Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.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/<![CDATA[Cadillac to recall 20,000 SRX models over wheels that could fall off]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Cadillac SRX - front three-quarter view, silver

A potential issue with the lug nuts on 19,871 units of the 2013 Cadillac SRX in the US and Canada has lead to a recall of the luxury crossover. Those lug nuts that have a Teflon topcoat, identified by their bluish tint, could loosen and cause "creaking, rattling or grinding noises or steering vibrations." In the worst case scenario, a wheel could fall off, but there have been no reports of that happening, nor any reports of accidents or injuries due to the issue.

This is the second recall action on the SRX over the last few months. In March, Cadillac recalled 27,000 SRX models over a transmission programming issue. General Motors will begin notifying customers with the potentially faulty parts on June 3, at which time they can take their vehicles to dealers to have the tires rotated and new nuts installed. A further 7,397 SRXs exported from North America also face the recall action.

Cadillac to recall 20,000 SRX models over wheels that could fall off originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 May 2013 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac srxcadillaccadillac recallcadillac srxcadillac srx recallcadillacsrxrecallgmlug nutnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallsrx recallThu, 23 May 2013 10:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20580817/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/20580817/article-detail.xml 20580817 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-cadillac-srx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-cadillac-srx.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA opens investigation into Ford Super Duty trucks over steering woes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/nhtsa-opens-investigation-into-ford-super-duty-trucks-over-steer/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/nhtsa-opens-investigation-into-ford-super-duty-trucks-over-steer/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/nhtsa-opens-investigation-into-ford-super-duty-trucks-over-steer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2008 Ford F250 Super Duty - front three-quarter view, red

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into certain 2008 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty pickup trucks. The investigation covers some 340,000 trucks after the government agency received five complaints of steering box failures. Owners claim internal failures resulted in the complete loss of their vehicles' control. In one case, steering box failure is being blamed for an F-Series crashing into another vehicle at around 20 miles per hour, while another another driver said his truck left the road and impacted a guardrail at around 35 mph.

Ford says it is cooperating with NHTSA in the investigation. We'll keep tabs on the investigation and let you know if a recall results.

NHTSA opens investigation into Ford Super Duty trucks over steering woes originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-seriesford f-250ford f-350ford f-350 super dutyford super dutyinvestigationnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsasteering boxMon, 13 May 2013 11:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20566393/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/13/nhtsa-opens-investigation-into-ford-super-duty-trucks-over-steer/20566393/article-detail.xml 20566393 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2008-ford-super-duty-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2008-ford-super-duty-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler recalls 468,700 Jeep Grand Cherokees, Commanders over rollaway risk]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/chrysler-recalls-468-700-jeep-grand-cherokees-commanders-over-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/chrysler-recalls-468-700-jeep-grand-cherokees-commanders-over-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/chrysler-recalls-468-700-jeep-grand-cherokees-commanders-over-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited

Chrysler has issued a recall covering a combined 469,000 units of the 2005-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2006-2010 Jeep Commander (inset). Of that number, 295,000 are in the US, roughly 33,000 in Canada and Mexico and the remainder in other markets. It seems an electrical fault in the transfer case can allow the affected SUVs to shift into neutral on their own, while an Associated Press report says that Chrysler had "found cracks in a circuit board that turns the four-wheel-drive system on and off." The issue was discovered when an owner started his car remotely and it rolled away.

Chrysler is expected to begin notifying owners in June 2013, who can then take their cars to dealers. The dealer will reflash the final drive controller free of charge. There's a bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration below with more information.

Continue reading Chrysler recalls 468,700 Jeep Grand Cherokees, Commanders over rollaway risk

Chrysler recalls 468,700 Jeep Grand Cherokees, Commanders over rollaway risk originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeepjeep commanderjeep commander recalljeep commander recallsjeep grand cherokeejeep grand cherokee recallsjeep recalljeep recallsjeepcommanderrecalljeepcommanderrecallsjeepgrandcherokeerecallsjeeprecalljeeprecallsnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallMon, 13 May 2013 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20565869/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/13/chrysler-recalls-468-700-jeep-grand-cherokees-commanders-over-r/20565869/article-detail.xml 20565869 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2008-jeep-grand-cherokee_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2008-jeep-grand-cherokee.jpg <![CDATA[More drivers than ever are dying on US roads]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/more-drivers-than-ever-are-dying-on-us-roads/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/more-drivers-than-ever-are-dying-on-us-roads/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/more-drivers-than-ever-are-dying-on-us-roads/#commentsFiled under: ,

car crash

Our sister site, AOL Autos, reports more people are dying in car accidents in the US than ever before. Fatalities jumped by 5.3 percent last year to 34,080 deaths, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The increase is due in part to the fact that Americans are also driving more than ever before, covering 0.3-percent more miles in 2012 than 2011. NHTSA says that may be due to the fact that modern vehicles offer better fuel efficiency than before, and thus allow drivers to cover greater distances for the same money.

Motorcycle fatalities accounted for 14.7 percent of all traffic deaths, with 5,000 riders dying last year alone. The Governors Highway Association says many of those deaths could have been prevented with proper helmet laws. Right now, 31 states don't require riders to wear helmets. Pedestrian deaths also increased by 4 percent to 4,280, and deaths attributed to distracted driving jumped by 1.92 percent to 3,331 people.

More drivers than ever are dying on US roads originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathsnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsatraffic deathstraffic fatalitiesMon, 13 May 2013 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563944/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/13/more-drivers-than-ever-are-dying-on-us-roads/20563944/article-detail.xml 20563944 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/car-crash_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/car-crash.jpg <![CDATA[2005-2007 Corvette investigated for faulty headlamps]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2005-2007-corvette-investigated-for-faulty-headlamps/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2005-2007-corvette-investigated-for-faulty-headlamps/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2005-2007-corvette-investigated-for-faulty-headlamps/#commentsFiled under: ,

2007 Chevrolet Corvette

The Detroit News reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into 103,374 Chevrolet Corvette models built between 2005 and 2007. The administration is currently looking into a headlight issue after receiving 30 complaints from owners saying that the vehicle abruptly lost both low beams. Demonstrating its uncanny affinity for the obvious, NHTSA said, "The loss of illumination impairs the driver's ability to see the roadway." Such a condition could lead to a crash.

Some of the complaints state that the problem is intermittent, while others say the issue only began after driving over an object in the road. Still others say the low beams return after the vehicle has been parked for some time. Both high-beams and fog lights remain functional in every case, however.

2005-2007 Corvette investigated for faulty headlamps originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2005 chevy corvette2006 chevy corvette2007 chevy corvettechevychevy corvettecorvette headlightsinvestigationnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaFri, 10 May 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20564840/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/2005-2007-corvette-investigated-for-faulty-headlamps/20564840/article-detail.xml 20564840 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2007-corvette-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2007-corvette-628.jpg <![CDATA[Airbag recalls on track for record year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/airbag-recalls-on-track-for-record-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/airbag-recalls-on-track-for-record-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/airbag-recalls-on-track-for-record-year/#commentsFiled under: ,



The escalating complexity of automobiles is led in part by the escalating complexity of safety systems. The once dumb airbag that lived all alone inside the steering wheel, for instance, is now a family of smart airbags that might be able to detect the location of the passenger they're meant to protect and how best to inflate in order to protect him. Beyond the increased sticker price, the cost of that technology is more things going wrong.

According to a story on AOL Autos there have been 22 recalls in the last six months due to airbags - covering more than 3.8 million cars up to 12 years old - compared to ten in the six months before. 15 of those have come this year, and at the current pace 2013 is on course to surpass the total of 23 airbag-related recalls of 2012. Malfunctions that led to the recalls have included airbags not deploying when expected, or deploying unexpectedly, or causing additional injuries and damage to occupants when they do deploy.

It can take suppliers, automakers and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration years to address the issue and initiate a recall, even after hundreds of complaints have been filed. On top of that, the increasing concentration of the supplier base and the move to global platforms means that what might once have been a localized issue is now a global one. Some look at the number of airbag recalls as a problem with the technology, feeling "it's not working very well." Others see it as the improved operation of the corrective system - more issues are being recalled because automakers are taking safety concerns more seriously. The "right" answer, if there is one, is no doubt as complex as the technology, so click over to AOL Autos for the full story and decide for yourself.

Airbag recalls on track for record year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airbagairbag recallNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsarecallMon, 06 May 2013 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20558464/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/airbag-recalls-on-track-for-record-year/20558464/article-detail.xml 20558464 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/airbags_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/airbags.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota recalling FJ Cruiser due to excessively bright headlights]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/toyota-recalling-fj-cruiser-due-to-excessively-bright-headlights/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/toyota-recalling-fj-cruiser-due-to-excessively-bright-headlights/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/toyota-recalling-fj-cruiser-due-to-excessively-bright-headlights/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Now, hold on. This recall isn't quite as serious as it sounds. Yes, Toyota is recalling 11,489 FJ Cruiser models from the 2007 to 2013 model years, and yes, it's because the vehicles, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states, "fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, 'Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.'" But read the fine print and you'll see the catch: This recall is only for vehicles fitted with the automaker's auxiliary lighting kit that can be mounted to the front bumper.

Basically, the auxiliary lamp assemblies use 55-watt bulbs, and when these are turned on in conjunction with the upper beam headlamps, it's a pretty blinding sight. NHTSA states that excessively bright lights can blind other drivers, increasing the risk for a crash.

To remedy the situation, Toyota will replace the 55-watt bulbs with cooler 35-watt units. The recall is expected to begin later this month. Scroll down for the full details in the NHTSA report.

Continue reading Toyota recalling FJ Cruiser due to excessively bright headlights

Toyota recalling FJ Cruiser due to excessively bright headlights originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 May 2013 11:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>headlightsnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecalltoyotatoyota fj cruiserSun, 05 May 2013 11:12:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557364/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/05/toyota-recalling-fj-cruiser-due-to-excessively-bright-headlights/20557364/article-detail.xml 20557364 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/004-toyota-fj-cruiser_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/004-toyota-fj-cruiser.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA launches investigations into Ford Crown Victoria police cars, Dodge Viper and Porsche 911]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/nhtsa-launches-investigations-into-ford-crown-victoria-police-ca/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/nhtsa-launches-investigations-into-ford-crown-victoria-police-ca/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/nhtsa-launches-investigations-into-ford-crown-victoria-police-ca/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

​2005 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor - dead-on front view

Reuters reports that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating certain Ford Crown Victoria, Porsche 911 and Dodge Viper models for potential defects. NHTSA is currently looking into 2005-2008 Crown Victoria police car models for steering column failures that could cause the upper and lower portions of the steering shaft to separate. Such a condition would lead to a loss of control. So far there are 195,000 vehicles involved with 15 warranty claims.

Meanwhile, 10,000 Porsche 911 sports cars are under investigation for a faulty cooling hose fitting. The loose hose could cause a rapid loss of coolant that could not only damage the engine, but cause a slick road surface that could pose a danger to other traffic. The investigation is only concerned with models equipped with 2001-2007 models. There have been 10 owner complaints of failures, with one owner saying the coolant caused him to loose control and spin the vehicle off of the road.

Investigators are also looking into certain 2005-2006 Dodge Viper models for a rear suspension knuckle failure. Two owners have filed complaints after crashes, and NHTSA is now looking into 2,500 of the vehicles.

Note: these probes aren't recalls, but can lead to them if NHTSA or the automakers find sufficient evidence of danger to drivers.

NHTSA launches investigations into Ford Crown Victoria police cars, Dodge Viper and Porsche 911 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 May 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodge viperfordford crown victoriaford crown victoria police interceptorford police interceptornational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsanhtsa investigationnhtsa probeporsche 911viperWed, 01 May 2013 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554541/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/01/nhtsa-launches-investigations-into-ford-crown-victoria-police-ca/20554541/article-detail.xml 20554541 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2005-ford-crown-victoria-police-interceptor-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2005-ford-crown-victoria-police-interceptor-628.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru recalls new Forester over pedal entrapment fears]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/subaru-recalls-new-forester-over-pedal-entrapment-fears/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/subaru-recalls-new-forester-over-pedal-entrapment-fears/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/subaru-recalls-new-forester-over-pedal-entrapment-fears/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Subaru Forester - front three-quarter view

Pedal entrapment and unintended acceleration are hot-button topics these days, so automakers are always staying alert for potential problems. For Subaru and its newly introduced 2014 Forester, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall due to improperly manufactured floor mats that could become an obstruction for the gas, brake or clutch pedals. The good news, of course, is that even if drivers experience this problem, the 2014 Forester comes standard with brake override.

At issue with the floor mats on 10,137 Forester models built between January and March of this year is that the resin material used on the underside of the mats can curl when exposed to heat. If the leading edge of the driver's mat curls enough, it can come in contact with the pedals making acceleration, braking and shifting more difficult - possibly resulting in a crash. To fix the problem, Subaru is replacing the entire set of floor mats in all of the affected units. The official NHTSA recall notice is posted below.

Continue reading Subaru recalls new Forester over pedal entrapment fears

Subaru recalls new Forester over pedal entrapment fears originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 subaru foresterforester recallnational highway traffic safety administrationrecallsubarusubaru forestersubaru recallTue, 30 Apr 2013 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20551818/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/subaru-recalls-new-forester-over-pedal-entrapment-fears/20551818/article-detail.xml 20551818 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/forester-xt-lead-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/forester-xt-lead-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Anthony Foxx nominated by Obama to be next Transportation Secretary [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/anthony-foxx-nominated-by-obama-to-be-next-transportation-secret/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/anthony-foxx-nominated-by-obama-to-be-next-transportation-secret/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/anthony-foxx-nominated-by-obama-to-be-next-transportation-secret/#commentsFiled under: ,

Anthony Foxx

Anthony Foxx, labeled by President Obama as "one of the most effective mayors Charlotte [North Carolina] has ever seen," has been nominated by the President to be the next Secretary of Transportation. Foxx would take over for Ray LaHood, who announced that he would be stepping down a few months ago.

President Obama had only positive things to say about Mr. LaHood, who had previously served in Congress as a Republican, calling him "a model for the kind of bipartisan approach to governance I think we need so badly in this town." Foxx had been a Democrat, but said during the nomination speech, "There is no such thing as a Democratic or Republican road, bridge, port, airfield or rail system."

Scroll down below to see a video from CBS News highlighting Obama's announcement and Foxx's acceptance.

Continue reading Anthony Foxx nominated by Obama to be next Transportation Secretary [w/video]

Anthony Foxx nominated by Obama to be next Transportation Secretary [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anthony foxxanthony foxx secretary of transportationanthonyfoxxsecretaryoftransportationnational highway traffic safety administrationobamaobama transportation nomineeobamatransportationnomineeray lahoodtransportation secretaryTue, 30 Apr 2013 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552424/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/anthony-foxx-nominated-by-obama-to-be-next-transportation-secret/20552424/article-detail.xml 20552424 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/anthony-foxx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/anthony-foxx.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan recalls over 120,000 Altimas due to... spare tire inflation?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/nissan-recalls-over-120-000-altimas-due-to-spare-tire-inflati/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/nissan-recalls-over-120-000-altimas-due-to-spare-tire-inflati/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/nissan-recalls-over-120-000-altimas-due-to-spare-tire-inflati/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Nissan Altima - front three-quarter view with brick wall

A pressure regulator that over- or underinflated spare tires for five days earlier this year has led to a recall of 123,308 units of the 2013 Nissan Altima. Sedans that were manufactured from March 21-26 are those possibly affected by the temporary tire snafu, the recall for which will begin on May 3.

Those notified of the issue can take their sedans to their local Nissan dealer, who will check the tire pressure and correct it if necessary, but we imagine owners can probably just whip out a tire gauge to check and adjust the inflation for themselves. Should you need it, there's an official notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration below with a few more details.

Continue reading Nissan recalls over 120,000 Altimas due to... spare tire inflation?!

Nissan recalls over 120,000 Altimas due to... spare tire inflation?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 nissan altimanational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsanissannissan altimanissan altima recallnissan recallrecallspare tireMon, 29 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550797/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/nissan-recalls-over-120-000-altimas-due-to-spare-tire-inflati/20550797/article-detail.xml 20550797 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-nissan-altima_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-nissan-altima.jpg <![CDATA[Honda recalls 2012-13 Fit Sport models over stability control issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Honda is recalling 43,782 examples of the 2012 and 2013 Fit Sport in the US and close to 2,000 more in Canada. During federal compliance testing it was discovered that the software for the Vehicle Stability Assist allows an excessive tilt angle before applying the brakes to prevent a crash. The issue only affects Fit Sports equipped with a certain kind of tire.

Honda will notify owners in mid-May, at which time owners can take their cars to dealers to have the stability control software updated free of charge. There's a press release from Honda below with more details.

Continue reading Honda recalls 2012-13 Fit Sport models over stability control issue

Honda recalls 2012-13 Fit Sport models over stability control issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 08:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hondahonda fithonda fit recallhonda fit sportNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsarecallstability controlMon, 29 Apr 2013 08:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550795/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/20550795/article-detail.xml 20550795 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-honda-fit-sport_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-honda-fit-sport.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA releases voluntary guidelines to combat distracted driving]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/nhtsa-voluntary-guidelines-distracted-driving/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/nhtsa-voluntary-guidelines-distracted-driving/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/nhtsa-voluntary-guidelines-distracted-driving/#commentsFiled under: , ,



In its continuing battle against distracted driving, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued voluntary guidelines covering the use of in-car infotainment and communication devices. It is NHTSA's intention that the proposals, which have been in the works for a year and are partly based on a 2010 study called "Impact of Hand-Held and Hands-Free Cell Phone Use on Driving Performance and Safety Critical Event Risk," will be phased in over the next three years. That would give automakers time to reconfigure their systems to comply.

Proposed items include disabling manual text entry, video-based entertainment and video phone calls and prohibiting the display of text messages, social media or web pages while the car is in motion or in gear. The objective is to keep the driver's eyes off the road for no more than two seconds at a time, and 12 seconds in total. That 12-second limit would be achieved by only allowing a driver six inputs or touches of the screen within a dozen seconds, but it would include activities beyond phone calls and nav inputs, like changing the radio station or using the climate control. At the moment, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers has a self-imposed limit of 20 seconds, although we're not sure how that's enforced by the infotainment system.
Calling distracted driving "a deadly epidemic," NHTSA says that it is trying to "balance the innovation consumers want with the safety we all need." The study showed that activities like using hand-held phones potentially tripled the risk of a crash and texting doubled the risk of a crash or near-crash. Distracted drivers accounted for about a third of all accident fatalities in 2011, a rise over 2010, but injuries are down, as are the number of crashes related to phone use.

According to a report in Automotive News, when the proposals are fully implemented, NHTSA is also considering adding them the the New Car Assessment Program, which would encourage automakers to comply if they want a five-star safety rating.

Continue reading NHTSA releases voluntary guidelines to combat distracted driving

NHTSA releases voluntary guidelines to combat distracted driving originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliance of automobile manufacturersdistracted drivingnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaray lahoodtextingtexting while drivingus dotThu, 25 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548713/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/nhtsa-voluntary-guidelines-distracted-driving/20548713/article-detail.xml 20548713 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/distracted-driving_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/distracted-driving.jpg <![CDATA[About 20k Nissan Pathfinder, Infiniti JX models recalled for potentially faulty brakes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/about-20k-nissan-pathfinder-infiniti-jx-models-recalled-for-pot/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/about-20k-nissan-pathfinder-infiniti-jx-models-recalled-for-pot/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/about-20k-nissan-pathfinder-infiniti-jx-models-recalled-for-pot/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall for the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder and 2013 Infiniti JX due to a problem with the front brakes. The problem is a result of the brake torque member (a part that attaches the brake caliper to the front suspension), which was cast improperly with a structural weakness that could possibly lead to "reduced braking, increasing the risk of a crash," according to NHTSA. How, you ask? If the part breaks, the brake caliper could move position and possibly make contact with the wheel.

Around 20,000 of these sister crossovers are being recalled, but it doesn't sound like all were equipped with the faulty component. Dealers will inspect vehicles built between December 3, 2012 and January 29, 2013, and replace components from the defective batch. The recall goes into effect next month, but until then, the official recall notice is posted below with information for how owners can contact Nissan.

Continue reading About 20k Nissan Pathfinder, Infiniti JX models recalled for potentially faulty brakes

About 20k Nissan Pathfinder, Infiniti JX models recalled for potentially faulty brakes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 19:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 infiniti jx2013 nissan pathfinderinfinitiinfiniti jxinfiniti recallnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsanissannissan pathfindernissan recallrecallFri, 19 Apr 2013 19:17:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545768/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/19/about-20k-nissan-pathfinder-infiniti-jx-models-recalled-for-pot/20545768/article-detail.xml 20545768 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/13-2013-nissan-pathfinder-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/13-2013-nissan-pathfinder-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Honda recalling 204k CR-V, Odyssey, Acura RDX models over rollaway risk]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/honda-recalling-204k-cr-v-odyssey-acura-rdx-models-over-rollaw/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/honda-recalling-204k-cr-v-odyssey-acura-rdx-models-over-rollaw/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/honda-recalling-204k-cr-v-odyssey-acura-rdx-models-over-rollaw/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Honda CR-V

Honda has announced a recall over a possible rollaway risk that affects 204,169 crossover and minivan models. The specific vehicles in question are the 2012-13 Honda CR-V and Odyssey, as well as the 2013 Acura RDX.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "the brake-shift interlock blocking mechanism may become slow and allow the gear selector to be moved from the Park position without pressing the brake pedal." In other words, these vehicles could unintentionally roll away.

NHTSA states that this scenario may only happen during sub-freezing temperatures, but notes that this means the vehicles fail to conform with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 114: Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention. Honda will notify owners of the problem, and dealerships will install an updated interlocking mechanism free of charge.

The recall is expected to begin on May 13. Scroll down for the full details from the NHTSA report.

Continue reading Honda recalling 204k CR-V, Odyssey, Acura RDX models over rollaway risk

Honda recalling 204k CR-V, Odyssey, Acura RDX models over rollaway risk originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura rdxhondahonda cr-vhonda odysseynational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallFri, 19 Apr 2013 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545757/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/19/honda-recalling-204k-cr-v-odyssey-acura-rdx-models-over-rollaw/20545757/article-detail.xml 20545757 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cr-v628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cr-v628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler recalling over 200k vehicles across its brands]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



With more than 200,000 units across six separate recalls and almost all of its brands, it appears that Chrysler has officially jumped headfirst into the recall pool this month. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued three official recalls for the automaker, and The Detroit News is reporting that the automaker itself has announced three more.

The biggest of the recalls applies to about 120,000 Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger and Chrysler 300 models for 2011 and 2012 due to faulty wiring harnesses for the seat-mounted side airbags, which could lead to these airbags not deploying in the event of a crash. A little more than 60,000 two-wheel-drive versions of the 2007-2008 Dodge Nitro and 2008 Jeep Liberty SUVs are being recalled due to a heat shield that could cause the driveshaft to break, which if that isn't bad on its own, could then hit underneath where the airbag sensor is mounted, causing the airbags to deploy. Wrapping up NHTSA's recall notices, about 20,000 Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass models for 2012 are also being recalled due to a problem with the fuel tank transfer tube that could lead to the vehicle stalling. The LX car recall campaign is going into effect this month, while the other two will start next month - all three notices are posted below.

In addition to the official NHTSA recalls, The Detroit News is also reporting that Chrysler is recalling more than 16,000 Ram trucks and a small number of Dodge Dart sedans. Around 6,500 2013 Ram 1500 trucks will be recalled due to an improper adjustment of the parking brake cable from the factory, while 7,000 Cummins-powered 2013 Ram Heavy Duty trucks are being recalled due to an engine cover that does not have as much heat resistance as it is supposed to. Finally, a total of 46 Dodge Dart sedans are being recalled due to a problem with the brake calipers and/or parking brake.

Continue reading Chrysler recalling over 200k vehicles across its brands

Chrysler recalling over 200k vehicles across its brands originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elderly female driver

As part of its ongoing effort to make vehicles as safe as possible, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reportedly looking into creating a new crash-test rating system for cars which includes introducing a "Silver" rating to indicate added safety for senior drivers. Automotive News reports that NHTSA Administrator David Strickland says the agency is trying to find a way to make cars safer for senior citizens and it's also seeking a way to incorporate crash-prevention technology into its coveted five-star safety rating.

To protect senior drivers, NHTSA's Silver rating may focus on cars that offer inflatable seat belts or even introduce new technologies that help prevent unintended acceleration as a result of the driver accidently hitting the wrong pedal. Strickland also says existing crash-prevention technologies (such as forward collision warning and lane departure prevention) could work their way into the rating system for new vehicles. This all comes just days after another NHTSA-related report where the agency is apparently trying to come up with ways to fast-track "noncontroversial" rules and regulations.

NHTSA considering senior citizen crash test ratings for cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crash testcrash-prevention technologyelderlynational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsapensionerssenior citizensenior citizenssenior driversseniorsunintended accelerationFri, 05 Apr 2013 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20530810/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/05/nhtsa-considering-senior-citizen-crash-test-ratings-for-cars/20530810/article-detail.xml 20530810 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/elderly-female-driver_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/elderly-female-driver.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalling select Taurus, Explorer and Lincoln MKS models over fuel tanks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/31/ford-recalling-select-taurus-explorer-and-lincoln-mks-models-ov/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/31/ford-recalling-select-taurus-explorer-and-lincoln-mks-models-ov/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/31/ford-recalling-select-taurus-explorer-and-lincoln-mks-models-ov/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Explorer Sport

Ford is recalling certain 2012 Taurus, 2013 Explorer and 2012 Lincoln MKS models over fuel tank concerns. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, vehicles built between July 19, 2011 and March 15, 2012 may have been built with fuel tanks that have a "marginally sealed seam" on the side. Those seams may not provide the strength necessary to protect the tank from rupture during a collision. They may also leak. The recall covers a total of 3,037 vehicles. NHTSA says that leaked fuel, in the presence of an ignition source, could easily cause a fire.

Dealers will inspect the tanks and replace them as need be free of charge. Owners can expect to be notified once the campaign begins on or around April 22, 2013. You can read the full NHTSA recall notice below for more information.

Continue reading Ford recalling select Taurus, Explorer and Lincoln MKS models over fuel tanks

Ford recalling select Taurus, Explorer and Lincoln MKS models over fuel tanks originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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David StricklandWhen it comes to any new regulation that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration deems "not controversial and therefore unlikely to receive adverse comment," it would like the power to implement the regulation without the standard period of public comment. It seeks the change in order to be able to clear and finalize "routine" rules in a matter of days. If NHTSA is granted the power it seeks, people could still comment on such regulations and request changes, but the agency could ignore the feedback and the requests.

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers has questioned the proposal, which would expedite the "direct final rule" process, citing the decrease in transparency it could entail and the ambiguous definition of "controversy" - what NHTSA thinks is a routine regulation, others could consider anything but.

The notice was posted on the NHTSA site on Tuesday, but NHTSA hasn't commented on the proposal, it's chief saying he would let it speak for itself.

NHTSA looking for power to fast-track 'noncontroversial' auto laws originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alliance of Automobile Manufacturersdavid stricklanddirect final rulegovernmentNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsaregulationSun, 31 Mar 2013 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20523352/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/31/nhtsa-looking-for-power-to-fast-track-noncontroversial-auto-la/20523352/article-detail.xml 20523352 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/strickland-2012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/strickland-2012.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan adds 2013 Titan to gearshift recall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/30/nissan-adds-2013-titan-to-gearshift-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/30/nissan-adds-2013-titan-to-gearshift-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/30/nissan-adds-2013-titan-to-gearshift-recall/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Nissan Titan

Nissan has added the 2013 Titan to the list of vehicles recalled over potential gearshift issues. Just a few days ago, the automaker recalled nearly 20,000 NV Vans for a problem with the shift lever assembly that could cause the gear selector to read inaccurately. Now Nissan is recalling certain 2013 Titan pickup trucks manufactured between December 17, 2012 and February 20, 2013 and equipped with column-mounted shift levers, though for a different fault. The pickups were built using certain chemicals that could cause the brake-shift interlock mechanism to fail over time. If that happens, the truck could be shifted out of Park without the driver's foot on the brake.

As a result, the truck could roll away and cause an accident or injury. Nissan says it will remedy the fault free of charge. Owners can expect to be notified once the campaign begins on or around April 8. You can read the full National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notice below for more information.

Continue reading Nissan adds 2013 Titan to gearshift recall

Nissan adds 2013 Titan to gearshift recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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