Category Archives: Automotive News

2020-2023 Ford Mustang No Low Brake Fluid Warning

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brake light warningSome Mustang cars made between 2020 and 2023 have a problem with their brake fluid level sensor. This sensor doesn’t activate a warning light when the brake fluid is low. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for light vehicle brake systems.

Ford became aware of the problem in August 2023 when an issue pertaining to 2020-2023 model year Mustang brake fluid level warning systems was brought into Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) for review. They discovered that the problem lies with the Body Control Module (BCM), a part that manages the brake fluid sensor. This BCM should turn on the brake warning light if there’s a problem. In Mustangs made from 2018 to 2023, the brake fluid sensor is directly connected to the BCM. However, in the 2020 Mustang, they switched to a different BCM design, called “Gen1m,” which incorrectly looks for a message from the brake fluid sensor over a network (CAN) instead of the direct connection.

After investigating, Ford confirmed that this problem only affects Mustangs from 2020 to 2023. They also verified that the 2024 Mustang doesn’t have this issue because the brake system and BCM are set up correctly. The Brake Development team tested Mustangs from 2019 to 2024 and found that the 2020 to 2023 models fail to meet the requirements for warning about low brake fluid. However, these vehicles meet all other brake system warning lamp requirements.

Ford initially didn’t run certification tests on the 2020 to 2023 Mustangs because they thought the brake system was the same as in the 2018 model. They didn’t know that the BCM was incorrectly configured to use a network message.

As of September 12, 2023, Ford received 123 warranty claims related to a brake fluid loss on these vehicles, but there were no reports of the brake fluid level sensor not working.

To fix the problem, Ford dealers will update the software in the body control module. They plan to send out initial letters in December 2023 to notify owners about the safety issue and will send second letters when the solution is available. This recall is identified by Ford as number 23C35, and the NHTSA campaign number is 23V-727.

2021 Porsche Taycan: Repeated Problems and the California Lemon Law

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The 2021 Porsche Taycan, with its promise of cutting-edge design and electric power, appeared to be a remarkable addition to the world of electric vehicles. However, it has encountered a series of repeated vehicle problems, predominantly concerning its electronics. A total of 13 recalls have shaken the reputation of this luxury electric car, raising doubts about its reliability.

1. Incorrect Brake Pad Wear Indicator (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V-347, May 2023) One of the most recent issues has been the inaccurate activation of the brake pad wear indicator. This not only creates an unnecessary panic for owners but can also lead to unneeded brake replacements, adding to financial and environmental concerns.

2. Seat Belt Warning System Malfunction (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V-176, March 2023) In March 2023, a recall was issued due to a malfunction in the seat belt warning system. This is a crucial safety feature in any vehicle, and its reliability is paramount.

3. Loose Retaining Ring May Cause Dislodged Air Strut (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-921, December 2022) In December 2022, a recall was prompted by the potential for a loose retaining ring to dislodge the air struts. This poses risks to the vehicle’s safety and passenger well-being.

4. Vehicle Display Malfunction (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-404, June 2022) Another electronic problem emerged in June 2022 with a recall addressing vehicle display malfunctions, emphasizing the importance of user-friendly interfaces in modern vehicles.

5. Driver and Passenger Seat Wire Harness Damage (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-278, April 2022) Reports of wire harness damage in driver and passenger seats led to a recall, underscoring the need for safety and comfort in the Taycan.

6. Child Seat Anchors May Be Obstructed (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-100, February 2022) In February 2022, a recall highlighted the potential obstruction of child seat anchors, compromising child safety in the Taycan.

7. Suspension May Be Misaligned (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-052, February 2022) Two separate recalls in February 2022 and March 2021 dealt with suspension issues. These problems included suspension misalignment and components not being tightened properly, affecting the vehicle’s stability and safety.

8. Incorrect Activation of Hazard Lights (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-794, October 2021) Another problem in October 2021 was the incorrect activation of hazard lights, which may confuse and inconvenience drivers.

9. Pressure Input Rod On Brake Booster May Be Loose (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-697, September 2021) A recall in September 2021 addressed the potential of a loose pressure input rod on the brake booster, which could impact braking efficiency.

10. Seat Belt Locking Retractor Malfunction (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-608, August 2021) August 2021 witnessed a recall due to seat belt locking retractor malfunctions, once again emphasizing safety concerns.

11. Software Error Can Cause Loss of Motive Power (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-486, June 2021) One of the most troubling recalls in June 2021 reported that a software error could lead to a loss of motive power, compromising safety and performance.

12. Front Lower Trailing Arms Not Forged Correctly (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-362, May 2021) In May 2021, it was discovered that the front lower trailing arms were not forged correctly, raising manufacturing concerns regarding suspension components.

13. Suspension Components Not Tightened Properly (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-157 March 2021.) Loose suspension components may detach, causing a sudden loss of vehicle stability and control, and increasing the risk of a crash.

These repeated vehicle problems with the 2021 Porsche Taycan cast doubts on its reliability. As electric vehicles gain popularity, customers are seeking dependable alternatives. For Taycan owners facing these recurring issues, the California Lemon Law can be a saving grace.

California Lemon Law:

The California Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers from persistently defective vehicles. If your Porsche Taycan is suffering from repeated issues that impair its safety, use, or value, the California Lemon Law may offer recourse. Under this law, if your vehicle continues to have issues after a reasonable number of repair attempts, you may be entitled to a refund or replacement.

The electronic problems experienced by the 2021 Porsche Taycan raise concerns about the quality control in manufacturing. Potential buyers should consider the reliability of this luxury electric vehicle carefully. For those who’ve already invested in the Taycan and are facing repeated vehicle problems, the California Lemon Law could be the solution to rid themselves of a problematic vehicle and seek compensation for their troubles.

Chevy Bolt Electrical Shock Chevrolet Bolt Potential Electrical Shock From Charging Chord

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General Motors (GM) will be contacting the owners of certain 2022-2023 model year Chevrolet Bolt EUVs about a defect that pertains to motor vehicle safety, specifically concerning the Webasto high-voltage portable charging cords that come with these vehicles. The issue revolves around incorrect software within these charging cords, which may fail to discontinue charging if the ground connection is lost.

Discovery of the Defect

The discovery of this safety concern began with a supplier plant audit conducted on March 8, 2023, by GM’s quality engineer. During this audit, it was uncovered that an incorrect hardware/software combination was being used in the production of portable charging cords for the Chevrolet Bolt EUV. GM initiated a review of the situation on April 18, 2023, and subsequently reported it to GM’s Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program. This led to the official commencement of a product investigation on May 9, 2023.

The Safety Risk

GM’s investigation revealed a crucial mismatch between the software and hardware in the affected charging cords. Under specific circumstances, this mismatch could hinder the software’s ability to properly interpret information from monitored circuitry. Consequently, the cord assembly’s internal processor might fail to detect a ground loss promptly, leading to a delay in halting further charging. Particularly at high ambient temperatures and under limited conditions, users might experience a brief electric shock lasting just 1/40th of a second.

Affected Vehicles and Recall Decision

GM’s investigators managed to identify 374 specific serial numbers for the parts affected by this defect, tracing them back to the production period when these potentially flawed components were used. During this period, GM produced 10,825 vehicles, out of which 9,423 are located in the United States. Importantly, as of now, GM is not aware of any field incidents related to this condition.

Recognizing the potential safety risks associated with this issue, on August 24, 2023, GM’s Safety and Field Action Decision Authority made the crucial decision to conduct an equipment safety recall.

How the Recall Affects Users

For individuals who have been using the portable charging cord with their Chevrolet Bolt EUV, there is a potential risk of being exposed to unprotected high voltage if the cord set loses its ground connection during use. This increases the risk of a very brief electrical shock.

To address this safety concern, GM dealerships will inspect and replace the portable charging cord as necessary. Users are encouraged to contact their local GM dealership or visit GM’s official website to check if their vehicle is affected by this recall. The recall is identified by GM as N2324073000, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned it the campaign number 23E-065.

Is your Chevrolet Bolt EV a Lemon?

For Chevrolet Bolt owners who believe they may have been sold a “lemon” vehicle or are experiencing repeated issues with their Bolt, the California Lemon Law can provide a potential solution. The California Lemon Law is a legal framework that offers protection to consumers who have purchased or leased defective vehicles, including those with safety concerns like the Chevrolet Bolt recall.
Under the California Lemon Law, if a vehicle experiences recurring issues that substantially impair its use, safety, or value, and the manufacturer fails to repair it after a reasonable number of attempts, the vehicle may be eligible for a buyback or replacement. If you suspect that your Chevrolet Bolt is a lemon due to issues beyond the recent recall, it is advisable to consult with a qualified attorney experienced in lemon law cases to explore your options and seek a resolution.

In conclusion, the Chevrolet Bolt recall underscores the importance of prompt action by manufacturers to address safety concerns. If you own a Chevrolet Bolt and are concerned about its safety or repeated issues, understanding your rights under the California Lemon Law can provide a potential avenue for relief and resolution. Always prioritize your safety and the safety of others on the road when it comes to vehicle recalls and defects.

2024 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Steering Fracture

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When it comes to your safety on the road, a reliable and functional steering system is paramount. Unfortunately, General Motors, LLC (GM) has recently issued a recall for certain 2024 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra vehicles due to a potential steering gear shaft defect that could pose serious risks. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of this recall, GM’s response, and how a Lemon Law lawyer can help if you’re affected by this issue.

GM has identified a critical concern in some 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, and 2024 GMC Sierra 2500, 3500 vehicles. The issue revolves around the steering gear shaft, which has the potential to fracture and disconnect from the steering arm. This alarming discovery was brought to light in June 2023 during an alignment operation, when a GM quality engineer stumbled upon a fractured steering gear shaft on a 2024 model year Chevrolet Silverado HD truck. GM’s thorough investigation traced the root cause to the use of out-of-specification materials combined with improper heat treatment. This unfortunate combination can result in steering gear shaft parts with material properties that fall outside acceptable specifications, ultimately leading to the fracture of the shaft.

The repercussions of this defect are both concerning and dangerous. The steering gear shaft, if compromised, may fracture and detach from the steering (pitman) arm. Such an occurrence renders the driver unable to steer the vehicle effectively, dramatically increasing the risk of a potential crash. It’s essential for vehicle owners to recognize the seriousness of this situation and take immediate action.

In response to this critical safety concern, GM’s Safety and Field Action Decision Authority acted swiftly. In July 2023, they decided to initiate a safety recall for the affected vehicles. If you own one of the affected models, GM will contact you with instructions on returning to your nearest dealership. There, your steering gear will be thoroughly inspected, and if necessary, replaced. To identify this recall, GM has assigned it the recall number N232414720, and it is also associated with the NHTSA campaign number 23V-549.

If you find yourself entangled in this recall, it’s crucial to understand your rights as a consumer. This is where a Lemon Law lawyer can make a significant difference. Lemon Laws are designed to protect consumers who have purchased faulty vehicles, ensuring that manufacturers rectify the situation. Your Lemon Law lawyer can guide you through the legal processes, helping you navigate the intricacies of the law to ensure you receive the compensation and resolution you deserve.

In light of GM’s recent recall of certain 2024 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra vehicles due to a steering gear shaft defect, prioritizing your safety on the road has never been more important. Stay informed, heed the manufacturer’s instructions, and if you encounter any challenges along the way, remember that a Lemon Law lawyer is here to safeguard your rights and help you achieve a fair resolution. Your safety and peace of mind are paramount, and by taking appropriate action, you can ensure a secure driving experience.

Is Your Volkswagen ID.4 A Lemon?

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The Volkswagen ID.4 is a popular electric vehicle that has been making waves in the automotive industry since its release in 2021. However, like any other vehicle, the ID.4 has not been immune to problems, complaints, and recalls.

One of the most significant problems reported by ID.4 owners is related to the vehicle’s software. There have been multiple complaints of the software malfunctioning, resulting in issues such as loss of power, sudden deceleration, and even complete shutdown of the vehicle. These issues have led to multiple recalls of the ID.4, with Volkswagen issuing software updates to address the problem.

Another complaint reported by ID.4 owners is related to the vehicle’s charging capabilities. There have been complaints about the charging process being slow or inconsistent, with some reports that the vehicle fails to charge altogether. While this issue has not led to any recalls, it is something that Volkswagen needs to address to ensure that the ID.4 remains a competitive electric vehicle option.

There have also been several complaints regarding the ID.4’s braking system. Some drivers have reported that the brakes are unresponsive, while others have complained about excessive brake wear. These issues have not resulted in any recalls, but they are cause for concern and something that Volkswagen needs to address to ensure the safety of its drivers.

In addition to these issues, there have been a few recalls associated with the Volkswagen ID.4. The most recent recall involves certain 2023 ID4 rear-wheel drive vehicles. The 12-Volt battery charging cable may contact the steering column shaft and cause the cable insulation to wear, possibly resulting in a short circuit. As a precaution, owners of affected vehicles are advised to park outside and away from structures and other vehicles due to the potential risk of a vehicle fire.

In conclusion, while the Volkswagen ID.4 is a promising electric vehicle option, it has had its fair share of problems and complaints. From issues with the software to problems with the charging and braking systems, there are areas where Volkswagen needs to improve the vehicle. However, it is reassuring to see that Volkswagen has been proactive in addressing these issues, with recalls and software updates aimed at improving the driving experience and ensuring the safety of its drivers.

Slow Battery Replacement On Some Chevrolet Bolt EVs

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We are still receiving inquiries concerning Chevy Bolts. GM continues to work on replacing the batteries in the 2017-2021 Bolts, but it seems as though progress has slowed dramatically in the replacement of the 2020 and 2021 vehicles. In the meantime, GM continues to sell 2022 and now 2023 with the new generation batteries, which of course begs the question as to why the batteries in the 2022 and 2023 Bolts are not first finding their way into the 2020 and 2021 Bolts. Unfortunately, we do not have an answer to this. We will continue to accept Chevy Bolt cases until every Bolt owner can be assured that their vehicle is safe for their family.

The Chevrolet Bolt was one of the first electric vehicles to gain mainstream popularity. It was marketed as an affordable and practical EV with a range of over 200 miles on a single charge. However, the Bolt has been plagued with battery problems that have affected its reliability and safety.

One of the main issues with the Bolt is the slow replacement of its battery. Unlike gasoline-powered cars, EV batteries are not interchangeable, and replacing them can take weeks or even months. This is because the process involves removing the entire battery pack, shipping it to a specialized facility, and replacing it with a new one. The slow replacement process has left many Bolt owners stranded without their cars for extended periods.

Despite these battery problems, GM is still manufacturing new Bolt vehicles. This has raised concerns among consumers about whether the company has fully addressed the underlying issues with Bolt’s battery. GM has released several recalls related to the battery problem, including 20V-701, 21V-560, and 21V-650. These recalls aim to fix the issue by updating Bolt’s software to prevent battery fires and reducing the charging capacity to prevent battery degradation.

However, the repeated problems with the Bolt’s battery have led many to question its reliability. If a car experiences the same problem repeatedly, it may be considered a “lemon.” A lemon is a car that has a substantial defect that cannot be fixed despite multiple repair attempts. In the case of the Bolt, repeated battery problems could mean that the car is defective and not fit for purpose.

If you own a Chevy Bolt and have experienced repeated battery problems, contact us at 1-888-395-3666 to explore your options. Lemon laws protect consumers from defective products and ensure that they receive compensation or a replacement vehicle if their car is a lemon.

In conclusion, the Chevy Bolt’s battery problems have affected its reliability and safety. The slow battery replacement process has left many owners stranded without their cars for extended periods. Despite several recalls, the repeated battery problems have raised concerns about the Bolt’s reliability and whether it is a lemon. If you own a Chevy Bolt and have experienced repeated battery problems, it is crucial to explore your options under the lemon law and protect your rights as a consumer.

GM Repurchases Certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Malibu For Structural Problems

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General Motors (GM) will be contacting the owners of certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Malibu’s because of a problem affecting a structural portion of the vehicle frame.

GM first became aware of the problem in August 2022 when a production operator installing parts on a vehicle discovered a section of the motor rail was missing. Further investigation found that the front rail outer panel was cut too short and, as a result, was not completely welded to the front right-hand side of the front impact bar.

The problem was reported to GM’s Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program which worked with the plant and supplier to identify and contain affected vehicles. Of the 1,875 vehicles that GM contained and inspected, they found none that had an incomplete weld. GM opened an investigation into the subject condition to analyze the potential effects of this condition during a crash. There are no known field incidents related to this condition., but GM has decided to conduct a safety recall.

According to the defect report, the sheet metal blank for the front frame rail outer panel for the 2022-2023 Chevy Malibu was improperly loaded into the die. As a result, the front frame rail was cut 10 millimeters short of its intended design. The shortened frame rail prevented proper welding of the front impact bar to the front frame rail. This defect may be present on the right hand and/or left-hand side of the vehicle.

Owners will be asked to return to their GM dealer to have the right-hand and left-hand sides of the vehicle’s motor rail inspected for incomplete welds. If the condition is found, the vehicle will be repurchased by GM. The NHTSA campaign number for this recall is 22V-923.

Is GM Repurchasing Your Lemon Vehicle?

Under the Lemon Law, if you qualify, you should be able to recover your down payment, (including registration fees, licensing fees, taxes, transportation costs, etc.), plus your total monthly lease or loan payments. The manufacturer will also pay off the balance of your loan or lease. The manufacturer will also pay all or most of your attorney’s fees.

If you have any questions about your rights and the California Lemon Law, please call our office at 1-888-395-3666 and get some great Lemon Law advice!

Cadillac, Chevrolet & GMC Vehicles Investigated For Airbag Safety Problem

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Automotive Defect Investigation
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE21-010) to investigate complaints of malfunctions with the driver frontal air bags in certain Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC vehicles.

The ODI has received fifteen consumer complaints about certain vehicles experiencing an airbag warning light illumination and/or a failure of the airbag to deploy during an accident with significant frontal damage. Nine of the consumer complaints say the air bag malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) was illuminated and six of the incidents had significant frontal damage with failure to deploy the airbags.

A TSB, issued in March 2021, addresses air bag MIL illumination accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes B0001-1B or B0012-0D. It also reports rust particles in the connection terminal interface of the driver airbag inflator as the cause of the airbag MIL illumination. Illumination of the airbag MIL under these circumstances may result in a non-deployment of the driver’s airbag during a frontal collision and increased risk of injury to the driver.

The vehicles under investigation include:

2020-2021 Cadillac CT4
2020-2021 Cadillac CT5
2020-2021 Cadillac Escalade
2020-2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV
2020-2021 Cadillac XT5
2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 4500HD
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 5500HD
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 6500HD
2020-2021 Chevrolet Suburban
2021 Chevrolet Suburban 1500
2020-2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
2020-2021 GMC Sierra 1500
2020-2021 GMC Sierra 2500
2020-2021 GMC Sierra 3500
2020 GMC Sierra Denali
2020-2021 GMC Yukon
2020-2021 GMC Yukon XL

ODI have opened this preliminary investigation to determine the scope and severity of the potential problem and to fully assess the potential safety-related issues. If the investigation results in a recall, an estimated 749,312 vehicles could be affected.