Tag Archives: repeated repair attempts

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Issues: Could Your Vehicle Be a Lemon?

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The 2024 Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is facing serious concerns from owners, with a reported 130 complaints, 10 recalls, and 303 manufacturer communications. As this model hits the market, many drivers are voicing their frustration over problems that range from safety-critical issues to major mechanical failures. The list of concerns brings into question whether some of these vehicles could qualify for a buyback under California’s Lemon Law. Here’s an in-depth look at the problems plaguing the 2024 CX-90 PHEV.

Top Complaints About the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

Consumer reports and complaints have highlighted four major areas of concern: forward collision avoidance, engine performance, electrical systems, and steering. These issues are not just minor inconveniences; they could pose significant safety hazards for drivers and passengers.

  1. Forward Collision Avoidance: Numerous drivers have reported malfunctioning collision-avoidance systems, with false positives causing the brakes to activate unexpectedly. The risk of being rear-ended due to this sudden and unnecessary braking is a valid concern, especially on busy roads or highways.
  2. Engine Issues: Many drivers have experienced engine problems, with some vehicles failing to restart after the i-stop feature engages, and others reporting a complete shutdown while in motion. This kind of unreliability in the engine system poses a clear danger, especially at high speeds.
  3. Electrical Problems: Complaints about electrical malfunctions are widespread. The Dash Electrical Supply Unit (ESU) has been known to fail, affecting vital functions like the defroster, seat belt warnings, and battery cooling systems. Given the reliance of PHEVs on complex electrical systems, these issues are alarming and inconvenient.
  4. Steering Concerns: A sudden loss of power steering assist is a particularly dangerous defect, making it difficult for drivers to control the vehicle. This kind of failure can occur without warning, putting both the driver and surrounding traffic at risk.

Recalls Highlight Safety and Reliability Concerns

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV has been subject to a staggering 10 recalls, indicating widespread problems that extend beyond individual cases. Here are some of the most notable recalls:

  • Engine Restart Failures: The i-stop feature, which automatically shuts off the engine to save fuel when idling, may prevent the engine from restarting, leading to potential stranding.
  • High-Voltage Battery Cooling System Issues: Faulty software in the ESU may lead to critical functions, including battery cooling and safety alerts, failing during startup.
  • PCM and ECM Software Malfunctions: Problems with the powertrain and engine control modules can illuminate warning lights and result in a sudden loss of drive power.
  • Inverter Software Errors: In plug-in hybrid models, improper software may lead to a total power loss when driving in electric mode.
  • Sudden Braking: The automatic braking system has a tendency to activate unexpectedly, posing a serious collision risk.
  • Power Steering Failures: An assembly issue with the worm gear can cause power steering assist to be lost without warning, making the vehicle difficult to steer.
  • Camera Malfunctions: Rear view and side cameras may not display properly due to software errors, which is a clear safety compliance issue.
  • Unexpected Engine and Motor Shutdown: Critical errors in the hybrid system software can cause both the engine and electric motor to shut down unexpectedly.
  • Pedestrian Warning Sounds: Missing software in the AVAS amplifier can result in incorrect pedestrian alert sounds, failing to meet federal safety standards for hybrid and electric vehicles.

California Lemon Law: What You Need to Know

California has some of the strongest Lemon Law protections for consumers. If your vehicle has repeated, unresolved problems that impair its use, safety, or value, you may be entitled to a buyback or replacement. Under the California Lemon Law, a car manufacturer must either replace your vehicle or refund your money if they cannot fix a substantial defect within a reasonable number of attempts.

So, what counts as a substantial defect? Issues that compromise your safety or significantly impact the car’s performance typically qualify. For instance, if your 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV loses power while driving, suddenly engages the brakes, or suffers from major electrical failures, these could be considered substantial defects.

If you’ve taken your vehicle in for multiple repairs for the same issue without a permanent fix, you might have grounds for a Lemon Law claim. It’s important to keep detailed records of all service visits, recall repairs, and communication with Mazda to strengthen your case.

Next Steps for Owners

If you’re dealing with repeated, unresolved issues with your 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV, consulting with a Lemon Law attorney can help clarify your options. California’s Lemon Law is designed to protect you from being stuck with a faulty vehicle. Given the ongoing recalls and widespread complaints, many owners may find themselves in a position to take advantage of these consumer protections.

2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Problems

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The Hyundai Santa Fe is a popular choice for families and adventurers alike, known for its spacious design, modern features, and reasonable price point. However, recent models (2021-2024) have experienced a series of issues that have frustrated owners and raised safety concerns. These common problems affect Santa Fe vehicles with GDI engines.

Common Issues Affecting the 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

  1. Fuel Injector Problems Leading to Stalling
    A major concern for many Santa Fe owners is the vehicle’s fuel injector system. Faulty fuel injectors can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, especially in models with GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engines. These issues have led to numerous complaints of the vehicle stalling while driving, creating hazardous situations on busy roads.
  2. Loss of Power
    Some owners report a sudden loss of power while driving, particularly when accelerating or maintaining speed on the highway. This loss of power can be alarming and dangerous, especially in situations where acceleration is necessary, such as merging or overtaking. Many drivers have reported that their Santa Fe either stalls entirely or hesitates significantly before regaining power, often triggering check engine or warning lights.
  3. Persistent Check Engine Light
    For Santa Fe models across 2021-2024, the check engine light has become a frequent visitor. Many owners report that the light comes on without clear resolution, even after multiple trips to the dealership. While the check engine light could signify any number of issues, the combination of repeated lights and related powertrain issues has led to frustration and concerns about reliability.

Complaints and Recalls for Each Model Year

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

Owners of the 2021 model have raised concerns about fuel system problems, including fuel leaks at the pipe connection and improperly tightened fuel pipes. Powertrain complaints are also prevalent, with owners describing issues such as failure to accelerate and hesitation while driving. Recalls include:

  • Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard: Due to water accumulation, an electrical short could lead to a fire.
  • Loss of Drive Power: A transmission oil pump malfunction can cause total power loss.
  • Inadequate Windshield Bonding: Improper bonding during manufacturing may cause the windshield to detach in a crash.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2022 Santa Fe has seen similar powertrain issues, with some owners reporting a sudden inability to accelerate and warning lights like “Check Hybrid System.” The “phantom braking” issue has also emerged, where the emergency braking system activates without reason, nearly causing accidents. Recalls for the 2022 model include:

  • Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
  • Loss of Drive Power
  • Turbocharger Oil Supply Pipe Leak: A cracked oil supply pipe could lead to leaks in the engine compartment.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

In the 2023 plug-in hybrid models, forward collision avoidance issues have led to abrupt braking in traffic. Complaints also include poor acceleration response, with significant delay or lag from the time the accelerator is pressed to when the vehicle actually moves. Key recalls include:

  • Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
  • Seat Belt Pretensioners May Explode: This recall affects the front seat belt pretensioners, which may explode upon deployment in a crash.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

For the latest 2024 model, powertrain and electrical issues are significant. Some drivers report the vehicle losing motive power and experiencing flickering dashboard screens. Complaints include blacked-out instrument panels, “Transmission System Check” warnings, and persistent audio issues that continue even when the vehicle is off. Recalls for this model include:

  • Unintentional Airbag Deployment or Deactivation: Damaged wiring harnesses can lead to unintended airbag activation or deactivation.
  • Vehicle Roll Away from Software Error: A transmission software error may result in a roll-away when the vehicle is parked.
  • Obstructed Rear-View Camera Image: A trailer parking assist message may obstruct the rear-view camera, violating rear visibility standards.

Should You Be Concerned?

These issues have led to frustration for many Hyundai Santa Fe owners. If you’re experiencing any of the above problems, it’s essential to address them promptly for your safety. Keep an eye out for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Hyundai, and report any persistent issues to your dealer.

What’s Next?

The 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offers many attractive features but has also faced considerable challenges, particularly with its powertrain and fuel injector systems. If you’re dealing with ongoing issues, it’s crucial to know your rights, especially if repairs have been ineffective. Lemon laws may protect you if your vehicle has recurring problems that affect its performance or safety. Consider consulting with a lemon law professional to discuss options if repairs haven’t resolved the issue.

Owning a car should be about convenience and freedom – not worry over performance and safety. If you’re having trouble with your Santa Fe, stay informed, stay safe, and know your options.

GM Issues Safety Recall for Chevrolet Bolt EVs Due to Seat Belt Pretensioner Fire Risk

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Seat belt pretensioner problem Discovery and Investigation of the Defect

The issue was initially brought to GM’s attention on August 29, 2023, by an employee through the company’s Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program. This action followed a dealer report from Simpson Chevrolet of Irvine, indicating that 66 vehicles repaired under the earlier recall 22V930 had not been properly fixed. Subsequent investigations, initiated by GM on October 10, 2023, uncovered further evidence suggesting Simpson Chevrolet of Irvine’s failure to execute the necessary recall repairs.

Further investigations by GM revealed no direct complaints or incidents linked to this condition. However, the seriousness of the potential risk prompted the GM Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) to mandate a safety recall for all 22V930 repairs completed by Simpson Chevrolet of Irvine up to December 4, 2023.

Risks Associated with the Defect

The central concern revolves around the seat belt pretensioner. If a crash occurs and the recall remedy has not been implemented, the seat belt pretensioner’s deployment could ignite a fire near the B-pillar, elevating the risk of injury. After a collision, the pretensioner exhaust may set fire to carpet fibers in this area.

Remedy and Owner Notification

To address this issue, GM dealers will inspect both front seat belt pretensioners. If necessary, they will install metal foil at the carpet near the pretensioner exhaust, and some vehicles may also require a new pretensioner cover. These repairs will be conducted free of charge. GM plans to send owner notification letters by January 29, 2024. Notably, these vehicles had been previously recalled for the same issue under recall number 22V-793, necessitating the implementation of this new remedy. The GM recall number is N232421970, and the NHTSA campaign number is 23-845.

Repeated Repairs and California Lemon Law

The situation with the Chevrolet Bolt EV highlights an important aspect of consumer rights, especially in states like California with robust Lemon Laws. The California Lemon Law provides protection to consumers who have purchased or leased vehicles with warranty defects. If a vehicle requires repeated repairs for the same issue, owners may be entitled to compensation, including a refund or replacement vehicle. This law ensures that manufacturers are held accountable for their vehicles’ reliability and safety, offering peace of mind to consumers facing repeated repair issues.

In conclusion, GM’s steps in recalling and repairing these vehicles underscore the importance of automotive safety and consumer protection. Vehicle owners are advised to heed recall notices and ensure their vehicles receive the necessary repairs to mitigate any risks associated with this defect.

2019-2023 Jaguar I-PACE Potential Fire From Overheating Battery

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Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Jaguar) is taking steps to address a potential safety concern involving certain 2019-2023 I-PACE vehicles. These vehicles were previously subject to recall 23V-369, but the earlier repairs may not have been executed correctly. This oversight could still leave the high-voltage battery at risk of overheating, potentially posing significant safety hazards.

Jaguar became aware of this issue in September 2023, triggered by a field report regarding a thermal overload incident in a vehicle that had previously undergone repairs as part of a prior recall (H441). An in-depth investigation into the matter revealed that the recall action for H441 had been mishandled by a retailer. In particular, the retailer had used an unauthorized service diagnostic tool, leading to the incorrect installation of essential software on the vehicle in question. Consequently, the safety defect persisted, even though the retailer had reported that the safety recall had been successfully completed.

This situation creates a lingering safety risk for affected vehicle owners. An improperly repaired vehicle continues to be vulnerable to conditions like thermal overload, which can result in potential fire or smoke issues. Such incidents can not only jeopardize the safety of vehicle occupants but also pose risks to individuals outside the vehicle and may cause property damage. What’s even more concerning is that the owners may remain unaware that the previous repair was not carried out correctly.

Fortunately, Jaguar is taking action to rectify the situation. Dealers will address the issue by updating the battery energy control module software, ensuring that the vehicles are brought up to the necessary safety standards. In the meantime, owners are strongly advised to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures, as well as to charge them in the open until the recall repair is completed. This precautionary measure should be adhered to for 30 days after the repair has been finalized.

To help facilitate this important safety recall, Jaguar has assigned it the reference number H459, and it has been officially registered with the NHTSA under campaign number 23V-709.

2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Lemon Law Buyback

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Our client purchased a new 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The first visit for service was on January 8, 2018 because the regeneration light was turning on and off and they needed to replace the key battery.

The next visit was on February 5th as the vehicle was still regenerating and having fumes coming into the cabin. The vehicle had regenerated 4 times in less than 1000 miles.

On May 22nd the Exhaust regeneration message came on the dash.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee was back in the shop on June 5th because after performing an oil change the vehicle was being prompted to regenerate after 150 miles.

Our client was back at the authorized dealership on September 18th for service as the Check engine light was on.

November 3rd the check engine light was on again, the throttle light was on and the exhaust filter was 100% full.

The last visit was on November 27th and the check engine light was on again and the message, “The exhaust filter is nearly full” came on.

It was at this point that our client looked into the California Lemon Law and called our firm, The Law Office of Barry L. Edzant and spoke with the attorney. He requested that some documents be emailed over for his review. After discussing the potential Lemon Law case with the gentleman, he decided to sign a retainer agreement.

A demand letter was sent to FCA, USA to buy back the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee under the California Lemon Law. FCA, USA decided to buy it back and reimbursed the client for their down payment, any payments made thus far, registration and pay off the balance of the loan minus a usage fee the manufacturer is entitled to under the Lemon Law. They also paid attorney fees.

Our client was very happy with the buyback. If you are having problems with your vehicle and think you may be driving a lemon, please contact our offices at 888-395-3666.

California Lemon Law Buyback
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee

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Our client purchased a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

On September 28, 2018 he took his Jeep Grand Cherokee in for service because the A/C was not blowing cold air.

On March 19, 2019 he brought it back to the dealership because the A/C was not blowing cold air again.

On June 14th it was back at the dealership because there was a Freon or a chemical type smell upon turning the A/C on. The A/C was also making a loud hissing sound and would not get cooler as the day got hotter. Sometimes the A/C would not even turn on at all.

July 15th he brought it back to the dealership because the A/C would stop working after about an hour and there was still a hissing sound coming out of it.

It was at this point that he called our office for a free consultation with California Lemon Law Attorney, Barry L Edzant. After speaking with Mr. Edzant he sent in some paperwork to be reviewed. He signed on as a client and a demand letter was sent in to FCA, USA.

FCA, USA decided to buy back the vehicle under the California Lemon Law and reimbursed our client for his down payment, all payments made, his registration and paid off the vehicle minus a usage fee that manufacturer is entitled to under the law. They also paid the attorney fees. Our client was very happy with the result.

If you are having problem with your vehicle and have questions about your rights and the California Lemon Law, please call our office at 888-395-3666.

2015 Dodge Ram Lemon Law Buyback

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Our client purchased a new 2015 Dodge Ram truck.

His first visit to the authorized Dodge dealership was on December 5, 2016. He brought his vehicle in because a coolant leak was coming from the thermostat housing.

The next visit was on December 14th and the coolant leak was still leaking in the same area. The check engine light was also on.

On April 17, 2017 he brought the vehicle in again as the engine light was on and there was no power.

The last visit was on December 8th and the Dodge Ram was in the shop for 27 days because the turbo under boost was not working.

He heard about the Lemon Law and contacted our office. He spoke with California Lemon Law attorney, Barry L. Edzant who asked him to forward some documents. After reviewing the documents, Barry called the potential client to discuss and he decided to sign a retainer agreement with Mr. Edzant’s Law Firm.

A demand letter was sent to FCA, USA and they decided to buy the vehicle back under the California Lemon Law. They reimbursed our client for his down payment, all payments made, his registration, paid off the loan minus a usage fee that the manufacturer is entitled to under the CA Lemon Law. They also paid the attorney fees.Our client was very happy with the results.

If you think you may be driving a lemon, please contact our Law Firm at 888-395-3666 for a free consultation and answers to your questions.

California Lemon Law Buyback For 2016 GMC Acadia

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Our client bought a 2016 GMC Acadia,

In September our client took his Acadia to the authorized GMC Dealership because the A/C on the rear driver’s side and rear passenger side was blowing warm air.

The next visit was on September 25th because the check engine light was on and the vehicle seemed to be idling rough. After filling up the gas the vehicle did not want to start. Also, the A/C stopped working. A light would come on and flash but would not stay solid.

The vehicle was back at the dealership on October 17th because there was a hissing noise coming from the vents and the rear A/C was blowing warm air.

Our client was back at the dealership on December 20th because there was a noise coming from the engine. When turning off the vehicle there is a winding down noise. While using the A/C there is a bubbling noise. Also, the brakes were squeaking and making a bubble noise.

The next visit to the dealership for servicing was on February 6, 2019. The first concern was that when the vehicle was idling and the heater or A/C was on, it was making a bubbling noise. Another concern was the ambient lighting on the front passenger side was inop. The 12 volt charger in the rear was inop. When putting the lift gate up there is a very large clunking noise. The driver’s side door outer belt molding was deformed. The brake pedal was making noises.

The last visit was on February 19th and the ambient lighting on the passenger side by the glove box was inop. They were hearing a light bulb bubble noise from the dash. Also the A/C light button had flashed three times.

It was shortly thereafter that we heard from our soon to be client. They spoke with Barry and sent him some documents to review. Soon after they signed a retainer agreement and a demand letter was sent to General Motors Corporation to repurchase their vehicle under the California Lemon Law. GMC agreed to buyback the Acadia, pay off the balance, reimburse him for the down payment and any payments made, pay off the balance less the mileage fee allowed under the California Lemon Law. They also paid all the attorney fees.

Our client was very happy with the buyback of his vehicle. If you think you might be driving a lemon because of repeat problems that the dealership is unable to fix, please call 888-395-3666 for a free consultation.