Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[(Over) Active Aero: VW recalling Touareg over spoilers that might take flight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/over-active-aero-volkswagen-recalling-2007-2009-touareg-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/over-active-aero-volkswagen-recalling-2007-2009-touareg-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/over-active-aero-volkswagen-recalling-2007-2009-touareg-over/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



With products like its now-defunct Corrado sports coupe, Volkswagen has proven that they understand the benefits of active aerodynamics - but a new recall in conjunction with the National HIghway Traffic Safety Administration centers on the potential for some completely unintentional and undesired active aero with the company's products.

According to NHTSA, VW will recall 14,416 2007-2009 Touareg SUVs because the vehicle's roof spoiler can jettison itself from the vehicle, potentially striking pedestrians or other vehicles. Apparently, the problem stems from the fastening struts on the spoiler which can crack, leading to the loosening or outright detachment of the aerodynamic element.

Owners of Touaregs covered under the recall can bring their vehicles to their local dealer, which will install reinforcement wedges to the assembly for free. Official recall information posted after the jump. Top tip, Jeff!

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading (Over) Active Aero: VW recalling Touareg over spoilers that might take flight

(Over) Active Aero: VW recalling Touareg over spoilers that might take flight originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>TouaregVolkswagenVolkswagen TouaregVolkswagenTouaregVW SUVVW TouaregVwSuvVwTouaregFri, 10 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Volkswagen Routan recalled for... <i>*magic 8-ball shake*</i>... owner's manual omission?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/volkswagen-routan-recalled-for-i-magic-8-ball-shake-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/volkswagen-routan-recalled-for-i-magic-8-ball-shake-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/volkswagen-routan-recalled-for-i-magic-8-ball-shake-i/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



In Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, one of the characters decries the need for a set of detailed instructions on a packet of toothpicks. Volkswagen might feel the same way now that 18,500 of its 2009 Routan minivans are being recalled because their owner's manuals don't include a required warning not to put items on or near the airbag. In the words of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
The owner's manual was printed without the required information explaining that no objects should be placed over the or near the airbag on the instrument panel. Any such objects could cause injury to the vehicle's occupants in the event of a crash severe enough to cause the airbag to inflate.
VW is sending dealers an insert to be placed in affected Routan manuals. If you don't trust yourself to handle the insert, you can take your Routan to the dealer and they'll be happy to assist.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Volkswagen Routan recalled for... *magic 8-ball shake*... owner's manual omission?!

Volkswagen Routan recalled for... *magic 8-ball shake*... owner's manual omission?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 routan2009 volkswagen routan2009Routan2009VolkswagenRoutanminivannhtsarecallroutansafetyvolkswagenvwvw routanVwRoutanTue, 07 Jul 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota stung by possible Prius headlight defect?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/toyota-stung-by-possible-prius-headlight-defect/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/toyota-stung-by-possible-prius-headlight-defect/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/toyota-stung-by-possible-prius-headlight-defect/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



2007 Toyota Prius - Click above for high-res image gallery

We'd wager that the last thing Toyota wants in the midst of the super-important launch of its new third-generation Prius is a negative stigma attached to the previous model. Unfortunately, that's exactly what the Japanese automaker may have on its hands as a number of owners of the 2005-2008 Toyota Prius with the HID headlight option are banding together on online forums, message boards and in possible class action lawsuits against the automaker in relation to failing headlamps.

According to Advertising Age, these HID headlight bulbs and their associated electronics can sometimes cost well over $1,000 to replace after they've gone faulty, and Toyota is unwilling to pick up the tab. At least one lawsuit has reportedly been filed last month by Girard Gibbs in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles on behalf of a Putnam County, N.Y., Prius owner. The suit contends that the problem is a "dangerous but undisclosed safety defect" and alleges that "Toyota is concealing the problems from owners" despite having been "long been aware of Prius' HID headlight problem." It's possible that the suit will get class-action status.

The NHTSA has reportedly filed a preliminary investigation into the issue and contacted Toyota on May 13 regarding 338 complaints it has received so far from Prius owners about the HID headlamps. Spokesmen from Toyota have said the automaker is cooperating with the NHTSA investigation, which may or may not end up calling for an official recall.


Gallery: Review: 2007 Toyota Prius Touring


[Source: Advertising Age]

Toyota stung by possible Prius headlight defect? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2005 toyota prius2005ToyotaPrius2006 toyota prius2006ToyotaPrius2007 toyota prius2007ToyotaPrius2008 toyota prius2008ToyotaPrius2009 toyota prius2009ToyotaPriusautobloggreenprius class actionprius hidprius hid lightprius nhtsaPriusClassActionPriusHidPriusHidLightPriusNhtsatoyota priustoyota prius head lamptoyota prius head lighttoyota prius headlamptoyota prius headlighttoyota prius lawsuitToyotaPriusToyotaPriusHeadlampToyotaPriusHeadlightToyotaPriusLawsuitWed, 01 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: GM recalling over 44,000 Saturn Vue crossovers because of sticky door handles?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/report-gm-recalling-over-44-000-saturn-vue-crossovers-because-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/report-gm-recalling-over-44-000-saturn-vue-crossovers-because-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/report-gm-recalling-over-44-000-saturn-vue-crossovers-because-o/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Saturn Vue - Click above for high-res image gallery

Some 44,451 Saturn Vue models from the 2008 model year are being recalled, and yours might be a part of the action if it has body-color door handles. What's the deal? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the handles may stick, preventing the door from properly latching.

NHTSA says an unbelted occupant could tumble out of the vehicle as a result of a door that refuses to latch, though one has to figure that you're sort of asking for it by ignoring the safety gear. In any circumstance, doors that pop open aren't acceptable, so the 44,451 vehicles affected will be give chrome door handles by dealers at no charge to customers. The recall goes into full effect by August 18th, plenty of time to get a can of Nevr-Dull to keep those shiny handles looking their best.


Gallery: 2008 Saturn VUE


[Source: NHTSA]

REPORT: GM recalling over 44,000 Saturn Vue crossovers because of sticky door handles?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 saturn vue2008 saturn vue door handle2008 saturn vue recall nhtsa2008SaturnVue2008SaturnVueDoorHandle2008SaturnVueRecallNhtsaSaturnsaturn vuesaturn vue door handle recallsaturn vue recallSaturnVueSaturnVueDoorHandleRecallSaturnVueRecallVueTue, 30 Jun 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nearly 10,000 Can Am Spyders recalled over faulty steering]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/11/nearly-10-000-can-am-spyders-recalled-over-faulty-steering/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/11/nearly-10-000-can-am-spyders-recalled-over-faulty-steering/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/11/nearly-10-000-can-am-spyders-recalled-over-faulty-steering/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Can-Am Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

It shouldn't come as a surprise that a vehicle as innovative as the three-wheeled Can-Am Spyder would face a few teething problems within its first few years on the market. Unfortunately, one particular aspect of the machine's power steering system has reportedly caused at least three injuries, though none have so far been life threatening. To remedy the apparent defect, Can-Am has agreed to voluntarily recall some 12,500 Spyders (9,932 of them sold in the United States) that were manufactured between July 2007 and May 2009.

The recall notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which can be viewed here, seems a bit ambiguous on the actual cause or effect of the steering problem, saying only that "the operator of an involved vehicle may need to exert a force greater than expected to initiate the turning of the steering handlebar off centre in order to correct vehicle drift from a straight line path." Uh-huh. Company spokeswoman Johanne Denault shed a little more light on the problem when she told The Canadian Press, "The vehicle is not going to start zig zagging, it's only a small drift."

"Small drift" or not, owners of possibly affected units are urged to contact Bombardier Recreational Products at 1-866-767-0707 or see their local dealers for a free inspection and replacement of the affected bits. Kongsberg Inc., suppliers of the Spyder's power steering system, will reportedly pay for repairs. We've reached out to BRP to see if we could obtain a more thorough explanation of the problem or the intended solution, but we've not yet heard back.


Gallery: Can-Am Spyder


[Sources: NHTSA; The Canadian Press]

Nearly 10,000 Can Am Spyders recalled over faulty steering originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bombardierbombardier recreational productsBombardierRecreationalProductsbrpcan am spydercan-amcan-am spydercan-am spyder recallcan-am trikecan-am-spyderCan-amSpyderCan-amSpyderRecallCan-amTrikeCanAmSpyderkongsbergspyder recallSpyderRecallThu, 11 Jun 2009 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Kia recalling 2001-2004 Optima sedans in rust-prone states over subframe corrosion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/kia-recalling-2001-2004-optima-sedans-in-rust-prone-states-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/kia-recalling-2001-2004-optima-sedans-in-rust-prone-states-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/kia-recalling-2001-2004-optima-sedans-in-rust-prone-states-over/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The 2001-2004 Kia Optima is being recalled in several states for corrosion of the front subframe. The recall covers some 36,538 examples sold in the U.S. in the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia - all areas typically noted for being high rust threats due to their difficult winters and use of road salt.

According to the recall, internal corrosion of the front subframe can weaken the mounting points near the lower control arm, leading to everything from irregular tire wear to abnormal stress levels in the system that may contribute to a cras.

The recall begins this month, but neither Kia nor NHTSA have outlined a potential fix in the recall notice posted after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Kia recalling 2001-2004 Optima sedans in rust-prone states over subframe corrosion

Kia recalling 2001-2004 Optima sedans in rust-prone states over subframe corrosion originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia optimaKiaOptimanhtsaoptimarecallrustsafetysaloonsedantsbTue, 09 Jun 2009 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 Mazda3 recalled over stability control software concern]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/02/2009-mazda3-recalled-over-stability-control-software-concern/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/02/2009-mazda3-recalled-over-stability-control-software-concern/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/02/2009-mazda3-recalled-over-stability-control-software-concern/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



If you own a 2009 Mazda3 with stability control, you may need to schedule some time at the local Mazda store for repairs. Mazda is recalling 7,100 2009 models for a problem with its Dynamic Stability Control system that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says is not in compliance with federal motor safety standards. NHTSA says the issue is that "the yaw rate measured after completion of the sine with dwell steering input exceeded the test standards." Sounds complicated.

Mazda hasn't yet given a timetable for owner notification, but 2009 Mazda3 owners can call 1-800-222-5500 to see if their vehicle is affected by the recall. Any Mazda dealership will be able to inspect and replace the stability control system free of charge. Hit the jump to read the official NHTSA press release.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading 2009 Mazda3 recalled over stability control software concern

2009 Mazda3 recalled over stability control software concern originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazda 3mazda3nhtsarecallstability controlStabilityControlTue, 02 Jun 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Motors and Lotus announce matching recall notices]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/tesla-motors-and-lotus-announce-matching-recall-notices/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/tesla-motors-and-lotus-announce-matching-recall-notices/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/tesla-motors-and-lotus-announce-matching-recall-notices/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Tesla Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

Tesla Motors has announced its first-ever recall, affecting all 345 Roadsters the Silicon Valley automaker produced in 2008. According to the official recall notice from the NHTSA, the rear hub flange bolts on some vehicles may not be torqued to proper specifications, which could lead to "degredation in vehicle handling and a rubbing noise from the rear of the vehicle." That, as you would imagine, would be bad, and if left unresolved could result in a crash.

The problem can be traced back to the Lotus factory in Hethel, England where the Roadster's main chassis is constructed before being shipped to the States to have its electric drivetrain installed. This being the case, Lotus has issued its own matching recall on the 27 Elises and Exiges that have shipped so far in 2009. As always, you are advised to contact the manufacturer as soon as possible if you've yet to be notified of the recall.


Gallery: Jason Calacanis' Tesla Roadster


[Source: NHTSA - Tesla | Lotus]

Tesla Motors and Lotus announce matching recall notices originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 May 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lotuslotus eliselotus elise recalllotus exigelotus exige recalllotus recallLotusEliseLotusEliseRecallLotusExigeLotusExigeRecallLotusRecallteslatesla motorstesla recalltesla roadstertesla roadster recallTeslaMotorsTeslaRecallTeslaRoadsterTeslaRoadsterRecallFri, 29 May 2009 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai recalling over 91,000 Sonata sedans due to... sharp chrome door handles?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/hyundai-recalling-over-91-000-sonata-sedans-due-to-sharp-chro/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/hyundai-recalling-over-91-000-sonata-sedans-due-to-sharp-chro/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/hyundai-recalling-over-91-000-sonata-sedans-due-to-sharp-chro/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



When opening a door, one expects to grab the handle and pull without the risk of injury. If you own a 2002 or 2003 Hyundai Sonata with chrome handles, you may not have that luxury, says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. As a result, Hyundai is recalling 91,000 Sonatas because the chrome plating on the upper edge of the interior handle may wear, "causing cracking or separation between the chrome plating on the inboard and outboard surfaces of the handle." NHTSA says the sharp edge can cause "laceration injuries to anyone using the door handle." Ouch.

Sonata owners can take their vehicle to any Hyundai dealership to have their handles repaired free of charge beginning in June. To find out if your car is eligible for the repair, call 1-800-633-5151. Hit the jump to view the official press release.

[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Continue reading Hyundai recalling over 91,000 Sonata sedans due to... sharp chrome door handles?!

Hyundai recalling over 91,000 Sonata sedans due to... sharp chrome door handles?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 May 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>door handleDoorHandlehyundai sonataHyundaiSonataNHTSArecallSonataTue, 26 May 2009 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Burying the Dead: Pontiac G8 faces recall over faulty taillamps, tire-pressure sensors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/burying-the-dead-pontiac-g8-faces-recalls-over-faulty-taillamps/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/burying-the-dead-pontiac-g8-faces-recalls-over-faulty-taillamps/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/burying-the-dead-pontiac-g8-faces-recalls-over-faulty-taillamps/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Pontiac G8 GXP - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors may have already buried its Pontiac division, but the brand's recent passing isn't stopping a posthumous recall campaign by the automaker and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The action, which covers some 35,038 Pontiac G8 sedans from the 2008 and 2009 model years, stems from two potential issues:

1) The brake pedal position switch may be incorrectly programmed, which NHTSA says could lead to the brake lamps operating in a constant state of illumination, leaving trailing motorists unable to tell whether the G8 driver ahead of them is stepping on the binders or not. The defective taillamps could therefore contribute to an accident.

2) In another programming issue, certain G8s make have tire pressure monitoring systems loaded with incorrect values, which could result in the system failing to identify under-inflated tires, potentially leading to reduced handling abilities and/or tire failure.

According to NHTSA, Pontiac dealers will reprogram the brake position sensor and the remote control door lock receiver to remedy both issues. G8 drivers can expect the recall to begin by June 5, and anxious owners can call GM at 1-800-620-7668 to learn more. Thanks for the tip, Peter!


Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP


Live photos copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: NHTSA]



Continue reading Burying the Dead: Pontiac G8 faces recall over faulty taillamps, tire-pressure sensors

Burying the Dead: Pontiac G8 faces recall over faulty taillamps, tire-pressure sensors originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 May 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>G8G8 GTG8 GXPG8GtG8GxpGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMNHTSApontiacPontiac G8PontiacG8recalltsbFri, 22 May 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VW recalling 25,000+ Jetta sedans over faulty driveshafts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/vw-recalling-25-000-jetta-sedans-over-faulty-driveshafts/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/vw-recalling-25-000-jetta-sedans-over-faulty-driveshafts/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/vw-recalling-25-000-jetta-sedans-over-faulty-driveshafts/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Volkswagen has announced that it will recall some 25,594 examples of its 2006-2009 Jetta over a potential driveshaft issue. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, cars with the company's 2.0-liter inline-four may have driveshaft cover plates that weren't manufactured properly, with the consequence that their screws may not be torqued correctly. If the screws back out, drivers may experience a knocking sound while in motion. In the extreme, the driveshaft could conceivably detach from the gearbox, which could cause all kinds of problems that might lead to a crash.

Owners of 2006-2009 Jettas with the 2.0-liter engine should contact their VW dealer for a free inspection and/or replacement of the screws. Affected parties can also contact Volkswagen directly at 1-800-822-8987 to learn more. The recall is set to officially begin on June 19, 2009. The full NHTSA report is after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading VW recalling 25,000+ Jetta sedans over faulty driveshafts

VW recalling 25,000+ Jetta sedans over faulty driveshafts originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 May 2009 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Jetta recallJettaRecallvolkswagen jettaVolkswagen Jetta recallvolkswagen recallVolkswagenJettaVolkswagenJettaRecallVolkswagenRecallvw recallVwRecallFri, 22 May 2009 08:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan recalling nearly 363,000 first-gen Murano crossovers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/nissan-recalling-nearly-363-000-first-gen-murano-crossovers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/nissan-recalling-nearly-363-000-first-gen-murano-crossovers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/nissan-recalling-nearly-363-000-first-gen-murano-crossovers/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Nissan has announced that they are recalling some 360,000 first generation Murano CUVs because of an engine stall risk. Apparently, the material they used for their air intake ducts is prematurely aging and shrinking, causing a separation risk in the system. That separation can cause an engine stall, "increasing the risk of a crash." The affected models are the 2003 through 2007 Nissan Muranos.

Anyone with one of those models should contact their Nissan service rep to arrange a free inspection and/or repair. Customers can also call Nissan directly at 1-800-647-7261. The parts for the recall should be available in great enough quantity by July 6, when the recall officially begins. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's full press release is after the jump.

This is just the latest in a string of recalls for the popular first-gen Nissan Murano, following seat belt, fuel tank, and electrical problems. Hat tip to Art!

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Nissan recalling nearly 363,000 first-gen Murano crossovers

Nissan recalling nearly 363,000 first-gen Murano crossovers originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 May 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>muranoMurano recallMuranoRecallNHTSAnissan muranonissan murano recallnissan recallNissanMuranoNissanMuranoRecallNissanRecallrecallrecallsThu, 21 May 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Smart offering 2008 ForTwo owners a transmission upgrade?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/smart-offering-customers-of-2008-fortwo-a-transmission-upgrade/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/smart-offering-customers-of-2008-fortwo-a-transmission-upgrade/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/smart-offering-customers-of-2008-fortwo-a-transmission-upgrade/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Smart ForTwo - Click above for a high-res image gallery

If you poll owners (and reviewers) of the Smart ForTwo you'll find one consistent gripe: the transmission. The automated manual gearbox herks, jerks and is about as dynamically pleasing as petting your dog with a broom.

Apparently, Smart is listening, and in addition to tweaking the software on the 2009 ForTwo, the automaker is offering 24,622 owners of 2008 models the same transmission fix. Letters are being delivered to let owners know about the free software upgrade, and while the fix supposedly makes a difference, the few people we've talked to who've driven the 2009 model assure us that while the shifting is better, it's still very far from perfect.


Gallery: smart fortwo


[Source: USAToday via KickingTires]

Smart offering 2008 ForTwo owners a transmission upgrade? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 May 2009 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 smart fortwo gearbox2008 smart fortwo transmission2008 smart fortwo transmission upgrade2008SmartFortwoGearbox2008SmartFortwoTransmission2008SmartFortwoTransmissionUpgradefortwosmartsmart fortwoSmartFortwoThu, 21 May 2009 17:32:00 EST<![CDATA[GM recalls Camaro, Traverse, SUVs/pickups for various issues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/gm-recalls-camaro-traverse-suvs-pickups-for-various-faults/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/gm-recalls-camaro-traverse-suvs-pickups-for-various-faults/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/gm-recalls-camaro-traverse-suvs-pickups-for-various-faults/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



General Motors and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have announced a suite of recalls for the Chevrolet Camaro, Traverse and various body-on-frame SUVs and pickups (Cadillac's Escalade, Chevrolet's Avalanche, Colorado, Suburban and Tahoe, along with GMC's Canyon and Yukon).

The Camaro recall has been discussed before, but now we have the official language and affected unit numbers to share with you. The recall of 1,243 Camaros is due to the possibility of the positive battery cable rubbing against the starter motor housing. When the insulation is worn through because of that chafing, the system can short out and the car won't start (or continue running if the motor is already going). Dealers will reroute the positive cable to fix.

15,393 2009 model-year Traverse crossovers are being recalled for a parking brake cable link that is not to federal specifications. According to the official press release, the parking brake pedal may cause the cable link to snap. Dealers will replace the cable link connector for free. Oddly, the recall does not make mention of GM's other Lambda-based three-row crossovers, which include the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook.

Finally, 27,189 GM SUVs and pickups are being recalled due to potential faults with their fuel system control modules. The modules might have a seal problem that allows water in, which could then cause a short- or open- circuit, a development that could potentially trigger a host of warning lights or render the vehicle inoperable. Dealers will install a new fuel system control module unit at no cost. You can read all of the notices after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA - Camaro, Traverse, GMT900]

Continue reading GM recalls Camaro, Traverse, SUVs/pickups for various issues

GM recalls Camaro, Traverse, SUVs/pickups for various issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 May 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avalanchecadillaccamarochevroletcoloradoescaladegeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgmcnhtsarecallrecallssafetysuburbantahoetraversetsbyukonTue, 12 May 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[37,000+ Dodge Ram pickups recalled over... faulty HVAC software?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/37-000-dodge-ram-pickups-recalled-over-faulty-hvac-software/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/37-000-dodge-ram-pickups-recalled-over-faulty-hvac-software/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/37-000-dodge-ram-pickups-recalled-over-faulty-hvac-software/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Dodge is recalling 37,407 Ram pickups from the 2009 model year to repair faulty software that controls the manual temperature controls (not the digital dual-zone temp controller).

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the system's faulty programming can render defrosting and defogging functions inoperable, which could impinge upon visibility and lead to a crash. The recall begins next month and dealers will reprogram the module at no cost.

Back in late March, Dodge also recalled some 72,000 new Ram trucks over a windshield wiper motor defect.

You can read the full text of the recall after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading 37,000+ Dodge Ram pickups recalled over... faulty HVAC software?!

37,000+ Dodge Ram pickups recalled over... faulty HVAC software?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 May 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Ford F-150 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

A total of 8,735 2009 Ford F-150 pickups are being recalled for stop lamps that may not illuminate during very mild brake pedal applications. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the culprit is a "brake stop lamp switch" that is improperly adjusted. Although the recall campaign does not mention any injuries as a result of the vehicle defect, the delayed brake lamps may increase the risk of an accident so owners are asked to bring their trucks in for repair.

As expected, Ford dealers will inspect and reinstall the brake stop lamp switch on affected F-150 models free of charge to consumers in a national campaign beginning on or before May 13, 2009. Owners with questions are encouraged to contact the Ford Motor Company Company Consumer Relationship Department at 1-866-436-7332 or online at www.ownerconnection.com. Recall campaign press release after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Ford recalling nearly 9,000 F-150 pickups over faulty brake lamps

Ford recalling nearly 9,000 F-150 pickups over faulty brake lamps originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 May 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brakebrake lamp switchBrakeLampSwitchfaultyFord F-150Ford pickupFordF-150FordPickuplampNHTSArecallswitchTue, 12 May 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: GM voluntarily recalling Camaro for battery cable issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/report-gm-voluntarily-recalling-camaro-for-battery-cable-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/report-gm-voluntarily-recalling-camaro-for-battery-cable-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/report-gm-voluntarily-recalling-camaro-for-battery-cable-issue/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Camaro5 forum member Bumleb drove his brand new 2010 Chevy Camaro SS about 40 miles when it suddenly just shut down (that's his car above being trailered back to the dealer on a flat bed). The culprit turned out to be a battery cable run from the trunk. Its insulation had broken down from rubbing up against the starter and eventually just shorted out, which ultimately caused the car itself to shut down. Before this was known, however, the forums blew up with speculation about what could be the cause and Mustang and Challenger fanboys had a field day. It turns out, however, that what happened to Bumleb's new Camaro may not be an isolated incident. General Motors has reportedly issued a voluntary product safety recall for any 2010 Chevy Camaro equipped with a V8 engine to ensure this doesn't happen again.

The recall is a pretty easy fix, but GM is reportedly offering two options for owners: a temporary fix that requires a second visit to a dealer and a permanent fix. The temporary fix involves wrapping the battery cable with protective insulating tape and rerouting it to ensure enough clearance between it and the starter. The permanent fix involves the same thing, except will use a new engine wiring harness that's being shipped to all dealers by May 11. Thus, owners can choose the temporary fix and keep driving their Camaro or just leave it at the dealer until the new wiring harnesses arrive.

The real question is whether or not this recall will damage the Camaro's reputation and ultimately hurt sales. Every aspect of GM is under the microscope, so what does it say when such an important new product launches with a recall right out of the gate? Thanks for the tip, Mark!

UPDATE: The AP reports that GM has built about 1,400 Camaros equipped with a V8 that are affected by this issue, but only 300 have been sold and are therefore under recall. The rest will be fixed before they're delivered to dealers.

[Source: Camaro5]

REPORT: GM voluntarily recalling Camaro for battery cable issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 May 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has begun looking at Ford Explorers and Mercury Mountaineers from the 2002-2005 model years. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, out of some 1.4 million SUVs produced, more than 200 complaints have been filed with the government agency regarding transmission issues: 11 owners have said that the vehicle will go from park to reverse on its own, and 61 have said that the gearshift mechanism has failed when trying to get the SUV into or out of park.

NHTSA's action isn't a full-on investigation, and there is no recall - it is a "preliminary evaluation... to assess the scope, frequency and potential safety consequences of the alleged defect and any relationship of the alleged gearshift lever mechanism failures to the alleged vehicle rollaway incidents." For its part, a Ford spokesman has said, "We do not see a safety risk and we will be fully cooperating with the government with the investigation."

[Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution]

REPORT: NHTSA investigating if 2002-05 Ford Explorers/Mercury Mountaineers can slip out of park originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are announcing an equipment safety recall on the Japanese automaker's 2008 Highlanders and Highlander Hybrid models.

On the 2008 model year crossover, the optional stainless steel exhaust tip retention clamp apparently has a manufacturing defect that can cause it to develop microscopic cracks, and in the worst case, fall off. We're not entirely clear on why this warrants a full-blown safety recall (perhaps to avoid the possibility of road debris), but in any case, NHTSA reports that ten incidents have been filed and the recall is moving forward. Overall, only 39,100 clamps are suspected to be flawed, but Toyota is notifying all 121,000 Highlander owners in case they bought the add-on exhaust finisher at their local dealer's parts counter.

You can read the full press release after the jump, and contact your dealer for an inspection and fix if necessary.

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota recalling nearly 40k Highlanders fitted with... optional stainless exhaust tip?!

Toyota recalling nearly 40k Highlanders fitted with... optional stainless exhaust tip?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>highlander hvHighlanderHvhiglandernhtsarecallssafetysuvtoyotatoyota highlandertoyota highlander hvToyotaHighlanderToyotaHighlanderHvtsbTue, 28 Apr 2009 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Multiple Hyundai recalls for brake lamps and rust issues affect nearly 1M units]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/20/multiple-hyundai-recalls-for-brake-lamps-and-rust-issues-affect/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/20/multiple-hyundai-recalls-for-brake-lamps-and-rust-issues-affect/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/20/multiple-hyundai-recalls-for-brake-lamps-and-rust-issues-affect/#commentsFiled under: ,



The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Hyundai have initiated recalls on 963,305 vehicles as part of four separate campaigns. The first recall, blanketing over one half million late-model vehicles, is nationwide. The other three recalls, all corrosion-related on older vehicles, are limited to the regions of the country where salt is used to de-ice roads in the winters.

The most widespread recall, affecting up to 531,894 2005-2008 Accent, Azera, Elantra, Entourage, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tucson, and Veracruz models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V122000. It is focused on a malfunctioning stop lamp switch that may prevent brake lights from illuminating when the pedal is depressed (the same switch may also cause them to stay lit after the brakes are released).

The second recall, affecting up to 175,765 1999-2004 Sonata, XG300, and XG350 models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V124000. That recall, limited to America's so-called "Salt Belt" states, is centered around potentially excessive corrosion of the front sub-frame due to winter road salt applications. If unnoticed, the lower control arm may separate from its mount.

The third recall, affecting up to 170,610 2001-2003 Elantra and Tiburon models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V125000. Also limited to the salt-belt states, the affected component is a failed lower control arm due to excessive corrosion.

The fourth recall, affecting up to 85,036 2001-2003 Santa Fe models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V123000. Again limited to to the Salt Belt states, the recall is centered around the possible internal corrosion of the rear trailing arms in the vehicle's suspension.

In all four recalls, Hyundai dealers will inspect, repair, and replace defective or damaged parts at no cost to the owner. In some situations, rust-proofing material will be added to chassis areas to arrest the corrosion process. Owners of affected vehicles may contact Hyundai Customer Service at 1-800-633-5151, call the NHTSA Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or visit SAFERCAR.GOV. Press releases after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Multiple Hyundai recalls for brake lamps and rust issues affect nearly 1M units

Multiple Hyundai recalls for brake lamps and rust issues affect nearly 1M units originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AccentAzerabrake partBrakePartCorrosionDefectiveElantraEntourageHyundai RecallHyundaiRecallNHTSARecallroad saltRoadSaltsaltSanta FeSantaFeSonataTiburonTucsonXG300XG350Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:20:00 EST