KPI — November 2021: Recent Vehicle Recalls
2021-2022 Ram Heavy-Duty Pickup Trucks and Chassis Cabs
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 131,000 Ram heavy-duty pickup trucks and chassis cabs are being recalled, specifically model-year 2021-2022 2500 and 3500 HD pickups, as well as 3500, 4500 and 5500 chassis cabs; all are equipped with the Cummins 6.7-liter turbo-diesel engine.
The Problem: A Ram internal investigation discovered the intake heater-grid relays on certain trucks may exhibit overheating, which could lead to an electrical fire. The company said it is aware of one such potential warranty claim, but no related accidents or injuries.
The Fix: A formal remedy has not been announced yet; however, Ram advises owners whose trucks are equipped with the affected engine produced between Aug. 2, 2020 – Oct. 9, 2021 to park outdoors. Owners will be notified starting Dec. 3.
2001-2007 V70s and XC70s
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 194,500 model-year 2001-2007 V70s and XC70s are being recalled.
The Problem: Volvo announced its second massive vehicle recall in less than a month. Following a recall of S60 and S80 sedans for defective airbag inflators in early October, the automaker is now issuing a recall of more than 194,500 V70 and XC70 wagons for the same reason: propellant degradation after long-term exposure to high humidity, high temperatures and high-temperature cycling.
The Fix: Dealers will replace the driver-side airbag for free. Volvo will begin notifying owners Dec. 14.
2020-2021 Explorers, Aviators and Corsairs
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 228,000 model-year 2020-2021 Explorers, Aviators and Corsairs are being recalled.
The Problem: The vehicles in question are equipped with 360-degree camera systems. The video output may fail and prevent the rearview camera image from displaying, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
The Fix: Dealers will update the image processing module software as necessary and at no cost. Lincoln parent Ford will begin notifying owners Oct.7.
2011-2013 Ford Explorer
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 126,000 model-year 2011-2013 Ford Explores are being recalled. Specifically affected are those sold or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
The Problem: These SUVs may be equipped with a cross-axis ball joint replacement part that could seize, resulting in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link. This could lead to loss of steering control and/or a crash.
The Fix: Dealers will inspect for the presence of a cross-axis ball joint. If one is found, dealers will inspect its tightness and replace the ball joint, knuckle and toe link as necessary and at no cost. Ford will begin notifying owners Nov. 1.
2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Sedan and Tucson Compact SUV
Vehicles Affected: Nearly 95,500 model-year 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid sedans and Tucson compact SUVs are being recalled.
The Problem: The problem is connecting rod bearings – the second such recall of this size the automaker has issued in 10 months. Con-rod bearings help the rods better connect the pistons to the crankshaft. Premature wear can result in engine damage, higher risk of fire and potential vehicle stalls – all of which increase the risk of a crash.
The Fix: Dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, it will be replaced. Dealers also will install a software update containing a new knock-sensor detection system. All repairs will be performed at no charge. Hyundai will begin notifying owners Nov. 12.
*All recall information is courtesy of Cars.com
