More Than Half a Million Cars Recalled for Safety Issues

Automakers Ford and GM have recently issued safety recalls for more than half a million vehicles in the U.S. and Canada, according to news reports. Ford issued a safety recall that affects approximately 375,000 Explorer SUV models manufactured between 2013 and 2017. GM’s recall of nearly 195,000 vehicles affects a wide variety of models, but the majority include 2018 and 2019 Chevrolet Cruze sedans and hatchbacks, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu sedans, and 2018 and 2019 Buick Lacrosse sedans. The entirety of the GM recall list may be viewed here.

Ford’s recall of its Explorer SUVs is related to an issue with the vehicles’ power steering controls. According to Ford’s safety alert, at least 13 Explorers have been involved in accidents related to this steering defect, resulting in six known injury cases. GM is recalling its cars and SUVs because of a defective component that may cause some vehicles to experience losses of power or, in some cases, possibly catch fire while being driven. At this time, there have been no reported accidents related to this defect.

Risks Reported by Automotive Manufacturers

Ford representatives explained that in certain Explorers manufactured between 2013 and 2017, a rear suspension component called a toe link is particularly prone to breakage, especially in corrosive environments like areas with high humidity. When this component fractures, drivers experience a significant loss of steering control and are much more likely to crash as a result.

GM’s recall is due to oil leaks that have been caused by missing or improperly secured bolts on vehicles’ accumulators. Accumulators are components of a car’s automatic start-stop mechanism, an eco-friendly system designed to stop engines from running while a vehicle is idling. A supplier software error was reportedly the cause of the loose or missing bolts, which may result in transmission oil leaks. An oil leak of this kind may make vehicles lose propulsion or even catch fire on the road.

What Are the Next Steps These Companies Will Take?

Ford plans to conduct torque inspections of cross-axis ball joints on recalled vehicles to address Explorer issues related to loss of steering control. If any inspections reveal vehicles with defective components, Ford will replace them for owners as needed.

For GM’s power loss and fire risk recall, the dealer intends to inspect all recalled accumulators for the loose or absent bolts and replace them, if necessary, for free. Meanwhile, GM’s supplier, Borg-Warner, has released software updates to ensure the previously defective components are manufactured without error from now on.

If you think a Ford or GM safety recall might apply to your vehicle, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Safety Issues and Recalls webpage and enter your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN). This tool will display any open recalls for your vehicle.

 Hurt in a Crash Caused by a Defective Auto Part? Call Us Now

If you have been injured in a car crash and suspect a defective auto part may have played a role, please contact the experienced auto accident attorneys of Fine, Farkash & Parlapiano, P.A., now. The initial consultation is free, and there is no charge unless we secure compensation for you. Contact us today to discuss your crash and your legal rights.