In February 2024, a series of vehicle recalls were announced in the United States, affecting a range of manufacturers and models. These recalls were initiated due to various safety concerns ranging from steering control issues, faults with seatbelts and airbags, manufacturing faults with various car components and software glitches, all of which could pose risks to drivers, passengers and road users.
In this article, we will give a quick overview of February's automotive recalls, and advise on the next steps if you suspect your vehicle is affected.
Which Vehicles Were Recalled in February?
Automotive recalls in February involved several major manufacturers. These include:
Toyota: Approximately 19,000 Toyota Mirai (model years 2023-2024) and Lexus vehicles (LS, LC, and ES models) were recalled due to a potential issue with the hydrogen fuel cell system.
BMW: Approximately 79,700 BMW vehicles were recalled in February. These include several models, including 5 Series, 7 Series, i5, i7, X1, X5, X6, X7, XM, and Rolls-Royce Spectre due to faulty powertrain or electrical component issues that could cause a stall or loss of power.
Nissan: In February, Nissan issued a recall for around 58,000 vehicles, encompassing specific 2018-2022 LEAF models. The recall was due to issues with the camera harness, which could lead to distortion or a lack of display in the rearview camera, impairing visibility.
Nissan also recalled over 700,000 Rogue Sport and Rogue vehicles from 2017-2022 due to an issue with the jackknife-style ignition key, which could fold while driving, potentially shutting off the vehicle.
Nissan also recalled over 400,000 Titan, Frontier, Pathfinder, Armada, Xterra, and Quest vehicles from various years, due to a risk associated with the driver airbag cover.
Ford: Approximately 16,550 vehicles for 2021-2022 E-350 and E-450 cutaways equipped with dual rear wheels were recalled in February. There is a concern that an inadequate connection between the power steering pressure line and the brake hydro-boost unit may result in a sudden loss of power steering fluid.
Ford has announced a recall for over 77,000 2018-2020 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs due to potential issues with the seat belt pre-tensioners. In the driver's and/or front passenger's seats, there is a risk that the pre-tensioners could unintentionally activate, causing the seat belts to lock, and preventing them from retracting or extending.
Additionally, Ford has issued a recall for around 78,000 2023-2024 Ford Transit vans due to the possibility that insufficient rear axle lubricant could lead to damage and seizure of the rear axle tail bearing. Such a scenario might trigger wheel lock-up or separation of the driveshaft.
Mercedes-Benz: Approximately 15,500 GLC300, AMG GLC43 and GLC350E vehicles were urgently recalled by Mercedes in February over fears that the sunroof panel may detach in the event of a crash.
Chrysler: The automaker has recalled approximately 1,800 Chrysler 300s, Dodge Chargers and Dodge Challengers over a safety issue with the parking brake.
Tesla: The manufacturer is issuing a recall for more than 2 million vehicles, which constitutes almost all its vehicles sold in the US, due to the use of incorrect font size on the instrument panel for the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that this font size contravenes federal safety standards, as warning lights in a smaller font could render crucial safety information on the instrument panel challenging to read, thereby elevating the risk of an accident. The recall includes the following models: 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, 2019-2024 Model Y, 2024 Cybertruck.
General Motors: The firm initiated a recall for around 323,000 pickup trucks, covering models such as the 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500 and GMC Sierra 2500, 3500, all equipped with power-unlatching tailgates. The concern is that the tailgate's electronic release switch might short-circuit due to water getting in, potentially leading to the tailgate opening unexpectedly.
Additionally, GM has recalled around 350 of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV trucks due to issues with an improperly designed seat belt bezel for the second-row center seat belt. This defect could lead to the seat belt being damaged or torn in a crash.
These recalls underscore the critical role manufacturers play in proactively safeguarding their vehicles and prioritizing the safety and well-being of their customers. It is recommended that vehicle owners verify whether their vehicle is implicated in these recalls and, if it is, adhere to the manufacturer's guidance to obtain the requisite repairs at no additional cost.
Is Your Car Affected?
If you are concerned that your car may be part of a recent vehicle recall, you can search the NHTSA’s database. The NHTSA website allows you to search for recalls based on your vehicle identification number or VIN. You can also find recall information on the websites of major automakers.
Is Your Vehicle Plagued by Persistent Maintenance Problems?
Dealing with ongoing vehicle issues can be exasperating, particularly when they remain unresolved even after multiple repair attempts. If you are concerned that your car might be classified as a 'lemon' under your state's lemon laws due to its continuous and unaddressed problems, it might be wise to consult with a legal expert who specializes in lemon law.
At The Beck Law Office, we possess in-depth knowledge of automotive regulatory standards and consumer protection laws in California. We provide thorough legal advice and can represent you in dealings with automobile manufacturers if necessary.
Our goal is to clarify your legal entitlements, guide you through the legal framework, and assist you in obtaining compensation for your faulty vehicle.
Contact Us
Contact us today for a free initial consultation and discover how we can assist you in addressing your concerns and pursuing the justice you deserve.