Stay up-to-date with You Auto Know each week on the latest safety recalls. Below are stories that have been reported on You Auto Know, but for a comprehensive search to see if your vehicle is subject to a recall, check with your dealer or NHTSA for complete details on any recall that may affect your vehicle. The NHTSA Auto Safety Hotline is 1-888-327-4236 (toll free 8:00AM to 10:00PM ET Monday-Friday) and can be accessed on-line at www.nhtsa.gov

Michelin Announces Safety Recall (12/29/05)

Michelin North America has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Transport Canada that it is recalling approximately 6,500 Michelin® Pilot® Sport 255/35ZR20 97Y Extra Load tires in the United States and Canada. This recall involves these specific tires only and has no impact on any other Michelin tires. This decision was taken after Michelin's internal quality control system indicated that the tires do not meet its quality standards and are therefore being recalled. In an affected tire, the condition is ordinarily noticeable as a blister on the sidewall of the tire. The blister may produce a noticeable tire vibration, which a driver might detect. The condition may result in a rapid loss of air pressure, which could potentially lead to a loss of control and potential vehicle crash. The majority of the approximately 6,500 tires affected by the recall were distributed in the United States with fewer than 400 distributed in Canada. The recalled tires were fitted as original equipment on some trim levels of Jaguar XJ8 vehicles and also were available in the replacement market. The affected tires' DOT markings begin with FHPNEFMX and end with 00, 01, 02, 03 or 05. The company will be replacing all potentially affected tires in a comprehensive commitment to retrieve from the market any tire that does not meet Michelin quality standards. Replacement tires are available at no cost (including mounting and balancing) to consumers through Michelin tire dealers. Any consumer in the United States or Canada who believes they are affected by the recall should not wait to receive notification but should call Michelin Consumer Relations at 1-800-847-3435 (1-888-871-4444 in Canada) or return to their servicing tire dealer for a free inspection and replacement of affected tires.

GM to recall 553,000 SUVs, trucks to fix brakes (12/24/05)

General Motors Corp. is expanding an earlier recall of sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks to include another 553,000 vehicles because of potential problems with brakes. Unwanted application of the anti-lock brake system in some vehicles can cause increased stopping distances during low-speed braking. GM in August recalled 804,000 full-size pickup trucks and SUVs in 14 states for the same problem. The recall is being expanded to include Delaware, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Vehicles affected by the recall include the Chevrolet Avalanche and Silverado pickups and the Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe SUVs. The GMC Sierra pickup and Yukon and Yukon XL SUVs are also affected. All the vehicles are from the 1999-2002 model years. More than 200 crashes and some minor injuries were linked to the recall.

General Motors Co. Recalling 425,000 Vans (12/20/05)

General Motors Co. is recalling about 425,000 full-size passenger and cargo vans because of reports that the seat belt buckles will not latch or unlatch. The recall, announced Tuesday, affects the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana from the 2003-2006 model years. GM discovered the problem through an analysis of warranty claims. Consumers reported problems latching the buckle or unlocking it once it was in place. Dealers will inspect the buckles and replace the upper buckle cover. If the restraint isn't working properly, dealers will replace the entire buckle assembly. The Express and Savana passenger vans have seating for eight people. The cargo version seats two people.

Ford Recalling More Than 230,000 Cars, Trucks (11/17/05)

Ford Motor Co. is recalling about 235,000 pickups, vans and sport utility vehicles from the 2006 model year because of potential problems with the windshield wiper motor. The models include E-150, E-250, E-350 and E-450 vans; Escape, Expedition and Explorer SUVs; F-150 and Ranger pickups; and Taurus sedans. It also includes the Lincoln Navigator SUV and Lincoln Mark LT pickup and Mercury Mountaineer and Mariner SUV. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a posting on its website that the windshield wiper motor may have been made without grease being applied to the shaft gear. After continuous use on the high speed setting, the lack of grease may cause the gear to fracture during operation, leading to a loss of wiper function.

Ford recalls nearly 226,000 cars in U.S., Canada (11/16/05)

Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 226,000 vehicles in the United States and Canada, including its flagship Ford Five Hundred sedan and Freestyle wagon, because of fire risks. Vehicles involved in the recall are from the 2005 model year and include the Crown Victoria, Lincoln Town Car, Mercury Grand Marquis and Montego sedans.
Ford is recalling 127,493 Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego sedans and Freestyle wagons because the straps that secure the fuel tank to the vehicle body may break, causing the fuel tank and fuel tank heat shield to drop onto the driveshaft or exhaust system. This could cause a fuel leak and result in a fire in these vehicles.
The automaker is recalling 98,444 Crown Victoria, Lincoln Town Car and Mercury Grand Marquis sedans because on certain vehicles the battery cable may scrape on an attaching bolt and could lead to a fire.

Honda Recalling Civic Over Accelerator Pedal (11/10/05)

Honda Motor Co. recalled about 25,000 Civics on Thursday because the accelerator pedal was improperly installed on some 2006 models, which could cause a crash. If the pedal is improperly installed, it could come loose, cause the throttle to stick and raise the potential for a crash. There have been no crashes or injuries linked to the issue in the popular-selling vehicle.

GM, Isuzu recalls nearly 106,000 SUVs to fix door latch (10/28/05)

General Motors Corp. is recalling nearly 106,000 sport utility vehicles in the United States and Canada to fix a rear door latch that may not close properly due to corrosion. The 105,893 vehicles affected by the potential safety defect included Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT and GMC Envoy XL SUVs from the 2002-2003 model years.
A small number of 2003 model Isuzu Ascender SUVs are also affected, Adler said. GM builds the Ascender for Isuzu Motors Ltd.

Recalls: Hyundai, Kia, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Chevy, Isuzu, Hummer, Nissan, Saab, Mitsubishi, Acura, Land Rover (10/25/05)

More than 325,000 Hyundai and Kia vehicles are being recalled because their advanced airbags may not turn off as intended when children are in front passenger seats. Two related recalls involve 240,000 Hyundai Elantras built for the 2004 - 2005 model years and nearly 74,000 Kia Spectras built after a mid-2004 redesign and during the 2005 model year. Dealers are to reprogram the vehicles' occupant classification system control units so that a child in a safety seat is not misidentified as an adult passenger. The misidentification can occur if an adult has used the passenger seat and the ignition switch is not cycled off and on with the seat empty before a child seat is placed there.
In a separate recall, owners of 12,000 Hyundai Santa Fe sport utility vehicles built for the 2005 model year are to return them for reprogramming of airbag control units. A test by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that a crash dummy representing a 6-year-old child, in a certain sitting position, was misidentified as an adult. Airbags were not suppressed, as federal rules require.
More than 74,000 Kia Sedonas built for the 2002- 2004 model years should be returned to dealers so that wires under front power seats can be altered to prevent short circuits and fire hazards. The wires are to be rerouted and better insulated to prevent contact with metal seat parts.
Separately, Hyundai says 36,000 Sonatas built for the 2006 model year should be returned for replacement of manual recliner knobs on front seat backs. Seat belts can interfere with the knobs and cause the seat backs to recline unexpectedly.
General Motors recalls GMC Sierras, and Chevrolet Corvettes and Silverados, from the 2005 - 2006 model years, and 2006 versions of the Buick Rainier; Cadillac Escalade; Chevrolet Express, Tahoe and Trailblazer; GMC Envoy, Savana and Yukon; Hummer H2; and Isuzu Ascender. On all those vehicles, a faulty power-steering hose can break during some extreme maneuvers.
Nissan has recalled the 2005 Xterra because the tow hitch can separate from the vehicle.
The 2005 Land Rover LR3 has been recalled because of a fuel tank breather pipe that may fail, causing poor performance and possible gasoline spills.
Saab has recalled 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles from the 2000 - 2002 model years because an ignition component can overheat and fail, ultimately causing engine stalling.
In winter-weather states, 2001 - 2002 copies of the Acura MDX have been recalled because the front springs may corrode, break and puncture the tires.
Mitsubishi has recalled 2005 Galants and Endeavors with antilock brakes because brake fluid can bypass the inside master cylinder, causing a loss of brake pressure.

Nissan recalling minivans over seat adjustment problem (10/17/05)

Nissan Motor Co. will recall more than 100,000 minivans because of problems with a seat adjustment mechanism that could cause a finger injury. The recall affects 109,437 Quest minivans from the 2004-2006 model years. Someone adjusting the second row seat in the vehicle could have their finger pinched when moving the metal mechanism.

Toyota Recalling Prius Hybrids for Possible Engine Problem (10/14/05)

Toyota is recalling 160,000 Prius gasoline-electric hybrid cars worldwide because their engines can stop due to an electrical problem. The recall covers 75,000 Prius cars in the U.S., 70,000 in Japan and the remainder in Europe, Australia and other markets, manufactured from August 2003 through February 2005.

DaimlerChrysler recalls 283,000 Ram pickups for transmission (10/11/05)

DaimlerChrysler will recall 283,000 Dodge Ram pickup trucks that may roll away if the gear shift isn't fully placed in the "park" position. The automaker in December will notify owners of 2003-2005 models equipped with diesel engines and automatic transmissions, and will fix the vehicles by installing an alarm. Chrysler advised owners to always remove the key and insure that the vehicle is in "park".

Chrysler, GM, Hyundai, Kia announce recalls (10/7/05)

Chrysler is recalling nearly 256,409 Dodge Dakota pickup truck, Dodge Durango, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Wrangler sport utility vehicles, Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum sedans from the 2005 model year because of a problem that may cause the vehicles to roll away while in 'park' position.
General Motors Corp. is recalling 123,592 pickup trucks, SUVs, vans and cars because of potential power steering problems that could lead to engine fires. The power steering hose, under extreme steering maneuvers, may break and leak fluid. This could result in increased braking effort and also, if the power steering fluid spray were to spray onto hot engine parts, an engine compartment fire could occur. Vehicles affected by the recall include the Chevrolet Corvette car, Buick Rainer, Cadillac Escalade, Tahoe, Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Yukon, Hummer H2 and Isuzu Ascender SUVs, Chevrolet Express and Savana vans, Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks. All the vehicles are from the 2006 model year. The Corvette, Silverado and Sierra models from the 2005 model year are also being recalled. Kia Motors Corp. is recalling 74,276 Sedona minivans from 2002 to 2004 model years equipped with power seats because a problem with the wiring under the front seats could cause a fire.
Hyundai Motor Co. is recalling 12,000 Santa Fe SUVs from the 2005 model year because of a problem with the occupant classification system. The occupant classification system installed in the front passenger seat of the vehicle may mistakenly identify a child seat as an adult passenger.

Kia Air Bag Problem Leads To Recalls (9/30/05)

Kia Motors America is recalling more than 70,000 LD Spectra sedans. The computer operating its air bag system could confuse a child seat for an adult in the front passenger seat. The recall will begin in late October. It involves vehicles from the 2004-2005 model years.

Mercedes Recalls 50,000 Cars for Wipers (9/30/05)

DaimlerChrysler AG's Mercedes Car Group is recalling some 50,000 cars because of a potential problem with the windshield wipers. The recall, which will affect mostly buyers in the German market, includes Vaneo models built between April 2002 and March 2003, as well as A-Class models built between April 2002 and 2003.

Saab to Recall 287,987 Cars (9/29/05)

Saab plans to recall 287,987 cars worldwide because of a problem with the ignition system. The recall will affect gas-engine 9-3 and 9-5 models made in 2000, 2001, and 2002, said Orjan Aslund. U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has found problems in the ignition system that can lead to overheating.

Chrysler Recalling Jeep Grand Cherokees (9/16/05)

DaimlerChrysler will recall more than 100,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee sport utility vehicles because water contamination of the transmission fluid could lead to fires under the hood. The recall involves 2005 model year vehicles with 3.7 liter engines and automatic transmissions, accounting for about 45 percent of all Jeep Grand Cherokees sold from that year. In a small number of vehicles, condensed water from the air conditioning system could drip down into the case that holds the transmission fluid, contaminating the fluid and leading to a shaking in the transmission. If owners fail to address the shaking, the transmission would operate at higher temperatures and could boil the water in the transmission fluid and eject some of the fluid. The fluid could come into contact with a hot part of the exhaust system and cause an engine fire.

Hyundai recalls 240,000 cars in U.S. (9/15/05)

Hyundai Motor Co. Ltd. is recalling 240,000 Elantra sedans in the United States because of a problem with the occupant classification system, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Cars involved in the recall are from the 2004 and 2005 model years. The occupant classification system installed in the front passenger seat of the vehicle may mistakenly identify a child seat as an adult passenger. This may occur if the child seat is installed after an adult has been seated, and could result in the right front air bag or side-impact air bag being deployed in a crash.

Ford recalls nearly 4 mln SUVs, trucks (9/7/05)

Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 4 million pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles in the United States because a speed control deactivation switch can overheat and cause underhood fires. Recalled vehicles are 1994-2002 model years and include the Ford F-150 pickup as well as the Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator and Ford Bronco SUVs. The brake fluid in the recalled vehicles may leak through the speed control deactivation switch into the speed control system electrical components, potentially corroding them. In some cases, the corrosion in the electrical components can lead to increasing resistance and higher electrical current flow through the system and may lead to a fire at the switch. The automaker will install a fused wiring harness between the switch and the speed control mechanism of the affected vehicles to act as a circuit breaker, eliminating the electrical current to the switch.

Toyota recalls 978,000 vehicles on U.S. market (9/7/05)

Toyota Motor Corp. is recalling 978,000 pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles sold on the U.S. market because a steering relay rod on the vehicles may fracture, causing a loss of control. Vehicles affected by the recall, from the 1989-1996 model years, include power-steering equipped 4Runner sport utility vehicles and compact pickups and T-100 pickups.

GM launches huge pickup, SUV recall (8/29/05)

General Motors Corp. will recall 804,000 Chevrolet and GMC trucks to fix their anti-lock brakes. GM says corrosion from road salt gets in between the casing surface and the sensor, pushing the sensor further from the bearings. This leads to false readings, causing the anti-lock brakes to activate at the wrong speeds, alarming drivers and making stopping difficult. GM said truck owners could contact their dealers or the national customer service centers to arrange the repair. The free service is being offered on seven models: the Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe and Avalanche and the GMC Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL. The recall covers model years 1999 through 2002. The recall affects trucks only in 14 cold weather states: Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and West Virginia. To repair the brakes, dealers remove the anti-lock brake sensors and clean the surface of the wheel bearing casing. The casings will be treated with a zinc-based rust inhibitor.

Honda Recalls Minivans Over Airbag Problems (8/3/05)

Honda is recalling thousands of Odyssey minivans over concerns of potential flaws with sensors in its frontal air bag system. The company says two sensors susceptible to corrosion from road salt could switch on a warning lamp on the instrument panel. The warning light instructs the driver to have the vehicle repaired. Honda told federal safety officials that some of the sensors were sealed improperly during production. The recall involves about 85,000 2005 Odyssey minivans.

Mazda RX8 Recall (7/21/05)

Mazda Motor Corp. is recalling 27,800 2004 model-year RX8 cars as cracks may occur in the ball joint socket due to improper forging of the lower control arm. In severe driving conditions, the ball may separate from the socket and a loss of steering may occur, which could result in a crash.

Toyota to Recall Sienna Minivans, Tundra Trucks (7/20/05)

Toyota Motor Co. will recall 345,000 Sienna minivans because the seat belt in some seating positions may become difficult to retract when unbuckled. A possibility the shoulder portion of the seat belt in the middle row seats may get stuck in a plastic piece that the belt glides through, binding it up and making it difficult to put it on or take it off. The voluntary recall in the United States involves Siennas from the 2004 and 2005 model years. The problem has affected the right side chair in the middle row of the seven-passenger model and the center seating position in the second bench seat in eight-passenger models.
Toyota was also recalling about 2,500 Tundra Access Cab pickup trucks from the 2005 model year because the wrong lens was installed over a light that glows when the front passenger air bag has been activated or deactivated. As a result, passengers could not monitor its status.

Nissan to Recall 140,000 Murano SUVs (7/18/05)

Nissan North America Inc. will recall more than 140,000 Murano sport utility vehicles amid concerns that a broken wire in the alternator could deplete power to the engine and lead to a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that a wire could break inside the alternator and prevent the battery from charging. The charger warning and brake warning lamps would come on and the battery would start to discharge. After a short time, the engine would go into a condition that limits the vehicle's speed and stop running, creating the potential for a crash.

Mitsubishi Issued Recall for Eclipse Model (7/14/05)

Mitsubishi Motors North America has recalled about 3,700 of its 2006 Eclipse models for brake problems. The company found two instances in which a seal on the vehicle's brake cylinder was installed incorrectly at the supplier, which could cause a "spongy" feel when applying the brakes. The recall was for cars built at the Normal plant between March 30 and June 10.

Volkswagen, Ford, Toyota recall vehicles (7/7/05)

• Volkswagen AG is recalling 39,583 Jetta sedans in the United States because of a possible fuel leak that could trigger a fire. "A fuel supply line clamp located in the engine compartment may not be positioned properly and could cause a fuel leak," the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on its Web site. The vehicles involved in the recall are from the 2005 model year.
• Ford Motor Co. is recalling 10,061 Expedition and Navigator sport utility vehicles from the 2006 model year because tires on the driver's side may be damaged, which could lead to a tread separation and crash. The damage was caused by a sharp part on the manufacturer's assembly line.
• Toyota Motor Co. is recalling 11,592 2005-model year Tacoma pickup trucks in the United States due to defective seat belt buckle sensors.

Ford recalling 180,000 trucks with diesel engines to fix stalling issue (7/6/05)

Ford Motor Co. is recalling 180,000 trucks with 6.0-liter diesel engines for electrical repairs aimed at ending a stalling problem. Affected vehicles are 2004-05 Ford Excursions, E-350 and E-450 vans, and F-250 through F-550 Super Duty trucks.

Britax Announces Recall of Super Elite Child Restraint (6/24/05)

Britax Child Safety, Inc. is conducting a recall of the Super Elite child restraint (E9031) as certain restraints may contain a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety. The recall includes the entire production of this model from April 2001 through August 2002. No other model is affected. Evaluation has shown that under certain circumstances after prolonged use, the harness adjuster tab may begin to stick. If the adjuster tab sticks in the open position, the adjuster strap webbing may slip within the adjuster that controls the tightness of the harness and allow the harness to loosen. In this situation, there is the increased risk of injury. Britax will provide owners with an adjuster strap webbing guide enabling them to prevent the sticking by limiting the movement of the adjuster webbing. The kit, containing the webbing guide and installation instructions, is expected to be available on or before July 20, 2005. All owners of these restraints who returned a registration card will automatically receive the kit. The affected seats should not be returned to the Britax retailer.

Ford recalls about 260,000 vehicles, probing more (6/13/05)

• Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 260,000 vehicles, most of them large pickup trucks, to fix safety defects that include sudden stalling of diesel engines. The stalling problem affects F-Series Super Duty pickups from the 2004-2005 model years as well as the 2004-2005 Ford Excursion full-size sport utility vehicle and E350 and E450 vans. About 180,100 of these vehicles are equipped with 6.0 liter diesel engines and the recall stems from a potentially faulty fuel injection control module.
• Ford was also investigating 2003 model-year F-Series Super Duty pickup trucks equipped with the 6.0 liter diesel engines due to various engine performance issues.
• Separately, Ford was recalling 78,675 Super Duty pickups and chassis cab vehicles from the 2005 model year because their fuel line may separate from the main fuel bundle. Fuel line separation can cause engine stalling or leakage, possibly resulting in a fire. The trucks affected by the recall as F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 Super Duty pickups and said they were equipped with 5.4 or 6.8 liter gasoline engines.

Nissan recalls new Sentra sedans (6/10/05)

Nissan is recalling 49-thousand 2005 Sentra sedans because of concerns over possible fuel leakage. Nissan has told the government that some of the Sentras may have faulty fuel tank vapor hoses that could cause excess fuel to spill onto the ground -- potentially starting a fire. So far, Nissan says there have been no injuries or fires reported. The automaker says 43-thousand of the vehicles were sold in the U-S and the remainder in Canada, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Nissan will begin notifying customers about the recall in August. Dealers will inspect the fuel tank and, if necessary, replace it at no charge.

Yamaha recalls motorcycles in U.S. to fix seats (6/9/05)

For the second time this year, Yamaha Motor Co., is recalling motorcycles sold in the United States because their passenger seats can fall off the rear fender. The covered about 46,000 Yamaha motorcycles, the world's second-largest motorcycle company. The bikes affected, from the 1998-2005 model years, were identified in an advisory on NHTSA's Web site (http://www.nhtsa.com) as the Yamaha XVS11 and XVS65. The same models were included in a larger U.S. recall of 190,000 Yamaha built motorcycles announced in March.

GM recalling nearly 300,000 Saturn sedans and wagons (6/2/05)

General Motors Corp. will recall nearly 300,000 Saturn L Series sedans and wagons because of problems with brake and tail lights. The problem could make it difficult for the driver of another vehicle to realize the Saturn's brakes were being applied and lead to a rear-end crash. In some vehicles, the plastic coating in the rear tail lamp assembly could become distorted if the brake light remains on for an extended period of time. It could make the brake or tail light inoperable or cause it to short circuit, leading to the failure of both brake lamps and the center, high-mounted stop lamp. The defect was found in certain 2000-2002 model years of the L-Series sedan and 2000-2004 model year L-Series wagon, potentially affecting 291,652 vehicles.

Volvo Recalls 13,000 Trucks Worldwide (6/2/05)

Swedish truck and bus maker Volvo AB is recalling 13,000 trucks worldwide because of a risk of steering failure. The problem was discovered after an accident last spring, and the company notified its garages in February that it would recall the FH 16 trucks, manufactured between 1993 to 2002. A failure of an earth connection in the cab and chassis can lead to electricity making its way into the steering shaft, which then heats up and adversely affects steering control.

Kia announces recall of Sedona minivans (5/25/05)

Kia Motors America, Inc., is recalling more than 37,000 minivans because of potential damage to a rear wheel bearing that could cause a crash. A defect may exist on 37,358 Kia Sedona minivans from the 2003-2005 model years equipped with alloy wheels. Company engineers found that moisture may accumulate around the small steel cap that seals the rear hub and bearing assembly on alloy wheels, leading to damage to the wheel bearing. Damage can occur without warning and cause a crash.

Recalls:Toyota, DaimlerChrysler, Honda (5/23/05)

Toyota Motor Corp. is recalling about 4,900 of its 2005 model-year Avalon sedans in the United States to fix a defect in the steering wheel column that could result in a loss of control of the vehicle. DaimlerChrysler AG is recalling 7,191 of its 2006 model-year Mercedes M-Class sport utility vehicles because a clamp that secures the power steering fluid cooling hose may be defective and could cause a loss of the fluid. Honda Motor Co. Ltd. is recalling 14,967 2005 model-year Element wagons because the trailer harness kit has an incorrectly wired connector.

Toyota recalls 790,000 vehicles (5/17/05)

Toyota Motor Corp. recalled about 790,000 trucks and sport utility vehicles due to problems with the front suspension. The recall covers 2001-2004 model year Tacoma trucks, 2001-2002 4Runners and 2002-2004 models of both the Tundra and Sequoia. The problem relates to a defect in a ball joint, which could make it more difficult for drivers to steer the vehicle. Toyota said the recall will likely affect vehicles in Japan and some other countries but didn't give an overall target. Vehicle owners will be notified by mail beginning in late June.

Ford recalls police cars, taxis for fire risk (5/13/05)

Ford Motor Co. is recalling 155,700 Crown Victoria sedans used as police cars or taxi cabs because of a fire risk. A sound insulator under the dash of the 2003-2005 model year Crown Victorias could slip out of position and overheat.

GM, Recalls 300,000 SUVs for Turn Signal - Isuzu Ascender Affected (5/10/05)

General Motors Corp. (GM) is recalling 305,729 sport utility vehicles, including the Chevrolet TrailBlazer (search), to fix a faulty turn signal that can flash like a hazard warning light. The recall, mostly covering vehicles sold in the United States, includes the 2003-2004 model year GMC Envoy (search), Oldsmobile Bravada (search) as well as the Isuzu Motors Ltd.'s Ascender, which is built at a GM plant.

GM to recall more than 2M vehicles (4/25/05)

General Motors Corp.on Monday said it was recalling more than 2 million vehicles to fix a variety of potential safety defects, most of them on cars and trucks sold in the United States.

• 1.5 million full-size pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles from the 2003 to 2005 model years including Chevy Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe and Avalanche as well as the Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon and Hummer H2 with second-row seat belts that may be difficult to properly position across passengers' hips.
• An additional 332,202 Suburban and Yukon models from 2000 to 2001 are being recalled for possible overheating of the fuel pump, which could result in engine stalling and fuel leaks.
• Also, 142,585 Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks from 1999-2002 and 2500/3500 Series pickups from 2001-2004 have been tagged for recall as have more than 100,000 Buick models from 2004 and 2005 for potential brake and ignition problems.
• GM also recalled 69,037 of its 2005 model year Buick Lacrosse and Buick Allure sedans, which went on sale last year, for a potential problem with a brake part that could lead to brake loss. GM said it was aware of a low-speed crash, which did not result in any injuries, as a consequence of the potentially faulty brakes.
• Also recalled were 39,078 2004-model year Buick Rendezvous and Pontiac Aztek SUVs, which could stall or fail to start due to a faulty ignition relay. GM said the problem resulted in one minor crash, but no injuries.
• 22,115 Saturn L Series Wagons from the 2002-2004 model years are being recalled to comply with safety standards.

Headlight Problems Spark Recalls of Audis, Chryslers (4/13/05)

• Chrysler Group says dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the low-beam bulbs and wiring in about 43,000 2005-model Chrysler Pacificas. Halogen headlights on some Pacificas were made with the wrong terminals. Over time, bulbs can loosen, go out intermittently and then fail.
• Audi of America Inc. is asking owners of nearly 10,000 Audi A4 Cabriolets and S4 Cabriolets built for the 2003 and 2004 model years to return their cars for replacement of headlight reflectors. Coatings in xenon headlight reflectors deteriorate over time, reducing the brightness of the lights.
• GM is recalling 77,000 Chevrolet Astros and GMC Safaris from the 2001 - 2002 model years because the brake lights and hazard warning lights could fail.
• Other GM recalls include 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Classics and Pontiac Grand Ams whose rear suspension knuckle bolts could break under high loads, allowing the rear wheel to turn in or out.
• Several 2005 GM sport utility vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado, Avalanche, Suburban and Tahoe, along with the GMC Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL and Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV and Escalade EXT, have been recalled because the shift lever-position indicator in the instrument panel does not illuminate.
• Mitsubishi is recalling 65,000 Endeavors from the 2004 - 2005 model years because the parking brake cable lock nut can come loose, which may cause the brake to malfunction.
• More than 20,000 Toyota Tacomas with automatic transmissions have been recalled. The parking brake cable lock nut on 2005 models may come loose and cause the brake to malfunction.
• Toyota is also recalling 2004 - 2005 Tundras with dual exhaust and stability control because the driver's side exhaust flange rubs the brake line, creating a risk of fluid leak.
• Also, Ford is recalling its 1997 Crown Victoria and Mercury Marquis equipped with traction control because the brake line chafes on the floorpan rib, creating a risk of fluid leak.

Chrysler Group Orders Minivan Recall (4/8/05)

DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group announced a voluntary recall of about 70,000 model year 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans because of problems with a latch on the rear door. The power liftgate latch on a small number of vehicles may become stuck in an unopened position, preventing the latch from closing. If the latch does not close, the liftgate can open while the vehicle is being driven.

Hyundai, Kia Recall 38,000 SUVs (3/31/05)

Hyundai and Kia recalled about 38,000 Tucson and Sportage SUVs to fix a possible problem with the stability-control system. The vehicles' electronic stability program can become too sensitive and set itself inaccurately. If that happens, the system could cause the engine to lose power and apply brakes to only one of the wheels. That could cause a crash.

1.3 Million Mercedes Being Recalled (3/31/05)

DaimlerChrysler AG is recalling some 1.3 million Mercedes-Benz models worldwide to fix a problem with alternators and batteries. Models in years from 2001 to 2004 and include current E-, SL- and CLS-class models that have been built since 2001. Models with six- and eight-cylinder engines need to have the voltage regulator examined and, if needed, replaced. On the E-class and CLS-class models, built from January 2002-January 2005, battery control software will be installed. The company also said the braking system on the E, SL and CLS-class made since June 2001 would be updated.

GM recalls 25,000 commercial trucks, 916 SUVs (3/22/05)

General Motors Corp. will recall more than 25,000 commercial trucks due to electrical wiring which could wear thin and accidentally set off the airbags. GM manufactured some of its Chevrolet and GMC medium-duty commercial trucks from the 2003 to 2005 model years without protective covering for electrical wiring. The wiring, located under the driver's feet, could wear over time and trigger the airbags to deploy, causing injuries.
GM has also recalled 916 large sport utility vehicles because they were built without a brake part, which could cause the brakes to fail. GM said only five of the SUVs, which includes the 2005 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe and the 2005 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, were delivered to customers, all of which were commercial businesses.

GM Recalls Nearly 113,000 Vehicles (3/17/05)

General Motors Corp. is recalling 77,055 minivans because their rear brake lights or hazard lights can stop working. The recall involves Chevrolet Astro and GMC Safari minivans from the 2001 and 2002 model years. A circuit problem could cause the lights to stop working, which could lead to a crash.
GM is also recalling 35,777 of its 2005 Pontiac G6 sedans because the owner's manual doesn't say there is a child restraint anchor in the middle of the back seat. NHTSA said owners could have difficulty installing child seats if they aren't aware of the anchor.

U.S. Recalls Mitsubishi, Yamaha, Chrysler (3/4/05)

The biggest of the recalls covered 190,000 motorcycles from Yamaha, because their passenger seats can fall off the rear fender. The motorcycles affected, from the 1996 to 2005 model years, were identified in an advisory on NHTSA's Web site (http://www.nhtsa.com) as the Yamaha XV250, XVS11 and XVS65.

Mitsubishi is recalling 65,436 of its midsized and car-based Endeavor sport utility vehicles, built between 2004 and 2005, because their parking brakes may fail.

Chrysler is recalling 43,180 of its wagonlike Pacifica SUVs because some may experience intermittent or eventual total failure of their halogen headlamps. The Pacificas recalled are all from the 2005 model year.

Toyota recalling 22,000 Tacomas to fix parking brakes (2/15/05)

Toyota Motor Corp. is recalling 22,228 of its 2005 model Tacoma pickup trucks sold on the U.S. market to fix a potential problem with their parking brakes. The problem stemmed from the fact that the parking brake cable lock nut on the trucks may not have been tightened properly. The parking brake defect had only been detected on Tacomas equipped with automatic transmissions.

GM Recalls Nearly 200,000 Vehicles (2/10/05)

General Motors Corp. is recalling 155,465 pickups and sport utility vehicles -- including the Hummer H2 -- because of possible brake malfunctions. All of the affected vehicles are from the 2004 and 2005 model years and have Bosch hydro-boost brake assemblies. They are the Chevrolet Avalanche, Express, Silverado and Suburban; the GMC Savana, Sierra and Yukon XL; two commercial trucks, the GMC Topkick and Chevrolet Kodiak; and the Hummer H2. A pressure accumulator in the braking system could crack during normal driving and fragments could injure people if the hood was open. The crack also could allow hydraulic fluid to leak, which could make it harder to brake or steer and could cause a crash.
In addition, General Motors is recalling nearly 20,000 Cadillac XLR coupes, SRX SUVs and Pontiac Grand Prix sedans from the 2004 model year because the gas pedal may not work properly in extremely cold temperatures.
GM also is recalling 17,815 Buick Raniers, Chevrolet Trailblazers, GMC Envoys and Isuzu Ascenders from the 2005 model year because the windshield isn't properly fitted and could fall out in a crash.

Ford, Chrysler Issue Recalls For Vehicles (2/7/05)

Ford is recalling nearly 359,000 Ford Focus cars because of a problem with the rear-door latch. Corrosion around the latch can stop the back door from latching securely, and that can cause the door to open while the car is moving. The affected cars are from the 2000 to 2002 model years. When you take it in for repair, dealers will add a seal to the door and lubricate the latch. Customers can call Ford at (800) 392-3673.
DaimlerChrysler is recalling about 26,000 of its 2005 Dodge Durangos. Federal officials said there's a potential for fuel leaks from the filler necks of gas tanks and when a driver starts the car, it can start a fire.

BFGoodrich Recalling 20,000 Tires (2/4/05)

BFGoodrich is recalling 20,000 Land Terrain tires sold in the United States and Canada because they do not have the required tread wear indicators. The tires were produced between Feb. 29 and Aug. 19, 2004 at the company's plant in Opelika, Ala., the company said in a statement Friday. The size is P235/75R15, and the mold numbers are 40381 and 40382. The recalled tires have U.S. Department of Transportation tire identification numbers that begin with DOT AN HL B411 and end with the last four digits 0904 through 3304. The DOT code is on the inner sidewall of the tire just above the wheel rim.

BMW to recall 20,000 cars with faulty Bosch part (2/2/05)

German carmaker BMW will recall 20,000 cars equipped with a faulty diesel fuel-injection pump supplied by parts maker Robert Bosch. The models affected are the 3-Series midsize and 5-Series full-size cars as well as the X5 sports-utility-vehicle.

Honda to Recall Vehicles to Repair Ignition Interlocks (2/1/05)

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today announced a voluntary recall of certain Honda and Acura models to repair ignition switch interlocks. The interlock is intended to prevent removal of the ignition key unless the shift lever is placed in the "Park" position. Some interlock levers may be improperly dimensioned, which could allow the operator to switch the ignition off and remove the key without putting the shift lever in the "Park" position. The recall involves approximately 486,000 automatic transmission equipped vehicles -- manual transmission equipped vehicles are not affected. Included in the recall are certain 1999 to 2002 Honda Accord models and all 1997 to 2001 Prelude models. Also included in the recall are certain 1999 to 2000 Acura TL sedans. American Honda will contact owners of affected vehicles when parts are available and ask them to take their vehicle to an authorized dealer to be repaired free of charge. Prior to the vehicle being repaired, drivers should follow the parking procedure in the owner's manual: apply the parking brake and shift the transmission to the "Park" position before exiting the vehicle.

Ford Motor Co. Recalls Nearly 800,000 Pickups, Sport Utility Vehicles Because of Fire Risk (1/27/05)

Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 800,000 pickups and sport utility vehicles because the cruise control switch could short circuit and cause a fire under the hood. The recall affects approximately 792,000 Ford F-150 pickups, Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators from the 2000 model year. Also affected are 2001 F-Series Supercrew trucks that were made at the same time. Ford will notify owners of the recall in February, and dealers will deactivate the cruise control switch for free. Once the company has an adequate supply of replacement switches, it will send another letter notifying owners that they can get their switches replaced. Ford said cruise control will be disabled once the switch is deactivated.

General Motors Recalls 98,221 Pickups and SUVs (1/11/05)

General Motors Corp. is recalling 98,221 Chevrolet and GMC pickups, vans and sport utility vehicles because the steering wheels and brakes may not work properly. GM is recalling 98,221 vehicles, including the 2000 Chevrolet Suburban, because of potential braking and steering problems. All the vehicles involved are from the 2000 model year. They are the Chevrolet C/K and Silverado pickups and Suburban SUV and the GMC Savana van, Sierra pickup and Yukon XL SUV. A hydraulic pump driveshaft can fracture in the vehicles, which causes immediate loss of power steering assist and can result in loss of braking assist. Drivers still can steer and use their brakes but with more difficulty. GM plans to notify owners of the recall next month. Dealers will repair the vehicles for free.

Problems With Restraint Systems Lead to Several Recalls (1/11/05)

Several import-brand automakers are recalling more than 200,000 cars and trucks because the vehicles' high-tech restraint systems may not work as intended with child-safety seats.

• Volkswagen has recalled 2004 and 2005 Touareg SUVs because their seat belt retractors may not work with some child seat designs. Volkswagen of America is recalling all 50,000 Touareg sport utility vehicles built for the 2004 and 2005 model years. Seat belt retractors are intended to switch automatically from the locking function needed for a seated adult passenger to the locking function for a child when a child seat is installed. But the devices may not work with some child seat designs. As a result, the retractors, which are in the rear and at the front passenger seat, may not hold child seats in place securely. The automaker likely will try to solve the problem with the addition of a clip to the seat belts rather than replacement of the retractors.
• Porsche Cars North America is recalling 2003 - 2005 Cayenne SUVs, which have similar retractors. Porsche sold 31,038 Cayennes in the United States through December 2004.
• Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. is recalling more than 150,000 cars to replace switches in front-passenger seat belt buckles. The devices can be dislodged when child seats are installed. If that happens, the advanced airbag system may mistake a rear-facing child seat for an unbelted adult and not suppress the passenger airbag as intended. Affected are 2004 - 2005 Toyota Camrys and Lexus ES 330s.
• General Motors will replace turn-signal and daytime running light bulbs in about 179,000 Saturn Ions built for the 2003 - 2004 model years. The bulbs lose contact with sockets.
• VW will replace hazard flasher switch relays in about 350,000 Golf, GTI and Jetta cars built for the 2000 - 2002 model years. Deterioration of the relays causes a malfunction or failure of turn signals and hazard warning lights.
• VW also is recalling about 19,000 diesel-powered cars to replace high-pressure fuel pumps. The pumps are prone to leak where faulty fasteners were installed. Affected models are 2004 - 2005 Golfs, Jettas, New Beetles and Passats.
• 72,000 Dodge Durangos from the 2004 model year have been recalled because positive battery cables that touch the upper control arm mounting bracket may short out and burn.
• The right steering knuckle on 2005 Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus models may have been damaged in manufacturing and could crack and fail.