivers report the vehicle losing motive power and experiencing flickering dashboard screens. Complaints include blacked-out instrument panels, “Transmission System Check” warnings, and persistent audio issues that continue even when the vehicle is off. Recalls for this model include:

Unintentional Airbag Deployment or Deactivation: Damaged wiring harnesses can lead to unintended airbag activation or deactivation.
Vehicle Roll Away from Software Error: A transmission software error may result in a roll-away when the vehicle is parked.
Obstructed Rear-View Camera Image: A trailer parking assist message may obstruct the rear-view camera, violating rear visibility standards.

Should You Be Concerned?

These issues have led to frustration for many Hyundai Santa Fe owners. If you’re experiencing any of the above problems, it’s essential to address them promptly for your safety. Keep an eye out for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Hyundai, and report any persistent issues to your dealer.

What’s Next?

The 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offers many attractive features but has also faced considerable challenges, particularly with its powertrain and fuel injector systems. If you’re dealing with ongoing issues, it’s crucial to know your rights, especially if repairs have been ineffective. Lemon laws may protect you if your vehicle has recurring problems that affect its performance or safety. Consider consulting with a lemon law professional to discuss options if repairs haven’t resolved the issue.

Owning a car should be about convenience and freedom – not worry over performance and safety. If you’re having trouble with your Santa Fe, stay informed, stay safe, and know your options.

In recent years, advancements in automotive technology have led to increasingly sophisticated control systems within vehicles, aimed at enhancing performance, efficiency, and safety. However, with these advancements come the potential for unforeseen challenges and issues to arise.

One such challenge has been identified in certain models of Ford vehicles, specifically the 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and the 2022-2023 Ford Maverick. The concern centers around the failure of the body control module (BCM) and powertrain control module (PCM) to accurately detect changes in the state of charge of the 12-volt battery. This oversight has significant implications, as it could result in a loss of drive power, thereby increasing the risk of accidents and compromising the safety of both drivers and passengers.

The issue first came to light in October 2023, when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of Defects Investigation (NHTSA ODI) initiated an inquiry following reports of loss of motive power (LOMP) and subsequent loss of 12-volt accessories in 2021 model year Bronco Sport vehicles. Upon receiving 29 potentially relevant Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) from NHTSA, Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) promptly launched an investigation to delve deeper into the matter.

Subsequent testing and analysis revealed a fundamental flaw in the BCM and PCM calibrations, rendering them incapable of accurately detecting battery failure in the affected vehicles. This deficiency becomes particularly pronounced during instances where the alternator struggles to meet the electrical load demand or during Auto Stop-Start events. As a result, drivers may experience unexpected loss of drive power, posing a serious safety hazard.

In response to these findings, Ford’s Field Review Committee took decisive action and authorized a vehicle recall to address the underlying issue. Under the recall, authorized dealerships will undertake corrective measures by re-calibrating the BCM and PCM to ensure accurate monitoring of the 12-volt battery state of charge. The recall process is expected to commence soon, with owner notification letters slated to be mailed out on May 13, 2024.

However, the implications of this issue extend beyond the immediate safety concerns. Ford acknowledges a significant number of warranty reports, field reports, and customer complaints related to this issue, totalling 917, 11, and 54 respectively. Moreover, there have been alarming reports of three unverified incidents of fire and two property damage claims allegedly linked to this concern. These statistics underscore the urgency of addressing the issue promptly and comprehensively.

In light of these developments, Ford has assigned a unique recall number, 24S24, and the corresponding NHTSA campaign number is 24V-267.