Jeep & Dodge SUVs Investigated For Repeated Electrical Problem

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According to reports filed with the NHTSA, an investigation has been opened to examine the effectiveness of a recall repair affecting certain 2011-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles.

On July 1st, 2014 Chrysler issued safety recall 14V-391 (Recall #9) to remedy a wiring related fire hazard in which an electrical short in the vanity lamp wiring in the sun visors could overheat and ignite. The Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) has received 8 reports of fires occurring after the remedy was installed. Some occupants report smoke, sometimes followed by flames, coming from the headliner. If the investigation leads to a recall, approximately 661,888 SUVs could be affected.

Volkswagen & Audi Fuel Pump Failure

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Volkswagen will be contacting the owners of certain 2015 Audi a VW vehicles about a manufacturing error affecting certain components within the fuel pump. Contamination due to improper nickel plating of these components may cause excessive pump friction and eventual pump failure. If the pump becomes inoperative because of this condition, it may result in a no start condition or a stall while driving. Stalling without warning while driving could increase the chance of an accident. Continue reading →

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Repeated Repair Attempts

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Despite numerous complaints and nine (9) unsuccessful repair attempts, the owner of a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee was still driving a vehicle with defects. The problems included an air bag warning light that would illuminate; an engine that would stall and not start; white smoke from the exhaust system; a check engine light that remains on; and a defective drivers seat, door locks, and A/C system. These defects made the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee owner reluctant to drive her vehicle, so she decided to contact the Law Offices of Delsack & Associates, P.C. for advice. Continue reading →

Government Incentives Recommended To Improve EV & Hybrid Sales

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According to a study done by the National Research Council (NRC), if electric and plug in hybrid vehicles are to be adopted by consumers, the Federal government must continue to provide incentives for buyers. Currently, vehicle cost, battery technology, and lack of consumer knowledge are some areas that the federal government need to address. Developing less expensive, better performing batteries to reduce cost, and a market strategy, is needed to create awareness and overcome customer uncertainty. Continue reading →

2013-2014 Dodge Viper Electrical Door Defect

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After three warranty complaints and an investigation into unexpected door openings or failure to close events on the door, Dodge has issued a defect notice for certain 2013-2014 Dodge Viper vehicles. According to the investigation report, the manufacturer of the door switches replaced the two part epoxy potting with a hot melt adhesive. This change allowed moisture to seep past the potting, shorting the switch. A driver or passenger door that opens unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion (even at low speeds), could increase the possibility of a crash and injury. Continue reading →

Mercedes-Benz Smart ForTwo Steering Problem

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Mercedes-Benz has determined that a steering defect affecting certain Smart ForTwo vehicles may exist. According to reports filed with the NHTSA, the steering gear bolts on the front cross steering member may have been manufactured outside of production specifications due to a production deviation at a supplier. If the bolts do not meet the endurance requirements, they could break due to high loads and vibrations, making handling difficult and increasing the risk of an accident. Continue reading →

2013 Fiat 500e Powertrain Repeated Repair Attempts

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In August 2013, Chrysler opened an investigation into certain 2013 Fiat 500e battery electric vehicles because drivers were experiencing excessive noise from the powertrain and loss of drive capability. The investigation found that due to product, process, and rework anomalies, the half shaft joints on the suspect vehicles may not have been engineered and developed for this application. Continue reading →

Volkswagen Routan Repeated Repair Attempts

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Certain 2009-2010 Volkswagen Routan owners will be contacted by the manufacturer about a problem with their vehicle ignition switch system. These vehicles may experience inadvertent ignition key displacement from the “run” to the “accessory” position while driving. If this happens, the engine will turn off, depowering various key safety systems including; airbags, power steering, and power braking. The loss of these systems may increase the chance of injury during an accident. Continue reading →