Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Cut It Out: Toyota's recalled pedal modification remedy detailed step-by-step]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/cut-it-out-toyotas-recalled-pedal-modification-remedy-detailed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/cut-it-out-toyotas-recalled-pedal-modification-remedy-detailed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/cut-it-out-toyotas-recalled-pedal-modification-remedy-detailed/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Toyota/Lexus gas pedal recall modification - click above for gallery

Late last month, Toyota announced that it would begin its biggest recall action ever, summoning 3.8 million cars and trucks back to its dealers to combat "pedal entrapment" by cutting down the accelerator pedals of customer cars to avoid them getting hung-up on floormats, resulting in "unintended acceleration." Although Toyota plans to eventually substitute redesigned units for the shaved pedals (beginning in April), for the moment, it's shaved pedals or nothing.

Up until now, we didn't know what went into the modification process or how the finished pedal looks, as Toyota has worked hard to keep this process confidential. However, thanks to an anonymous Autoblog reader who happens to work in service at a Lexus franchise, we now have a much better idea of what goes into the process. Our source reveals that he's only witnessed the alteration carried out on a ES350, not the IS or any other Toyota model, but we imagine the process is quite similar for other vehicles.

In any case, the procedure is surprisingly involved, with the automaker providing the following tools to every dealership: A cutter, an electric sanding wheel, a gauge to measure how much of the pedal is to be removed and a smaller foam block to go under the carpet. Lexus is disbursing people from its area offices to train dealer technicians on the process, and Toyota is undoubtedly doing the same.

We'll let our source take it from here:
"We will have to remove the gas pedal from the vehicle and place it on a vise. Using the gauge, we are to mark the amount to be removed and cut it off. After this, we take the sanding wheel and angle the edges to make a smooth contoured surface that both looks nice and will not stick to the floor carpet or floor mat.

Also included in the repair is to replace a foam block under the floor carpet with a smaller one to lower the height of the floor slightly behind the gas pedal. What was explained to us is the foam block is glued to the bottom of the floor carpet from the factory. The block will need to be removed by heating the top side of the floor carpet with a hair dryer - not a heat gun. This is to prevent burning of the floor carpet.
(Click through to the jump for the rest of the process and more details)


Gallery: Toyota/Lexus gas pedal recall modification

Continue reading Cut It Out: Toyota's recalled pedal modification remedy detailed step-by-step

Cut It Out: Toyota's recalled pedal modification remedy detailed step-by-step originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> AvalonCamryIS 250IS 350IS250IS350LExus ES350Lexus IS 250Lexus IS 350LexusEs350LexusIs250LexusIs350NHTSApedal entrapmentpedal recallPedalEntrapmentPedalRecallPriusrecallTacomaToyota AvalonToyota CamryToyota pedalToyota Priustoyota recallToyota TacomaToyota TundraToyotaAvalonToyotaCamryToyotaPedalToyotaPriusToyotaRecallToyotaTacomaToyotaTundraTundraunintended accelerationUnintendedAcceleration Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:57:00 EST <![CDATA[NHTSA investigating claims of stalling on 2006 Toyota Corolla, Matrix]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/nhtsa-investigating-claims-of-stalling-on-2006-toyota-corolla-m/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/nhtsa-investigating-claims-of-stalling-on-2006-toyota-corolla-m/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/nhtsa-investigating-claims-of-stalling-on-2006-toyota-corolla-m/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



When it rains, it pours. With recalls on the books for Toyota floor mats and corrosion problems, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is now investigating reports that Toyota's Corolla and Matrix vehicles may have engines susceptible to stalling. Owners of the 2006 model year Corolla and Matrix vehicles with the questioned 1ZZ-FE engines have described stalling in intersections and on highways, putting drivers at a safety risk while they attempt to restart the engine. There have been no reports of crashes.

It's important to note that about 397,000 vehicles are covered by the review, and that only 26 complaints have been lodged (that works out to about one in every 15,000 vehicles). Since it is a preliminary investigation, there's no recall until NHTSA investigates and determines that the stalling is caused by a specific design or parts defect. Of course, they may also find the stalling issue is attributed to poor maintenance or bad gas... nobody is pointing fingers. Yet.

[Source: Reuters]

NHTSA investigating claims of stalling on 2006 Toyota Corolla, Matrix originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2006 Corolla2006 Matrix2006Corolla2006Matrixengine stallingEngineStallingIZZ-FENHTSAnhtsa recallNhtsaRecallrecall investigationRecallInvestigationstallingToyota CorollaToyota MatrixToyotaCorollaToyotaMatrix Mon, 07 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Prior driver of loaner Lexus in fatal crash told dealer of floormat issue]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-prior-driver-of-loaner-lexus-in-fatal-crash-told-dealer/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-prior-driver-of-loaner-lexus-in-fatal-crash-told-dealer/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-prior-driver-of-loaner-lexus-in-fatal-crash-told-dealer/#comments Filed under: ,



A few weeks ago, we learned that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ruled that the crash of a loaner Lexus ES350 that killed San Diego police officer Mark Saylor, his wife, 13-year-old daughter and brother in law was not just the result of an improper RX400h floor mat sticking the accelerator wide open it was due to a range of factors. In addition to the car having the wrong mats, the brake "rotors were discolored and heated, had very rough surfaces, had substantial deposits of brake pad material, and showed signs of bright orange oxidation on the cooling fins consistent with endured braking."

According to the San Diego Union Tribune, it turns out that three days before the crash, Frank Bernard had been given the loaner Lexus and experienced the floor mat sticking the throttle wide open. "[W]hile merging onto Interstate 15 from the Poway Road on-ramp, [Bernard] took his foot off the gas and the car kept accelerating, to 85 mph." Here's where it gets even more tragic:

"Bernard pressed long and hard on the brakes and was able to pull over and slow down. He put the car into neutral, but the engine continued to race at full speed. After several failed attempts at turning off the engine, he realized the floor mat had jammed the gas pedal. He slid his foot under the accelerator, dislodged it and had no further problems, the report says."

As stated above, without brake-assist (which would disappear after a few moments due to loss of engine vacuum at wide-open throttle) Bernard was able to stop the car, but the brakes would have been fairly stressed. Bernard returned the car to the dealership, but only told a receptionist about the floor mat incident. For her part, the receptionist at first stated she didn't remember Bernard or his story, but later changed her tune, stating that she told a vehicle specialist about the issue. The vehicle specialist denies ever hearing about it. And the vice president of Bob Baker Lexus El Cajon has no comment.

The question then becomes if the proper personnel had been alerted to Mr. Bernard's incident, would the ES350 have received new brakes and the correct mats before it was lent to the Saylors? It should also be noted that the ES350 was loaned to two other customers between Bernard and the Saylors without incident. Toyota has since recalled 3.8 million vehicles to reshape and replace accelerator pedals.

[Source: San Diego Union Tribune]

REPORT: Prior driver of loaner Lexus in fatal crash told dealer of floormat issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Floor Mat RecallFloor matsFloorMatRecallFloorMatsLexusLexus ES350Lexus RecallLexusEs350LexusRecallNHTSAToyotaToyota Floor MatToyota Floor Mat RecallToyota RecallToyotaFloorMatToyotaFloorMatRecallToyotaRecall Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST <![CDATA[BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Toyota has announced that it will recall some 3.8 million cars and trucks to reshape and/or replace their accelerator pedals. The action is the result of fears that loose floormats may cause the accelerator pedal to stick, increasing the risk of an accident. The recall will be the largest in the Japanese automaker's history, and it will cover a wide range of vehicles from the 2004 model year through 2010 - a complete list is available after the jump. The move comes after an earlier action where Toyota announced it would recall 3.8 million vehicles to only swap floor mats.

Working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Toyota will effect the recall by sending letters to owners of its Avalon, Camry, and Lexus ES 350 models by year's end. Five other models, including the Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, and Lexus IS 250/IS 350 will receive similar notices sometime in 2010.

The plan includes training dealer service representatives to reshape gas pedals, and Toyota will develop and ship redesigned gas pedals beginning in April. Those customers who have elected to have their pedals initially reshaped will still be able to have the pedal replaced when the updated unit becomes available. Vehicles fitted with Toyota or Lexus-made all-weather floor mats will also receive a new set of redesigned front mats.

Interestingly, Toyota will also install a a brake override system that will turn off the engine if both the accelerator and the brake are depressed simultaneously. According to Automotive News, this update will occur on "involved Camry, Avalon, and Lexus ES 350, IS 350 and IS 250 models 'as an extra measure of confidence.'" This action appears to be limited to vehicles that employ Toyota's push-button start system, but interestingly its hybrid-only Prius has apparently been excluded.

For its part, Toyota says the cost of the action will come entirely from its dedicated recall fund, a $5.6 billion dollar stash, and therefore, the recall will have "no effect" on its business. The news come on the heels of yesterday's announcement that Toyota will recall 2000-2003 Tundra pickups over frame rust issues.

A complete list of vehicles covered under the action and both NHTSA and Toyota's official press releases are available after the jump.

[Sources: Reuters; Automotive News; NHTSA; Toyota]

Continue reading BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals

BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> breakingbreakingnewsCamryfloor matfloormatfloormat recallFloormatRecallfloormatsfloormats recallFloormatsRecallLexus ISLexus IS 250Lexus IS 350Lexus IS250Lexus IS350LexusIsLexusIs250LexusIs350PriustoyotaToyota AvalonToyota CamryToyota PriusToyota TacomaToyota TundraToyotaAvalonToyotaCamryToyotaPriusToyotaTacomaToyotaTundratoyta recallToytaRecall Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST <![CDATA[NHTSA opening probe into Ford Freestar/Mercury Monterey transmission defect]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/nhtsa-opening-probe-into-ford-freestar-mercury-monterey-transmis/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/nhtsa-opening-probe-into-ford-freestar-mercury-monterey-transmis/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/nhtsa-opening-probe-into-ford-freestar-mercury-monterey-transmis/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating hundreds of reports that 2004-2005 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans are fitted with defective transmissions that could dangerously fail without warning. Most alarming is that many of the transmissions reportedly fail at highway speeds. In a common complaint, the engine will suddenly surge and then all power is immediately lost. The vehicle is forced to coast powerlessly to a safe spot out of the flow of traffic. Angry owners have flooded message boards to report incidents of transmission failures which leave them stranded and stuck with $3,500 repair bills.

To date, there have been 654 customer complaints and 2,791 warranty claims. However, according to NHTSA, as many as 205,000 vehicles may be affected. The investigation, expected to take a year, will focus on the torque converter output shaft which drives the wheels. Ford Motor Co. has not yet released an official statement regarding the investigation.

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

NHTSA opening probe into Ford Freestar/Mercury Monterey transmission defect originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> DefectFord Freestarford minivansFordFreestarFordMinivansFreestarMercury MontereyMercuryMontereyMontereyNHTSARecallTorque ConverterTorque Converter FailureTorqueConverterTorqueConverterFailureTransmissionTransmission FailureTransmission problemTransmissionFailureTransmissionProblem Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST <![CDATA[Toyota extends Tundra rust recall to include 2000-03 models, totalling 110,000 trucks]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/toyota-extends-tundra-rust-recall-to-include-2000-03-models-tot/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/toyota-extends-tundra-rust-recall-to-include-2000-03-models-tot/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/toyota-extends-tundra-rust-recall-to-include-2000-03-models-tot/#comments Filed under: , , ,



If you've been following the Toyota Tundra rust saga, you're aware that NHSTA recently requested data from Toyota about the purported frame corrosion affecting 2000 and 2001 models. Today, Toyota has extended that recall to include the 2002-03 model years, saying that a small number of trucks could suffer from frame corrosion that could cause the spare tire to detach from its underbody housing. That brings the total up to 110,000 Tundras located in 20 cold-weather states and the District of Columbia.

Toyota will begin an inspection program next month which will run through January of 2010, and if you're driving one of the affected pickups, you can get all the details in the press release below the fold. Hat tip to Mike from Pickuptrucks.com.

Continue reading Toyota extends Tundra rust recall to include 2000-03 models, totalling 110,000 trucks

Toyota extends Tundra rust recall to include 2000-03 models, totalling 110,000 trucks originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20020002000 toyota tundra2000ToyotaTundra20012001 toyota tundra recall rust2001ToyotaTundraRecallRust20022002 toyota tundra recall rust2002ToyotaTundraRecallRust20032003 toyota tundra recall rust2003ToyotaTundraRecallRustframesrecallrustspare tireSpareTiretoyotatoyota tundraToyotaTundratundra Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:27:00 EST <![CDATA[Dodge recalling nearly 85k 2007 Nitro models over failing wiper concern]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/dodge-recalling-nearly-85k-2007-nitro-models-over-failing-wiper/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/dodge-recalling-nearly-85k-2007-nitro-models-over-failing-wiper/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/dodge-recalling-nearly-85k-2007-nitro-models-over-failing-wiper/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Roughly 85,000 2007 Dodge Nitros are being recalled for a windshield wiper issue. Use of the delay settings could lead to the wiper not working at all in any setting. The recall is expected to begin this month, and dealers will repair the wiper mechanism and software for free. For further information you can read the press release after the jump or contact the NHTSA.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Dodge recalling nearly 85k 2007 Nitro models over failing wiper concern

Dodge recalling nearly 85k 2007 Nitro models over failing wiper concern originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2007 dodge2007 dodge nitro2007 nitro2007Dodge2007DodgeNitro2007Nitrododgedodge nitroDodgeNitroNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsanitro Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST <![CDATA[Ferrari F355 recalled over fuel system concerns... again]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/ferrari-recalls-f355-over-fuel-leak-concerns-again/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/ferrari-recalls-f355-over-fuel-leak-concerns-again/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/ferrari-recalls-f355-over-fuel-leak-concerns-again/#comments Filed under: ,



We see all sorts of recall notices here at Autoblog. Most of them affect ordinary passenger vehicles, but nearly all of them get cleared up the first time around. So this is a bit of a first: Ferrari North America and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have issued a second recall notice to correct a problem on the F355 that should have been addressed with the initial recall issued 12 years ago.

The concern apparently centers around the fuel delivery system, which initially prompted a recall back in 1997. The original repair should have corrected the issue, but if the "independent automobile repair facilities" that performed the service on many of the cars didn't properly install the new screw clamps, they could have damaged the fuel hoses, which in turn could cause smoke or even an engine fire. New fuel divider blocks should (hopefully) fix the issue this time around, which affects some 2,356 F355s and F355 F1s manufactured between 1995 and 1999. Full details in the recall notice at NHTSA.

[Source: NHTSA]

Ferrari F355 recalled over fuel system concerns... again originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 355f355ferrariferrari 355ferrari f355Ferrari355FerrariF355National Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsarecallrecalls Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:28:00 EST <![CDATA[Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Owners of model year 2007-2008 Jeep Wranglers with automatic transmissions may have to visit their local dealers as Chrysler is recalling 161,450 of the SUVs over potential transmission overheating problems. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), Wrangler models manufactured between June 2006 and July 2008 with automatic transmissions were not fitted with a transmission fluid temperature warning system. If the AT fluid in the affected vehicles overheats, it may boil over and come in contact with hot engine or exhaust components - possibly leading to a fire.

To help alert drivers that their Jeep's transmission is overheating, dealers will inspect and install a visual "Hot Oil" message in the instrument cluster accompanied by an audible chime to indicate the elevated fluid temperature. The service will be performed free of charge starting in December. For more information, owners of the affected models may call Chrysler at 1-800-835-1403, NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236, or visit www.safercar.gov. Full press release after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence

Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2007 Jeep Wrangler2007JeepWrangler2008 Jeep Wrangler2008JeepWranglerAT fluidAtFluidfirefluidJeep RecallJeep Wrangler RecallJeepRecallJeepWranglerRecallNHTSAnhtsa recallNhtsaRecalloverheatRecallTransmissionwrangler pickupwrangler truckWranglerPickupWranglerTruckWranglerUnlimited Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:57:00 EST <![CDATA[Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi Evo X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Potential corrosion of the front impact airbag sensor has prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to recall up to 29,353 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution models. NHTSA is concerned that long-term exposure to a mixture of melted snow and salt thrown up by other vehicles on the road may cause the wintery mixture to adhere to the front impact sensor and lead to corrosion over time. In the event of an accident or collision, a damaged sensor may short-circuit and delay airbag deployment possibly causing driver or passenger injury. The recall is currently limited to states where heavy road salt is used in the winter (i.e., Connecticut, New York, Wisconsin, etc...).

Mitsubishi dealers have been instructed to replace the airbag sensors with a redesigned model with improved corrosion resistance. Of course, the service will be performed at no charge. While the safety recall isn't scheduled to begin until November 27, 2009, owners may contact Mitsubishi Customer Relations at 888-648-7820, contact NHTSA's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or visit NHTSA on the Internet at www.safercar.gov. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X


[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Continue reading Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors

Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2008 mitsubishi lancer2008 mitsubishi lancer es2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X2008MitsubishiLancer2008MitsubishiLancerEs2008MitsubishiLancerEvolution2008MitsubishiLancerEvolutionX2009 mitsubishi lancer ralliart2009MitsubishiLancerRalliartAir Bagairbagauto recallAutoRecallcar recallCarRecallcorrosionEVOEvo XevolutionEvoXLancerlancer EVOlancer evolutionLancerEvoLancerEvolutionMitsumitsubishimitsubishi recallMitsubishiLancerMitsubishiRecallNHTSA RecallNhtsaRecallRecallSafety RecallSafetyRecallsalt Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota may offer to fix 4 million accelerator pedals]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/toyota-may-offer-to-fix-4-million-accelerator-pedals/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/toyota-may-offer-to-fix-4-million-accelerator-pedals/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/toyota-may-offer-to-fix-4-million-accelerator-pedals/#comments Filed under: , , ,


While Toyota maintains its position that recent accelerator issues have only to do with floor mats, the company has reportedly agreed to "make changes to gas pedals in certain U.S. models under an agreement with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration." That means that 3.8 million Toyota products - among which are the Camry, Avalon, Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, and Lexus IS250, IS350, ES350 - will be recalled to address the accelerators.

With negotiations said to be ongoing between the NHTSA and Toyota, the automaker hasn't said what those changes will be, nor has it stated exactly when the recall will begin. According to Reuters, Toyota has a $5.6 billion slush fund to pay for recalls so the repair costs, while sure to be intergalactic, shouldn't affect earnings. The company can only hope now that the rumors, current lawsuits, other current lawsuits, yet-to-be-filed lawsuits, and the 24-hour news cycle don't do the kind of damage that is much worse than merely financial.

[Source: Reuters, MarketWatch]

REPORT: Toyota may offer to fix 4 million accelerator pedals originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> floor matsFloorMatsNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsarecallsafetytoyotatoyota acctoyota accelerationtoyota floor matsToyotaAccToyotaAccelerationToyotaFloorMats Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:02:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: NHTSA probe opened into Honda airbag recall timing]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-nhtsa-probe-opened-into-honda-airbag-recall-timing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-nhtsa-probe-opened-into-honda-airbag-recall-timing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-nhtsa-probe-opened-into-honda-airbag-recall-timing/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2001 Honda Accord - Click above for high-res image gallery

Over the last year, Honda has recalled roughly 444,000 vehicles to repair overpressurized airbag inflators in certain 2001-2002 Honda Accord, 2001 Civic and 2002-2003 Acura TL models. According to the automaker, there has been one death and multiple injuries stemming from the defect, which can send small metal fragments through the airbag and onto the vehicle's occupants.

For whatever reason, the total recall was announced in two separate increments that were eight months apart - and NHTSA wants to know why. Earlier, Honda had said that the problem was traced back to Takata Corp., which supplied the faulty inflators, and that the supplier had made "incorrect assumptions" about the numbers of parts it had sent to Honda. Says Honda spokesman Chris Martin:
The initial range of recalled vehicles was based on a relatively small sample of problematic airbag deployments...It took some further customer reports of airbag deployments for us to be able to look back and say, these vehicles are not in the lot we identified but have the same problem.
Honda denies any wrongdoing and promises to fully cooperate with the NHTSA investigation.


Gallery: 2001 Honda Accord


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: NHTSA probe opened into Honda airbag recall timing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> hondahonda accordhonda accord recallhonda airbaghonda airbag recallhonda civichonda civic recallhonda recallHondaAccordHondaAccordRecallHondaAirbagHondaAirbagRecallHondaCivicHondaCivicRecallHondaRecallnhtsanhtsa probeNhtsaProbe Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:30:00 EST <![CDATA[GM recalling 53,000 Chevy Cobalt, Saturn Ion, and Pontiac G5 models over fuel leak concern]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/gm-recalling-53-000-chevy-cobalt-saturn-ion-and-pontiac-g5-mod/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/gm-recalling-53-000-chevy-cobalt-saturn-ion-and-pontiac-g5-mod/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/gm-recalling-53-000-chevy-cobalt-saturn-ion-and-pontiac-g5-mod/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS - Click above to view high-res image gallery

General Motors may have shed itself of much of its pre-bankruptcy problems, but the automaker still has to tend to its warranty and recall duties. As such, GM is recalling 53,000 Chevrolet Cobalt, Pontiac G5 and Saturn Ion models for a potential fuel leak problem that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says could lead to a fire. The problem involves 2006 Cobalt and Ion model models sold or registered in Arizona and Nevada and 2007 Cobalt, G5 and Ion models sold or registered in Arizona, California, Texas, Florida and Nevada.

NHTSA says the plastic supply or return port on the cars' modular reservoir assembly may crack, potentially leading to a fuel leak that could cause cause decreased efficiency and performance. Worse, if that leaking gasoline comes into contact with an ignition source of any kind, you could be looking at a Delta platform car-b-que.

To fix the fuel leak problem, company dealers will replace the fuel pump module of affected vehicles free of charge. GM is also providing a special coverage for 2006 and 2007 Cobalt, G5 and Ion models in other warm weather states, and you can hit the jump to read over the NHTSA press release to see if you live in a participating location. GM hasn't yet provided a time frame for owner notification, but if you have questions you can read the official press release after the jump or call 1-800-630-2438 (Cobalt), 1-800-972-8876 (Ion) or 1-800-620-7668 (G5).

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading GM recalling 53,000 Chevy Cobalt, Saturn Ion, and Pontiac G5 models over fuel leak concern

GM recalling 53,000 Chevy Cobalt, Saturn Ion, and Pontiac G5 models over fuel leak concern originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2006 chevy cobalt2006ChevyCobalt2007 pontiac g52007PontiacG5Chevrolet cobaltChevroletCobaltChevy CobaltChevyCobaltCobaltfuel leakFuelLeakG5GM Deltagm fuel leak recallGmDeltaGmFuelLeakRecallIonnhtsa recallNhtsaRecallPontiac G5PontiacG5saturn ionSaturnIon Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:40:00 EST <![CDATA[Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Last month, Ford widened its cruise control switch recall to 4.5 million vehicles. Included in the growing list of cars and trucks was the Ford Ranger pickup - the mechanical twin to the now-discontinued Mazda B-Series pickup. Not surprisingly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has now widened its recall to encompass 39,600 of Mazda's 1995-1997 and 2001-2003 trucks for the exact same fault.

According to the recall, trucks equipped with a Texas Instruments speed control deactivation switch (SCDS) and/or anti-lock brake system (ABS) manufactured on or before December 5, 2002, may encounter a vehicle fire if the switch deteriorates and leaks. As in the Ford recall, Mazda dealers will install a universal fused jumper harness on the cruise control deactivation switch at no charge.

Owners of the recalled vehicles may contact Mazda at 800-222-5500 (option #6), contact the NHTSA's Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236, or go to www.safercar.gov. Recall information after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues

Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> B SeriesB-SeriesBSeriescruise controlcruise control recallcruise control switch firescruise recallCruiseControlCruiseControlRecallCruiseControlSwitchFiresCruiseRecallfaultfireMazdaMazda B-seriesMazda PickupMazdaB-seriesMazdaPickupPickupRecallspeed controlSpeedControlswitchTexas InstrumentsTexasInstruments Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST <![CDATA[NHTSA releases new info about crash that prompted Toyota floormat recall]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/nhtsa-releases-new-info-about-crash-that-prompted-toyota-floorma/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/nhtsa-releases-new-info-about-crash-that-prompted-toyota-floorma/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/nhtsa-releases-new-info-about-crash-that-prompted-toyota-floorma/#comments Filed under: ,



Contrary to previous reports, the death of a four people and the largest recall in Toyota's history was caused by a compound of errors. The initial buzz/word on the virtual street suggested that it was simply an improperly placed floor mat that doomed CHP officer Mark Saylor and three family members when the Lexus ES350 they were traveling in got jammed open at over 100 MPH before crashing and bursting into flames. But it turns out it was more than just a floor mat.

First of all, the floor mat in question didn't belong to the ES350 (actually, the ES350 didn't belong to Officer Saylor -- it was a dealer loaner while his car was being worked on). The mats in the ES350 that crashed were from a RX400h. Not only that, they were those thick, all-weather hard rubber mats. Regardless, because the dealer had placed the wrong mats into the wrong car, there was no way to properly mount them. Also, it seems that the pedal design of the ES350 also played a role. The NHTSA discovered that, "Beyond the main pivot, the lever is not hinged and has no means for relieving forces caused by interferences." We think that means it can easily get stuck.

But that's not all. The NHTSA had also learned from a previous ES350 investigation that, "the Lexus ES braking system loses power-assist when the throttle is fully opened, increasing braking distance fivefold." That's not good. And the brakes had signs of heavy wear and damage, "Rotors were discolored and heated, had very rough surfaces, had substantial deposits of brake pad material, and showed signs of bright orange oxidation on the cooling fins consistent with endured braking."

Additionally, because the Lexus has push button start, the operator must push the button for three seconds before the engine will shut off. A piece of info obviously and sadly not known by Officer Saylor. The San Diego County Sheriff's office is leading the investigation and has not yet released their final report. We'll keep you posted on that, but as they say in plane crashes, looks like the holes in the swiss cheese all lined up.

[Source: LA Times]

NHTSA releases new info about crash that prompted Toyota floormat recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Floor MatsFloorMatsLexusLexus Floor MatLexus Floor MatsLexus RecallLexusFloorMatLexusFloorMatsLexusRecallNHTSAToyota Floor Mattoyota floor mat recallToyota Floor MatsToyota RecallToyotaFloorMatToyotaFloorMatRecallToyotaFloorMatsToyotaRecall Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:32:00 EST <![CDATA[Nissan recalls 26,000+ 2009-2010 Altima and Maxima models over strut issue]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/nissan-recalls-26-000-2009-2010-altima-and-maxima-models-over-s/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/nissan-recalls-26-000-2009-2010-altima-and-maxima-models-over-s/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/nissan-recalls-26-000-2009-2010-altima-and-maxima-models-over-s/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2010 Nissan Altima -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2009 and 2010 Nissan Altima and Maxima are being recalled over a suspension issue. The problem is the upper front strut insulators on some cars, which might not meet specified tolerances and therefore crack. Nissan is notifying owners this month and the repair will be taken care of by dealers, who will replace the strut insulators on both sides. Follow the jump to read the notice from the NHTSA. Hat tip to Art G


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan


[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Nissan recalls 26,000+ 2009-2010 Altima and Maxima models over strut issue

Nissan recalls 26,000+ 2009-2010 Altima and Maxima models over strut issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 nissan altima2009 nissan maxima2009NissanAltima2009NissanMaxima2010 Altima Sedan2010 maxima2010 nissan2010 nissan 370z2010 nissan maxima2010AltimaSedan2010Maxima2010Nissan2010Nissan370z2010NissanMaximaNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationNHTSA CAFE rulesNhtsaCafeRulesnissan altimaNissan Maxima 2009NissanAltimaNissanMaxima2009recallsafety Mon, 26 Oct 2009 07:57:00 EST <![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i> sees what happens when your floor mat sticks]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/consumer-reports-sees-what-happens-when-your-floor-mat-sticks/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/consumer-reports-sees-what-happens-when-your-floor-mat-sticks/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/consumer-reports-sees-what-happens-when-your-floor-mat-sticks/#comments Filed under: , ,



In the wake of Toyota's huge floor mat recall, theorists have come up with several survival strategies designed to overcome a throttle that's stuck wide-open. Putting some of these theories to the test - and debunking several myths in the process - is the team over at Consumer Reports.

With a large test track and a fleet of vehicles at their disposal, the magazine's engineers initially focused on the "just step hard on the brakes" method of bringing the car to a halt. Interestingly enough, CR tested a Mercedes-Benz E350 and a Volkswagen Jetta Wagon - both fitted with drive-by-wire "smart throttles" that are designed to ignore conflicting inputs (throttle and brake at the same time). CR reports that these cars simply shut down to idle and came safety to a stop. The story was a bit different with a Toyota Venza and Chevrolet HHR, however. When the brakes on those vehicles were firmly applied at 20 mph, their transmissions downshifted to fight the deceleration. The vehicles were both eventually brought to a stop after the first test. However, when the test was repeated at 60 mph on brakes that had been cooled since the earlier run, both vehicles quickly suffered fade from their overheated brakes and were unable to come to a complete stop.

As is the general rule, a vehicle's braking system is stronger than the engine when the car is standing still. However, the tests conducted by Consumer Reports demonstrate that the power of the engine combined with the momentum of a car at highway speed is often enough to overtax the braking system's ability to bring the car to a stop (the brakes overheat and fade). Their suggestion is to simply slide the transmission lever to neutral - removing the engine's power from the equation - and apply the brakes firmly to bring the car to a stop. Once stopped, shut the engine off and then shift safely into Park. This "shift-to-neutral" action was equally effective on all four vehicles. The CR team also explored shutting off the engine (turn the key or hold the Start/Stop button down for more than a few seconds). This method also worked well, but it does present some danger. Switching off the engine disables power steering on most vehicles, eliminates brake boost, and may lock the steering wheel if the key is turned back too far - making a safe stop nearly impossible.

[Source: Consumer Reports | Image: George Heyer/Getty]]

Consumer Reports sees what happens when your floor mat sticks originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> brake fadebrake failureBrakeFadeBrakeFailureChevroletConsumer ReportsConsumerReportsfloormatfloormat recallFloormatRecallfloormatsfloormats recallFloormatsRecallMercedes-BenzStart buttonStartButtonStop buttonStopButtonthrottleThrottle TestThrottleTestToyotatoyota floormattoyota floormatstoyota recallToyotaFloormatToyotaFloormatsToyotaRecallVolkswagenWide open throttleWideOpenThrottle Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:58:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Ford widens cruise control recall by 4.5M vehicles - now biggest in company history]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/ford-recall-cruise-control-4.5/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/ford-recall-cruise-control-4.5/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/ford-recall-cruise-control-4.5/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



For the past ten years, Ford has been doing a dance with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and consumers over the issue of leaking cruise control switches in certain company vehicles. As of 2008, it had recalled some 9.6 million vehicles to repair a faulty Texas Instruments cruise-control deactivation switch, and now after a NHTSA investigation, the Blue Oval has added 4.5 million more Ford and Mercury vehicles to the recall.

The latest action covers these vehicles:

1992-2003 Ford Econoline
2000-2003 Ford Excursion
1995-2002 Ford Explorer
1993-1997, 1999-2003 Ford F-Series Super Duty
1994 Ford F-53 chassis
1995-1997, 2001-2003 Ford Ranger
1995-2003 Ford Windstar
1995-2002 Mercury Mountaineer

According to NHTSA, the switch can leak and overheat, which can lead to smoking and, in some cases, fire. In fact, The Detroit News notes that the switches have been faulted in more than 550 fires - some of which led to fatalities - many of which have led to lawsuits. A Ford statement declared, "Aside from the Windstar, the additional vehicles addressed in this action have different system parameters and do not pose an unreasonable risk to safety. However, Ford is taking this action on all of these vehicles to address possible ongoing customer lack of confidence in vehicles with the affected switch."

The recall begins on October 26. Anyone with an affected vehicle can take it to a Ford dealer and have the switch repaired with a fused harness. Owners can get more information directly from NHTSA by calling the government agency's hotline at 1-888-327-4236. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: The Detroit News]

REPORT: Ford widens cruise control recall by 4.5M vehicles - now biggest in company history originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cruise controlcruise control switch firesCruise Control Windstar FordCruiseControlCruiseControlSwitchFiresCruiseControlWindstarForddefectminivanNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsarecallRecallssafetysuvtrucktsbwagon Wed, 14 Oct 2009 08:30:00 EST <![CDATA[Kicking the Dead: Pontiac recalls 10k 2009-2010 Vibes over cold-weather braking]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/kicking-the-dead-pontiac-recalls-10k-2009-2010-vibes-over-cold/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/kicking-the-dead-pontiac-recalls-10k-2009-2010-vibes-over-cold/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/kicking-the-dead-pontiac-recalls-10k-2009-2010-vibes-over-cold/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2010 Pontiac Vibe GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors is recalling 10,119 units of the Pontiac Vibe due to cold weather-related brake problems. The vehicles subject to the recall are all fitted with the 1.8-liter four-cylinder powerplant, and were sold or are currently registered in one of about two dozen snow belt states.

According to the recall campaign, very low ambient temperatures may cause brake vacuum components to freeze. The vehicles will still brake, but stopping distances will be increased, possibly leading to a crash. Dealers have been instructed to modify the brake vacuum line free of charge to correct the problem. While the recall specifically names vehicles originally sold or registered in certain states, the repair campaign will also be applied to vehicles sold in all other states.

For more information, Vibe owners may contact Pontiac at 1-800-620-7668, visit GM's Owner Center, or call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Pontiac Vibe


[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Kicking the Dead: Pontiac recalls 10k 2009-2010 Vibes over cold-weather braking

Kicking the Dead: Pontiac recalls 10k 2009-2010 Vibes over cold-weather braking originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 pontiac vibe2009PontiacVibe2010 Pontiac Vibe2010PontiacVibeBrake campaignBrake failureBrake issueBrakeCampaignBrakeFailureBrakeIssuecampaignCold weatherColdWeatherFreezeFrozenNHTSApontiacpontiac vibePontiacViberecallRecall CampaignRecallCampaignvibe Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST <![CDATA[Toyota's solution for troublesome floormats: Tie them down]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/toyotas-solution-for-troublesome-floormats-tie-them-down/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/toyotas-solution-for-troublesome-floormats-tie-them-down/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/toyotas-solution-for-troublesome-floormats-tie-them-down/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Good news for those of you who happen to own a Toyota or Lexus vehicle sans floormats, as the Japanese automaker has reportedly come up with a solution to the 3.8 million-vehicle recall announced last week. We haven't reviewed the documentation ourselves, but it sounds as if the answer is to zip tie the driver's side floormat to the seat rails.

Toyota spokesman Brian Lyons tells Automotive News that dealers all around the country should have gotten the instructions on the so-called "semipermanent floormat installation process," which means they can continue to sell new and used vehicles with floormats in place.

Plus, dealerships are being instructed to attach a note to the nylon wire-tie instructing dealers and customers to ensure the mats are properly affixed. The warning also notes that owners should never stack multiple mats on top of one another(!). Apparently, this bit of discount MacGyvery satisfies the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. If you own one of the recalled models, perhaps it's time to visit your dealership to get the fix taken care of.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Toyota's solution for troublesome floormats: Tie them down originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> floor matfloor mat recallfloor matsfloormatfloormat recallFloormatRecallFloorMatsnhtsatoyotatoyota floor mat recalltoyota floor matstoyota floormattoyota floormat recalltoyota recallToyotaFloormatToyotaFloormatRecallToyotaFloorMatsToyotaRecall Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:01:00 EST