September proved to be a pivotal month for the automotive industry in America. With a heightened emphasis on safety and consumer protection, several manufacturers announced recalls addressing a range of issues, from minor glitches to more serious defects and manufacturing faults potentially causing fires and melting incidents.
These recalls, affecting millions of vehicles, highlight the industry's commitment to ensuring the welfare of its consumers and its determination to uphold the high standards it has set. As consumers, staying informed of these recalls is crucial, not only for personal safety but also to maintain the longevity and performance of our vehicles.
This report provides an overview of the major recalls announced in September, detailing the manufacturers involved, the specific issues identified, and the recommended actions for consumers.
How to Find Recall News
Finding out if a vehicle has been recalled is essential for the safety of its driver, passengers, and others on the road. Manufacturers issue recalls for the affected vehicles when they identify defects or problems that could compromise a vehicle's safety or fail to meet minimum safety standards.
➡️ Here's a step-by-step guide on how to find out about recalled vehicles:
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) Check: - Every vehicle has a unique VIN. You can usually find this 17-character number on the driver's side where the dashboard meets the windshield or inside the driver's side door frame. - Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) recall website: www.nhtsa.gov/recalls - Enter the VIN of your vehicle to check for any active recalls. - If there is an open recall, it will specify what the issue is and how to get it fixed (usually at no cost to you).
Manufacturer Websites: Most major vehicle manufacturers have a recall lookup tool on their official website where you can input your VIN to see if your vehicle is affected.
Register Your Vehicle: If you purchase a new vehicle, ensure you register it with the manufacturer. This way, you will be directly notified of any recalls.
Stay Updated with NHTSA: The NHTSA's recall website frequently updates with new recalls. You can also sign up for email alerts to be notified of recalls that may affect vehicles like yours.
Check News and Media Outlets: Major recalls often make national and local news. Regularly checking or subscribing to automotive news websites can keep you informed.
Download Recall Apps: There are several apps available on various platforms that will notify you about vehicle recalls. Examples include the NHTSA's SaferCar app, among others.
Regular Service Check-ups: Whenever you get your vehicle serviced, ask the service provider to check for any recalls. Dealerships and many mechanics have access to databases that list current recalls.
Vehicle Purchase: If you are buying a used car, it is a good idea to check for any open recalls before finalizing the purchase. You can do this by running the VIN through the NHTSA's website.
Consumer Reporting Websites: Websites such as Consumer Reports will often have sections dedicated to recent recalls in various industries, including automotive.
Maintain Communication: Ensure your vehicle registration details are updated with your current address and contact information. This ensures that if there's a recall, the manufacturer can send you a notification.
➡️ Act Promptly!
Remember, for auto safety, if your vehicle is recalled, it is vital to act promptly. Recalls are issued to address safety concerns, and while not all recalls mean your vehicle is a ticking time bomb, they shouldn't be ignored. For more serious problems, manufacturers will normally notify owners with interim letters immediately warning of the defects, and the recalls will be fixed for free by the manufacturer's dealership.
Which Vehicles Were Recalled in September?
The following vehicles were recalled in September 2023 in the US:
BMW: 2023 BMW XM, 2024 BMW X5, X6, and X7
Reason: The front passenger knee airbag may not deploy as intended.
Ford: 2023 Super Duty F250 and F350 trucks, 2023 Explorer SUVs
Reason: A left rear axle shaft may break, which can increase the risk of a crash.
Hyundai: Including the brand new 2024 Kona and Santa Fe SUV
Reason: According to a NHTSA report, the rear seatbelts may not work properly. If a crash were to occur then an occupant may not be properly restrained, which can result in an injury.
Kia: 1.7 million vehicles, including the 2019 Sorento
Reason: The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may cause an electrical short, resulting in engine compartment fires.
Mercedes-Benz: 2023 GLC300
Reason: The front tow eye may be inadequately threaded to the cross member and can detach during towing.
Spartan Fire: Including the Gladiator, Metro Star, FC-94, Panther, and Predator
Reason: In certain emergency vehicle models a defect in the inversion valve may delay park brake engagement, which could allow the vehicle to move unintentionally.
➡️ The Most Significant Recalls:
The most significant recall in September was the Kia and Hyundai recall of 3.37 million vehicles due to the risk of engine compartment fire, advising owners to park outside and away from buildings until repairs are completed. The automakers said internal brake fluid leaks from the antilock brake motor shaft could cause an electrical short that could lead to a fire. These recalls cover multiple car and SUV models ranging from 2010 to 2019 model years including Hyundai's Santa Fe SUV and Kia's Sorrento SUV.
➡️ Is Your Car Affected?
To check if your vehicle is affected by a recall, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and enter your vehicle's VIN number. You can also sign up for NHTSA recall alerts so that you are notified if your vehicle is recalled in the future.
Contact Us
If you suspect you have a 'lemon' vehicle on your hands, it is important to take action immediately and contact a skilled lemon law attorney. They can provide expert advice and guidance on your legal rights and can act as your representative in negotiations with the car manufacturer, if necessary.
At The Beck Law Office, our experienced team of lemon law lawyers is committed to helping clients secure the compensation they deserve. We provide free initial consultations and no-obligation case evaluations.
So don't delay, contact us today and learn how we can assist you. We are always here and happy to help!
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