Tag Archives: Automobile Safety

Tesla “Warning Lights” Safety Problem

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Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer, has initiated a comprehensive recall affecting a wide range of its vehicles, spanning from 2012 to 2024 models, due to a problem that compromises the visibility of critical safety information on the instrument panel. This recall specifically targets owners of the 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, and the 2024 Cybertruck. The core issue revolves around the display of crucial safety information, which could be obscured due to an incorrect font size, potentially hampering the driver’s ability to stay informed about the vehicle’s safety status.

The problem came to Tesla’s attention in January 2024 during a routine compliance audit that involved a 2023 Tesla Model Y. It was then that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) alerted Tesla to the non-compliance of the vehicle with specific regulatory standards regarding the letter font size height, as stipulated in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) No. 135, specifically section S5.5.5(a). This prompted Tesla to conduct an exhaustive review of its manufacturing and software records, leading to the decision to issue a recall.

Since identifying the issue on January 24, 2024, Tesla has uncovered three warranty claims potentially linked to this problem, underscoring its prevalence and significance. Despite these findings, Tesla has reported no known crashes, injuries, or fatalities related to this condition, highlighting the company’s proactive approach in addressing potential safety concerns.

The defect pertains to the display of the brake, park, and antilock brake system (ABS) warning lights on the instrument panel. The font size used for these crucial warning indicators was found to be below the minimum requirements set forth by federal motor vehicle safety standards concerning hydraulic and electric brake systems, as well as light vehicle brake systems. This non-compliance could potentially obscure critical safety warnings, posing a risk to drivers and passengers alike.

In response to this issue, Tesla has initiated an over-the-air (OTA) software update, specifically designed to correct the font size of the Brake, Park, and ABS visual warning indicators. The update ensures that the letter font size is increased to not less than 3.2 mm (1/8 inch), aligning with the requirements of FMVSS Nos. 105 and 135. This software update began rolling out to certain affected vehicles in late January 2024, with the initial deployment featuring software release 2023.44.30.13. Tesla plans to extend this OTA update to all remaining affected vehicles with an upcoming release scheduled for early February 2024.

Tesla’s commitment to rectifying this issue is evident in its recall number SB-24-00-003 and the NHTSA campaign number 24V-051. This recall reflects Tesla’s dedication to ensuring the safety and compliance of its vehicles with federal safety standards. Vehicle owners affected by this recall can expect to be contacted by Tesla for the software update, reaffirming the company’s commitment to the safety and satisfaction of its customers.

Hyundai Kona Potential Engine Compartment Fire From Short Circuit

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Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is initiating a recall for certain 2024 Kona models due to a potential risk of electrical short circuiting. This issue arises from the possibility of the battery cables rubbing against the engine control module bracket.

These vehicles are equipped with a 12-volt positive battery cable that could suffer damage during frontal collisions, leading to contact with the engine control module (ECM) bracket. This contact increases the likelihood of an electrical short, which could result in a fire in the engine compartment post-collision. Signs of this problem include smoke or a burning smell emanating from the engine area.

The issue first came to Hyundai’s attention in November 2023, following a report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) about an engine compartment fire in a 2024 Hyundai Kona 1.6T-GDI AWD during a crash test. The IIHS observed smoke and flames emerging from the engine area shortly after the test. Their preliminary assessment indicated a short circuit in the ECM, which led to repeated reignitions. The situation was resolved after disconnecting the auxiliary battery. This incident prompted NASO to launch a new investigation.

A joint examination by NASO, HMC, HATCI, and IIHS revealed damage to the alternator and 12-volt positive power wiring beneath the ECM, with exposed copper cores. The ECM bracket was found pressing against the 12-volt positive battery cable, believed to have shifted during the crash and caused the electrical short leading to the fires.

In response, Hyundai conducted crash tests in December with newly designed sheathing to protect the 12-volt positive wiring from shorting due to ECM bracket contact. These tests were successful, showing no damage or electrical shorting. Consequently, HMA’s NASO decided to recall the affected Kona vehicles.

To date, there have been no reported crashes, injuries, or deaths related to this issue, except for the single fire incident during the IIHS test. Hyundai is unaware of any field incidents. Vehicle owners will be notified to return their vehicles to Hyundai dealers for the installation of protective sheathing over the wiring. The recall is designated as number 252, with NHTSA campaign number 23V-900.

Aftermarket Steering Wheel Decal Safety Warning

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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recently issued a cautionary statement regarding the use of aftermarket steering wheel decals. They are alerting vehicle owners to the potential safety risks associated with these popular accessories. This advisory, while not directly related to Lemon Law issues, underscores the importance of prioritizing safety in vehicle modifications.

The NHTSA’s Concern

The center of NHTSA’s advisory lies in the potential hazards that steering wheel decals pose. Often crafted from materials such as vinyl or plastic, these decorative additions can interfere with the steering system’s safety features, particularly airbags and control buttons. In extreme scenarios, such interference might hinder airbag deployment in accidents, elevating the risk of driver injury.

A Safety Perspective

The NHTSA’s warning provides an essential distinction between manufacturer defects covered under Lemon Laws and aftermarket modifications made by vehicle owners. Lemon Laws are designed to protect consumers from manufacturer-related issues, but do not extend to aftermarket alterations like steering wheel decals. This distinction is critical as it places the responsibility for any resulting safety issues on the owner post-modification.

Safety Risks of Steering Wheel Decals

While steering wheel decals might appear to be a simple cosmetic enhancement, they can inadvertently impact a vehicle’s safety. These decals can obscure important warning labels or indicators, potentially causing confusion. Additionally, they may alter the feel and function of control buttons, leading to distraction or delayed reactions from the driver in crucial moments.

Manufacturer Warnings and Warranty Concerns

Vehicle manufacturers often advise against modifications that could affect safety feature functionality. Installing aftermarket steering wheel decals could lead to warranty voidance, particularly if these modifications contribute to any system malfunctions or failures. Vehicle owners should consider this potential impact on their warranty coverage before proceeding with such modifications.

Making Informed Choices: Safety vs. Aesthetics

NHTSA encourages vehicle owners to consider safety implications ahead of aesthetic preferences when modifying their vehicles. For those still looking to customize their steering wheels, there are safer alternatives. Options like custom stitching or accessories approved by the manufacturer can provide personalization without sacrificing safety.

Prioritizing Safety in Vehicle Customization

To sum up, while aftermarket steering wheel decals are not a Lemon Law matter, their influence on vehicle safety cannot be overlooked. The NHTSA’s warning is a vital reminder for consumers to carefully consider the safety implications of any vehicle customization. Remember, when it comes to modifying your vehicle, ensuring that aesthetics do not compromise safety is crucial. In the realm of vehicle customization, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

Things You Should Know About Vehicles With Rebuilt Titles

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Automobile Rebuild Tites

Vehicles with rebuilt titles in the United States represent a unique category in the automotive market. Understanding what a rebuilt title is, its implications, and the pros and cons of purchasing such vehicles is crucial for any potential buyer or current owner.

What is a Rebuilt Title?

A rebuilt title is assigned to a vehicle that was previously deemed a total loss by an insurance company due to extensive damage or theft and then repaired to a roadworthy condition. This title indicates that the vehicle has been restored after significant damage.

How a Vehicle Gets a Rebuilt Title

  1. Damage and Insurance Assessment: Initially, a vehicle is given a salvage title when it’s considered a total loss by an insurance company, typically due to severe damage, flood, fire, or theft.
  2. Repair and Restoration: The vehicle is then repaired, often by a private individual or a repair facility.
  3. Inspection: After repairs, the vehicle undergoes a state-mandated inspection to ensure it meets safety standards.
  4. Rebranding as Rebuilt: Once it passes inspection, the vehicle’s title is rebranded from salvage to rebuilt.

Identifying a Vehicle with a Rebuilt Title

The title document itself will clearly state if it is a rebuilt title. Additionally, vehicle history report services can provide this information based on the vehicle identification number (VIN).

Impact on Automobile Insurance

  • Limited Insurance Options: Many insurers are hesitant to cover rebuilt title cars or offer limited policies excluding collision and comprehensive coverage.
  • Higher Premiums: Those that do offer full coverage might charge significantly higher premiums due to the perceived higher risk.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Rebuilt Title Vehicle

Pros

  1. Documented Repair Work: Sellers of rebuilt title cars often provide detailed documentation of repairs, offering more insight into the vehicle’s condition than typical used car transactions.
  2. Significant Discounts: These vehicles are generally much cheaper, with potential discounts up to 50% compared to cars with clean titles.

Cons

  1. Safety Risks: There’s an inherent risk in the vehicle’s safety standards, as the extent and quality of repairs can vary.
  2. Limited Insurance Coverage: Difficulty in securing comprehensive insurance coverage is a significant drawback.
  3. Financing Challenges: Most major banks are reluctant to finance vehicles with rebuilt titles.
  4. Voided Warranty: Manufacturer warranties are typically voided once a vehicle is marked as salvage or rebuilt.
  5. Low Resale Value: These vehicles have a lower resale value and may be challenging to sell, as some dealerships avoid buying them.

Owning a vehicle with a rebuilt title can significantly impact the applicability and process of invoking the California Lemon Law. This law is designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles with substantial manufacturing defects. However, when it comes to vehicles with rebuilt titles, the situation becomes more complex. Typically, these vehicles are excluded from coverage under the California Lemon Law because they are not new and have been extensively repaired after being deemed a total loss. The law primarily covers vehicles under the original manufacturer’s warranty, which is often voided in the case of a rebuilt title. Additionally, the history of significant damage and subsequent repairs makes it challenging to attribute any new defects directly to the manufacturer’s responsibility, a key criterion under the Lemon Law. As a result, owners of vehicles with rebuilt titles may find it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to seek remedy under this law for any issues that arise with their vehicle.

Vehicles with rebuilt titles present a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. While they offer an affordable option with potentially well-documented repair histories, the drawbacks in terms of safety, insurance, financing, warranty, and resale value are significant. It’s essential for buyers to weigh these factors carefully, conduct thorough research, and consider their willingness to accept the risks associated with a rebuilt title vehicle.

GM “Stop Delivery” On Certain Chevy Blazer, Chevy Equinox And GMC Terrain Vehicles

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Chevy Blazer EV Stop Delivery

General Motors (GM) has announced an immediate stop delivery order for certain 2024 model vehicles, including the Chevrolet Blazer, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. This decision, taken as a precautionary measure to ensure customer satisfaction and vehicle reliability.

The specific issue prompting this stop delivery order has not been publicly disclosed by General Motors. The order is categorized under “Global Safety Field Investigations,” suggesting that GM is actively working to identify and rectify the underlying problem. The lack of detailed information at this stage highlights the company’s cautious approach in handling potential vehicle issues.

Affected vehicles have been identified through their Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), with a clear directive that these vehicles should not be sold or delivered by dealers until further details and solutions are provided. This restriction also prohibits dealer trades, auction releases, demonstration uses, or any other dealership activities involving these models. To facilitate this process, GM has updated the Investigate Vehicle History (IVH) screen in the Global Warranty Management (GWM) system, which now tags the affected vehicles with a “Stop Delivery” status and labels the VIN as “Incomplete Remedy Not Available.”

One significant concern that has emerged is related to software issues in the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, which uses GM’s advanced Ultium battery system. A small number of Blazer EV owners have reported issues with the software quality, prompting Chevrolet to temporarily halt sales and deliveries of this model. This pause is intended to ensure that the vehicles delivered meet GM’s high standards for quality and reliability. Notably, the software problems cannot be resolved through an over-the-air (OTA) update, necessitating a visit to the dealership for service.

GM has assured customers and stakeholders that these software issues are not safety-related and do not pertain to the Ultium battery system or the Google Built-in features. The engineering teams at GM are actively working on a solution. Affected vehicle owners will be contacted by GM with instructions on scheduling their software updates.

This stop delivery order, labeled under GM number N232429910, is a measure by GM to preemptively address potential issues before they impact customers. As the situation evolves, GM is expected to provide further updates and guidance to both dealerships and vehicle owners.

OCS Sensors May Short Circuit In Lexus And Toyota Vehicles

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Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) has announced a significant recall affecting a range of Lexus and Toyota vehicles from the 2020 to 2022 model years. This recall, necessitated by a defect in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, underscores a critical safety issue that could potentially prevent the deployment of the front passenger airbag.

The recall spans a variety of models, including:

  • Lexus ES (2020-2021)
  • Lexus ES Hybrid (2020-2022)
  • Lexus RX and RX Hybrid (2020-2021)
  • Toyota Avalon and Avalon Hybrid (2020-2021)
  • Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid (2020-2022)
  • Toyota Corolla, Highlander, and their Hybrid variants (2020-2021)
  • Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid (2020-2021)
  • Toyota Sienna Hybrid (2021)

The issue originates from the Occupant Classification System sensors located in the front passenger seat. These sensors play a pivotal role in the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), determining the deployment of the front passenger airbag based on the occupant load. A defect has been identified wherein, during production, the sensor’s Printed Circuit Board (PCB) became deformed. This deformation can cause a crack in a capacitor, leading to moisture intrusion over time and resulting in a short circuit.

The malfunctioning of these sensors poses a significant risk. In the event of a short circuit, the SRS warning lamp and the “Passenger Airbag OFF” lamp will illuminate, accompanied by a message on the Multi-Information Display (MID). The most concerning consequence is that the front passenger airbag may not deploy in certain crashes, markedly increasing the risk of injury to the occupant.

To address this issue, Toyota dealers will conduct inspections and replace the sensor where necessary. The recall is comprehensive in its scope, and owner notification letters are expected to be dispatched starting February 4, 2024.

Toyota has assigned the numbers 23TB15/23TA15 for Toyota and 23LB03/23LA03 for Lexus vehicles to this recall. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has registered this recall under campaign number 23V-865.

This recall by Toyota highlights the intricate nature of modern automotive safety systems and the critical importance of their proper functioning. Owners of the affected vehicles are urged to heed the recall notice and have their vehicles inspected and repaired as necessary to ensure their safety and that of their passengers.

Volkswagen Charging Cable Could Overheat

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Volkswagen Group of America, Inc., particularly its Audi division, is facing a significant challenge with its 220V/240V charging cables. Owners of certain 2019-2024 Audi models are being notified due to a defect that could lead to the overheating and potential fire hazard of the outlet or charging cable. This alarming issue affects a range of models, including:

  • 2021-2022 Audi A7
  • 2020-2021 Audi A8
  • 2019-2024 Audi E-Tron
  • 2022-2024 Audi E-Tron GT
  • 2022-2024 Audi Q4 E-Tron
  • 2020-2024 Audi Q5
  • 2022-2024 Audi RS E-Tron GT

The problem first came to light in September 2020 when cases of melting and overheating at the industrial socket (NEMA 14-50) were reported during the use of the industrial 220V/240V plug with 40 amperes. Audi’s thorough investigation, which involved requesting parts from the field and analyzing customer charging behavior, revealed that the vehicles and the provided charging equipment were not at fault. Instead, the cause was often linked to household power outlets and wiring, or circuit breakers not capable of handling the required electrical current.

Understanding that household power outlets and wiring might not be equipped to handle the necessary current, Audi initiated a service campaign that instructed customers to bring their charging equipment to an Audi dealer to modify the charging system control unit to a 50% power level for the industrial plug. Additionally, a warning label was attached to the control unit of the Audi compact charging system, advising on safe usage.

Despite these measures, and the ability to charge at 100% current upon confirmation of adequate home power supply, further incidents of overheating and melting sockets were reported. As a result, in January 2022, Audi launched a safety recall, superseding the service campaign, to replace the affected charging cables with new ones equipped with temperature sensors. For unsold vehicles, the industrial charging cable will be replaced before delivery. As of the latest reports, Audi has identified 615 claims related to this issue from 08/05/2020 to 12/05/2023. Fortunately, there have been no reports of fires, crashes, or injuries connected to this problem.

Audi advises owners of the affected models not to use the 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable. Instead, they should use the 110V home charging cable or public charging stations until the issue is resolved. Owners can expect to receive interim notification letters by February 9, 2024, explaining the safety risks. A second notice will follow, detailing the availability of remedy parts, expected around mid-2024. Audi’s recall numbers are 93U6 and 93U8, with the NHTSA campaign number being 23V-842.

This recall underscores the importance of not only the quality of automotive products but also the compatibility and capacity of home electrical systems. Owners of the affected models are urged to heed the recall notices and take the necessary steps to ensure their safety.

Battery Problem – Jeep Wrangler PHEV

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In recent years, the automotive industry has witnessed a significant shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), with hybrid models like the Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) gaining popularity. However, this transition has not been without challenges, particularly concerning battery reliability and safety. A case in point is the recent issue with certain 2021-2023 model year Jeep Wrangler PHEVs.

The Core Issue

The heart of the problem lies in the high voltage (HV) battery of some Jeep Wrangler PHEVs, which have been reported to fail internally. This issue first came to light in May 2023 when the FCA Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance (TSRC) organization received two field reports of 2021 Jeep Wrangler PHEVs catching fire due to the HV battery. Following these alarming reports, FCA bought back the vehicles for in-depth analysis. By November 2023, seven such incidents had been reported, prompting FCA US to initiate a voluntary safety recall of the affected vehicles.

Investigating the Cause

The root cause of these battery failures remains unidentified and under investigation. The suspect period for these faults began on September 18, 2020, with the issue being potentially linked to battery cells manufactured between January 21, 2021, and October 2, 2021. These dates were determined using supplier manufacturing records, indicating a specific window during which the faulty cells were produced.

Broader Challenges with EV Batteries

This situation with Jeep Wrangler PHEVs brings to light broader concerns in the EV industry regarding battery safety and reliability. Battery issues in electric vehicles can stem from various factors, including manufacturing defects, improper management of battery temperature, overcharging, or physical damage to the battery. Such problems can lead to reduced battery life, decreased performance, and in extreme cases, safety hazards like fires.

The recall of the Jeep Wrangler PHEVs underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and quality control in the production of EV batteries. Manufacturers must implement stringent quality checks and improve battery technology to prevent such incidents. Furthermore, understanding and rectifying the root cause of these failures is crucial for the advancement and consumer confidence in EV technology.

Owners are advised not to recharge their vehicles, and to park outside and away from structures, until they are repaired. Dealers will update the high voltage battery pack software and replace the battery pack assembly if necessary. FCA US, LLC’s number for this recall is 89A and the NHTSA campaign number is 23V-787.

The case of the Jeep Wrangler PHEV batteries serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges associated with the EV revolution. While the shift to electric mobility is imperative for sustainable transportation, it also demands heightened attention to the safety and reliability of EV components, especially batteries. As the industry evolves, continuous improvements and vigilance in battery technology and manufacturing processes will be key to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of EV users worldwide.