The start of 2024 has seen a significant number of vehicle recalls in the United States, affecting a wide range of models across several manufacturers and encompassing issues like faulty airbags potentially launching shrapnel, battery concerns raising fire risks, fuel pump issues causing leakage and driveshafts prone to breakage, highlighting an urgent need for manufacturers to address widespread safety concerns. These auto recalls are critical for ensuring the safety and reliability of vehicles on the road and avoiding serious accidents and injuries.
In this blog, we will give a quick overview of January's automotive recalls, and advise you on the next steps if you suspect your vehicle is affected.
Which Vehicles Were Recalled in January?
Automotive recalls in January have involved several major manufacturers addressing some critical safety concerns. Notable recalls include:
Audi: Approximately 13,000 vehicles were recalled due to improperly mounted driver's side front passenger air bags, which could shoot sharp metal fragments if exploded. Models include certain SQ8, RSQ8, Q8 and Q7.
Volkswagen Group of America (Audi): Approximately 3,800 vehicles were recalled due to a software issue that could cause the battery management system to malfunction and increase the risk of a fire. This affects certain 2023-2024 Audi e-tron and e-tron GT electric vehicles.
Chevrolet: Approximately 21,000 Silverado 1500 vehicles were recalled due to a fuel pump issue, which could cause potential leakages.
Chevrolet: Approximately 58,000 Silverado 2500/3500 Heavy Duty vehicles were recalled due to incorrectly welded rear axle bracket issues.
Mercedes-Benz Group: Approximately 1,300 Mercedes-Benz Metris vehicles were recalled due to a fuel pump issue, which could cause a potential leak.
Ram: Over 600,000 heavy-duty pickup trucks are being recalled to reprogram their emissions-control systems. This action was taken after it was discovered that the software in these trucks allowed them to emit more pollutants than permitted.
Ford: Approximately 23,000 Explorer SUV vehicles were recalled due to loose or missing fasteners that could cause the third-row seats to detach in a crash.
Ford: Approximately 140,000 units of the Focus and EcoSport have been recalled due to an issue with the oil pump that could lead to engine failure.
General Motors: Approximately 58,000 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vehicles were recalled due to incorrectly welded rear axle brackets.
Honda: Approximately 750,000 Accord, CR-V, Insight, Odyssey and Pilot vehicles were recalled due to seat weight sensor issues, which have caused airbag deployment concerns.
Hyundai: Approximately 57,000 Palisade, Santa Fe and Santa Fe Hybrid vehicles were recalled due to concerns with improperly heat-treated driveshafts, which could cause potential breakage.
Jaguar: Approximately 1,700 I-Pace electric SUV vehicles were recalled due to battery pack issues, which could pose a potential fire risk.
Kia: Approximately 85,000 EV6 and Niro EV vehicles were recalled due to improperly heat-treated driveshafts, which could result in potential breakage.
Kia: A separate recall by Kia for approximately 22,000 Telluride vehicles due to concerns over valve spring breakages, which could cause potential engine stalls.
Mack Trucks: Approximately 113,000 Granite vehicles were recalled due to concerns over axle hub bolt fatigue, which could cause a potential rollaway.
Nissan: Approximately 234,000 Leaf vehicles were recalled due to rearview camera wiring harness damage issues. Additionally, around 1,400 Nissan Murano vehicles were recalled over detaching glass panels concerns.
Tesla: All currently manufactured Cybertruck vehicles are under investigation for multiple safety concerns. Various models (2012-2024) are also under investigation for loss of steering control issues but no recall notice has been initiated.
Volvo: Approximately 1,500 vehicles were recalled including certain 2023-2024 XC40 Recharge electric SUVs due to a software issue that could cause the electric motor to lose power.
These recalls highlight the automotive industry's ongoing efforts to address safety and environmental concerns. Vehicle owners are advised to respond promptly to recall notices and contact authorized service centers or local dealers for the necessary repairs.
The Importance of Addressing Recalls
Vehicle recalls, while inconvenient, are vital for ensuring the safety and performance of vehicles on our roads. They also highlight the ongoing efforts by manufacturers to adhere to safety standards and regulatory requirements. For vehicle owners, responding promptly to recall notices (even if it's only a voluntary recall) is essential. It ensures that any identified issues are resolved quickly, thereby minimizing the risk of potentially dangerous malfunction-led accidents.
Is Your Car Affected?
It is important to note that recalls are not issued for every potential problem with a vehicle. Owners of the affected vehicles will usually be notified by mail and instructed to visit authorized dealers for repairs. If you are concerned about the safety of your vehicle, you can check the following:
NHTSA website: Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) and use your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see if there are any open recalls listed.
Manufacturer website: Look for information on the manufacturer's website, or contact them directly about any potential issues you should be aware of.
Recall notices: Check your email, mail, or car's dashboard for any recall notices you may have missed.
Take Action!
If you have concerns about your vehicle, don't delay, take action immediately.
Contact your local dealer: If your car is affected by a recall, schedule an appointment with your authorized dealer for free repairs or replacements.
Follow instructions: Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully regarding any safety precautions or driving limitations while awaiting repairs.
Keep records: Maintain any documentation related to the recall, including communication with the manufacturer and dealer, service records and repair receipts.
Top Tips
There are a few easy steps you can take to ensure your safety and peace of mind on the road.
Sign up for email alerts from NHTSA to receive notifications about future recalls that might affect your vehicle.
Consider keeping a list of your car's VIN in a readily accessible location, such as your wallet or glove compartment, for easy reference.
Don't ignore recalls, even if the issue seems minor. Addressing them promptly can prevent potential accidents and injuries.
Does Your New Car Have Ongoing Maintenance Issues?
Navigating vehicle problems can be frustrating, especially if they persist despite repairs. If you suspect your car might qualify as a 'lemon' under state lemon laws, due to repeated and unresolved issues, consider seeking legal guidance from an experienced attorney specializing in lemon law.
We at The Beck Law Office are well-versed with auto regulator policies and consumer rights in the state of California, and we offer comprehensive legal counsel and engage with car manufacturers on your behalf if required. We can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process and recover compensation for the defective vehicle.
Contact Us Today
Remember, lemon laws vary by state, so seeking local legal advice tailored to your specific situation is crucial. Our dedicated team of California lemon law lawyers is eager to ensure that you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.
We offer free initial consultations and no-obligation case evaluations. Don't delay, contact us today!
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