Within the past month, several auto manufacturers have issued safety recalls impacting various makes and models. These issues range from defective circuit boards to malfunctioning backup cameras. The auto companies have announced that they will begin notifying affected consumers of these recalls in the upcoming weeks, and they encourage customers to take their vehicles to the dealership to obtain the recommended repairs or replacement parts. Whether you have recently received a recall notice or you simply want to know more about these recently announced recalls, this post will provide information about the latest auto safety recalls and what steps you can take to address or resolve these issues.
Audi Recalls Cars and SUVs Over Faulty Backup Cameras
In late October 2022, Volkswagen Group of America announced a recall affecting approximately 170,296 Audi cars and SUVs. The issue involves a faulty backup camera that may fail to display when the vehicle is reversing, increasing the risk of a collision or hitting a pedestrian. So far, investigators believe that a software issue is to blame for this problem; instead of displaying the camera feed when the vehicle is reversing, the image remains blank. After Audi received 330 warranty claims between January 2021 and September 2022, investigators uncovered the defect. The makes and models impacted by this safety recall include the 2021 Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6, A6 Allroad, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, 2021-2022 RSQ8, and 2022 E-Tron GT. Once customers have been notified, they can schedule a visit to their local dealership to obtain the recommended infotainment system software update free of charge.
Hyundai and Kia Announce Gearbox Safety Recall
Recently, Hyundai and Kia announced a safety recall relating to malfunctioning circuit boards. Insufficient or incomplete soldering may cause a board component to detach, causing the oil pump to malfunction in the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission used by both automakers. When the oil pump malfunctions, warning lights and a visual command to “stop safety immediately,” illuminate. The vehicle then enters a failsafe mode to prevent further damage. However, the transmission control unit only gives the driver between 20 to 30 seconds to steer their vehicle to a safe spot before they may disengage the clutch. An estimated 122,000 vehicles are impacted by this auto safety recall. The automakers have identified the 2021-2022 Hyundai Santa Fe, 2021-2022 Hyundai Sonata, 2021-2022 Hyundai Veloster N, 2022 Hyundai Elantra N, 2022 Hyundai Kona N, 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, 2021-2023 Kia K5, and 2021-2022 Kia Sorento as affected by this recall. Owner notification letters will be sent by mail in late November and early December. Customers impacted by this recall can take their vehicles to their local dealership for a transmission inspection and software update. If necessary, dealers will replace faulty gearboxes and upload new transmission control unit programming that extends failsafe operation for drivers.
Audi and Volkswagen Launch Engine Recall
In addition to the rearview camera issue, Audi and Volkswagen have announced a separate safety recall over engine malfunctions. The manufacturers warn customers that some vehicles may experience an engine failure that could lead to a stall, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, faulty connecting rod bearings may lead to an oil leak or potential fire, putting the driver, passengers, and others on the road at risk. So far, Volkswagen has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that two fires may be attributable to this issue. The impacted makes and models include 2021-2023 Audi Q5 and Q5 Sportback SUVs and 2022-2023 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport SUVs. Investigators attribute these issues to internal engine parts with malfunctioning deviations that may cause harmful debris. Drivers may experience excessive engine noise and see a warning light illuminate when this problem occurs. Beginning in early December, affected customers may schedule a visit to their local dealership for an engine inspection and complete replacement (free of charge) if necessary.
Trusted Legal Guidance When You Need it Most
If you are struggling with a persistent and recurring problem with your vehicle, consider enlisting the assistance of an experienced lemon law attorney. Your lawyer can help you identify the issue and advocate on your behalf for a replacement vehicle or a refund. Or, if you have complained several times to the manufacturer about a chronic issue or defect and they have not acknowledged your concerns, your attorney will help you determine the most strategic path forward.
Call Lemon Law Partners, LLP, at (510) 944-0336 to arrange a free case evaluation with a dedicated and friendly Berkeley attorney.
