We like to imagine new cars as flawless and safe, but not even cars rolling off the assembly line are perfect. Cars constantly get recalled for problems and defects, some of which threaten to cause accidents.
The Wyatt Law Firm compiled a list of this week’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) auto recalls, and we remind car owners to stay safe by heeding them. Clicking a recall ID number will take you to the official NHTSA recall PDF, which includes more information on specific models, years, and other production details. You can also use NHTSA’s vehicle identification number (VIN) search to search your car for recalled parts – simply find the 17-character code located on the inside of your driver door and plug it into the database.
Spartan Motors USA
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V523
Certain 2014-2020 models have bolts that may break and cause loss of power steering assistance. Beware of rattling noises coming from the shocks or a roughened ride, but know that these bolts could break unexpectedly.
Blue Bird Body Company
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V524
Some 2020 models have roof hatch (emergency exit) handles that could break due to inconsistent metal casting during production.
Heartland Recreational Vehicles, LLC
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V525
Vehicles manufactured after 1/1/16 contain a changed wire connector to make A/C connection. See the link for more details.
Hyundai Motor America
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V538
Several models use turbocharger piping with potential swaging pressure problems, loosening a seal that causes oil to leak onto the exhaust manifold. Watch for white smoke and note any smells of burning. This problem increases the risk of vehicle fire.
Kia Motors America
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V539
In the 2019 Kia Optima, the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) may not engage the brakes when approaching a stationary object and may potentially compromise the vehicle’s braking system.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V540
Seventeen models of 2019 Mercedes-Benz are being recalled for repair of “active brake assist,” which may not engage properly due to a software bug. Although the mechanism will not engage, the software should still give optical and auditory warning.
BMW of North America, LLC
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V541
An estimated five 2019 BMWs (models X5 and X7) were manufactured with loose wheel bolts on the left side. If the bolts detach, the wheel could detach as well and cause a crash.
Forest River, Inc.
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V542
Several buses were manufactured with improperly torqued seatbelt assemblies, which may fail to restrain the driver during a crash.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V547
A defect may cause the passenger occupant detection system (PODS) to mistakenly disengage the passenger airbag even while a passenger is present. Passengers without an airbag to cushion impact could be harmed in an accident. Watch the dashboard for airbag warning lights, any error messages, or the dashboard “Passenger Airbag” indicator not illuminating despite an occupant in the passenger seat.
Drive safe!
Wyatt Law Firm has litigated multiple high-profile cases concerning defective auto products, including manufacturing errors and faulty car parts. We highly encourage all readers to get their vehicles serviced regularly and to watch for recalls such as these that compromise driver and passenger safety. Stay vigilant, and drive safe!
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