Motor Vehicle Recalls in September 2013

We are only halfway through September, and already several of the major automotive manufacturers have announced widespread vehicle recalls. If you are an owner of a Toyota, Ford, or Honda, please make sure to read the information below to check for a recall on your vehicle.

Toyota Recalls

Earlier this month, Toyota announced two recalls in order to fix problems with Highlander Hybrid SUVs and Lexus IS 350 models. The recalls cover 369,000 Toyota vehicles worldwide, 235,000 in the U.S.

The Highlander Hybrid recall is for models produced between 2006 and 2010 and Lexus RX 400h vehicles manufactured from 2006 to 2008, in which transistors can overheat, triggering a warning that can cause the vehicle to unexpectedly stop while in operation.

The second recall includes Lexus IS 350, IS 350C and GS 350 vehicles made between 2006 and 2011. These cars can also stop while driving, due to bolts in the variable valve timing control device coming loose.

Ford Recall

This month Ford Motor Corp. is recalling 370,000 vehicles, across more than 20 states, 355,000 of the cars in the U.S. and 15,000 in Canada. The recalled Ford vehicles include 2005 to 2011 Ford Crown Victorias, 2005 to 2011 Lincoln Town Cars and 2005 to 2011 Mercury Grand Marquis models.

The recall is due to severe corrosion affecting the steering column, causing a loss in steering control. If a driver loses control of the ability to steer, that increases the potential for a dangerous car crash.

Honda Recall

Also this month, Honda conducted a voluntary safety recall of 2013 Honda Odyssey minivans and Pilot SUVs for a piston problem that may cause the engine to stall. While only 270 vehicles were affected by this recall, the defect could lead to an increased crash risk.

The heat treatment process was not properly applied to the Honda vehicles. This could cause the piston to lack a sufficient hardness level, making it susceptible to premature wear. A worn piston can lead to engine stall, which increases crash risk.

Contact a Vehicle Recall Lawyer

Founding attorney Bryan Harris have handled vehicle defect claims for over two decades. They have handled many auto product liability and crashworthiness cases, and work with clients and lawyers across the country on their cases. For more information about how we can work together, please visit our contact page.