Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Nissan recall 3.4 million vehicles for faulty airbags]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



Most vehicle recalls that take place these days are a result of some problem that happens during the manufacturing process by the automaker, but as we see here, parts suppliers can also factor in to problematic safety issues. Automotive News is reporting that a total of 3.4 million vehicles produced by Japanese automakers between 2000 and 2004 are being recalled globally due to faulty airbags produced by an outside supplier, Takata Corp.

According to the report, vehicles from Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Mazda are being recalled because of passenger front airbags that do not inflate properly. Globally, Toyota is said to be recalling around 1.73 million cars composed of vehicles including the Toyota Corolla, Matrix, Sequoia and Tundra as well as the Lexus SC430 for the 2001 through 2003 model years; this is the second time this year the 2003 Corolla and Matrix have been recalled for an airbag problem. Honda is recalling 1.14 million models, Nissan another 480,000 and Mazda 45,463. The article says that Takata supplied faulty airbags to non-Japanese automakers, but it did not specify which ones.

Honda and Toyota have released information on their own websites about the recall, while Nissan and Mazda have not yet commented. Read official press releases from Honda and Toyota, below, and look for updates as we have word from the others.

Click here to watch the full report for more details on this massive safety recall.


Gallery: Top 10 Most Fuel Efficient Cars of 2013

Continue reading Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Nissan recall 3.4 million vehicles for faulty airbags

Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Nissan recall 3.4 million vehicles for faulty airbags originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> hondahonda recalllexus sc430mazdamazda recallnissannissan recallrecalltakata corptoyotatoyota corollatoyota matrixtoyota recallToyota Sequoiatoyota tundra Thu, 11 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20537535/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/11/toyota-honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-4-million-for-faulty-airbags/20537535/article-detail.xml 20537535 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-2003-2006-toyota-corolla628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-2003-2006-toyota-corolla628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen Jetta driver burned by heated seat malfunction in BC]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/volkswagen-jetta-driver-in-bc-burned-by-heated-seat-malfunction/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/volkswagen-jetta-driver-in-bc-burned-by-heated-seat-malfunction/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/volkswagen-jetta-driver-in-bc-burned-by-heated-seat-malfunction/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Looks like Volkswagen could be in hot water after a heated seat became burning hot and terrified a Volkswagen Jetta owner in BC. It seems the front seat got more than a little too toasty, as it actually smelled like smoke and burned a frightening hole in the driver's seat. This shocking incident caused the surprised woman and her toddler to pull over quickly and get out of the car thinking her VW Jetta was on fire!

According to a CBC News report, this is a "well known problem" on many older Volkswagen vehicles and this actual Jetta had previously been recalled and repaired for the very same heated seat malfunction. After being ignored by a local dealership and receiving no comment from Volkswagen Canada, the upset mother continues to caution driver's out there to be aware of the safety hazard similarly overzealous seat heaters could potentially cause.

Click here to view the video on this heated debate.


Gallery: Lamborghini Aventador Fire

Continue reading Volkswagen Jetta driver burned by heated seat malfunction in BC

Volkswagen Jetta driver burned by heated seat malfunction in BC originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> burnburnedburningcar firefireheatedheated seatjettarecallRecallsrepairseat warmervolkswagenVWVW seat Mon, 18 Mar 2013 15:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20508363/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/18/volkswagen-jetta-driver-in-bc-burned-by-heated-seat-malfunction/20508363/article-detail.xml 20508363 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/jetta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/jetta.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Dodge Challenger V6 recalled for fire risk, owners asked not to drive]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/2013-dodge-challenger-v6-recalled-for-fire-risk-owners-asked-no/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/2013-dodge-challenger-v6-recalled-for-fire-risk-owners-asked-no/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/2013-dodge-challenger-v6-recalled-for-fire-risk-owners-asked-no/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,



Chrysler has issued a recall for the V6 version of the 2013 Dodge Challenger (as pictured above in 2012MY) over the possibility of a wiring harness that could short circuit and lead to a fire. Owners of these V6 Challengers built from November 2012 through January 2013 are being urged to contact dealers immediately and, in the meantime, not to drive their cars or park in or near any buildings.

Chrysler estimates around 2,500 potentially affected Challengers are in owners' hands, while another 1,900 are still sitting on dealer lots. The total number of recalled vehicles is 4,459.

So far, Chrysler says that seven fires have been reported - none resulting in injuries. The company is instructing vehicle owners to contact their dealer to find out if their vehicle is included in the recall, but owners can also find the build date information of their vehicle by checking the label in the driver's door jamb.

Click through to read the official press release, and to watch the 2013 Dodge Challenger in action.


Gallery: 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Core Model: Chicago 2013

Continue reading 2013 Dodge Challenger V6 recalled for fire risk, owners asked not to drive

2013 Dodge Challenger V6 recalled for fire risk, owners asked not to drive originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 dodge challenger2013 dodge challenger v6challengerchallenger recalldodgedodge recallrecall Mon, 18 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20507978/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/18/2013-dodge-challenger-v6-recalled-for-fire-risk-owners-asked-no/20507978/article-detail.xml 20507978 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/dodge-challenger-redline-ny_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/dodge-challenger-redline-ny.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai Veloster shattering sunroof recalls 6,071 more cars]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hyundai-recalls-veloster-shattering-sunroof/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hyundai-recalls-veloster-shattering-sunroof/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hyundai-recalls-veloster-shattering-sunroof/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2012 Hyundai Veloster - front three-quarter view, white

Back in December, Hyundai issued a recall affecting some 13,500 Veloster hatchbacks because their optional panoramic sunroofs could possibly shatter while the vehicle is in motion. Now, an expansion of that recall has been announced, with an additional 6,071 units of the 2012 model year hatchback figuring in to the problem.

The original recall covered cars built between November 1, 2011 and April 17, 2012, but this expansion concerns vehicles built from July 4, 2011 to October 31, 2011. Just like before, the official National Highway Traffic Safety Administration bulletin states that these vehicles may be fitted with sunroofs that were inadvertently weakened during installation, and thus, can possibly break while the vehicle is in motion.

This second sunroof recall is expected to kick off next month. Dealers will inspect the sunroofs in these affected vehicles and will replace the whole assembly if necessary, free of charge.

Scroll down to read the full recall report.

Continue reading Hyundai Veloster shattering sunroof recalls 6,071 more cars

Hyundai Veloster shattering sunroof recalls 6,071 more cars originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 hyundai velosterhyundainational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallsafetyshattering sunroofsunroofveloster Wed, 27 Feb 2013 16:01:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20481572/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/27/hyundai-recalls-veloster-shattering-sunroof/20481572/article-detail.xml 20481572 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/03-2012-hyundai-veloster-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/03-2012-hyundai-veloster-review.jpg <![CDATA[2003-04 Dodge Viper recalled for dangerous airbag deployment]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/2003-04-dodge-viper-recalled-for-sudden-airbag-deployment/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/2003-04-dodge-viper-recalled-for-sudden-airbag-deployment/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/2003-04-dodge-viper-recalled-for-sudden-airbag-deployment/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2003 Dodge Viper SRT10

As if driving the old Dodge Viper (not the fancy new SRT model) isn't intimidating or dangerous enough, imagine trying to wrangle that V10 beast and then suddenly having the airbags deploy. Yikes! That's apparently what could happen to some 3,660 Viper models from the 2003 and 2004 model years, and as such, Chrysler has promptly issued a recall.

According to the American-based National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, part of the car's airbag control module may fail, causing the bags or seatbelt pre-tensioners to deploy without warning while the vehicle is in operation. That's a dangerous scenario in any car, let alone one offering insane horsepower a near-total paucity of safety nannies should things get squirrely.

Owners will be notified this month about the recall, though a remedy is not expected to be available until later this year. Scroll down for the full NHTSA statement.


Gallery: SRT Viper ACR-X at the Nürburgring

Continue reading 2003-04 Dodge Viper recalled for dangerous airbag deployment

2003-04 Dodge Viper recalled for dangerous airbag deployment originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2003 dodge viper2004 dodge viperdodgenational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallsafetyviper Fri, 15 Feb 2013 17:14:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20464634/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/15/2003-04-dodge-viper-recalled-for-sudden-airbag-deployment/20464634/article-detail.xml 20464634 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/001-2003-dodge-viper-srt10628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/001-2003-dodge-viper-srt10628opt.jpg <![CDATA[How social media is changing the way car defects and complaints are discovered]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/how-social-media-is-changing-the-way-car-defects-and-complaints/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/how-social-media-is-changing-the-way-car-defects-and-complaints/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/how-social-media-is-changing-the-way-car-defects-and-complaints/#comments Filed under: , ,



Social media can allow direct and faster access to a person, a group or discussion of an issue, and that has led to wide ranging players in the automotive world figuring out how to use it in order to improve performance. Dealers encourage customers to use sites like Google+ and DealerRater.com for reviews, automakers like Hyundai and Chrysler have someone dedicated to watching Twitter for complaints, and agencies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration survey forums and websites for hints about possible auto defects.

Said Hyundai Motor America's executive vice president of sales on using Twitter to speak to customers, "The function is the same: People have problems, and we take care of the problems." The company's interaction with Twitterers didn't exist a year ago, but things could progress to the point where Twitter forms part of the way that dealer satisfaction surveys are submitted by the automaker. There's work to do and knowledge to gain before that happens, but it's envisioned in the field of play.

Bodies like the NHTSA are said to "routinely search" the web "for information that might lead to an investigation." By going straight to the sources where car buyers are highlighting issues with their cars, the NHTSA has a line into early indicators of issues that might be defects, and it can begin to gather data or can supplement the data it already has. The other side of the equation: Law firms are taking note as well, with a university professor saying the increased and more public exposure of potential issues "could mean higher litigation."

Continue reading How social media is changing the way car defects and complaints are discovered

How social media is changing the way car defects and complaints are discovered originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 31 Jan 2013 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chryslerdealersfacebookhyundaiNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationsocial mediatwitter Thu, 31 Jan 2013 10:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20441078/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/31/how-social-media-is-changing-the-way-car-defects-and-complaints/20441078/article-detail.xml 20441078 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/hyundai-twitter-page-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/hyundai-twitter-page-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota settles first wrongful death suit related to unintended acceleration]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/21/toyota-settles-first-wrongful-death-suit-related-to-unintended-a/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/21/toyota-settles-first-wrongful-death-suit-related-to-unintended-a/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/21/toyota-settles-first-wrongful-death-suit-related-to-unintended-a/#comments Filed under: , ,

Toyota emblem

Toyota's sales seem to have rebounded from the unintended acceleration issues from 2009 and 2010, but the automaker is far from done dealing with this situation. Following a settlement worth up to $1.4 billion for economic loss to affected vehicle owners, Toyota has settled rather than going to trial in a wrongful death lawsuit stemming from an accident in Utah in 2010 that left two passengers dead. This isn't the first case in which Toyota has settled, but it was the first among a consolidated group of cases being held in Santa Ana, CA.

According to The Detroit News, this case was scheduled to take place next month, and it was for a November 2010 incident in which Paul Van Alfen and Charlene James Lloyd were killed in a Camry when, based on findings by the Utah Highway Patrol, the accelerator got stuck causing the car to speed out of control and hit a wall; the terms of the settlement were not announced.

The article says that while Toyota will settle on some cases, it doesn't plan on settling on all of them as it still wants to be able to "defend [its] product at trial." This will probably be the case in suits claiming that software for the drive-by-wire accelerator was the cause of an accident in a Toyota or Lexus vehicle. The question of whether or not the electronic accelerator played any role in this problem has been a hot-button topic since the beginning. Toyota has issued recalls in the past to attempt to prevent unintended acceleration caused by trapped floor mats and faulty accelerator pedals, but it also says driver error was to blame in some instances.

Continue reading Toyota settles first wrongful death suit related to unintended acceleration

Toyota settles first wrongful death suit related to unintended acceleration originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 21 Jan 2013 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> lexuspedal entrapmentstuck acceleratortoyotatoyota lawsuittoyota settlementunintended accelerationwrongful death lawsuit Mon, 21 Jan 2013 09:57:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20434082/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/21/toyota-settles-first-wrongful-death-suit-related-to-unintended-a/20434082/article-detail.xml 20434082 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/toyota-logo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/toyota-logo.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota shares rise on smaller-than-expected settlement news]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/toyota-shares-rise-on-smaller-than-expected-settlement-news/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/toyota-shares-rise-on-smaller-than-expected-settlement-news/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/toyota-shares-rise-on-smaller-than-expected-settlement-news/#comments Filed under: , ,

Toyota emblem

Following news that Toyota has proposed a massive settlement to address the owners of vehicles effected by the unintended acceleration recall, shares for the automaker are up 2.6 per cent. Over the course of this year, Toyota's stock has jumped 51.7 per cent.

"My initiate reaction would be 'that's it'... US$1 billion charge that covers recalls and everything else and you are looking at a US$250 million compensation fund, that's nothing," said a senior trader at a foreign brokerage to Automotive News. This settlement has been set aside to cover class-action lawsuits from 16 million owners of Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicles and is separate from other impending lawsuits - including one consumer protection suit in California and another unfair-business-practices case brought on by 28 attorneys general.

In other positive news for investors, the Japanese yen has weakened compared to the US dollar. That likely means improved financial performance from the big Japanese automakers, the largest of which is Toyota.

Continue reading Toyota shares rise on smaller-than-expected settlement news

Toyota shares rise on smaller-than-expected settlement news originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> National Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsasettlementtoyotatoyota lawsuittoyota settlementtoyota unintended accelerationunintended acceleration Fri, 28 Dec 2012 07:57:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20412399/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/28/toyota-shares-rise-on-smaller-than-expected-settlement-news/20412399/article-detail.xml 20412399 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/toyota-badge_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/toyota-badge.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota proposes economic loss settlement worth up to US$1.4 billion over unintended acceleration claims]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/toyota-proposes-economic-loss-settlement-worth-up-to-1-4-billio/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/toyota-proposes-economic-loss-settlement-worth-up-to-1-4-billio/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/toyota-proposes-economic-loss-settlement-worth-up-to-1-4-billio/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Toyota announced a proposal worth over a billion dollars to settle civil claims of economic loss related to alleged cases of sudden unintended acceleration in its vehicles from 2009-2010. Estimates place the cost of the settlement between US$1.1 billion and US$1.4 billion, which would, according to lawyers for the plaintiffs, make it the largest of its type in history.

US District Judge James Selna, who is presiding over the case in California, will review Toyota's settlement proposal as early as Friday.

The details of the settlement, as given by Toyota in an official statement and obtained from a press release issued by lawyers for the plaintiffs, are as follows.
  • Toyota will install brake override systems in all 3.25 million vehicles subjected to the floor mat entrapment recall.
  • A fund of US$250 million will compensate former Toyota owners who sold their cars from September 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010 for lost value.
  • Another fund of US$250 million will compensate current owners whose vehicles are not eligible for the free brake override system.
  • All 16 million current Toyota owners will be eligible for a customer care plan that warrants certain parts allegedly related to unintended acceleration for three to 10 years.
  • Education grants valued at US$30 million will be made to independent academic institutions to further study auto safety and enhance driver education.
As mentioned above, the settlement relates only to claims of economic loss, and thus does not cover wrongful death claims, the first trail for which is slated to begin in February 2013.

Also worth noting is that investigations by the American National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and NASA engineers concluded that electronics were not at fault in reports of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles, leaving only either those faulty floor mats or driver error as likely causes.

Feel free to view the entire news report and press release below.

Continue reading Toyota proposes economic loss settlement worth up to US$1.4 billion over unintended acceleration claims

Toyota proposes economic loss settlement worth up to US$1.4 billion over unintended acceleration claims originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> californiahagens bermanjames selnalawsuitsettlementsudden unintended accelerationtoyotatoyota lawsuittoyota settlementunintended acceleration Thu, 27 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20412384/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/27/toyota-proposes-economic-loss-settlement-worth-up-to-1-4-billio/20412384/article-detail.xml 20412384 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/toyotalawsuit-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/toyotalawsuit-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Bombardier Can-Am Spyder fire risks spark two sudden recalls]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/bombardier-can-am-spyder-fire-risks-spark-two-sudden-recalls/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/bombardier-can-am-spyder-fire-risks-spark-two-sudden-recalls/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/bombardier-can-am-spyder-fire-risks-spark-two-sudden-recalls/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Bombardier has issued two separate recalls for various models of its Can-Am Spyder. The first is for 2008-2009 GS and 2010 RS models. The fuel vapor canister vent hose in the engine compartment can leak, with accumulated fuel vapor a potential fire concern due to its proximity to the ignition. A bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates the recall, which affects 9,600 Spyders, is expected to begin next month, at which time owners can take their Spyders to their dealers for a fix free of charge.

The second recall covers 2008-2009 GS, 2009-2012 RS and 2010-2012 RT trikes. The models affected by the recall - 33,700 units in all - could have fuel caps that fail to fit properly onto their filler necks, which could also leak fuel vapors. The recall is also expected to begin next month, and Bombardier will send owners a new fuel cap.

Click here to view the two detailed bulletins below from NHTSA.


Gallery: Can-Am Spyder

Continue reading Bombardier Can-Am Spyder fire risks spark two sudden recalls

Bombardier Can-Am Spyder fire risks spark two sudden recalls originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 21 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bombardierbrpcan-am spydernhtsarecallsafetytrike Fri, 21 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20409601/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/21/bombardier-can-am-spyder-fire-risks-spark-two-sudden-recalls/20409601/article-detail.xml 20409601 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/canamspyderrecall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/canamspyderrecall.jpg <![CDATA[<em>Consumer Reports</em>: Toyota expected to announce fix for emergency trunk releases]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/16/consumer-reports-toyota-expected-to-announce-fix-for-e/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/16/consumer-reports-toyota-expected-to-announce-fix-for-e/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/16/consumer-reports-toyota-expected-to-announce-fix-for-e/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport

According to Consumer Reports, Toyota is set to release a fix for trunk release pulls on certain Lexus vehicles that could snap off in an emergency. As you may recall, CR found the federally-mandated emergency releases could break if pulled toward the user. As it turned out, the trunk surround behaved like a fulcrum, putting more force against the center of the release than toward the trunk mechanism itself. While the organization found the problem to exist on 2013 Lexus ES and GS, Toyota was able to replicate the flaw on the IS as well.

Toyota will alert 700,000 owners of 2007-2013 Lexus ES models, 2006-2012 IS vehicles and 2013 GS cars and replace the old ABS plastic release with a sturdier polypropylene part free of charge once the components are available to dealers. The service campaign is expected to begin in January.

Gallery: 2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport: Review

Continue reading Consumer Reports: Toyota expected to announce fix for emergency trunk releases

Consumer Reports: Toyota expected to announce fix for emergency trunk releases originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 16 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> consumer reportsemergency trunk releaselexuslexus emergency trunk releaselexus eslexus gslexus isrecall Sun, 16 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20402315/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/16/consumer-reports-toyota-expected-to-announce-fix-for-e/20402315/article-detail.xml 20402315 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/01-2013-lexus-gs350-f-sport-review-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/01-2013-lexus-gs350-f-sport-review-628.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche recalling 2010 911 GT3 over dangerous defect]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/13/porsche-recalling-2010-911-gt3-over-faulty-rear-wheel-hubs/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/13/porsche-recalling-2010-911-gt3-over-faulty-rear-wheel-hubs/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/13/porsche-recalling-2010-911-gt3-over-faulty-rear-wheel-hubs/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration just announced that Porsche is recalling several hundred 911 GT3 sportscars, built for the 2010 model year. The cars in question are being recalled for potentially faulty rear-wheel hubs. These hubs cold be prone to failure under "certain driving conditions." The specific driving conditions in question are not noted. If the rear-wheel hub fails, one could lose control of the track-oriented Porsche, which would not be pretty at speed.

455 units of the 2010 Porsche 911 GT3, produced between May 15, 2009 and February 11, 2010, are involved in the recall. Porsche is notifying owners, and has stated that it will replace the rear wheel hubs, free of charge. Additionally, Porsche will change the service intervals, as the current intervals may be "insufficient to prevent wheel hub failure." Check out all the details on this recall in the press release below.


Gallery: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

Continue reading Porsche recalling 2010 911 GT3 over dangerous defect

Porsche recalling 2010 911 GT3 over dangerous defect originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 18:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20102010 porsche GT3911GT3porschePorsche problemsrecall Thu, 13 Dec 2012 18:34:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20402805/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/13/porsche-recalling-2010-911-gt3-over-faulty-rear-wheel-hubs/20402805/article-detail.xml 20402805 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2010-porsche-911-gt3-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2010-porsche-911-gt3-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep supplier denies responsibility for airbag recall]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/jeep-supplier-denies-responsibility-for-airbag-recall/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/jeep-supplier-denies-responsibility-for-airbag-recall/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/jeep-supplier-denies-responsibility-for-airbag-recall/#comments Filed under: , ,

Jeep Emblem

Kemet Corporation, an electrical component manufacturer, has denied claims by Chrysler officials that it is responsible for a massive Jeep recall. On November 9, Chrysler announced it was recalling 920,000 Jeep vehicles after receiving more than 100 reports of unintended airbag deployments.

While no crashes or injuries were reported, Chrysler filed documents with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration saying that supplier TRW Automotive had made a material change in the airbag module, and that the change was responsible for the deployments. According to The Detroit News, Chrysler said TRW Automotive changed from precious metal electrodes to base metal electrodes due to the fact that the old design allowed for electrical voltage fluctuations.

Kemet supplies the sub-capacitors to TRW Automotive, which in turn supplies the airbag modules to Chrysler. Kemet said neither the precious metal nor the base metal electrodes were the cause of the trouble. TRW didn't say the parts were out of specification or make any warranty claims. Furthermore, the recall covers 2002-2004 Jeep SUVs. The material change took place in the middle of that timeframe.

Chrysler, meanwhile, has reiterated that "a design change to a supplied component was linked to a small number of inadvertent airbag deployments."

News Source: The Detroit News

Image Credit: Copyright 2012 Zach Bowman / AOL

Continue reading Jeep supplier denies responsibility for airbag recall

Jeep supplier denies responsibility for airbag recall originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> airbagchryslerfaulty airbagjeepjeep recallkemetkemet corporationrecalltrw automotive Tue, 20 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20384024/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/20/jeep-supplier-denies-responsibility-for-airbag-recall/20384024/article-detail.xml 20384024 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/jeep-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/jeep-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin and Lotus each issue recalls]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/14/aston-martin-and-lotus-each-issue-recalls/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/14/aston-martin-and-lotus-each-issue-recalls/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/14/aston-martin-and-lotus-each-issue-recalls/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Aston Martin V12 Vantage

A pair of head-turning high performance cars are catching some attention off a different kind, in the form of safety recalls. Aston Martin and Lotus have issued recalls for the V12 Vantage Coupe and Evora, respectively.

Aston Martin's affects 169 examples of the 2009-2012 V12 Vantage Coupe. It concerns the tire-pressure monitoring system, and is less a malfunction than it is a compliance issue. The TPMS does not alert the driver until the front tire is more than 25 percent below the recommended cold tire pressure. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 138 states that the alarm must sound when tire pressure is "equal to or less than either the pressure 25 percent below" the recommended cold inflation pressure. To address the issue, Aston Martin will notify owners and reprogram the software, free of charge.

As for Lotus, 80 supercharged Evoras have been recalled, all built between February and September, 2011. The problem involves an engine-mounted oil feed pipe, which could rupture, causing loss of engine oil or a possible fire if the oil sprays onto a hot engine.

Lotus will notify owners and repair the problem, free of charge. NHTSA and The Ministry of Transportation invites anyone who owns these affected vehicles to contact its safety hotline or go on its website for additional information. To find out more about these recalls, refer to the press release posted below.


Gallery: 2011 Lotus Evora S: First Drive




News Source: Safercar.gov

Image Credit: Photos copyright 2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Aston Martin and Lotus each issue recalls

Aston Martin and Lotus each issue recalls originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 14 Oct 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aston martinaston martin recallaston martin v12 vantageevoralotuslotus evoralotus recallrecallv12 vantagevantage Sun, 14 Oct 2012 15:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20349642/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/14/aston-martin-and-lotus-each-issue-recalls/20349642/article-detail.xml 20349642 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2011-aston-martin-v12-vantage-review_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2011-aston-martin-v12-vantage-review.jpeg <![CDATA[Toyota recalls 2.5 million vehicles over fire risk]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/toyota-recalls-2-5-million-vehicles-over-fire-risk/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/toyota-recalls-2-5-million-vehicles-over-fire-risk/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/10/toyota-recalls-2-5-million-vehicles-over-fire-risk/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2008 Toyota Yaris

Normally we don't report on boring recall notices, but when it involves 2.5 million Toyota vehicles it's certainly news to consumers. Toyota has announced a voluntary recall of around 2.5 million vehicles for faulty window switches. The automaker says the driver's side power window master switch may develop a sticky or notchy feel during operation, and that if owners or technicians apply commercial lubricant, the switch my smoke or even catch fire!

The recall covers certain Yaris, RAV4, Tundra, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Sequoia, Corolla and Matrix models as well as Scion xD and xA units. All vehicles fall between the model years 2007 and 2009. Over 200 incidents involving the switches have already been reported in the United States alone, though the trouble hasn't caused any accidents or injuries.

Toyota technicians will inspect, disassemble and apply special flourine grease to the switches free of charge. Owners can expect to receive a recall notice starting later this month. The recall only covers U.S. vehicles and does not involve any other Lexus or Scion units. We will keep a close eye on this and how it may affect Canadian Toyota owners.

Take a look at the full press release and a video on Toyota's previous major recall.

News Source: Toyota

Continue reading Toyota recalls 2.5 million vehicles over fire risk

Toyota recalls 2.5 million vehicles over fire risk originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> national highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallrecallstoyotatoyota recalltoyota window switch recallwindow switch Wed, 10 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20346412/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/10/toyota-recalls-2-5-million-vehicles-over-fire-risk/20346412/article-detail.xml 20346412 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/toyota-yaris-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/toyota-yaris-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 BMW M5 and M6 face potential catastrophic engine failures]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/bmw-recalling-2013-m5-m6-models-over-potential-catastrophic-eng/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/bmw-recalling-2013-m5-m6-models-over-potential-catastrophic-eng/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/bmw-recalling-2013-m5-m6-models-over-potential-catastrophic-eng/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

BMW M6 engine

Catastrophic engine failure... not exactly what you want to hear no matter what you're driving, but especially so when you've just purchased a brand-new 2013 BMW M5 or M6.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "a manufacturing process error" could cause the oil pump's driveshaft to separate from its rotor, leading "to a sudden loss of oil pressure causing the possibility of complete engine failure, resulting in an engine stall-like condition, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash."

As is always the case with such recalls, BMW will be contacting owners and dealerships with plans to fix the problem free of charge. On the plus side, we'd imagine some owners already know of the problem, considering the brand issued a stop sale notice on the M5 and M6 on September 21.

In kinda-sorta related news (hey, Mini is owned by BMW after all), a recall notice has also been issued for certain 2011 Mini Clubman and Clubman S models regarding a glitch that may cause owners to miss an in-dash warning for malfunctioning ABS brakes. Not exactly catastrophic engine failure, and it only affects 75 cars, says NHTSA, but you can find both recalls in their entirety below.

News Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [BMW], [Mini]

Continue reading 2013 BMW M5 and M6 face potential catastrophic engine failures

2013 BMW M5 and M6 face potential catastrophic engine failures originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 05 Oct 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 mini clubman2011 mini clubman s2013 bmw m52013 bmw m6bmwbmw recallclubmanclubman sm5m5 recallm6m6 recallminirecall Fri, 05 Oct 2012 16:58:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20343110/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/05/bmw-recalling-2013-m5-m6-models-over-potential-catastrophic-eng/20343110/article-detail.xml 20343110 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/bmw-m6-engine_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/bmw-m6-engine.jpg <![CDATA[Major car rental companies agree not to rent or sell recalled vehicles]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/01/major-car-rental-companies-agree-not-to-rent-or-sell-recalled-ve/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/01/major-car-rental-companies-agree-not-to-rent-or-sell-recalled-ve/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/01/major-car-rental-companies-agree-not-to-rent-or-sell-recalled-ve/#comments Filed under: , ,

Hertz car rental return sign

Raechel and Jacqueline Houck poseBowing to pressure from consumers and advocacy groups, major car rental companies have agreed to end the practice of renting cars that have been recalled for safety problems.

American legislators are introducing a bill that would keep recalled rental cars off the road. The bill has the backing of all four major rental companies - Enterprise, which owns National and Alamo, Hertz/Advantage, Avis/Budget and Dollar/Thrifty, according to a statement released by Sen. Barbara Boxer. Those companies comprise 93 per cent of the rental car market, and Hertz was the only one of the four major car rental companies to initially pledge not to rent cars under recall.

The bill will be named after Raechel and Jacqueline Houck (above, right), two young California sisters who died in 2004 in a rented Chrysler PT Cruiser that had been previously recalled for problems with the steering column. The steering fluid was prone to leaking, leaving drivers unable to control their vehicles. Enterprise Rental hadn't fixed the problem before renting the car to the Houck sisters.

"I remain very hopeful and optimistic" that the legislation will pass, Cally Houck, Raechel and Jacqueline's mother tells Autoblog. Houck has been pushing for the new legislation for the past few years. "But it's not done yet ... I remain a bit cynical, based on my history lobbying for this issue. But we do have a consensus of all the industry's major players."

Image Credit: Kevork Djansezian/Getty, Cally Houck

Continue reading Major car rental companies agree not to rent or sell recalled vehicles

Major car rental companies agree not to rent or sell recalled vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 01 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> automotive safetyavisavis budget groupbarbara boxercally houckcar safetydollar thriftyhertzjacqueline houckraechel houckrecallrental carrental cars Mon, 01 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20336636/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/01/major-car-rental-companies-agree-not-to-rent-or-sell-recalled-ve/20336636/article-detail.xml 20336636 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/150836594-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/150836594-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Transport Canada Issues Recall - Chevrolet Malibu, Saturn Aura and Pontiac G6]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/20/transport-canada-issues-recall-chevrolet-malibu-saturn-aura-a/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/20/transport-canada-issues-recall-chevrolet-malibu-saturn-aura-a/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/20/transport-canada-issues-recall-chevrolet-malibu-saturn-aura-a/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,


Transport Canada has released a recall today that potentially affects 40,000 units. This recall affects 2008-2010 Chevrolet Malibus and Pontiac G6s as well as 2007-2010 Saturn Auras.

The safety recall is associated to a potential problem in the automatic transmission. It has been warned that the 'shift cable locking tabs' may potentially break. If the tabs break the tranny may not lock into the 'Park' position and may not correlate with what the gear indicator shows.

Several problems may arise from this. While the driver may still remove the key from the ignition, the automatic locks may not function as desired and the 'park' illuminator will not be illuminated. More importantly, the driver may not even be able to restart the vehicle upon reentry.

Dealers will install a shift cable retainer clip or replace the entire shift cable assembly if necessary. Please contact your local GM dealer for more information.

News Source: Transport Canada

Transport Canada Issues Recall - Chevrolet Malibu, Saturn Aura and Pontiac G6 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aurachevroletg6malibupontiacrecallssaturntransport canada Thu, 20 Sep 2012 17:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20329396/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/20/transport-canada-issues-recall-chevrolet-malibu-saturn-aura-a/20329396/article-detail.xml 20329396 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/01malibureview2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/01malibureview2010.jpg <![CDATA[Ducati issues five dangerous recalls for 1199 Panigale]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/ducati-issues-five-recalls-for-1199-panigale/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/ducati-issues-five-recalls-for-1199-panigale/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/ducati-issues-five-recalls-for-1199-panigale/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Five recall-worthy issues have been discovered on 2,411 units of the 2012 and 2013 Ducati 1199 Panigale. Two of the issues relate to steering, one each center on the exhaust, front brake and rear swingarm. Regarding the steering, too little Loctite was used on screws that fasten the steering damper to the steering head, the result being that they can unscrew themselves completely and deprive the rider of control. The second steering issue is with the Uniball bearing on the Öhlins damper, which could slip out due to an incorrect assembly tolerance and also cause a loss of steering control.

Further back, it's been discovered that heat from the catalytic converter can melt the bowden cable cover on the exhaust butterfly valve. Should that happen, the cover could smoke and catch fire. It's also possible that the front brake could fail as a result of a damaged hose, or the swingarm shaft could become loose. That's a lot of potential problem points.

Owners can take their bikes to dealers who will repair all of the issues free of charge. Ducati hasn't informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of a notification date for owners, but the five recall notifications below have more details as well as the phone number for Ducati North America.

News Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [1], [2], [3], [4], [5] via Asphalt and Rubber

Continue reading Ducati issues five dangerous recalls for 1199 Panigale

Ducati issues five dangerous recalls for 1199 Panigale originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 24 Aug 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1199 panigale1199 panigale recallducati 1199 panigaleducati recallmotorcycleNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsarecall Fri, 24 Aug 2012 08:29:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20308348/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/24/ducati-issues-five-recalls-for-1199-panigale/20308348/article-detail.xml 20308348 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ducati1199panigale_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ducati1199panigale.jpg <![CDATA[Unusual Recall Of The Week: BP gasoline?]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/unusual-recall-of-the-week-bp-gasoline/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/unusual-recall-of-the-week-bp-gasoline/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/unusual-recall-of-the-week-bp-gasoline/#comments Filed under:

BP gas station sign with green sun logo

Recalls are quite common in the automotive world, but this recent recall is out of the ordinary. BP has just announced a recall for contaminated gasoline in the northwest Indiana and northeast Illinois areas that have evidently caused numerous drivability issues in customer vehicles. Apparently, this recall only applies to regular grade gasoline that originated from BP's Whiting, Ind. storage facility last week and purchased at BP gas stations and "other retail outlets," which according to the Times of Northwest Indiana includes Costco, Meijer, Thorntons and Luke Oil gas stations.

BP did not say what the source of the contamination was, but it did respond to the incident by saying that it guarantees its gasoline and customers who had problems between August 13-17 can call the customer hotline at 1-800-333-3991 to get help. The report said that one customer had a US$1,200 repair bill at a dealership to drain the gas tank, flush the fuel lines and replace the spark plugs, but it isn't clear what sort of problems most people are experiencing.

There has been no official estimate as to how many customers' cars were, or may have been, affected, but the report says that one dealership in Lansing, Illinois had more than 60 calls about fuel-related vehicle problems, and other dealerships and repair shops in the area have received service calls about this issue as well.

Click here to read BP's official response.


News Source: Times of Northwest Indiana, BP

Tip: Hat tip to Steve!

Image Credit: Ben Stansall/AFP/Getty

Continue reading Unusual Recall Of The Week: BP gasoline?

Unusual Recall Of The Week: BP gasoline? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bad gasbpbp recallcostcofuelfuel recallgasoline recallindiana gasoline recallluke oilmeijerthorntonswhiting Tue, 21 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20305825/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/21/unusual-recall-of-the-week-bp-gasoline/20305825/article-detail.xml 20305825 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/bp-sign_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/bp-sign.jpg -1 2