Tesla’s ‘actual Smart Summon’ issues spark investigation
The FBI is investigating nearly 2.6 million Tesla vehicles after crashes while using "Actually Smart Summon." January 8, 2025 — Tesla’s “de facto Smart Summon” issues have prompted a federal investigation into the feature, which allows users to drive their vehicles remotely using a phone app. Tesla offers Smart Summon and Actual Smart Summon, which can bring the vehicle to the user or another location, such as a parking lot. But according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, problems have been reported when using Actual Smart Summon. The survey included nearly 2.6 million Tesla vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving: 2016-2025 Tesla Model S 2016-2025 Tesla Model X 2017-2025 Tesla Model 3 2020-2025 Tesla Model Y According to NHTSA, "actual Smart Summon" issues include sessions that result in collisions with other vehicles and objects (such as posts), including situations where the user does not have sufficient time to react due to vehicle proximity or line of sight. An Actual Smart…
Mitsubishi Outlander hood shudder lawsuit suspended
The class action lawsuit alleges that the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander hood bounces and vibrates while driving. December 29, 2024 — A Mitsubishi Outlander hood shudder lawsuit is on hold as a mediator intervenes in the class action lawsuit, which was consolidated from two Mitsubishi hood class actions. A joint class action lawsuit alleges that 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander hoods vibrate and bounce while driving, an issue the automaker allegedly cannot fully fix. According to the class-action lawsuit, Mitsubishi knew about the 2022 Outlander SUV's hood shudder problem before the vehicle was first sold. A recall is needed for 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander models with a shuddering hood, according to an SUV owner who filed a lawsuit. The plaintiffs claim Mitsubishi should have recalled the 2022 Outlander soon after it was first sold. Instead, the lawsuit claims, Mitsubishi Outlander hoods have not been recalled because the automaker has issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) to dealers. TSB 21-42A-011 addresses customer complaints of a…
Ford Focus carbon canister purge valve investigation concluded
Ford Focus Customer Satisfaction Program 24N07 replaces the canister purge valve. December 24, 2024 — Ford Focus Canister Purge Valve Customer Satisfaction Program 24N07 A federal investigation into two Focus recalls has been closed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched an investigation more than a year ago over problems with the 2012-2018 Ford Focus vehicles. Even though Ford has issued two Focus recalls ( here and here ), NHTSA has received about 100 complaints about 2012-2018 Focus vehicles losing power. Ford said an open purge valve could cause excessive vacuum in the fuel vapor management system. This can collapse the tank, causing a variety of problems. Even with the recall, problems continued a year after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched a recall investigation into the Ford Focus. Ford has developed the Focus Canister Purge Valve Customer Satisfaction Program 24N07 for 2012-2018 vehicles equipped with 2.0L GDI and GTDI engines. But this time, the fix was for a…
GM truck tailgate recall affects 150,000 HD trucks
The recall affects Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, Silverado 3500 HD, GMC Sierra 2500 HD, and 3500 HD trucks. December 3, 2024 — General Motors' truck tailgate recall affects 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD, 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 2024 GMC Sierra 3500 HD trucks. The GM tailgate recall includes 150,000 trucks equipped with power-unlocking tailgates with electronic tailgate release switches that could short out due to water intrusion. The truck tailgate may open incorrectly when the vehicle is in the parked position. The GM truck tailgate recall is an extension of the power tailgate recall GM issued in February. "In some cases, water may penetrate the tailgate of these vehicles and come into contact with the electronic door release switch, potentially causing a short circuit. The door may open inadvertently while the vehicle is parked." In July, General Motors became aware of complaints about 2024 Sierra 3500 HD tailgates opening and striking trailers attached…
Tesla Cybertruck recalled due to drive inverter problem
Tesla has recalled its Cybertruck after complaints that the truck's wheels were losing power. November 14, 2024 — The 2024 Tesla Cybertruck recall involves more than 2,400 trucks with a risk of losing power to the wheels due to a faulty drive inverter. Tesla launched an investigation in August after receiving complaints about 2024 Cybertruck wheels losing power. In October, engineers determined that drive inverters were experiencing an increase in failure rates. If there is a problem with the inverter, electric truck drivers will receive a warning to get off the road. The automaker has received five warranty claims but no crashes or injuries reported. Starting around December 9, 2024, Tesla will replace the Cybertruck drive inverter. However, Cybertruck recall letters will not be sent out until January 2025. Tesla Cybertruck owners with questions are asked to call 877-798-3752 and refer to drive inverter recall number SB-24-40-009.
Volkswagen ID.4 door handle recall investigation concluded
Volkswagen ID.4 door handle recall does not prevent doors from opening while driving November 7, 2024 — Volkswagen ID.4 door handle recall has convinced federal regulators to end an investigation into previous ID.4 door handle recalls. The 2021-2023 Volkswagen ID.4 SUV is being recalled due to doors suddenly opening while driving. These vehicles are being recalled due to water damage to the ID.4 door handle's circuit board. However, the Volkswagen ID.4 doors continue to open even after the dealer allegedly repaired the door handles. Additionally, the ID.4 door handles on vehicles not included in the recall are also malfunctioning. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched an investigation and received 17 complaints about ID.4 doors opening, and Volkswagen submitted 190 complaints to NHTSA about door handle failures. In September 2024, Volkswagen issued another ID.4 door handle recall plan, expanding the scope of the previous recall to all 2021-2024 Volkswagen ID.4 SUVs. Dealers were told to replace all four door handle…
Investigation into 2019 Ford Flex backup camera issues
2019 Ford Flex owners are complaining that the rearview camera image is blank or upside down. October 27, 2024 — A problem with the 2019 Ford Flex's backup camera has prompted complaints from owners, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched a federal investigation. Owners of 2019 Ford Flex vehicles have submitted approximately 24 reports of backup camera issues and malfunctions. According to NHTSA, 2019 Ford Flex drivers have complained that the backup camera image appears blank or distorted. Some Ford Flex owners told the government that the backup camera image appears upside down when the vehicle is reversed. Two examples from 2019 Ford Flex owners. "The view from the rear backup camera is upside down. Tried various remedies (resetting and disconnecting the battery) to fix the problem but when the vehicle is put in the backup camera the view is upside down. Dealer says the camera needs to be replaced and software, but no replacement is covered…
Recall: 2024 GMC Canyon flashing headlights
About 15,500 trucks have headlights that flash when they are parked or driving. October 26, 2024 — The 2024 GMC Canyon recall involves more than 15,500 trucks whose headlights may flash while driving and while parked. GM says one or both of the Canyon's headlights may flash. Flashing headlights can cause drivers to see poorly at night, but the problem also violates federal safety standards. GM launched an internal investigation in August after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration contacted the automaker about five complaints. GM also received a report from an employee about the 2024 GMC Canyon headlights. The investigation found 272 complaints about flickering headlights, and engineers even discovered headlight problems on two General Motors Canyon vehicles. There have been no reports of injuries or crashes related to flashing headlights due to headlight software issues. General Motors expects to mail out recall letters for the 2024 GMC Canyon on October 28, 2024. Dealers will replace the headlight modules.…
Enel X Way shut down and JuiceBox charger fire investigated
Enel X Way announces closure after reports of fire at JuiceBox electric car charger. October 8, 2024 — Enel X Way JuiceBox fire and Enel There have been at least six complaints about the Enel X Way JuiceBox Level 2 residential EV charger, with two customers reporting serious fires caused by the EV chargers. Four Enel X Way JuiceBox owners complained about an electrical defect in the charger that caused the circuit breaker to trip. This obviously stops the vehicle from charging. One Enel X Way JuiceBox user said their car caught fire in the driveway while charging, and another Enel X Way JuiceBox owner complained that their house burned down while charging. The consumer said the charger caused some type of explosion in the garage and the home was considered a total loss. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration lists these vehicles in documents related to the Enel X Way JuiceBox EV charger investigation: 2018 Chevrolet Bolt 2018 Chrysler…
BMW water pump recall sparks lawsuit
The BMW class action lawsuit claims that the water pump recall cannot repair 720,000 vehicles. October 11, 2024 — BMW water pump recall sparks class-action lawsuit filed about six weeks after BMW recalled more than 720,000 vehicles due to water pump problems. According to BMW water pump recall documents: "Blow-by fluid in the PCV system may collect on the intake hose. If this occurs, this fluid may drip onto the plug connector. Over time, this may cause fluid into the plug and may cause a short circuit." — BMW The BMW water pump lawsuit covers the following recalled vehicles: 2014-2016 BMW 228i 2014-2016 BMW 228xi 2012-2016 BMW 328i 2012-2016 BMW 328xi 2014-2016 BMW 428i 2015-2016 BMW 428xi 2012-2016 BMW 528i 2012-2015 BMW X1 2013-2017 BMW X3 2015-2018 BMW X4 2016-2018 BMW X5 2012-2016 BMW Z4 BMW told the government that about 1% of recalled vehicles may be defective and that it did not tell customers not to drive their vehicles.…
Recall: Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT battery issues
Audi is recalling 7,200 Audi e-tron GT and Audi RS e-tron GT vehicles due to a risk of battery fire. October 12, 2024 — The Audi e-tron battery fire recall affects 7,200 2022-2024 Audi e-tron GT and 2022-2024 Audi RS e-tron GT vehicles in the United States and Canada. The Audi e-tron is equipped with a high-voltage battery, and the battery module may be short-circuited. Although the e-tron battery problem is serious, Audi has not received any customer complaints, injuries, crashes or fires related to the battery. As a temporary measure, for Audi e-tron vehicles with online data, the vehicles will be monitored through online data evaluation. If online data indicates a potentially critical battery module, e-tron owners will be contacted and informed that they can only charge their vehicle to 80% of charging capacity until Audi replaces the affected module. For vehicles for which online data is unavailable, dealers will perform diagnostic procedures and possibly replace battery module components…
Ford Edge brake hoses may be subject to recall
The United States has launched an investigation into complaints of faulty brake hoses on the 2015-2017 Edge SUV. October 5, 2024 — Ford Edge brake hose failures are under investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, following 36 complaints alleging a loss of braking ability on 2015-2017 Ford Edge SUVs. Ford Edge owners reported losing braking ability due to a faulty rear brake hose, and the owners received no warning of the problem. At the very least, Ford Edge owners are faced with increased stopping distances. Some complaining Ford Edge owners said their vehicles had been previously serviced for brake issues. In August 2020, Ford recalled nearly 559,000 2015-2018 Ford Edge and 2016-2018 Lincoln MKX SUVs due to brake hose issues. But this recall involves the front brake bump hose, not the rear brake hose. In a 2020 Ford recall, the automaker discovered that a front brake bump hose ruptured and leaked brake fluid, causing problems for drivers when…
Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana recalls
Brake fluid leak leads to recall of 19,500 2013-2019 cutaway cars September 27, 2024 — General Motors has recalled more than 19,500 Chevrolet Express Cutaway and GMC Savana Cutaway vehicles equipped with optional body mounts provided by General Motors. The recalled 2013-2019 Chevrolet Express Cutaway and GMC Savana Cutaway vehicles have brake lines that may leak brake fluid, causing brake failure. GM says the brake lines may be too close to the body mounts, which could damage the brake lines. GM launched an investigation in June based on information provided by Transport Canada about 18 incidents in which brake lines were worn or damaged due to contact with body mounts. Five of the complaints indicated brake fluid leaks affecting braking. All 18 crashes involved cutaway vehicles equipped with optional body mounts provided by General Motors. "These brackets are not installed by General Motors, but are supplied with cutaway vehicles for installation by tuners. GM is aware of 25 potential field…
Ford Maverick radio malfunction causes backup camera to not capture image
Ford is recalling 144,000 Maverick trucks after complaints and two reports of accidents. September 22, 2024 — Ford Maverick radio problem leads to recall of 144,500 Maverick trucks because the backup camera image may freeze when the truck is put into reverse gear. The recalled 2022-2024 Ford Maverick trucks are equipped with Connected Touch Radios, which require a software update. The Ford Maverick Connected Touch Radio processes live video from the rearview camera. Having issues with Connected Touch Radio? "Incorrect memory handling in the CTR (Connected Touch Radio) software caused components in the end-to-end RVC (rearview camera) image processing path to fail." Ford is aware of approximately 30 complaints regarding Ford Maverick backup camera image malfunctions, with the first report occurring in April 2022. Ford is also aware of two reports of crashes due to frozen backup camera screens. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration contacted Ford in June regarding complaints about frozen backup camera images in 2022 Ford Mavericks.…
VinFast VF8 Lane Keeping Assist System Issue Investigation
2023-2024 VinFast VF8 owners complain that the lane keeping assist system is dangerous. September 17, 2024 — Issues with the VinFast VF8 lane-keeping assist system have led the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to launch a federal investigation after receiving 14 complaints about the 2023-2024 VF8 SUVs. More than 3,100 VinFast VF8 cars were included in the survey. VinFast calls itself "Vietnam's first global automaker" and offers four models in the U.S. NHTSA said owners have complained about various issues with lane-keeping assist systems. "The lane keeping assist never worked. Sometimes, even at 25 mph, it would veer to one side of traffic." "While driving this car, the steering wheel sometimes loses control and pulls me into another lane. When turning or merging into another lane, it automatically corrects and steers me into a lane I am not turning into, causing me to lose control of the direction I am traveling. Pulling harder on the steering wheel will attempt to…
Cause of Jeep power steering pump fire under investigation
The fires in the engine compartment of both the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator occurred at the power steering pump. September 10, 2024 — A Jeep power steering pump can cause a fire in the engine compartment of 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler and 2021-2023 Gladiator vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into the Jeep fires after receiving at least nine complaints, multiple field reports and "one report of death and injury." NHTSA contacted Fiat Chrysler about the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator fires and determined that several "thermal events" had occurred that started at the power steering pump electrical connector. Jeep owners report that the fire started on the front passenger side of the engine compartment, in the same location as the power steering pump connector. According to Jeep fire complaints, most engine compartment fires occur when the ignition is turned off. CarComplaints.com will update the findings on our website. The Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Wrangler…
Volkswagen ID.4 door handle recall expanded
Volkswagen is recalling 120,000 ID.4 SUVs because their doors could open unexpectedly while driving. September 10, 2024 — The Volkswagen ID.4 door handle recall has been expanded to 120,000 SUVs, whose doors may open suddenly without warning. You can use your imagination to imagine what would happen if a door suddenly opened while you were on the highway or turning a corner. All previously recalled ID.4 SUVs need to be returned to dealers for repairs. The recalled 2021 to 2024 ID.4 vehicles are equipped with door handles that may allow water to enter the circuit board assembly. Volkswagen said that water seeping into the door handle will cause the ID.4 door lock to issue an "open command." Volkswagen learned of the door handle complaints in February after the supplier reportedly fixed the problem. Volkswagen determined that water had seeped into the door handles and corroded the parts. NHTSA worked with Volkswagen on ID.4 door handle complaints after the supplier confirmed…
Ford Nano EcoBoost engine recall: Intake valve damage
More than 102,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles being recalled may need new Nano EcoBoost engines. September 1, 2024 — Ford's Nano EcoBoost engine recall affects 102,500 vehicles equipped with 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine intake valves that could fail while driving. Three safety defect applications ( here , here , and here ) were filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to determine if the Nano EcoBoost engine was defective. In 2023, NHTSA expanded its previous investigation into Nano EcoBoost engine failures caused by intake valves. The Ford Nano EcoBoost engine recall includes the following vehicles in the U.S. and Canada: 2021-2022 Ford Bronco 2021-2022 Ford F-150 2021-2022 Ford Edge 2021-2022 Ford Explorer 2021-2022 Lincoln Nautilus 2021-2022 Lincoln Aviator If the intake valves become damaged while driving, the Nano EcoBoost engine could fail completely. Ford describes the specific Nano EcoBoost intake valve engine issue as follows: "The engines of the affected vehicles may contain intake valves that are…
Ford Bronco Sport and Maverick 12V Battery Survey
Ford's low battery problem resulted in loss of electrical functions and loss of power. August 23, 2024 — Ford's 12-volt battery problems led to a federal safety investigation in January, but that investigation has been closed due to two Ford recalls. The investigation began after 2021 Ford Bronco Sport owners complained about their vehicles losing power. Ford Bronco Sport owners have reported complete electrical system failures while their vehicles are in motion or parked. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: "The investigation revealed that 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and certain 2022-2023 Ford Maverick vehicles are equipped with a 12V Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) that may suddenly fail while driving. The failure is caused by an internal corrosion issue that is affected by prolonged exposure to high temperatures under the hood." If the battery management sensors do not detect a sudden loss of 12V battery voltage, the driver will not receive any warning. A serious consequence is that when…
Buick Envision floor mats recalled to prevent accidents
Recalling 35,000 SUVs because the all-weather floor mats could get stuck on the accelerator pedal. August 18, 2024 — Buick's Envision floor mat recall affects nearly 35,000 SUVs because the all-weather mats could catch on the accelerator pedal while driving. The recalled 2024 Envision could experience sudden, unexpected acceleration as the driver tries to figure out what's going on. The recalled Buick Envision floor mats have part number 85647097. A GM dealer discovered the floor mat problem and launched an investigation in June. "The driver-side all-weather floor liner designed for 2021-2023 Buick Envision vehicles has not been modified to accommodate the design changes to the driver-side carpet on 2024 Buick Envision vehicles." — General Motors GM has discovered nine complaints that may be related to the floor mat problem, but has not received any reports of accidents or injuries. More than 7,000 SUVs are being recalled in Canada. GM dealers will retrofit the floor mats (if equipped) and reimburse owners…
Volkswagen suction jet pump recall sparks class action lawsuit
The suction jet pump in the fuel tank of Audi and Volkswagen may cause fuel leakage and odor. August 16, 2024 — A Volkswagen suction jet pump class action lawsuit has been filed, months after Audi and Volkswagen announced recalls to replace suction jet pumps. The lawsuit includes: “Any person or entity who purchases or leases a 2015 to 2020 Volkswagen Golf, 2015 to 2020 Audi A3, or 2021 to 2024 Volkswagen Taos vehicle (Class Vehicles) in the United States (including its territories and the District of Columbia).” Volkswagen was allegedly aware of the problem with the suction injection pump in 2015, and VW did recall some vehicles in 2016. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into whether the 2016 Volkswagen suction jet pumps have resolved the problem. The FBI launched its investigation in December 2023 after receiving more than 80 complaints and field reports of oil leaks and fuel odors in Audi A3 and…
Cadillac XT5 and XT6 Instrument Panel Recall Notice
General Motors is recalling Cadillac vehicles after receiving 195 complaints about dashboards. June 27, 2024 — Cadillac XT5 and XT6 instrument panel failures have led to the recall of more than 6,700 SUVs, but the instrument panel failure must meet certain conditions. The instrument panel on the recalled 2023-2025 Cadillac XT5 and 2024-2025 Cadillac XT6 may not illuminate when the hazard lights, high beams or turn signals are activated. "Drivers may not realise that turn signals, hazard warning flashers or high beams are inadvertently switched on or remain on, which can confuse or distract pedestrians and other road users and increase the risk of a crash." General Motors A GM engineer first discovered the problem in April on a 2024 Cadillac XT5, prompting GM to launch an investigation into why the driver information center display failed. The automaker found that it had received 195 complaints about Cadillac dashboards between March 3, 2024 and June 5, 2024. Although there have been…
Nissan Rogue Steering Rod Issue Investigation
The feds say owners of 2021 Nissan Rogues claim the tie rods failed without any impact. August 8, 2024 — After receiving complaints about bent tie rods in Nissan Rogues, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched a formal investigation into the issue. The investigation involves interior tie rods in more than 77,000 2021 Nissan Rogue SUVs. A faulty tie rod in the Nissan Rogue could cause the driver to lose control of the SUV. Owners of 2021 Nissan Rogues say they need to be towed due to a drawbar failure. According to the Nissan Rogue owner who made the main complaint: "Contact stated his wife was exiting the parking lot when the steering wheel pulled to the right and the front passenger side tire was misaligned. Contact stated the vehicle was not drivable. Several unknown warning lights were on." - 2021 Nissan Rogue Owner/New Jersey The Rogue owner said the SUV was towed to the dealership, where it…
BMW recalls cars due to overheating starter motor
BMW is recalling 105,000 vehicles after owners complained that their vehicles would not start. August 8, 2024 — BMW starter motor problem causes dealers to recall more than 105,000 vehicles to update software. If the starter motor fails and overheats when the driver repeatedly tries to start the vehicle, it could cause a fire. BMW starter motor recall affects the following vehicles: 2019-2020 BMW X5 (X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i) 2020-2020 BMW X6 (X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i) 2019-2020 BMW X7 xDrive40i 2020-2021 BMW 7 Series Sedan (740i, 740xi) 2020-2020 BMW 8 Series Convertible (840i, 840xi) 2020-2020 BMW 8 Series Coupe (840i, 840xi) 2020-2020 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe (840i, 840xi) 2020-2020 BMW 3 Series Sedan (M340i, M340xi) "If the engine sound insulation is contaminated with oil, etc., then in extreme cases the proximity of the starter to the sound insulation could result in a thermal event." - BMW In March 2023, BMW received reports of vehicle engines failing to start, and…
Porsche Taycan class-action lawsuit continues in California
Porsche lawsuit alleges Taycan has heating, cooling and infotainment system defects. August 11, 2024 — A Porsche Taycan class-action lawsuit is pending in a California court, but most of the parties' claims have been dismissed. According to the Taycan class action lawsuit, the 2020-2021 Taycan has defects with the infotainment and heating/cooling systems. The lawsuit, filed by representatives of Porsche customers in California, alleges that base Taycan, Taycan Turbo, Taycan Turbo S and Taycan 4S vehicles are affected. Several features are allegedly defective, including the cockpit display, Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging, and the heating and cooling systems.The class action lawsuit alleges that Porsche knew about defects in the 2020-2021 Taycan but failed to warn consumers about the problems. The California plaintiff who filed the lawsuit claims that his leased Taycan started to have problems as soon as he got home. Specifically, the plaintiff claims that Apple CarPlay and wireless phone charging were not working properly. The plaintiff said he…
Honda Ridgeline backup camera recall terminated
Honda Ridgeline rearview camera wiring bends when the tailgate opens and closes. August 10, 2024 — Honda Ridgeline backup camera recall A federal investigation into complaints of rearview camera failures on the 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline has been closed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched an investigation into backup cameras in February after receiving complaints that the camera image would not display when backing up. NHTSA has received more than 50 complaints about 2020-2023 Honda Ridgeline trucks. According to Honda, the backup camera wiring harness is routed near the tailgate hinge and is exposed when the tailgate is opened and closed. Basically, the wires are stressed by the bending of the harness. Honda determined that the wiring harness is made of a material that is permeable to water and salt and can freeze and thaw. Opening and closing the tailgate will eventually cause the tailgate wiring harness to break. This will cause the rear view camera image to disappear. In…
Volkswagen Golf and Atlas recalled over backup cameras
Around 98,000 infotainment systems require software updates. June 30, 2024 — Volkswagen backup camera problem leads to recall of 98,000 vehicles with rearview camera images. 2022-2024 Volkswagen Golf R 2022-2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2024 Volkswagen Atlas 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Crossover Sport After shifting into reverse gear, the rearview camera image may be delayed or disabled. "Various software bugs may cause the rear view image to be delayed or black, or the system to not boot at all." The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration contacted Volkswagen about rearview camera issues on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf in August 2023. Owners of the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas have also complained about various rearview camera image issues. When the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration contacted Volkswagen about the backup camera issue on its Golf vehicles, Volkswagen was investigating the issue. Engineers did not find any issues with the camera, but there were problems with the infotainment system software, and there were also 500 warranty claims…
Nissan Frontier recall due to ball joint issue
Nissan is recalling 2024 Frontier trucks due to a problem with the front right lower link ball joint. June 30, 2024 — Nissan Frontier lower link ball joint recall affects 2024 Frontier trucks to replace the right front lower link. About 6,000 Nissan Frontier trucks were affected by supplier issues during production. Nissan said the problem was that the ball head was too large. "As a result, the ball joint press fit on the right front lower link may be below the minimum push-out specification, which may cause the ball joint to separate from the right front lower link." - Nissan Nissan says a disengaged ball joint won't detach immediately, but over time it could corrode and separate from the lower link, causing problems for the driver. In March, a supplier technician reported a test failure on a front right lower link, leading to an investigation by the supplier. Engineers discovered that the wrong mold was used for the front…
Ford F-150 transmission downshift recall investigation
Ford F-150 truck owners have been complaining about their trucks' transmissions suddenly downshifting. August 5, 2024 — An investigation into a Ford F-150 downshift problem has concluded, according to a recall of Ford F-150 trucks. The first Ford F-150 downshift recall was issued in September 2016 for 2011 to 2012 trucks equipped with the 6-speed (6R80) automatic transmission. The Ford F-150 downshift recall was due to complaints from owners that the transmission would suddenly downshift to first gear, causing the rear wheels to lock. Ford engineers said the F-150's sudden downshifts were caused by cracks in the transmission's output shaft speed (OSS) sensor's OSS circuit board solder joints, causing intermittent signal loss in the OSS sensor. But in December 2017, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched a "recall inquiry" to determine whether repairs had fixed the F-150 downshift problem. Ford subsequently issued a downshift recall for more than 1.2 million trucks. Ford said dealers would reprogram the powertrain control…
BMW owner fined $1.9 million for car accident
New York plaintiff Godwin Boateng claims the loss of his thumb tip will cost him $3 million. July 3, 2024 — A New York BMW owner was awarded $1.9 million for losing the tip of his thumb when it was pinched while closing the soft-close door of his 2013 BMW X5. Plaintiff Godwin Boateng filed the lawsuit after he exited his 2013 BMW X5 xDrive35i Sport in July 2016, placed his right hand on the driver's side door pillar, and faced away from the vehicle with the door open about a foot. The car is equipped with BMW's soft-close door function. "In tight parking spaces or when you need to close the door gently, the automatic soft-close function can help: Simply push the door almost to the closed position. When the door is approximately 6 millimeters from the lock, the sensor activates the electric motor, which pulls the door up firmly and quietly and locks it. The door lock components…
BMW owner fined $1.9 million for car accident
New York plaintiff Godwin Boateng claims the loss of his thumb tip will cost him $3 million. July 3, 2024 — A New York BMW owner was awarded $1.9 million for losing the tip of his thumb when it was pinched while closing the soft-close door of his 2013 BMW X5. Plaintiff Godwin Boateng filed the lawsuit after he exited his 2013 BMW X5 xDrive35i Sport in July 2016, placed his right hand on the driver's side door pillar, and faced away from the vehicle with the door open about a foot. The car is equipped with BMW's soft-close door function. "In tight parking spaces or when you need to close the door gently, the automatic soft-close function can help: Simply push the door almost to the closed position. When the door is approximately 6 millimeters from the lock, the sensor activates the electric motor, which pulls the door up firmly and quietly and locks it. The door lock components…
Jeep Wrangler 4xe recall application opened after receiving complaints
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe recall may not yet address the engine shutdown issue. July 9, 2024 — Federal safety regulators have initiated a Jeep Wrangler 4xe recall inquiry (recall investigation) after receiving 68 complaints about the 2021-2024 Wrangler Hybrid. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into the Jeep Wrangler 4xe recall announced in late 2022. The recall includes 2021 to 2023 model year Jeep Wrangler plug-in hybrid vehicles equipped with a 2-liter engine that may stall and shut down. At the time, FCA was aware of two Wrangler 4xe accidents, resulting in one injury, that were allegedly caused by the 2-liter engine shutting down in "a diagnostic response to a malfunction caused by a loss of communications." The 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe SUV is not included in the recall because Chrysler said the problem ended in August 2022, when the 2023 Wrangler 4xe began production and the vehicle control software was updated. Jeep dealers are…
Jeep Wrangler 4xe recall application opened after receiving complaints
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe recall may not yet address the engine shutdown issue. July 9, 2024 — Federal safety regulators have initiated a Jeep Wrangler 4xe recall inquiry (recall investigation) after receiving 68 complaints about the 2021-2024 Wrangler Hybrid. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into the Jeep Wrangler 4xe recall announced in late 2022. The recall includes 2021 to 2023 model year Jeep Wrangler plug-in hybrid vehicles equipped with a 2-liter engine that may stall and shut down. At the time, FCA was aware of two Wrangler 4xe accidents, resulting in one injury, that were allegedly caused by the 2-liter engine shutting down in "a diagnostic response to a malfunction caused by a loss of communications." The 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe SUV is not included in the recall because Chrysler said the problem ended in August 2022, when the 2023 Wrangler 4xe began production and the vehicle control software was updated. Jeep dealers are…
Ford Expedition seatbelt pretensioner recall ends
2019 Ford Expedition owners complained about seatbelt pretensioners suddenly activating. August 1, 2024 — The Ford Expedition recall prompted the government to close an investigation into seatbelt pretensioners in 2019 Ford Expeditions that activated for no apparent reason. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched an investigation into the Ford Expedition in November 2023 after owners complained about unexpected deployment of the seatbelt pretensioners. Seatbelt pretensioners help protect occupants in certain crashes. In a frontal collision, the pretensioners pull the seatbelt towards the occupant's body for a split second. Retractable pretensioners pull the shoulder belt and, in some collisions, pull it closer to the body. Ford Expedition owners sometimes hear a loud pop before the torso seat belts tighten. This is how the pretensioners are supposed to activate, but they don't unless there's a crash. According to NHTSA: "Investigations have revealed that some seatbelt pretensioners may develop corroded detonator pins where the bridge wire (heating element of the pyrotechnic device)…
Ford Bronco fuel pump issue sparks investigation
2021 Ford Bronco owners are complaining about fuel pumps failing without warning while driving. July 31, 2024 — Ford Bronco fuel pump issue sparks federal investigation in the U.S. following complaints of malfunctioning low-pressure fuel pumps in 2021 Broncos. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said about 45,500 Bronco SUVs were involved, and if there was a fuel pump problem, the scale of the problem could be larger because multiple Ford and Lincoln models are equipped with the same fuel pump. Owners of 2021 Ford Broncos are complaining about fuel pump issues while driving. The fuel pump failure occurs without warning, causing the Broncos to stall and unable to restart the engine. Bronco owners must replace the low-pressure fuel pump. NHTSA did not release further details about the 2021 Ford Bronco fuel pump issue or the investigation, but the government will also inspect other models equipped with the same fuel pump. CarComplaints.com will update our website with the results of…
Volkswagen sunroof leak class action lawsuit filed
Audi and Volkswagen models in Canada are said to have sunroof defects that are causing water to leak into the vehicles. July 17, 2024 — Volkswagen of Canada is being hit with a class-action lawsuit alleging leaky sunroofs on many of its best-selling Audi and Volkswagen models. The Volkswagen Canada class action lawsuit was filed by Dillon Fattore, owner of a 2014 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen. The plaintiff, from Hamilton, Ontario, complained that water leaked into his Volkswagen Golf Sport through the sunroof, causing "significant damage". According to a class action lawsuit filed by Volkswagen Canada, leaking sunroofs are a common defect in Audi and Volkswagen vehicles. The Volkswagen Canada class action lawsuit includes: “Every person in Canada, and every person outside Canada (provided the vehicle is at any time registered in Canada), who owns, leases or rents one of the following vehicles.” Volkswagen sunroof leaking vehicle lawsuit Volkswagen Arteon Volkswagen Atlas Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Volkswagen Jetta Volkswagen Golf Volkswagen…
Ram 1500 and Jeep Wagoneer 5.7L eTorque vehicles
About 80 complaints have stalled the investigation into Jeep and Ram vehicles. July 23, 2024 — The investigation into the Jeep and Ram 5.7L Hemi eTorque will attempt to determine why 2022 Ram 1500 and 2022 Jeep Wagoneer vehicles lose power and stall. The 2022 Jeep Wagoneer and Ram 1500 vehicles are equipped with a 5.7-liter Hemi eTorque mild-hybrid system. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it has received 80 complaints about the vehicle losing power and stalling while driving. The Fiat Chrysler eTorque mild-hybrid system converts energy captured by the braking system into electricity for the battery pack. This electricity is used to power various electrical components. NHTSA says the eTorque engine replaces the alternator with a belt drive and motor-generator powered by a 48-volt battery. The motor-generator provides additional torque to the crankshaft during gear changes. The motor-generator also uses a 48-volt battery pack to increase torque. Many complaints about Jeep and Ram vehicles state that…
Kia Sorento engine problems include coolant leak, power
Regulators are closely investigating a problem with the Kia Sorento's 3.3L Lambda II engine. July 26, 2024 — Kia Sorento engine issues led the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to launch an investigation into coolant loss, high engine temperatures and smoke from the 3.3L Lambda II engine compartment. The 2016 to 2017 Kia Sorento SUVs were experiencing engine issues, with drivers complaining of a loss of power. NHTSA began its investigation into Kia Sorento engine issues in November 2023 and first requested data on the 3.3-liter Lambda II engine. Safety regulators were aware of complaints about the Sorento engine problems, but Kia responded to regulators in February 2024 that it had received more than 2,000 complaints and other reports. In addition, more than 2,411 Lambda II engine warranty claims had been filed. However, only 53 complaints were filed about the Sorento being underpowered. Kia told NHTSA that most of the complaints involved minor engine problems. After safety regulators removed duplicate…
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