Research shows the number of vehicle recalls has grown over the past 20 years in the USA. Platform sharing and part sharing are cited as the main culprits as one product failure usually spans multiple models. Apart from recalls being a costly affair, they can tarnish a brand image, especially if the recall is associated with safety.
For example, Toyota’s infamous ‘unintended acceleration’ recall in 2009 saw the brand call back millions of vehicles and the aftermath led to hefty fines, multiple investigations/lawsuits and a US Congressional hearing.
Comprehensive testing is the way forward as it highlights potential faults that could lead to a massive recall. It is also the most reliable route through which a fault can be predicted or simulated. Innovative testing methods and solutions, which also support faster development times, are the need of the hour. The upcoming Automotive Testing Expo North America on October 22, 23 and 24, 2024, will address this with a focus on accelerated testing and development time.
To illustrate the issue – from September to August 2024, NHTSA issued over 70 recalls. Here are some of the most prominent ones:
- Chrysler – RAM – electrical system – loss of drive power.
- Aston Martin – Vantage, DB12, DBX 707 – cooling system – engine oil cooler hose leak.
- Mercedes-Benz – S580 -software – ECU might cause engine to stall.
- Toyota – Corolla Cross Hybrid – braking system – loss of brake assist.
- Lamborghini – Huracan EVO Spider-structure – incorrectly installed bracket.
- GM-Savanna – braking system – brake fluid leak increasing risk of crash.
- GM – Colorado/Canyon – seat belt – incorrectly installed seat belt.
- BMW – multiple models including Mini – braking system – loss of brake power assist or rear brakes.
- Chrysler – Fiat 124 Spider – airbags – airbags that deploy with excessive force.
- Kia – EV9 – parking brake – remote park assist miscalculates stopping distance.
- Ford – Explorer – hybrid system – short circuit, risk of fire.
- Ford – Bronco Sport – powertrain – low battery charge resulting in loss of drive.
- Ford – F150 – lighting – flickering parking lights reduce visibility.
- Mercedes-Benz – multiple models (E and CLE) – braking system – emergency parking brake may deactivate.
- GM – Canyon – lighting-flickering headlight reduce visibility.
- Maserati – Gran Turismo/GranCabrio – electrical – unexpected engine stall.
- GM – 14 models – brakes – inoperative low brake fluid warning.
- McLaren – GT – latch/lock – hood may open unexpectedly.
- Daimler Trucks – 26 models – lighting – brake light may fail to work.
- Chrysler – Gladiator/Wrangler – electrical – instrument cluster may fail.
- Chrysler – Ram 1500 – electrical – stability control may get disabled.
- Porsche – Taycan – software-incorrect headlight software leading to parking light malfunction.
- Volkswagen – ID.4 – structure – door may open while driving.
- Volkswagen – ID.4 – airbags – improperly secured passenger airbag.
For a copy of Total recall, ATTI’s look at the recall landscape, from the June 2010 issue, please contact rachel.evans@ukimediaevents.com
