KPI — June 2022: Recent Vehicle Recalls
2022 Mustang Mach-E SUVs
Vehicles Affected: Approximately 49,000 2022 Mustang Mach-E SUVs are being recalled.
The Problem: According to the automaker, DC fast charging and repeated “wide-open pedal events” (i.e., mashing the throttle) could cause the Mustang Mach-E’s high-voltage-battery main contactors to overheat, deforming the surfaces which allow the contactors to open or close for power. Subsequently, this could lead to a malfunction causing the vehicle to lose power while in motion, thereby increasing the risk of an accident.
The Fix: An over-the-air software update related to the on-board diagnostic control module and battery energy control module should resolve the issue, which Ford anticipates in July. The automaker says those affected also have the option to take their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln dealer to complete the software update.
254,800 Mercedes and Daimler Vans
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 254,800 Mercedes and Daimler Vans are being recalled. Vehicles affected by the recall include model-year 2017-2022 Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach CLA, GLA, GLE, GLS, SLC, A-Class, AMG GT, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC, CLS, GLB, G-Class, Metris and Sprinter vehicles, as well as Freightliner Sprinter vans.
The Problem: An error in the communication subscriber identification module card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the eCall system. A disabled eCall system could prevent someone from contacting the emergency services call center if and when necessary, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.
The Fix: The fix can be performed via over-the-air update or through a dealer. For Mercedes cars and SUVs, owners will be notified July 19. Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner van owners will be notified June 20.
2019-2023 Hyundai Accents/Elantras/Hybrids
Vehicles Affected: Approximately 239,000 Hyundais are being recalled. Affected vehicles include model-year 2019-2022 Accents, model-year 2021-2023 Elantras and model-year 2021-2022 Elantra Hybrids.
The Problem: In the event of a crash, the front driver- or passenger-side seat belt pretensioners may explode upon deployment, projecting metal fragments that could strike occupants and result in injury.
The Fix: Dealers will secure seat belt pretensioners with a cap for free. Hyundai will begin notifying owners starting July 15.
2021 Ford Expedition/Lincoln Navigator
Vehicles Affected: Approximately 39,000 model-year 2021 Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators are being recalled.
The Problem: An engine compartment fire may occur while driving or parked even with the ignition in the Off position. Surprisingly, Ford did not issue an explanation regarding how the fire could start; however, it advised owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until a remedy, which remains under development, is performed.
The Fix: Letters notifying owners of the risk are expected to be sent May 23.
2016 Super Duty F-250/F-350/F-450/F-550
Vehicles Affected: Approximately 310,200 model-year 2016 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 trucks are affected.
The Problem: The culprit is dust, which may accumulate in the steering-wheel clock spring. It could cause a disconnection in the electrical connection and result in the driver airbag not deploying as intended, thereby increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
The Fix: Dealers will replace the steering-wheel clock spring for free. The automaker will begin notifying owners July 5.