Tag Archives: repeated automobile problems

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.

Tesla Cybertruck Recall: Exterior Trim May Fly Off While Driving

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If you’ve recently purchased a Tesla Cybertruck, you’re probably enjoying the attention it brings — but there’s something new owners need to be aware of. Tesla has issued a recall affecting about 46,000 2024-2025 Cybertrucks due to a faulty exterior trim panel that could detach while driving.

This isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s a real safety issue and could raise serious Lemon Law concerns here in California.

What’s the defect?

The problem lies in a trim piece along the windshield, called the cantrail panel. Tesla says it may have been attached using the wrong adhesive. As a result, the panel could come loose and separate from the vehicle while you’re on the road.

If you’ve already noticed unusual wind noise or seen Cybertruck owners post about missing trim — this might explain it.

What’s Tesla doing about it?

Tesla has already started performing repairs, which involve replacing the entire cantrail assembly. Owners aren’t expected to pay out of pocket for the fix, but the availability of parts — and service appointments — can vary widely.

Why Lemon Law applies here in California

Tesla has had a mixed track record when it comes to customer service and timely repairs. If this defect has left your vehicle in the shop for a long period, or if your Cybertruck has other unresolved issues, you could be protected under California’s Lemon Law.

You may qualify if:

  • You’ve experienced repeated or serious safety-related issues
  • Tesla can’t fix the defect within a reasonable number of attempts
  • Your vehicle has been out of service for 30+ total days under warranty

It doesn’t matter if your truck is new or leased — what matters is whether it’s safe, reliable, and performing the way it should.

What you can do right now:

  • Check your paperwork to see if you’ve already reported trim or body issues
  • Schedule your repair as soon as possible — and keep all documentation
  • If you’ve already had problems with build quality or multiple repair visits, it may be time to explore your legal options

Don’t assume you have to live with poor fit and finish. California law is on your side, and in most cases, you can pursue a Lemon Law claim without paying anything out of pocket. If your Cybertruck has already spent more time in the shop than on the road, let’s talk. You may be entitled to a replacement or refund — and we can walk you through what that looks like. Call Now for a FREE Case Review at 888-395-3666 or fill in the contact form at the top of the page. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – take action today to protect your rights as a California consumer!

Lincoln Aviator Battery Short

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According to Ford’s records, certain 2020-2021 Aviator vehicles were recorded as having the repair successfully completed, but may still be at risk due to the incorrect software installation. If the correct software update remedy is not installed on the vehicle, the manufacturing defect can cause a lower capacity cell to develop an internal short circuit, leading to a battery power off and potentially resulting in a vehicle fire.

The issue was first brought to Ford’s attention in November 2024, when an audit revealed insufficient data to confirm correct software application across all field service actions (FSAs) using the FDRS service tool. A team was formed to investigate further and created templates to track software lineage part numbers. In December 2024, Ford informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the concern and discussed a plan to address the mismatched vehicles. After conducting an audit, it was found that 99.3% of the repairs conducted under recall 23S53 had the correct software installed. However, they identified specific vehicles that were recorded as receiving the remedy but still had software that did not address the safety risk.

To rectify the situation, Ford has approved a field action and will update the Battery Energy Control Module software for the affected vehicles. The company is not aware of any reports of accidents or injuries related to this condition. Dealers will correct the problem by updating the software with the correct version.

The recall number for this issue is 25S58, and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-349. If you own a 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicle equipped with a 3.0L PHEV engine, and you receive a recall notice, contact your dealer for repairs to ensure your safety on the road.

Braking Safety Concern In 2025 Nissan And Infiniti Vehicles

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Nissan has issued a recall for certain 2025 model year Murano, Pathfinder, and Infiniti QX60 vehicles due to a potential braking safety issue. The problem affects the front brake caliper assemblies, which may have reduced strength and could break, leading to reduced braking performance.

The issue was discovered in January 2025 during a routine production brake test on a 2025 Nissan Pathfinder. A technician reported a failure of the front right-hand brake caliper assembly, prompting Nissan to quarantine the defective part and launch an investigation. Further analysis revealed that the suspect brake caliper had been produced with a common supplier production lot code (51A), which was found to have an inadvertent modification to an internal parameter setting. This modification reduced the material’s strength, making it more prone to failure.

The supplier’s investigation confirmed that a total of 3,115 caliper castings were produced in the affected lot and shipped to Nissan for assembly into vehicles. Through traceability records, Nissan identified 2,341 vehicles that may have received a potentially affected brake caliper. Of these vehicles, 711 were held for inspection, while 200 had been exported and 1,430 had previously been shipped to the US.

According to Nissan, if one or both of the front brake calipers fail, it can result in reduced braking performance and may not comply with certain performance requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 135. This could increase the risk of a crash, particularly if drivers are unable to stop their vehicles in time. Affected customers may notice uneven braking performance, and the “Low Brake Fluid” warning light may illuminate in certain cases.

To address the issue, Nissan will be recalling affected vehicles and asking owners to return to their dealerships for an inspection and replacement of the front brake caliper assemblies as necessary. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on May 9, 2025. The recall is identified as Nissan’s numbers PD137 and PD138, and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-173. This issue highlights the importance of rigorous testing and quality control measures in ensuring the safety of vehicles on the road.

NHTSA Investigates Engine Failure in GM Trucks And SUVs

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A shocking number of complaints has prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to launch a safety probe into engine failure reports affecting approximately 870,000 Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac models manufactured by General Motors (GM). The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received a staggering 39 complaints, accompanied by numerous Early Warning Reporting (EWR) Field Reports, all pointing to engine failure in vehicles equipped with the L87 V8 engine.

Which Vehicles Are Affected?

The following models are under scrutiny:

  • 2019-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • 2019-2024 GMC Sierra 1500
  • 2021-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe
  • 2021-2024 Chevrolet Suburban
  • 2021-2024 GMC Yukon
  • 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade

The Alarming Reality of Engine Failure

Complainants have reported a disturbing trend: a bearing failure can trigger either engine seizure or a catastrophic breach of the engine block by the connecting rod. In many cases, there are no warning signs before the failure occurs, resulting in a sudden and unexpected loss of power. This increases the risk of a crash, which can lead to devastating consequences, including injuries and property damage.

NHTSA Takes Action

In response to these disturbing reports, the ODI has initiated a Preliminary Evaluation (PE) to determine the scope and severity of the potential problem. The investigation aims to assess the safety-related issues associated with engine failure and identify any necessary corrective actions to prevent future incidents.

What California Drivers Need to Know

If you’re behind the wheel of one of these affected vehicles, it’s crucial to be aware of this potential issue. Engine failure can be a significant safety concern, especially when driving at high speeds. Don’t wait until it’s too late – stay informed and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Seeking Help from a California Lemon Law Expert

If you’re experiencing engine problems or other issues with your Chevy, GMC, or Cadillac vehicle, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced California Lemon Law attorneys. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the complex process and determine if you’re eligible for compensation or relief under the law. If you have concerns about your vehicle or would like to report an incident, consult with a California Lemon Law attorney for expert guidance and support.

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Issues: Could Your Vehicle Be a Lemon?

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The 2024 Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is facing serious concerns from owners, with a reported 130 complaints, 10 recalls, and 303 manufacturer communications. As this model hits the market, many drivers are voicing their frustration over problems that range from safety-critical issues to major mechanical failures. The list of concerns brings into question whether some of these vehicles could qualify for a buyback under California’s Lemon Law. Here’s an in-depth look at the problems plaguing the 2024 CX-90 PHEV.

Top Complaints About the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

Consumer reports and complaints have highlighted four major areas of concern: forward collision avoidance, engine performance, electrical systems, and steering. These issues are not just minor inconveniences; they could pose significant safety hazards for drivers and passengers.

  1. Forward Collision Avoidance: Numerous drivers have reported malfunctioning collision-avoidance systems, with false positives causing the brakes to activate unexpectedly. The risk of being rear-ended due to this sudden and unnecessary braking is a valid concern, especially on busy roads or highways.
  2. Engine Issues: Many drivers have experienced engine problems, with some vehicles failing to restart after the i-stop feature engages, and others reporting a complete shutdown while in motion. This kind of unreliability in the engine system poses a clear danger, especially at high speeds.
  3. Electrical Problems: Complaints about electrical malfunctions are widespread. The Dash Electrical Supply Unit (ESU) has been known to fail, affecting vital functions like the defroster, seat belt warnings, and battery cooling systems. Given the reliance of PHEVs on complex electrical systems, these issues are alarming and inconvenient.
  4. Steering Concerns: A sudden loss of power steering assist is a particularly dangerous defect, making it difficult for drivers to control the vehicle. This kind of failure can occur without warning, putting both the driver and surrounding traffic at risk.

Recalls Highlight Safety and Reliability Concerns

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV has been subject to a staggering 10 recalls, indicating widespread problems that extend beyond individual cases. Here are some of the most notable recalls:

  • Engine Restart Failures: The i-stop feature, which automatically shuts off the engine to save fuel when idling, may prevent the engine from restarting, leading to potential stranding.
  • High-Voltage Battery Cooling System Issues: Faulty software in the ESU may lead to critical functions, including battery cooling and safety alerts, failing during startup.
  • PCM and ECM Software Malfunctions: Problems with the powertrain and engine control modules can illuminate warning lights and result in a sudden loss of drive power.
  • Inverter Software Errors: In plug-in hybrid models, improper software may lead to a total power loss when driving in electric mode.
  • Sudden Braking: The automatic braking system has a tendency to activate unexpectedly, posing a serious collision risk.
  • Power Steering Failures: An assembly issue with the worm gear can cause power steering assist to be lost without warning, making the vehicle difficult to steer.
  • Camera Malfunctions: Rear view and side cameras may not display properly due to software errors, which is a clear safety compliance issue.
  • Unexpected Engine and Motor Shutdown: Critical errors in the hybrid system software can cause both the engine and electric motor to shut down unexpectedly.
  • Pedestrian Warning Sounds: Missing software in the AVAS amplifier can result in incorrect pedestrian alert sounds, failing to meet federal safety standards for hybrid and electric vehicles.

California Lemon Law: What You Need to Know

California has some of the strongest Lemon Law protections for consumers. If your vehicle has repeated, unresolved problems that impair its use, safety, or value, you may be entitled to a buyback or replacement. Under the California Lemon Law, a car manufacturer must either replace your vehicle or refund your money if they cannot fix a substantial defect within a reasonable number of attempts.

So, what counts as a substantial defect? Issues that compromise your safety or significantly impact the car’s performance typically qualify. For instance, if your 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV loses power while driving, suddenly engages the brakes, or suffers from major electrical failures, these could be considered substantial defects.

If you’ve taken your vehicle in for multiple repairs for the same issue without a permanent fix, you might have grounds for a Lemon Law claim. It’s important to keep detailed records of all service visits, recall repairs, and communication with Mazda to strengthen your case.

Next Steps for Owners

If you’re dealing with repeated, unresolved issues with your 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV, consulting with a Lemon Law attorney can help clarify your options. California’s Lemon Law is designed to protect you from being stuck with a faulty vehicle. Given the ongoing recalls and widespread complaints, many owners may find themselves in a position to take advantage of these consumer protections.

Porsche Taycan Potential Battery Fire

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Certain Porsche Taycan models from 2021 to 2024 may face issues with their high-voltage batteries, specifically the potential for short circuits within the battery modules. These short circuits could result in thermal events, including the risk of overheating or even fires in extreme cases. The root cause of this issue has been traced back to potential manufacturing problems from the battery supplier, which, in rare instances, increase the likelihood of internal short circuits.

This latest recall builds on earlier recalls that were issued for similar battery-related problems, namely 23V-840 (manufacturer recall code APB5), 24V-215 (code ARA4), and 24V-217 (code ARA5). Porsche has been using data analytics and conducting hardware tests to better understand the extent of the issue. On September 23, 2024, the company determined that additional Taycan vehicles might be at risk due to potential battery defects, even though no confirmed data anomalies have been identified in these vehicles so far. As a result, Porsche launched a new recall with the identification codes ARB6 and ARB7.

Breakdown of ARB6 and ARB7 Recalls

  • ARB6: This recall covers a group of vehicles for which Porsche does not have enough data to determine whether there are issues with the high-voltage batteries. Since there isn’t sufficient information, Porsche is taking precautionary measures. Owners of vehicles in this group will receive a notification advising them to limit their battery’s charging capacity to a maximum of 80%. This is intended as a temporary solution while further analysis is conducted to either confirm the presence of battery anomalies or clear the vehicle of any issues. This interim step is designed to reduce the risk of thermal events while Porsche continues its investigation.
  • ARB7: In contrast, ARB7 applies to a set of vehicles for which Porsche has gathered sufficient battery data, and current diagnostics show no data anomalies in the high-voltage battery. As a result, there is no need to restrict battery charging for these vehicles to 80%. What sets this group apart is that these vehicles allow Porsche to continuously monitor the battery health via over-the-air updates. This real-time data monitoring enables Porsche to detect any future battery module issues quickly. If an anomaly is detected later, Porsche will notify owners, replace the affected battery module, and advise them to limit charging to 80% until the replacement is completed.

As part of this recall process, Porsche is implementing a series of steps to address the potential battery issues:

  • For ARB6 Vehicles: Owners are advised to cap their battery charging at 80% until a more permanent solution is available. This is purely a precautionary measure while Porsche continues to analyze the vehicles and gather more data on the potential risks.
  • For ARB7 Vehicles: Since Porsche already has access to these vehicles’ battery data via over-the-air diagnostics, there is no need for an 80% charging limit unless future data shows a problem. Porsche’s real-time monitoring will automatically detect any battery module anomalies. Should a problem arise, the company will issue a notification to the owner, and the affected battery modules will be replaced. In the meantime, Porsche will advise affected owners to limit charging to 80% as a safeguard.

For both ARB6 and ARB7, the final remedy will involve installing an advanced on-board diagnostic software on all affected vehicles. This software will be capable of detecting potential battery anomalies before they become serious. However, before this software is installed, Porsche will conduct an analysis of the battery modules in each vehicle. If the analysis shows that no problems are present, the software will be installed immediately. If the analysis detects any issues, Porsche will replace the faulty battery module(s) before proceeding with the installation of the diagnostic software.

Once the new on-board diagnostic software is installed, it will continuously monitor the vehicle’s high-voltage battery using advanced data analytics. If the software detects an anomaly in any of the battery modules, it will send a warning message to the vehicle’s head unit, alerting the driver. In this case, the battery’s charging capacity will be automatically limited in stages: first to 80%, and eventually to a lower limit, likely around 50%, depending on the severity of the detected anomaly. This stepwise reduction in charging capacity helps prevent thermal events and gives the driver time to seek service. If necessary, Porsche will replace the affected battery modules to restore the vehicle’s full functionality. Since the battery consists of multiple modules, it is possible that different modules could show issues at different times, requiring multiple replacements over the vehicle’s lifetime.

Porsche plans to roll out this advanced diagnostic software as the final remedy in the first quarter of 2025. In the meantime, dealers will be prepared to install interim software and address any battery concerns as they arise. Owners of affected vehicles will receive notification letters starting on November 29, 2024. These letters will provide detailed instructions on what steps to take next and how to proceed with repairs or updates.

The recall numbers for this issue are ARB6 and ARB7. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned campaign numbers 24V-731 and 24V-732 to these recalls. These recalls build on and replace the earlier recalls 23V-840, 24V-215, and 24V-217, expanding the affected vehicle population as Porsche continues its investigation.

Ford And Lincoln Engine Intake Valves May Break

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Ford Motor Company (Ford) have discovered a defect affecting certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.

The following vehicle models are affected by this recall:

2021-2022 Ford Bronco
2021-2022 Ford Edge
2021-2022 Ford Explorer
2021-2022 Ford F-150
2021-2022 Lincoln Aviator
2021-2022 Ford Bronco

In January 2022, an investigation was opened into certain 2021 Lincoln Aviator and Nautilus vehicles equipped with 2.7L and 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engines after 22 instances of engine failure were reported within three months of service. The issue involved left-hand engine intake valve fractures, which led to catastrophic engine damage and Loss of Motive Power (LOMP). A tear down analysis confirmed intake valve fractures in 251 engines from warranty repairs.

Ford traced the problem to intake valves exceeding the hardness specification due to faulty grinding processes by the supplier. The intake valve material was changed for vehicles produced after October 31, 2021, to improve robustness.

On May 5, 2022, Ford opened an internal investigation into early intake valve fractures, and on May 27, 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began its own investigation after receiving reports from Ford Bronco owners. NHTSA expanded the scope of the investigation in July 2022.

On September 29, 2023, NHTSA expanded their investigation to include all 2021 and 2022 Ford/Lincoln models with 2.7L and 3.0L engines. As of August 9, 2024, Ford reported 811 global warranty claims and 267 field reports related to fractured intake valves. On August 16, 2024, Ford’s Field Review Committee approved a field action to address the issue.

Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 7, 2024. Ford’s number for this recall is 24S55 and the NHTSA campaign number is 24V-635.