KPI — June 2023: Recent Vehicle Recalls
2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee/Ram 1500s
Vehicles Affected: Parent company Stellantis is recalling model-year 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokees and model-year 2014-2019 Ram 1500s equipped with the turbo-diesel 3.0-liter V-6 engine.
The Problem: According to the automaker, the crankshaft position sensor may delaminate, which causes the engine to lose its ability to synchronize the fuel injector pulses and camshaft timing.
The Fix: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software to help maintain vehicle propulsion. Stellantis will begin notifying owners on July 28.
2021-2023 Grand Cherokees/Grand Cherokee Ls
Vehicles Affected: A few weeks ago, parent company Stellantis issued a recall for its Grand Cherokee and larger Grand Cherokee L due to incorrectly installed steering columns. The company finds itself in hot water yet again, with 331,400 vehicles added to the recall list. Affected vehicles include model-year 2022-2023 Grand Cherokees and model-year 2021-2023 Grand Cherokee Ls. Stellantis estimates the defect is present in roughly 13% of the vehicles recalled.
The Problem: The automaker says an incorrectly installed rear coil spring may come out of position and detach while driving, thereby increasing the risk of a crash or injury to individuals both inside and outside the vehicle. Jeeps equipped with air suspensions are not affected.
The Fix: Dealers will inspect and repair the rear coil spring assemblies as necessary, for free. Stellantis will begin notifying owners on July 28.
2023 Kia Sportage
Vehicles Affected: Kia is recalling certain model-year 2023 Sportage SUVs manufactured at the brand’s West Point, Ga., plant between January 12, 2022 and February 15, 2023.
The Problem: According to the automaker, the brake booster diaphragm may become misaligned and result in an internal vacuum leak. This can lead to loss of brake assist and result in a hard pedal feel that will impact both stopping distance and/or the ability to come to a complete stop.
The Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the brake booster as necessary, for free. Kia will begin notifying owners on July 21.
2020-2023 Ford Escape/Maverick and Lincoln Corsair
Vehicles Affected: Mere days after recalling 142,500 Lincoln MKC SUVs, Ford adds model-year 2020-2023 Escapes, 2022-2023 Mavericks and 2021-2023 Lincoln Corsairs equipped with 2.5-liter hybrid or plug-in hybrid engines to the list.
The Problem: The automaker fears engine compartment failure. Should the engine fail prematurely, large amounts of oil and fuel vapor could accumulate under the hood and travel to ignition sources. This can result in melted components, smoke or a potential fire.
The Fix: A remedy is currently under development, though Ford is advising owners to park outside and shut off the vehicle immediately if they detect an unusual engine noise, notice a reduction in power or observe smoke. Vehicles previously repaired under the original recall will need to have the new remedy performed as well. The automaker will begin notifying owners of the risk on June 12.
2021-2023 Ford Bronco
Vehicles Affected: Approximately 175,500 model-year 2021-2023 five-door Ford Broncos are being recalled.
The Problem: According to the automaker, the driver and front passenger seat belt latch plates may be difficult for occupants to access when in a stowed position. This may impact an occupant’s willingness to wear the seat belt and, therefore, increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
The Fix: Dealers will add a sliding clip latch stop to the driver and front passenger seat belts for free. Ford will begin notifying owners on June 30.
*All recall information is courtesy of Cars.com
