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[Cars made in Brazil blamed for country's high death rate]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/cars-made-in-brazil-blamed-for-countrys-high-death-rate/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/cars-made-in-brazil-blamed-for-countrys-high-death-rate/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/cars-made-in-brazil-blamed-for-countrys-high-death-rate/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Unsafe cars in Brazil

The Detroit Free Press reports the new generation of Brazil-built cars are to blame for the country's high death rate. Thanks to a booming middle class, Brazil is the fourth-largest vehicle market in the world, but four of the country's best-selling models have failed independent crash tests. Couple those machines with the country's notoriously dangerous roads and weather, and Brazil winds up with a traffic death rate nearly four times that of the US when weighted for the disparity in the size of both driving populations.

Automakers, meanwhile, say their products meet or exceed Brazil's safety laws - starting next year, manufacturers will be required to install front airbags and anti-lock brakes. Activists, meanwhile, say those changes aren't enough to make a meaningful impact on the country's death toll. Independent testing found that four of the country's top-selling cars from brands like General Motors, Volkswagen and Fiat received a lowly one-star crash rating.

Compounding the issue is the fact that manufacturers make more money on less safe, inexpensive Brazilian-made cars. The Detroit Free Press reports companies earn a 10-percent profit on vehicles built in Brazil compared to three percent from US-built models and an average of five percent from machines assembled elsewhere. Vehicles imported from other markets are more likely to have safety equipment that meets more stringent standards.

Cars made in Brazil blamed for country's high death rate originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brazilbrazil traffic deathssafetytraffic deathsWed, 15 May 2013 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20567120/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/cars-made-in-brazil-blamed-for-countrys-high-death-rate/20567120/article-detail.xml 20567120 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/brazilunsafecars_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/brazilunsafecars.jpg <![CDATA[ACLU sues LAPD and Sheriff's Department over license plate scanners]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/aclu-sues-lapd-and-sheriffs-department-over-license-plate-scann/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/aclu-sues-lapd-and-sheriffs-department-over-license-plate-scann/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/aclu-sues-lapd-and-sheriffs-department-over-license-plate-scann/#commentsFiled under: ,

LAPD police cruisers and mobile command unit

Both the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department and the Los Angeles Police Department have become big fans of cameras that capture license plate numbers and check them against information in registration and criminal databases. The Sheriff's Department uses 47 fixed cameras and has 77 squad cars with the equipment, the LAPD has gone from having 12 cruisers with the cameras five years ago to 100 now - and the cameras snag images of more than a thousand plates a minute. The LA departments aren't alone, either, with 71 percent of police departments nationwide said to be using the technology, and New Hampshire the only state to ban it.

Authorities tout how the information helps find stolen cars and help solve investigations, but the American Civil Liberties Union has an issue with the police holding onto the plate images of innocent people. The LAPD is understood to retain the information for five years, the LASD keeps it "indefinitely." According to the Los Angeles Times, the ACLU of Southern California and the Electronic Frontier Foundation filed a Public Records Act request for one week of the data generated by the camera and was denied, with the law enforcement agencies arguing that the information constitutes "investigative material" and thus it doesn't need to be released. That led both organizations to sue, worried that storage of information gathered on innocent citizens is a violation of their privacy.

ACLU attorney Peter Bibring says he would like the information to be destroyed after two weeks. Before that happens, he'll need to convince a judge that long-term databases containing the real-time whereabouts are a threat to a citizen's privacy. It'll probably be tough to do: police can perform manual checks at will, people have essentially no right to privacy in public spaces, the technology is ubiquitous, with border crossings and even the IRS using it, federal grants helping departments purchase the cameras, and information now going beyond state authorities and being checked against national registration and criminal databases. The ACLU has openly questioned the cameras for years, but this isn't only about the 'surveillance state,' it's about the record-keeping state.

ACLU sues LAPD and Sheriff's Department over license plate scanners originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acluamerican civil liberties unionautomatic license recognitioncameraelectronic frontier foundationla sheriffs departmentlapdlicense platelicense recognitionlos angeles police departmentlos angeles sherrifs departmentpolicesafetyscannersuesurveillanceMon, 13 May 2013 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20565939/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/13/aclu-sues-lapd-and-sheriffs-department-over-license-plate-scann/20565939/article-detail.xml 20565939 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/lapd-police-cars-and-rv_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/lapd-police-cars-and-rv.jpg <![CDATA[Japanese government chides Mitsubishi over recall delays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/japanese-government-chides-mitsubishi-recall-delays/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/japanese-government-chides-mitsubishi-recall-delays/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/japanese-government-chides-mitsubishi-recall-delays/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



An official with the transport ministry in Japan has some stern words for Mitsubishi, taking the carmaker to task for not being more proactive and honest about its recalls. An investigation into The Tri-Star last December found Mitsubishi was tardy investigating problems and didn't explain itself forthrightly to the transport ministry about the issues. None of Mitsubishi's actions were illegal, and we should stress that this is a dialogue with Mitsubishi in Japan, not Mitsubishi Motors North America.

The official advised the automaker to, "Come up with plans for improvement, implement them and report them to the ministry." It looks like the company will get more practice than it wants in that department, having to announce another recall for the Outlander PHEV over software and hardware glitches. Those recalls come just after Mitsu finally figured out the problem with overheating lithium-ion batteries that caused a production halt of the plug-in hybrid SUV.

Japanese government chides Mitsubishi over recall delays originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanjapan transport ministrymitsubishimitsubishi outlandermitsubishi outlander phevrecallsafetySat, 27 Apr 2013 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548785/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/27/japanese-government-chides-mitsubishi-recall-delays/20548785/article-detail.xml 20548785 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mitsubishi-outlander-phev_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mitsubishi-outlander-phev.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA SaferCar app allows consumers to track safety ratings, recalls]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/nhtsa-safercar-app-allows-consumers-to-track-safety-ratings-rec/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/nhtsa-safercar-app-allows-consumers-to-track-safety-ratings-rec/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/nhtsa-safercar-app-allows-consumers-to-track-safety-ratings-rec/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

NHTSA SaferCar appWhile many car shoppers say safety is a big factor in their choice of new car, there hasn't been an easy to way to access data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The government agency's website is clunky at best, and close to unusable on mobile devices.

That's why NHTSA decided to release the SaferCar app for mobile iOS devices. Users can easily access crash test ratings, recalls and complaints about hundreds of cars. Use the app to scan your car's VIN and it will even alert you to news and recall notices. The app also helps with the proper installation of child safety seats by directing users to the nearest fire or police station and other entities that can assist.

But possibly a more important piece of news from NHTSA today is that it will open up its databanks and Application Programming Interfaces (API) to other app developers so the data can be used in other apps. NHTSA will even publish an online course to teach programmers how to access and use the APIs.

The free app is available now from Apple's App Store, and you can read more about it in the press release below.

Continue reading NHTSA SaferCar app allows consumers to track safety ratings, recalls

NHTSA SaferCar app allows consumers to track safety ratings, recalls originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplechild safety seatIOSnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsasafercar appsafetyMon, 25 Mar 2013 08:47:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20515049/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/25/nhtsa-safercar-app-allows-consumers-to-track-safety-ratings-rec/20515049/article-detail.xml 20515049 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/nhtsa-app-scrn-grab-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/nhtsa-app-scrn-grab-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Five vehicles named Top Safety Pick+ including new Civic, MKZ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/five-vehicles-named-top-safety-pick-including-new-civic-mkz/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/five-vehicles-named-top-safety-pick-including-new-civic-mkz/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/five-vehicles-named-top-safety-pick-including-new-civic-mkz/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In an attempt to help push vehicle safety to a higher level, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety created a stricter Top Safety Pick+ rating last year, which incorporates a brutal small overlap test and requires cars to get Good ratings in four out of the five categories (and no less than Acceptable in the fifth). Joining the list of the safest cars of 2013, the 2013 Volvo XC60, Lincoln MKZ, Honda Civic (sedan and coupe) and the 2014 Mazda6 have all received the coveted TSP+ rating.

The Mazda6 and Lincoln MKZ have both been completely redesigned, and both received Acceptable ratings in the small overlap test. The Honda Civic, coming off its emergency refresh for 2013, is the first small car to be subjected to the small overlap test, and IIHS says that one of the car's many upgrades includes a stiffer front structure allowing it to receive Good ratings in all categories. Similarly, the XC60 gets all Good ratings thanks to, according to IIHS, Volvo updating the airbag software allowing the side airbags to inflate during the small overlap test.

The 2014 Subaru Forester has not yet been subjected to the small overlap test, so it must make do with just a Top Safety Pick rating until the IIHS tests small utility vehicles, which is expected to happen later in the spring.

Continue reading Five vehicles named Top Safety Pick+ including new Civic, MKZ

Five vehicles named Top Safety Pick+ including new Civic, MKZ originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda civic2013 lincoln mkz2013 top safety pick+2013 volvo xc602014 mazda6hondaiihsInsurance Institute for Highway Safetylincolnmazdasafetytop safety picktop safety pick+tsptsp+volvoFri, 08 Mar 2013 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20494589/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/five-vehicles-named-top-safety-pick-including-new-civic-mkz/20494589/article-detail.xml 20494589 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-honda-civic-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-honda-civic-review.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai recalls 6,071 more Velosters over shattering sunroofs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hyundai-recalls-6-071-more-velosters-over-shattering-sunroofs/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hyundai-recalls-6-071-more-velosters-over-shattering-sunroofs/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hyundai-recalls-6-071-more-velosters-over-shattering-sunroofs/#commentsFiled 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 NHTSA report.

Continue reading Hyundai recalls 6,071 more Velosters over shattering sunroofs

Hyundai recalls 6,071 more Velosters over shattering sunroofs originally appeared on Autoblog 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 sunroofsunroofvelosterWed, 27 Feb 2013 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20480753/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/27/hyundai-recalls-6-071-more-velosters-over-shattering-sunroofs/20480753/article-detail.xml 20480753 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[BMW recalling nearly 570,000 1 Series, 3 Series and Z4 models over electrical issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/18/bmw-recalling-nearly-570-000-1-series-3-series-and-z4-models-ov/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/18/bmw-recalling-nearly-570-000-1-series-3-series-and-z4-models-ov/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/18/bmw-recalling-nearly-570-000-1-series-3-series-and-z4-models-ov/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

BMW 135i Coupe

BMW is recalling roughly 570,000 vehicles in the United States and Canada due to faulty battery cable connectors that can fail, causing the engines in these cars to stall. Of the nearly 570,000 affected vehicles, just over 504,000 are here in the US.

The affected vehicles include 1 Series coupes and convertibles (both 128i and 135i) from the 2008 to 2011 model years; 3 Series sedans, coupes, convertibles and sport wagons (both 328i and 335i) from the 2007 to 2011 model years; and Z4 roadsters from the 2009 to 2011 model years.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "the connector for the positive battery cable connector and the corresponding terminal on the fuse box may degrade over time," which can eventually lead to a break in the electrical connection and a loss of power in the vehicle. If the car loses power, the engine can stall, which could possibly lead to a crash. The Detroit News reports that BMW knows of one minor collision in Canada as a result of this problem, but no injuries.

The official recall program will kick off in March, at which point BMW will notify owners and dealerships will replace the positive battery cable connector, free of charge. Scroll down for the official NHTSA report.

Continue reading BMW recalling nearly 570,000 1 Series, 3 Series and Z4 models over electrical issue

BMW recalling nearly 570,000 1 Series, 3 Series and Z4 models over electrical issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series128i135i3 series328i335ibmwnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallsafetyz4Mon, 18 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20465521/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/18/bmw-recalling-nearly-570-000-1-series-3-series-and-z4-models-ov/20465521/article-detail.xml 20465521 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/29-bmw-135i_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/29-bmw-135i.jpg <![CDATA[2003-04 Dodge Viper recalled for sudden airbag deployment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/2003-04-dodge-viper-recalled-for-sudden-airbag-deployment/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/2003-04-dodge-viper-recalled-for-sudden-airbag-deployment/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/2003-04-dodge-viper-recalled-for-sudden-airbag-deployment/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2003 Dodge Viper SRT10

As if driving the old Dodge Viper (not the fancy new SRT model) isn't intimidating 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 issued a recall.

According to the 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.

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2003 dodge viper2004 dodge viperdodgenational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallsafetyviperFri, 15 Feb 2013 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20464016/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/15/2003-04-dodge-viper-recalled-for-sudden-airbag-deployment/20464016/article-detail.xml 20464016 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[Chrysler recalling 278,222 trucks and SUVs over bad rear axles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chrysler-recalling-278-222-trucks-and-suvs-over-bad-rear-axles/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chrysler-recalling-278-222-trucks-and-suvs-over-bad-rear-axles/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chrysler-recalling-278-222-trucks-and-suvs-over-bad-rear-axles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2009 Dodge Ram

Chrysler has issued a recall of 278,222 light trucks and sport utility vehicles here in the United States. The reason: bad rear axles. Specifically, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the rear axle pinion nut may lack a necessary adhesive patch, which could cause the nut to loosen. If this happens, the axle can lock up, which could cause all sorts of havoc on the road.

This is an expansion of the rear axle recall announced in October of last year, where 44,300 Ram 1500 and Dodge Dakota models were being called in. At that time, 12 accidents had been reported due to the faulty axle pinion nut.

Affected vehicles include Ram 1500 trucks from the 2009 to 2012 model years, Dodge Dakota models from the 2009 to 2011 model years, and both the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango SUV twins, both from the 2009 model year only.

The official recall will kick off in March, where owners will be able to take their vehicles to dealerships and have a pinion nut retainer installed, free of charge. Scroll down for the official NHTSA bulletin.

Continue reading Chrysler recalling 278,222 trucks and SUVs over bad rear axles

Chrysler recalling 278,222 trucks and SUVs over bad rear axles originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aspenchryslerdakotadodgedurangoramram 1500recallsafetyThu, 14 Feb 2013 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20462073/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/chrysler-recalling-278-222-trucks-and-suvs-over-bad-rear-axles/20462073/article-detail.xml 20462073 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/dg009071rm_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/dg009071rm.jpg <![CDATA[GM recalling nearly 4,000 vehicles over airbag concerns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/gm-recalling-nearly-4-000-vehicles-over-airbag-concerns/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/gm-recalling-nearly-4-000-vehicles-over-airbag-concerns/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/gm-recalling-nearly-4-000-vehicles-over-airbag-concerns/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,



Four different General Motors vehicles from the 2012 model year are being recalled over a potential airbag issue. The driver's side airbag shorting bar in the 2012 Buick Verano and 2012 Chevrolet Camaro, Cruze and Sonic might make contact with the airbag terminals, even during a crash. If so, the airbag won't deploy when it should, possibly increasing injury to the driver.

The recall is expected to begin on February 13 for the 3,896 units that might be affected. GM will notify owners who can then take their vehicles to dealers to have the airbag coil replaced. A bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration below has more info.

Continue reading GM recalling nearly 4,000 vehicles over airbag concerns

GM recalling nearly 4,000 vehicles over airbag concerns originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Jan 2013 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airbagbuickcamarochevroletcruzeNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsarecallsafetysonicveranoThu, 31 Jan 2013 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20444657/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/31/gm-recalling-nearly-4-000-vehicles-over-airbag-concerns/20444657/article-detail.xml 20444657 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/sonicrecall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/sonicrecall.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota announces two recalls affecting 1M Corolla, Matrix and Lexus IS models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/30/toyota-announces-two-recalls-affecting-1m-corolla-matrix-and-le/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/30/toyota-announces-two-recalls-affecting-1m-corolla-matrix-and-le/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/30/toyota-announces-two-recalls-affecting-1m-corolla-matrix-and-le/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota Corolla

The recall bug strikes Toyota again. The automaker has issued a voluntary recall of three models that, in total, represent more than one million units. Around 752,000 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla and Matrix models are being recalled for airbag concerns, while a windshield wiper issue is causing the recall for close to 270,000 Lexus IS sedans from the 2006-2012 model years.

Completely unrelated to the small airbag-related recall issued earlier in the week, the Corolla and Matrix recall is caused by a faulty airbag control module that could potentially short circuit, which could lead to the front airbags or seat belt pretensioners deploying. The Lexus recall is due to a wiper arm nut that wasn't tightened properly, which can cause the wipers to not work when trying to clear heavy buildup such as snow.

Scroll down for a press release that includes more information, as well as details about how owners can contact the manufacturer directly.

Continue reading Toyota announces two recalls affecting 1M Corolla, Matrix and Lexus IS models

Toyota announces two recalls affecting 1M Corolla, Matrix and Lexus IS models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Jan 2013 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airbagscorollaislexusrecallrecallssafetytoyotatoyota recallWed, 30 Jan 2013 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20443159/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/30/toyota-announces-two-recalls-affecting-1m-corolla-matrix-and-le/20443159/article-detail.xml 20443159 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[Ford Fusion and Fusion Hybrid nab five-star ratings from NHTSA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/24/ford-fusion-and-fusion-hybrid-nab-five-star-ratings-from-nhtsa/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/24/ford-fusion-and-fusion-hybrid-nab-five-star-ratings-from-nhtsa/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/24/ford-fusion-and-fusion-hybrid-nab-five-star-ratings-from-nhtsa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Fusion

Ford's Fusion and Fusion Hybrid have both received the highest five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The rating is a big upgrade for the Fusion, which was completely redesigned for 2013. The previous model fell one star short of the top rating, after scoring only three stars in the frontal crash test and four stars in the side crash test and rollover evaluations. The 2013 Fusion received four stars in side crash and rollover testing and a full five stars in the front crash test.

Test results for the 2013 Fusion and Fusion Hybrid were greatly improved at least in part due to Ford's Personal Safety System. The system utilizes smarter sensors to gather crash data and tailor the car's restraint systems to the occupants. Seatbelt usage and seat position are taken into account to ensure airbags deploy with less pressure for smaller drivers, more for larger drivers.

The 2013 Fusion twins also received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+ designation. Read the official press release below.

Continue reading Ford Fusion and Fusion Hybrid nab five-star ratings from NHTSA

Ford Fusion and Fusion Hybrid nab five-star ratings from NHTSA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fusioncrash testfive star ratingfordfusionfusion safetyIIHSnhtsasafetytop safety pickThu, 24 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20436550/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/24/ford-fusion-and-fusion-hybrid-nab-five-star-ratings-from-nhtsa/20436550/article-detail.xml 20436550 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/01a-2013-ford-fusion-fd-1358974588_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/01a-2013-ford-fusion-fd-1358974588.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA mulling adding small-overlap and angled crash tests]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/22/nhtsa-mulling-adding-small-overlap-and-angled-crash-tests/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/22/nhtsa-mulling-adding-small-overlap-and-angled-crash-tests/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/22/nhtsa-mulling-adding-small-overlap-and-angled-crash-tests/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 Buick Verano NHTSA crash test - front three-quarter view, post test

For the sake of safer cars, it sounds like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration could be moving to create stricter crash tests that are similar to (and potentially even more rigorous) than what the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently instituted. In an interview with Automotive News, chief NHTSA administrator David Strickland said that the agency is looking into adding a new offset test as well as an angled impact test.

A small overlap test just recently became a part of the barrage of crash tests performed by IIHS where only 25-percent of the vehicle tested makes contact with a barrier, and Strickland said this is "very similar" to the test being considered by NHTSA. The government agency's current frontal crash tests, as shown above with the five-star-rated Buick Verano, consists of the car hitting a wall head-on, so it isn't clear how much overlap would be considered small for this new test. Another new scenario being investigated is called the oblique test, which involves the test subject hitting a barrier at a fixed angle rather than straight on. Neither test figures to be in use for at least the next couple years or so, but they would undoubtedly make it much harder for cars to receive a five-star crash rating.

NHTSA mulling adding small-overlap and angled crash tests originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 18:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automotive safetycrash testcrash testingdavid stricklandnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaoblique crash testsafetysmall overlap frontal crash testTue, 22 Jan 2013 18:35:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20435211/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/22/nhtsa-mulling-adding-small-overlap-and-angled-crash-tests/20435211/article-detail.xml 20435211 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-buick-verano-crash-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-buick-verano-crash-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda recalling 748k Odyssey and Pilot models over airbag concern]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/18/honda-recalling-748k-odyssey-and-pilot-models-over-airbag-concer/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/18/honda-recalling-748k-odyssey-and-pilot-models-over-airbag-concer/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/18/honda-recalling-748k-odyssey-and-pilot-models-over-airbag-concer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Honda Odyssey

American Honda today announced a recall of approximately 748,000 Odyssey and Pilot models due to faulty airbag concerns. The vehicles in question are Odyssey minivans from the 2011 to 2013 model years and Pilot crossovers from the 2009 to 2013 model years.

According to a statement from Honda, driver's side airbags in the affected vehicles were potentially assembled without some of the rivets that secure the bag's plastic cover. Because of this, the airbag may not deploy properly in the event of a crash, leading to further occupant injury. As of this writing, no injuries have been reported in conjunction with this issue.

Honda will begin officially notifying owners via mail in mid-February. The automaker urges customers to take their vehicles to an authorized dealership, where vehicles will be inspected and, if necessary, repaired. In lieu of waiting for the snail mail approach, owners may also visit www.recalls.honda.com or can contact the automaker directly at 1.800.999.1009 and select option four.

Scroll down to read Honda's official statement.

Continue reading Honda recalling 748k Odyssey and Pilot models over airbag concern

Honda recalling 748k Odyssey and Pilot models over airbag concern originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Jan 2013 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airbagshondaodysseypilotrecallsafetyFri, 18 Jan 2013 14:12:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20433234/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/18/honda-recalling-748k-odyssey-and-pilot-models-over-airbag-concer/20433234/article-detail.xml 20433234 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/01-2011-honda-odyssey-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/01-2011-honda-odyssey-review.jpg <![CDATA[<i>RideApart</i> defends lane splitting on motorcycles [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/rideapart-defends-lane-splitting-on-motorcycles-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/rideapart-defends-lane-splitting-on-motorcycles-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/rideapart-defends-lane-splitting-on-motorcycles-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Three devoted motorcyclists at RideApart have put together a video that goes soup-to-nuts through the practice of lane splitting (called "filtering" in the UK) - where motorcycles are ridden safely in between the cars in traffic. It's illegal in 49 states, California being the exception, and in numerous countries.

The riders say that lane splitting is safe, it aids the flow of traffic and having increased freedom of movement gives them more control of their own safety when being around cars in traffic. Car drivers often don't like it, but when it comes to the issue of actual safety versus perceived safety, the evidence appears to support lane splitting. One of the riders in the video cites a Belgian study that found that fatalities in which a motorcyclist was rear-ended by a car were 30 percent lower in California than in Texas and Florida, the difference being that lane-splitting is illegal in those latter two states.

On top of that, the California highway patrol vouches for its legality and CHP officers do it, a study by the US Department of Transportation declared that "lane splitting is safer than sitting in stop-and-go traffic" and according to a lawyer who specializes in motorcycle accidents the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that "most accidents are the fault of motorists [car drivers]."

Have a watch of the video below, and then take the poll and let us know where you stand... or ride.

View Poll

Continue reading RideApart defends lane splitting on motorcycles [w/poll]

RideApart defends lane splitting on motorcycles [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drivelane splittingmotorcyclerideapartsafetyvideovideosyoutubeWed, 16 Jan 2013 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20427075/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/16/rideapart-defends-lane-splitting-on-motorcycles-w-poll/20427075/article-detail.xml 20427075 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/lanesplittingride-apart_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/lanesplittingride-apart.jpg <![CDATA[The music you listen to impacts your driving safety]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/the-music-you-listen-to-impacts-your-driving-safety/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/the-music-you-listen-to-impacts-your-driving-safety/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/the-music-you-listen-to-impacts-your-driving-safety/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Black Eyed Peas

Walking by any cardio class at the gym - or watching Iron Eagle - should be enough clue that music affects the tempo at which we do things. A study, admittedly a tiny one, by UK car and financial site Confused.com puts it in perspective behind the wheel. Using its MotorMate app to monitor driving behavior during a 500-mile road trip, it had the eight participants drive the first half without music, while the second half was accompanied by different genres of tunes from classical to heavy metal.

The results? Heavy metal caused a male driver to go "much faster," hip-hop made one of the female drivers crank up the aggression, and a classical playlist caused two other drivers to be more erratic than when there was no music. A psychologist at London University backed up the findings, accidentally sounding like one of those campy PSAs from the 1950s at the same time when he commented, "Music that is noisy, upbeat and increases your heart rate is a deadly mix," and, "Fast beats can cause excitement and arousal that can lead people to concentrate more on the music than on the road."

With the revelation that up-tempo tunes can lead to drivers matching the 'beat' with their driving, the "ideal" driving rhythm was said to be that which matches the human heart rate, about 60 to 80 beats per minute. On the top ten list of most dangerous songs to drive to was "Hey Mama" by The Black Eyed Peas at number one, followed by Fall Out Boy's "Dead on Arrival" and M.I.A.'s "Paper Planes." Ray Charles even made the list at number seven with "Hit the Road, Jack," as did Nickleback with "How You Remind Me," only slightly worse at number six.

A list of the ten best songs to safely drive to is a playlist straight from any easy listening radio station or Starbucks. Norah Jones took the lead with "Come Away with Me," groups like Coldplay, Elton John, Radiohead and Jason Mraz keeping her company. Interestingly, songs featuring Bruno Mars made both lists: you should stay away from "Young, Wild and Free" by Snoop Dogg & Wiz Khalifa, feat. Bruno Mars, but Travie McCoy's "Billionaire Feat. Bruno Mars" is safe.

The music you listen to impacts your driving safety originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>confused.commusicsafetystudyWed, 16 Jan 2013 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20426160/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/16/the-music-you-listen-to-impacts-your-driving-safety/20426160/article-detail.xml 20426160 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/black-eyed-peas_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/black-eyed-peas.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota and Lexus show off advanced safety research vehicle [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/toyota-and-lexus-show-off-advanced-safety-research-vehicle-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/toyota-and-lexus-show-off-advanced-safety-research-vehicle-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/toyota-and-lexus-show-off-advanced-safety-research-vehicle-w-vi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Lexus' advanced safety research vehicle - self-driving LS

While Google and Audi explore the possibilities of autonomous vehicles, Toyota and its Lexus division are studying the intermediate step of vehicles equipped with a deep suite of technology that help drivers make the best decisions. Introduced at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the Lexus advanced safety research vehicle is an LS sedan fitted with three high-def color cameras to detect objects up to almost 500 feet away, 360-degree Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) lasers that can detect objects up to 220 feet away, three radar units to keep track of other vehicles at intersections, a precision odometer on the rear wheel, GPS that estimates orientation and an accelerometer.

Currently testing at a purpose-built 8.6 acre urban testing ground at the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Susono, Japan the Toyota research vehicle is being used to study how to make better drivers, as well as figuring out how to reduce crashes as the industry's journey through passive and active safety systems progresses. In the event of a crash, new rescue systems are also being tested.

Further investment is being put into the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) that would use shortwave signals to harness information from the car and from other vehicles on the road, as well as roadside infrastructure and even pedestrians. Toyota reasons it could then build a picture of interactions and, for instance, alert the driver to a potential collision at a blind intersection.

Toyota's says its research "could lead to a fully autonomous car in the future," but for now, the point is that "a driverless car is just a part of the story. Our vision is a car equipped with an intelligent, always-attentive co-pilot whose skills contribute to safer driving." Improving driver education in this country would probably be a lot cheaper, but hey, we're for anything that helps make the roads safer places to be. There's plenty more tech-speak in the video and press release below.

Continue reading Toyota and Lexus show off advanced safety research vehicle [w/video]

Toyota and Lexus show off advanced safety research vehicle [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus lsautonomouscesces 2013lexuslexus advanced safety research vehiclelssafetyself-driving cartechnologytoyotavideovideosyoutubeTue, 08 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20421000/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/08/toyota-and-lexus-show-off-advanced-safety-research-vehicle-w-vi/20421000/article-detail.xml 20421000 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/toyotaautonomousces_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/toyotaautonomousces.jpg <![CDATA[GM recalls full-size truck, SUVs and vans over faulty shifter mechanism]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/gm-recalls-fullsize-truck-suvs-and-vans-over-faulty-shifter-mec/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/gm-recalls-fullsize-truck-suvs-and-vans-over-faulty-shifter-mec/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/gm-recalls-fullsize-truck-suvs-and-vans-over-faulty-shifter-mec/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



Twelve different General Motors vehicles from the 2013 model year, up to 54,686 units in total, are being recalled over two potential issues with their steering columns. The models in question, all full-size trucks, SUVs or vans, are the: Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Express, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Savana, Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL.

The affected vehicles were built with a fractured parking lock cable or "a malformed steering column lock actuator gear in the lock module assembly." As a consequence, they could shift out of park without the brake pedal being applied or with the key removed or in the off position.

A bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that the recall should begin on January 17. GM will notify owners, at which time they can take their vehicles to their dealers for repair free of charge. Have a look at the bulletin below for more information.

Continue reading GM recalls full-size truck, SUVs and vans over faulty shifter mechanism

GM recalls full-size truck, SUVs and vans over faulty shifter mechanism originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AvalanchecadillacchevroletEscaladeEscalade ESVEscalade EXTExpressgeneral motorsgmgmcNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsarecallsafetySavanaSierraSilveradoSuburbanTahoeYukonYukon XLMon, 07 Jan 2013 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20417794/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/07/gm-recalls-fullsize-truck-suvs-and-vans-over-faulty-shifter-mec/20417794/article-detail.xml 20417794 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/silveradorecall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/silveradorecall.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA delays backup camera rules... again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/03/nhtsa-delays-backup-camera-rules-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/03/nhtsa-delays-backup-camera-rules-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/03/nhtsa-delays-backup-camera-rules-again/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Audi backup cam with

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has again delayed adoption of rear visibility rules that would require backup cameras in all passenger vehicles sold in the US. It's the fourth delay in a string of setbacks dating to 2007. That's the year Congress passed legislation intended to improve rear visibility in new vehicles.

NHTSA legislation had previously required automakers outfit at least 10 percent of their cars with backup cameras by 2012, 40 percent by 2013 and 100 percent by 2014. Those deadlines will likely be changed now. Delays have been blamed largely on automakers' arguments that the new requirements will be too costly. Estimates suggest that MSRPs on vehicles already outfitted with display screens would need to increase an estimated $58-88, while models without would see price bumps of between $159 and $203.

The agency estimates that the new regulations could have cost the industry between $700 million and $1.6 billion by 2014. According to The Detroit News, "NHTSA uses a statistical figure of $6.1 million as the value of a human life and says under a best-case scenario, the proposal will cost between $11.8 million and $19.7 million per life saved."

The government agency has not yet announced if or when a new deadline will be set.

NHTSA delays backup camera rules... again originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jan 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backup camerablind spotnational highway traffic administrationnhtsasafetyThu, 03 Jan 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20415229/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/03/nhtsa-delays-backup-camera-rules-again/20415229/article-detail.xml 20415229 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/backup-camera-body-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/backup-camera-body-628.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki recalling 2,800 XL7 models over faulty fuel pump]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/29/suzuki-recalling-2-800-xl7-models-over-faulty-fuel-pump/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/29/suzuki-recalling-2-800-xl7-models-over-faulty-fuel-pump/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/29/suzuki-recalling-2-800-xl7-models-over-faulty-fuel-pump/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A recall has been issued for the 2007 Suzuki XL7, but only those vehicles either bought or registered in four states: Texas, Arizona, California and Nevada. Potentially 2,380 of the SUVs manufactured from June 13, 2006 to December 22, 2006 could have an issue with their fuel pump modules: The plastic supply or return port could crack. If that happens, it could lead to a fuel leak and then to a fire.

Suzuki hasn't said when the recall will begin. Once it does, owners will be notified and can have their dealers make the necessary repairs free of charge. There's a bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration below with more information.

Continue reading Suzuki recalling 2,800 XL7 models over faulty fuel pump

Suzuki recalling 2,800 XL7 models over faulty fuel pump originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 29 Dec 2012 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007 suzuki xl7National Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsarecallsafetysuzukixl7Sat, 29 Dec 2012 15:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20412781/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/29/suzuki-recalling-2-800-xl7-models-over-faulty-fuel-pump/20412781/article-detail.xml 20412781 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/xl7recall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/xl7recall.jpg -1 2