Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Owners of model year 2007-2008 Jeep Wranglers with automatic transmissions may have to visit their local dealers as Chrysler is recalling 161,450 of the SUVs over potential transmission overheating problems. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), Wrangler models manufactured between June 2006 and July 2008 with automatic transmissions were not fitted with a transmission fluid temperature warning system. If the AT fluid in the affected vehicles overheats, it may boil over and come in contact with hot engine or exhaust components - possibly leading to a fire.

To help alert drivers that their Jeep's transmission is overheating, dealers will inspect and install a visual "Hot Oil" message in the instrument cluster accompanied by an audible chime to indicate the elevated fluid temperature. The service will be performed free of charge starting in December. For more information, owners of the affected models may call Chrysler at 1-800-835-1403, NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236, or visit www.safercar.gov. Full press release after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence

Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007 Jeep Wrangler2007JeepWrangler2008 Jeep Wrangler2008JeepWranglerAT fluidAtFluidfirefluidJeep RecallJeep Wrangler RecallJeepRecallJeepWranglerRecallNHTSAnhtsa recallNhtsaRecalloverheatRecallTransmissionwrangler pickupwrangler truckWranglerPickupWranglerTruckWranglerUnlimitedFri, 20 Nov 2009 08:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Last month, Ford widened its cruise control switch recall to 4.5 million vehicles. Included in the growing list of cars and trucks was the Ford Ranger pickup - the mechanical twin to the now-discontinued Mazda B-Series pickup. Not surprisingly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has now widened its recall to encompass 39,600 of Mazda's 1995-1997 and 2001-2003 trucks for the exact same fault.

According to the recall, trucks equipped with a Texas Instruments speed control deactivation switch (SCDS) and/or anti-lock brake system (ABS) manufactured on or before December 5, 2002, may encounter a vehicle fire if the switch deteriorates and leaks. As in the Ford recall, Mazda dealers will install a universal fused jumper harness on the cruise control deactivation switch at no charge.

Owners of the recalled vehicles may contact Mazda at 800-222-5500 (option #6), contact the NHTSA's Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236, or go to www.safercar.gov. Recall information after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues

Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>B SeriesB-SeriesBSeriescruise controlcruise control recallcruise control switch firescruise recallCruiseControlCruiseControlRecallCruiseControlSwitchFiresCruiseRecallfaultfireMazdaMazda B-seriesMazda PickupMazdaB-seriesMazdaPickupPickupRecallspeed controlSpeedControlswitchTexas InstrumentsTexasInstrumentsTue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sir Frank Williams praises fire fighters for saving factory]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/sir-frank-williams-praises-fire-fighters-for-saving-factory/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/sir-frank-williams-praises-fire-fighters-for-saving-factory/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/sir-frank-williams-praises-fire-fighters-for-saving-factory/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Since falling from its glory days of yore - when it won nine constructors championships an seven drivers titles - the Williams F1 team has been desperate to light a fire under its drivers and engineers to get back to its winning form. But we don't think this is what Frank Williams and his deputy Patrick Head had in mind.

This past summer the team's factory in Grove, England, caught on fire, threatening the staff, the facility and the cars on premises. The fire started when a machine in the metal department malfunctioned. Local fire fighters arrived at the scene and extinguished the blaze, saving one and all.

Sir Frank was so grateful that he made a donation to the Fire Fighters Charity and brought the brigade back to the repaired factory this week for an inside tour. You know, just in case being a fire fighter wasn't cool enough already.

[Source: F1-Live | Image: Mark Thompson/Getty]

Sir Frank Williams praises fire fighters for saving factory originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 07:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factory fireFactoryFirefirefrank williamsFrankWilliamssir frank williamsSirFrankWilliamswilliamswilliams f1WilliamsF1Tue, 27 Oct 2009 07:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Nearly 7,000 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ralliart, and Sportback Ralliart models recalled over fuel pipe crack concerns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/nearly-7-000-2008-2009-mitsubishi-lancer-evolution-ralliart-an/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/nearly-7-000-2008-2009-mitsubishi-lancer-evolution-ralliart-an/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/nearly-7-000-2008-2009-mitsubishi-lancer-evolution-ralliart-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart - Click above for high-res gallery

The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a recall of potentially 6,903 Lancer Evolution, Ralliart, and Sportback Ralliart vehicles fitted with 2.0-liter turbocharged engines falling between model year 2008 and 2009. According to the report, running the engine at certain speeds over time may cause a damaging vibration that could lead to a stress crack in the fuel pipe (the fuel return pipe is apparently improperly attached to the engine). If a crack does develop, the resulting fuel leakage could cause a fire.

Dealers will be instructed to replace the fuel pipe with a new component and add two new additional attachment brackets to lessen the effects of vibration. Of course, all of this work will be performed free of charge. Owners of the recalled Mitsubishi vehicles may contact the manufacturer at 1-888-648-7820, contact the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.safercar.gov regarding campaign ID 09V349000.


Gallery: 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart


[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Nearly 7,000 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ralliart, and Sportback Ralliart models recalled over fuel pipe crack concerns

Nearly 7,000 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ralliart, and Sportback Ralliart models recalled over fuel pipe crack concerns originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 Mitsubishi Lancer2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution2008 Mitsubishi Ralliart2008 Mitsubishi Sportback Ralliart2008MitsubishiLancer2008MitsubishiLancerEvolution2008MitsubishiRalliart2008MitsubishiSportbackRalliart2009 mitsubishi evolution x fq4002009 mitsubishi lancer ralliart2009 mitsubishi lancer sportback2009 Mitsubishi Ralliart2009MitsubishiEvolutionXFq4002009MitsubishiLancerRalliart2009MitsubishiLancerSportback2009MitsubishiRalliartEvoEvolutionFireFuelFuel PipeFuelPipeLeakageRalliartRecallSportbackTurbochargedThu, 17 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vauxhall unveils new police package Insignia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/15/vauxhall-unveils-new-police-package-insignia/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/15/vauxhall-unveils-new-police-package-insignia/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/15/vauxhall-unveils-new-police-package-insignia/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Vauxhall Special Vehicles Police Package - Click above for high-res gallery

GM UK Special Vehicles has just introduced its take-no-prisoners Police-specification Vauxhall Insignia. Available to police fleets throughout the UK, the car is available in sedan or Sports Tourer body styles (shown above). Powertrain choices include a 220 PS (216 hp) 2.0-liter turbo or a 260 PS (256 hp) 2.8-liter with all-wheel drive. A 160 PS (157 hp) diesel 2.0-liter is also available.

In addition to the flashy graphics, the Special Vehicles division is offering Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) cameras, the Automatic Numberplate Recognition (ANPR) system, a roof light bar with 360-degree blues, side alley lamps, full communication equipment and, of course, sirens. Covering all of the bases, the special Vauxhall division is also able to supply vehicles for high-speed paramedic delivery and fire brigade support. Press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2009 Vauxhall Insignia Police Package


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Vauxhall unveils new police package Insignia

Vauxhall unveils new police package Insignia originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 May 2009 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambulanceauthorityfirepatrolpolice packagePolicePackagesafetyvauxhallvauxhall insigniaVauxhall policeVauxhallInsigniaVauxhallPoliceFri, 15 May 2009 09:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Ukranian class warfare apparently leads to toasted Chevrolet Corvette]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/16/ukranian-class-warfare-apparently-leads-to-toasted-chevrolet-cor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/16/ukranian-class-warfare-apparently-leads-to-toasted-chevrolet-cor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/16/ukranian-class-warfare-apparently-leads-to-toasted-chevrolet-cor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Torched Corvette in the Ukraine - Click above for a gallery of images

Judging by these photographs, someone in the Ukraine didn't like this Extra-Crispy Chevrolet Corvette. And although the melted plastic lump is being been blamed on "class warfare," it could have been an insurance scam, a tryst gone bad, or some hardcore Grand Theft Auto: Streets of Kiev payback - who knows.

The precedents point to any number of reasons, like the Viper that was flambéed perhaps because of The Mark, or the 14 foreign cars that were torched in Moscow for no reason that anyone could guess. But the result here is still a shame: a charbroiled C6. Tip your hat to a fallen comrade, and check out the gallery of photos below.


Gallery: Torched Ukraine Vette


[Source: English Russia]

Ukranian class warfare apparently leads to toasted Chevrolet Corvette originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnedchevroletchevycorvetteetcfirerussiaukraineukranianThu, 16 Apr 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Kansas fire department saves Ferrari from burning home]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/02/kansas-fire-department-saves-ferrari-from-burning-home/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/02/kansas-fire-department-saves-ferrari-from-burning-home/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/02/kansas-fire-department-saves-ferrari-from-burning-home/#commentsFiled under: ,

You're at home watching the Super Bowl and you smell smoke. Normally you'd look for the source and listen for the peal of a fire alarm... unless you're a particular homeowner in Olathe, Kansas and, even though you have a Ferrari 348 in the garage, you haven't installed any fire alarms in your house.

Even better? Not only do you not have any fire alarms, you don't have a flashlight. So you go borrow a flashlight from your neighbor, but by the time you track down the smoke there's "fire billowing from under the roof eaves." Your first order of business: ask the firemen to save your Ferrari, which they do. They also get the fire under control and everyone gets out safely. Then, after you give the firemen cookies, you go buy some fire alarms. And a flashlight.

[Source: Kansas City Star]

Kansas fire department saves Ferrari from burning home originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>etcferrarifirehouse fireHouseFirehumorMon, 02 Feb 2009 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Spinning tires responsible for house fire?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/28/spinning-tires-responsible-for-house-fire/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/28/spinning-tires-responsible-for-house-fire/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/28/spinning-tires-responsible-for-house-fire/#commentsFiled under:

The details aren't clear yet, but a fire at a Flint, Michigan home is being preliminarily attributed to spinning tires. When Samantha Hendricks returned home Tuesday evening, she had a hard time getting up her icy driveway. Giving the car a healthy bit of gas to get up the slick pavement, as most of us do, she created a fair bit of wheelspin. Some time after parking the car in the garage, the people inside began to smell smoke and discovered it was coming from the car. Unable to extinguish the source of the smoke, the car caught on fire and took the entire house -- and all of the gifts and possessions inside -- with it. Investigators haven't yet determined if it was the spinning tires that caused the fire, but the burn pattern indicates that it had something to do with the car. The question is, what could it be?

[Source: ABC12/WJRT]

Spinning tires responsible for house fire? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Dec 2008 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>etcfireholidaysSun, 28 Dec 2008 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Microheat files for bankruptcy after GM recall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/15/microheat-files-for-bankruptcy-after-gm-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/15/microheat-files-for-bankruptcy-after-gm-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/15/microheat-files-for-bankruptcy-after-gm-recall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microheat Inc., the company responsible for inventing and supplying General Motors with their HotSpot windshield cleaning system, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The technology utilized heated liquid to clean the front glass of debris, ice, and snow. Unfortunately, a short circuit on a printed circuit board could overheat and lead to a fire (removing contaminants from much more than just the front windshield). As a result, GM recalled 944,000 vehicles and dropped Microheat, and their HotSpot product, from the lineup. Even with the system no longer offered on vehicles, things are cooking in court as GM is now seeking $20-25 million in damages to cover the cost of the recall. Without the assets to cover the charges, bankruptcy protection could only be expected. While GM's HotSpot recall solves the overheating problem with a simple inline fuse, the new filing by Microheat only seems to be fueling the fire.

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

Microheat files for bankruptcy after GM recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Circuit BoardCircuitBoardCleaningFireFluidFuseGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsHeatedHot SpotHotSpotMicroheatPCBRecallWindshieldWed, 15 Oct 2008 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW X5 "Security" model can handle .44 Magnum fire]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/bmw-x5-security-model-can-handle-44-magnum-fire/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/bmw-x5-security-model-can-handle-44-magnum-fire/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/bmw-x5-security-model-can-handle-44-magnum-fire/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 BMW X5 Security

If you happen to be the Head of State of a controversial nation, have a lot of enemies, or you are just plain paranoid, BMW's latest X5 variation may appeal to you. It's called the BMW X5 Security, and it has been armored by the factory to protect its occupants against some serious firepower (BMW claims safety class "VR4" to resist the penetration from a .44 Magnum, .357 Magnum, or a nine-millimeter Luger). While BMW is understandably mum about specifics, we do know that the body panels (including the roof and trunk) have been reinforced with a ballistic-resistant armored fiber developed in the Netherlands. The windows are upgraded to laminated 22-mm thick security glass, and a camera system with intercom keeps the passengers informed of what's happening outside their isolated cocoon. To handle the extra mass (you know its packing some weight) the Security package is bundled to the X5 4.8i model with its 4.8-liter 350-hp V-8. Nearly indistinguishable from the regular model, BMW has reportedly attempted to maintain the X5's driving dynamics with upgraded suspension and brakes. It's apparently no slouch, but we have yet to see any armored car that is considered exceptionally nimble.

Gallery: 2009 BMW X5 Security

BMW X5 "Security" model can handle .44 Magnum fire originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArmoredBulletproofExplosionFireFirepowerGunMagnumX5 SecurityX5SecurityFri, 15 Aug 2008 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[German man burns BMW in protest of high gas prices]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/29/german-man-burns-bmw-in-protest-of-high-gas-prices/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/29/german-man-burns-bmw-in-protest-of-high-gas-prices/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/29/german-man-burns-bmw-in-protest-of-high-gas-prices/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you think that gas prices are high in the U.S., consider that the average price for a gallon of gas in Germany is $9.40. Yikes. Since the record high prices in the States are causing some people to change their lifestyles, imagine how Europeans feel. Bet they're pretty upset, right? One man was ticked off enough to send his 1995 BMW 3 Series out in a blaze of glory. That's right, after parking the Bimmer on the lawn of the Convention Center in Frankfurt, he doused the car in gasoline and torched it in protest of high gasoline prices.

The car was already nice and crispy by the time firefighters arrived. At this point, the local authorities are still considering what, if anything, to charge the man with. Interestingly, various environmental laws were likely broken which could send the perpetrator to jail for up to five years.

[Source: AP via WIBW.com]

German man burns BMW in protest of high gas prices originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Jun 2008 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw fireBmwFirefiregas pricegas pricesGasPriceGasPricesSun, 29 Jun 2008 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[NHTSA investigating 2.7 million GM vehicles over engine fires]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/18/nhtsa-investigating-2-7-million-gm-vehicles-over-engine-fires/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/18/nhtsa-investigating-2-7-million-gm-vehicles-over-engine-fires/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/18/nhtsa-investigating-2-7-million-gm-vehicles-over-engine-fires/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Way back in February, the NHTSA began investigating certain full-size trucks and SUVs from General Motors for the possibility of their engines spontaneously combusting, even when the ignition key is in the 'off' position. At that time, the investigation covered some 423,000 vehicles, and GM seemed pretty confident that the issue would not be widespread. Yeah, it appears as if the General was a little off in that assessment. The engine fire issue may now affect about 2.7 million vehicles, including all of the latest Chevrolet, GMC and HUMMER full-size models.

A preliminary examination of the electric systems throughout these vehicles is being conducted at this time. Depending on the results of the NHTSA's 'Engineering Analysis', a recall could follow. So far, there exists 41 reported cases of non-crash-related underhood fires, with 16 of those supposedly with the ignition turned off. Check after the jump for a complete list of all the possibly affected vehicles.

[Source: Consumer Affairs]

Continue reading NHTSA investigating 2.7 million GM vehicles over engine fires

NHTSA investigating 2.7 million GM vehicles over engine fires originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevychevy firesChevyFiresengine fireengine firesEngineFireEngineFiresfirefiresgmgm firesgmc firegmc firesGmcFireGmcFiresGmFireshummer firehummer firesHummerFireHummerFiresnhtsarecallWed, 18 Jun 2008 17:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Moscow under seige of auto arsonist]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/moscow-under-seige-of-auto-arsonist/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/moscow-under-seige-of-auto-arsonist/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/moscow-under-seige-of-auto-arsonist/#commentsFiled under:


click above for gallery of hot, hot heat

Since last Thursday, more than 20 cars and trucks in the Russian capital of Moscow have been torched by an elusive car arsonist. Each of the fires is started the same way: flammable materials are pulled from a dumpster, stacked under the vehicle's wheel, doused with lighter fluid and then set ablaze. While the arsonist has hit vehicles in five different towns, all are thought to be the work of one individual. According to police, the culprit seems to be drawn towards gray cars (yes, the color), and has completely avoided Russian Ladas, perhaps as a demonstration of national pride. Instead, more expensive luxury imports are the hot targets. Authorities believe the misfit may be a schizophrenic registered at a psychiatric hospital. It sure sounds like a good place to start looking. Thanks for the tip, Andrew V!

Gallery: Moscow Vehicle Arsons


[Source: RAI Novosti, Photos from English Russia]

Moscow under seige of auto arsonist originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArsonBurnedFireMoscowRussiaRussianTorchWed, 04 Jun 2008 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[1.2 mil gallons of unleaded gas go up in flames]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/1-2-mil-gallons-of-unleaded-gas-go-up-in-flames/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/1-2-mil-gallons-of-unleaded-gas-go-up-in-flames/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/1-2-mil-gallons-of-unleaded-gas-go-up-in-flames/#commentsFiled under: ,



You'd think the folks in Kansas City, Kansas had money to burn judging by this huge bonfire they held with a reservoir full of $4-per-gallon unleaded. Actually, the fire was caused by a lightning strike Tuesday night. After battling it for some time, firefighters said they would have to let it burn itself out. That could take two days, with 1.2 million gallons of gasoline being burned in the process. The fire apparently started around 7:30 PM at the Magellan Pipeline terminal near General Motors' Fairfax plant. The tank exploded and employees quickly mobilized to keep it isolated and prevent the fire from spreading to surrounding storage tanks. The smoke from fire was so bad, however, that the Kansas City airport had to be shut down for a while, but everything is back to normal now. Thankfully, nobody was hurt in the blaze. No word yet on what effect this will have on local gas prices, but we can't imagine that it will help. Thanks for the tip, Cody!

[Source: KMBC-TV]

1.2 mil gallons of unleaded gas go up in flames originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firekansas cityKansasCityWed, 04 Jun 2008 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Scion xB spontaneously combusts during dealer service]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/08/scion-xb-spontaneously-combusts-during-dealer-service/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/08/scion-xb-spontaneously-combusts-during-dealer-service/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/08/scion-xb-spontaneously-combusts-during-dealer-service/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for more pics of the Scion xB post-fire damage

An auto dealer service center is a lot like a doctor's office for your car. When something is wrong or your ride needs a check-up, a technician can set things right. Of course sometimes doctors make mistakes like taking off your left foot when they're supposed to amputate the right one, and things don't always go as planned in the hands of a trained tech. One Scion xB owner took his modified baby to the dealer for a Technical Service Bulletin, and it ended up engulfed in flames. The fire completely destroyed the little xB, but the good news is that the dealer has taken full responsibility for the problem and is giving the owner a new ride for his troubles.

We had auto shop in high school, but we can't seem to remember any reason a car should blow up when being worked on. We don't know what Scion xB TSB was being done, but if trying to fix it could blow up your car, that's probably not good. Check out the gruesome pics in the gallery below

Gallery: Scion xB after fire


[Source: Scion Life via Motive Mag]

Scion xB spontaneously combusts during dealer service originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealer visitDealerVisitfireScion xBScionXbtechnical service bulletinTechnicalServiceBulletinToyotaTSBTue, 08 Apr 2008 08:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Explosion and fire at Chrysler's Windsor assembly plant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/10/explosion-and-fire-at-chryslers-windsor-assembly-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/10/explosion-and-fire-at-chryslers-windsor-assembly-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/10/explosion-and-fire-at-chryslers-windsor-assembly-plant/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Around 12:30PM EST today, Chrysler's Windsor assembly plant in Canada, which produces an assortment of the automaker's minivans, caught fire after a reported explosion. Eyewitness reports claim that the explosion was followed by large plumes of black smoke emanating from the northwest corner of the center. Fire crews have cordoned off part of the plant around Drouillard Road and all of the employees have been evacuated. We'll update this post with more information as it becomes available, so stay tuned. Thanks for the tip, Alan.

UPDATE 4:40 PM EST: Workers were allowed back into the plant after the fire was extinguished. Apparently a vehicle on the repair line caught fire, but workers were able to control the blaze. No injuries reported at this time. [Source: MLive]

[Source: Canada.com, Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Explosion and fire at Chrysler's Windsor assembly plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assembly plantAssemblyPlantchryslerchrysler windsor assembly plantchrysler windsor assembly plant explosionchrysler windsor assembly plant fireChryslerWindsorAssemblyPlantChryslerWindsorAssemblyPlantExplosionChryslerWindsorAssemblyPlantFireexplosionfirewindsorMon, 10 Mar 2008 14:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Recalled Ford owners urged to get cruise control fixed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/29/recalled-ford-owners-urged-to-get-cruise-control-fixed/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/29/recalled-ford-owners-urged-to-get-cruise-control-fixed/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/29/recalled-ford-owners-urged-to-get-cruise-control-fixed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you drive a Ford product built before 2005, do us all a favor and give your dealership a call. Ask them if your car or truck is one of the 10 million vehicles out there recalled for repair of a cruise control switch. Trust us, this is not something you want to ignore, as there have been fires, lawsuits, and deaths attributed to this issue.

Word from Washington is that federal safety officials are concerned as less than half of the recalled vehicles have been returned to dealerships for repair (come on people, we told you about this in August, 2006!). This has triggered a rare "consumer advisory" from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration who are urging motorists to take action. Ford is also re-notifying owners. The NHTSA is also quick to point out that there is no need to schedule an appointment for the repair as some dealers are even providing quick drive-through services for the fix.

The long list of recalled vehicles has been included after the jump.

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

Continue reading Recalled Ford owners urged to get cruise control fixed

Recalled Ford owners urged to get cruise control fixed originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cruise ControlCruiseControlFireFordLincolnMercuryNHTSARecallFri, 29 Feb 2008 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler Pacifica being investigated by NHTSA for fires]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/27/chrysler-pacifica-being-investigated-by-nhtsa-for-fires/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/27/chrysler-pacifica-being-investigated-by-nhtsa-for-fires/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/27/chrysler-pacifica-being-investigated-by-nhtsa-for-fires/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Investigators for the National Highway Traffic safety Administration are taking a closer look at 2007 Chrysler Pacificas equipped with the 4.0-liter V6. There is a concern that the vehicles could be prone to engine bay fires. A cross-threaded power steering fitting that prevents proper sealing of the hydraulic system could be the root cause. Chrysler has received 166 warranty claims and 25 complaints reporting smoke and fire breaking out. NHTSA has also received three complaints, and the fires seem to be localized to the front of the vehicle, indicating that a power steering leak could indeed be to blame.

Chrysler is aware of the problem, which is specific to the 4.0-liter equipped Pacificas, and traced it to a tube nut on the high pressure power steering line. The nut was found to have been cross threaded when attached to the steering gear, which prevents the o-ring from sealing. Chrysler has put extra quality assurance and assembly processes in place to solve the problem. The automaker also explained that owners should monitor the level of power steering fluid and listen for a noisy pump; both telltale signs that offer a degree of early warning before the Pacifica goes up in smoke. If NHTSA continues to see a problem, a recall of the 2007 Pacifica could be imminent.

Thanks to Autoblog reader Thedevil (we don't make this stuff up) for the tip.

[Source: ConsumerAffairs.com]

Chrysler Pacifica being investigated by NHTSA for fires originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerfireinvestigationnhtsapacificarecallWed, 27 Feb 2008 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Holden recalls 86,000 Zetas equipped with V6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/08/holden-recalls-86-000-zetas-equipped-with-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/08/holden-recalls-86-000-zetas-equipped-with-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/08/holden-recalls-86-000-zetas-equipped-with-v6/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



GM's Australian subsidiary Holden has recalled 86,000 rear-wheel-drive Zeta cars with the V6 engine to correct a potential fuel leak that could lead to fires. The CNN Money article says that the recall doesn't impact the Pontiac G8, GM's North American Zeta variant, because that car's underhood layout is different. We should also mention that the G8 is not even on sale yet, so there are none in customer hands to recall.

VE and WM Commodores in Australia and New Zealand, Chevrolet Lumina and Caprice models in the Middle East, as well as the Chevrolet Omega in Brazil are all affected. When a clip chafes on the fuel line, it can apparently cause a leak with nasty results if the gasoline ignites. The risk is low, says GM's John Lindsay, but they're calling the cars back, nearly all of the Zetas with V6 engines sold since the car's redesign, and fixing them free of charge just to be on the safe side.

[Source: CNN]

Holden recalls 86,000 Zetas equipped with V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jan 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiabrazilcapricechevroletcommodorefirefuel leakFuelLeakgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmholdenluminamiddle eastMiddleEastnew zealandNewZealandomegarecallzetaTue, 08 Jan 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota whistleblower joined by civil suit over father's death]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/29/toyota-whistleblower-joined-by-civil-suit-over-fathers-death/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/29/toyota-whistleblower-joined-by-civil-suit-over-fathers-death/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/29/toyota-whistleblower-joined-by-civil-suit-over-fathers-death/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A faulty seatbelt that traps an occupant in a vehicle and leads to his death is a horrible tragedy. If the defect were given a pass at the manufacturing plant, it goes beyond tragic to criminal. Toyota is now facing two lawsuits in California, both centered around manufacturing defects that may have been ignored at its joint-venture New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. plant.

We reported earlier on the first lawsuit filed by Katy Cameron, a NUMMI worker who alleges that vehicles with serious problems were passed out the door, even though the NUMMI plant purportedly subscribes to the "Toyota way" of manufacturing. Instead of empowering workers to spot and correct defects, even stop the assembly line to make things right, management at the NUMMI plant allegedly discouraged Cameron by demoting her.

A second lawsuit has also been filed by the Singh family, who are blaming the seatbelt latch in their 2002 Corolla for the death of Raminder Singh. The Singhs were involved in an accident that led to an engine fire, and while 19-year-old Gurinder Singh was able to exit the vehicle, his father remained trapped by his seatbelt despite Gurinder's efforts to unlatch it.

A spokesman for Toyota has been quoted as saying, "as heart-rending and tragic as this collision was, Toyota has an altogether different view of the facts." The facts will hopefully come to light during this civil trial, which heard opening statements on Tuesday.

Thanks for the tip, Jon!

[Source: Money/CNN]

Toyota whistleblower joined by civil suit over father's death originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corolladeathdefectsfirekaty cameronKatyCameronlawsuitmanagementnummiseatbeltsinghSingh ToyotaSinghToyotatoyotaThu, 29 Nov 2007 12:33:00 EST