Automotive News
April 26, 2011 - 1:31 pm EST
DETROIT (Reuters) - Toyota Motor Corp. is voluntarily recalling 51,000 Tundra pickup trucks for the model year 2011 due to a potential defect in the rear drive shaft.
The company estimates that 0.05 percent of the vehicles recalled may have a component-- a slip yoke-- that could break because of improper casting.
There has been one slip yoke failure, but no injuries or accidents linked to the problem, Toyota said in a statement.
Owners will be notified by mail as early as next week. Dealers will perform an inspection estimated to take 10 minutes. If the rear drive shaft needs to be replaced, the repair will be done at no cost to the owner, Toyota said.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Newest Toyota Recall
Toyota to recall 308,000 RAV4s, Highlanders for airbag fix
Automotive News
April 21, 2011 - 1:20 pm EST
UPDATED: 4/21/11 4:17 pm ET
DETROIT (Reuters) -- Toyota Motor Corp. said today it would recall about 308,000 RAV4 and Highlander SUVs because of the risk airbags sensors could fail and cause the curtain airbags to deploy.
About 214,000 RAV4s and 94,000 Highlanders and Highlander HVs will be recalled from the 2007 and 2008 model years, according to a company statement.
The recall only affects vehicles sold in North America, Toyota said.
Toyota said owners of the vehicles would be notified of the recall by mail in May.
Toyota said that, in cases where two sensors fail at almost the same time, the side curtain airbags designed to protect passengers in a rollover accident could be inflated outside such an accident.
In cases where just one of the sensors fails, the airbags warning light will be activated, the automaker said
Automotive News
April 21, 2011 - 1:20 pm EST
UPDATED: 4/21/11 4:17 pm ET
DETROIT (Reuters) -- Toyota Motor Corp. said today it would recall about 308,000 RAV4 and Highlander SUVs because of the risk airbags sensors could fail and cause the curtain airbags to deploy.
About 214,000 RAV4s and 94,000 Highlanders and Highlander HVs will be recalled from the 2007 and 2008 model years, according to a company statement.
The recall only affects vehicles sold in North America, Toyota said.
Toyota said owners of the vehicles would be notified of the recall by mail in May.
Toyota said that, in cases where two sensors fail at almost the same time, the side curtain airbags designed to protect passengers in a rollover accident could be inflated outside such an accident.
In cases where just one of the sensors fails, the airbags warning light will be activated, the automaker said
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Honda Insight Sales Increase
Honda Insight Hybrid Sparking U.S. Demand
By Christie Schweinsberg
WardsAuto.com, Apr 14, 2011 9:01 AM
WASHINGTON, – After two relatively lackluster years on the market, the second-generation Honda Insight hybrid-electric vehicle is seeing a surge in sales thanks to a perfect storm of high gas prices, increased advertising and the spring-car-buying season.
March sales, alone, spiked 62.2%, compared with year-ago, to 2,782 units, Ward’s data shows.
That’s the biggest monthly increase for the latest Insight since March 2010, when deliveries climbed 179.2% compared with March 2009, when the new model launched in the U.S.
The Insight’s sales rise last month outpaced the 52.0% increase for the Toyota Prius, although the Prius remains the hybrid heavy-hitter, with 42,779 units sold in the year’s first quarter vs. 6,058 for the Insight.
“You’ve heard this bromide before, (but) when fuel prices go up, people think of Honda,” American Honda Executive Vice President John Mendel tells Ward’s in an interview here.
“We also have a pretty strong promotion going in terms of advertising (the entire Honda lineup),” called The Really Big Thing, he says. “The dealers seem to be getting increased traffic from that. (Plus), it’s a spring market, customers are coming back (and) a 13.1 million-unit industry is nothing to sneeze at.”
After discontinuing the original 2-seat Insight in 2006, Honda announced the next-gen version in 2008, during the last gas-price spike in the U.S. that drove consumers to seek fuel-efficient vehicles as never before. In May 2008, alone, Honda sold more than 50,000 Civic compact cars.
Riding the wave, the auto maker initially called for 90,000 Insight sales in the U.S., before adjusting the figure downward numerous times as gas prices fell back and the recession caused new-car sales to plunge. Last year, Insight sales amounted to 20,962 units, just 1.9% higher than the 20,572 sold in 2009, when the hybrid went on sale in its current form.
Japan parts shortage could stall Honda Insight’s recovery.
This year’s parts shortage in Japan could slow the HEV’s upward climb.
Mendel says if a situation arises where shared parts are at a minimum, Honda likely will prioritize production of its best-selling-models: the next-gen Civic launching later this month; CR-V compact cross/utility vehicle and Odyssey minivan.
Although Mendel leaves the Insight off the list, Honda resumed building the hybrid April 11 at its plant in Suzuka, Japan, exactly one month since the magnitude 9.0 earthquake hit the island nation.
Parts shortages delayed the restart of production at Suzuka numerous times, and their scarcity is expected to continue to keep the industry in flux through the coming months.
By Christie Schweinsberg
WardsAuto.com, Apr 14, 2011 9:01 AM
WASHINGTON, – After two relatively lackluster years on the market, the second-generation Honda Insight hybrid-electric vehicle is seeing a surge in sales thanks to a perfect storm of high gas prices, increased advertising and the spring-car-buying season.
March sales, alone, spiked 62.2%, compared with year-ago, to 2,782 units, Ward’s data shows.
That’s the biggest monthly increase for the latest Insight since March 2010, when deliveries climbed 179.2% compared with March 2009, when the new model launched in the U.S.
The Insight’s sales rise last month outpaced the 52.0% increase for the Toyota Prius, although the Prius remains the hybrid heavy-hitter, with 42,779 units sold in the year’s first quarter vs. 6,058 for the Insight.
“You’ve heard this bromide before, (but) when fuel prices go up, people think of Honda,” American Honda Executive Vice President John Mendel tells Ward’s in an interview here.
“We also have a pretty strong promotion going in terms of advertising (the entire Honda lineup),” called The Really Big Thing, he says. “The dealers seem to be getting increased traffic from that. (Plus), it’s a spring market, customers are coming back (and) a 13.1 million-unit industry is nothing to sneeze at.”
After discontinuing the original 2-seat Insight in 2006, Honda announced the next-gen version in 2008, during the last gas-price spike in the U.S. that drove consumers to seek fuel-efficient vehicles as never before. In May 2008, alone, Honda sold more than 50,000 Civic compact cars.
Riding the wave, the auto maker initially called for 90,000 Insight sales in the U.S., before adjusting the figure downward numerous times as gas prices fell back and the recession caused new-car sales to plunge. Last year, Insight sales amounted to 20,962 units, just 1.9% higher than the 20,572 sold in 2009, when the hybrid went on sale in its current form.
Japan parts shortage could stall Honda Insight’s recovery.
This year’s parts shortage in Japan could slow the HEV’s upward climb.
Mendel says if a situation arises where shared parts are at a minimum, Honda likely will prioritize production of its best-selling-models: the next-gen Civic launching later this month; CR-V compact cross/utility vehicle and Odyssey minivan.
Although Mendel leaves the Insight off the list, Honda resumed building the hybrid April 11 at its plant in Suzuka, Japan, exactly one month since the magnitude 9.0 earthquake hit the island nation.
Parts shortages delayed the restart of production at Suzuka numerous times, and their scarcity is expected to continue to keep the industry in flux through the coming months.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Ford Expands F-150 Recall by 1 Million Pickups
WASHINGTON -- Ford Motor Co. and U.S. safety regulators have agreed to a greatly expanded recall of the best-selling vehicle in North America, the Ford F-150 pickup truck.
The recall is for a possible short circuit that could cause airbags to deploy unexpectedly and involves nearly 1.2 million F-150s and some Lincoln Mark LT vehicles, said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall covers F-150s from the 2004 to 2006 model years.
Previously, 144,000 of the pickup trucks were recalled. The expansion comes after talks between the automaker and safety regulators in Washington.
Ford, in an e-mailed statement, said its review found the airbag deployments were linked to a "wiring chafe" condition.
"If a wiring chafe occurs, the airbag warning lamp will illuminate for an extended period of time prior to any risk of deployment, alerting owners to service their vehicle," Ford said. "We urge all of our customers to seek service immediately for an airbag warning lamp that is illuminated."
See full article at:
http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110414/RETAIL05/110419932/1254
The recall is for a possible short circuit that could cause airbags to deploy unexpectedly and involves nearly 1.2 million F-150s and some Lincoln Mark LT vehicles, said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall covers F-150s from the 2004 to 2006 model years.
Previously, 144,000 of the pickup trucks were recalled. The expansion comes after talks between the automaker and safety regulators in Washington.
Ford, in an e-mailed statement, said its review found the airbag deployments were linked to a "wiring chafe" condition.
"If a wiring chafe occurs, the airbag warning lamp will illuminate for an extended period of time prior to any risk of deployment, alerting owners to service their vehicle," Ford said. "We urge all of our customers to seek service immediately for an airbag warning lamp that is illuminated."
See full article at:
http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110414/RETAIL05/110419932/1254
Monday, April 11, 2011
Some services are unnecessary, or better left to dealers and more sophisticated repair shops
by: Tom Torbjornsen
http://autos.aol.com/article/quick-lube-unneeded-services/
Have you ever gone to a quick-lube place for an oil change and, while you're waiting in the lobby for your car, the service bay/sales person informs you that a certain service(s) "must" be performed on the vehicle immediately to avert a disaster of immense proportion?
It's a high-pressure moment. You think: I can get this done now, and not have to make an appointment at the dealership. I can save money here, too. And I want to take care of my car, which I rely on.
But here is the problem: Most of us do not know much about these products or services before being confronted with the questions and offers. And we hate to come across as ignorant about our car. Many of us can relate to this scenario.
The "recommended service" they advise usually includes one or more of the following:
-High mileage oil
-Fuel system cleaning
-Brake fluid flush
-Transmission flush
-Transfer case or differential fluid change
Knowledge is power. So let's look at each service, the validity of the claim, and whether or not you should follow the advice.
Does Your Vehicle Need "High Mileage" Oil?
High mileage oils supposedly are formulated with more robust additive packages for better lubrication and rust inhibition, along with a nourishing agent to bring old, hardened oil seals back to life. Well, if that's true, why didn't the company initially give me its best formulation so that my car would get more mileage out of the engine in the first place? I consulted an expert in the industry to gather more information. Dan Watson, a Certified Lubrication Specialist (STLE) and publisher of www.lubedepot.com and www.maxxtorque.com (an E-Zine about diesel power) sent me some bullet points to consider when offered "high mileage oil."
-High mileage oils are fortified with additional additives for improving the ability of the oil to deal with byproducts of combustion (otherwise known as "crud.") and enhance engine cleanliness.
-The age of the engine has nothing to do with the protection needed to maintain the engine and prevent wear.
-The best procedure is to start out with oil that doesn't break down and leave sludge and varnish in the engine in the first place.
-Start the engine out from day-one using high quality synthetic engine oil and you will have superior protection and cleanliness from the start. You will never need a "better oil" when you get to a higher mileage.
-It is important to note all synthetic oils are not the same. Look for synthetic oils like AMSOIL or Mobil One; these oils have extremely robust additive packages designed for longer oil-change intervals. This insures you are getting maximum protection and superior cleanliness regardless of vehicle mileage.
Bottom-Line: Use high-quality synthetic oil from the start in a new car. If you are driving a used car that you purchased, start using these same sorts of synthetic oils for maximum protection. Don't pay for something the attendant is calling "high mileage" oil, which could mean any number of things.
Does Your Vehicle Need a Fuel System Cleaning?
Maybe. But I can't recommend getting it done at a quick-lube outlet.
Over time, fuel injectors get clogged with varnish deposits and dirt that's picked up in the fuel. When this happens, the injectors dribble fuel into the combustion chamber rather than deliver a fine mist of air/fuel mixture for perfect combustion.
As an automotive machinist, I have seen many cylinder heads and pistons loaded with carbon buildup from inefficient combustion that resulted in inefficient and/or damaged engines. In addition, I can tell you that fuel additives to the fuel tank alone cannot keep a fuel system clean.
Fuel systems do need to be cleaned. During the fuel delivery system cleaning process, industrial strength carbon and varnish cleaners are injected directly into the fuel delivery system while the engine is running.
The problem I have with having this service done at a quick-lube is that they "recommend" the service almost every time you stop in for an oil change. Also, I question the quality of the fuel system service they offer. In order for this service to work effectively, they must use a special machine and a specific set of tools, as well as an industrial grade carbon and varnish cleaner. Such equipment, found in high quality repair facilities or dealerships, is often not available at quick lubes.
Don't get me wrong. Quick lubes have their place in automotive service. However, I think they are out of their league in this area of service.
Bottom Line: This is not a diagnosis or service I would entrust to a quick-lube station.
Does Your Vehicle Need a Brake Fluid Flush?
Brake fluid flushing is a viable service that should be done if there is rust and sediment in the brake master cylinder. After researching several year, make, and model vehicles in the ALLDATA database, I realized that this is not a recommended service from the manufacturer.
At best, carmakers suggest an inspection of the braking system at regular intervals (every 6K miles or so) that includes inspection of the brake fluid along with the rest of the system. The hydraulic braking system is designed as a closed and sealed system. When it is exposed to the atmosphere because of a broken seal or hydraulic cup, the system will draw moisture into itself because of the hydroscopic (moisture absorbing) nature of the brake fluid.
So a simple inspection of the brake fluid is all that is required. When checking brake fluid, look for proper level, color, and smell. Brake fluid that is clear/translucent in color, at the proper level, and has no evidence of a burnt smell indicates a healthy braking system. If the color is black or rust-colored, there is a problem. Simple flushing will not repair the root cause of the condition.
A dark or black color accompanied by a burnt smell is indication that the system has overheated. There are three causes of overheating: A stuck brake caliper, a seized emergency brake, or a contaminated wheel cylinder that causes a brake shoe to stick in the applied position. A rust-colored fluid indicates that moisture has entered the system, and therefore the system should be checked for a leaking component, a compromised line, or a torn master cylinder gasket. Brake fluid flushing alone without an inspection and/or repair of the root cause of the discolored fluid is not a repair. It is like a band-aid on a compound fracture.
Bottom Line: I do not recommend regular brake fluid flushing. It is simply not necessary unless a problem with color, level, or smell of the brake fluid is observed.
Does Your Vehicle Need a Transmission Fluid Flush?
As a regular maintenance practice (every 35 – 40K miles) transmission flushing can ensure proper operation and longevity of the transmission. More often than that is overkill.
Some carmakers suggest this service every 100K miles or more. However, I don't agree with this time frame because transmission fluid is oil, and oil breaks down over time (especially when the unit is worked hard). In addition, I don't agree with just flushing the fluid without replacing the transmission filter. During the flush procedure, if the old filter is left in place, dirt and wear material will be dislodged and go back into the transmission. Dirt will then be flowing through the unit and contaminating it again. In addition, a worn, dirty filter is expected to do the job it once did when it was new! So when flushing transmission fluid, always replace the filter. Period.
On transmissions with high mileage that have a history of being neglected (have not been serviced for many thousands of miles and the fluid is dark and smells burnt -- evidence of overheating), I do not recommend a transmission flush. On a transmission that has been overheated, internal damage might have occurred. If this is the case, when the transmission is subjected to a complete bath of fresh high-detergency transmission fluid, the transmission will fail internally.
Bottom Line: If you have a high mileage vehicle and the quick lube shop has recommended a fluid flush, get a second opinion from a drivetrain expert before proceeding... or pay the consequences.
Does Your Vehicle Need a Transfer Case or Differential Fluid Change?
Transfer cases are very quirky units. When the differential fluid is compromised in any way from overheating or moisture contamination they can malfunction. Symptoms of a malfunction include chatter, engaging and disengaging rapidly while in gear, slowness to engage from low to high range, and a host of other strange maladies.
Different carmakers use different fluids for their respective transfer cases. Each fluid is uniquely formulated for the respective transfer case application.
Bottom Line: This is an area of service that I would never leave to a quick lube, but rather to a drivetrain specialist or a dealership.
There is simply too much room for error when it comes to filling the unit with the wrong fluid.
I hope this clarifies any concerns or questions you might have before heading out to your local quick lube.
Remember, knowledge is empowering, and in this case, can save you a lot of time and money (and that's probably why you are going to the quick lube in the first place).
'Til next time...Keep Rollin'
http://autos.aol.com/article/quick-lube-unneeded-services/
Have you ever gone to a quick-lube place for an oil change and, while you're waiting in the lobby for your car, the service bay/sales person informs you that a certain service(s) "must" be performed on the vehicle immediately to avert a disaster of immense proportion?
It's a high-pressure moment. You think: I can get this done now, and not have to make an appointment at the dealership. I can save money here, too. And I want to take care of my car, which I rely on.
But here is the problem: Most of us do not know much about these products or services before being confronted with the questions and offers. And we hate to come across as ignorant about our car. Many of us can relate to this scenario.
The "recommended service" they advise usually includes one or more of the following:
-High mileage oil
-Fuel system cleaning
-Brake fluid flush
-Transmission flush
-Transfer case or differential fluid change
Knowledge is power. So let's look at each service, the validity of the claim, and whether or not you should follow the advice.
Does Your Vehicle Need "High Mileage" Oil?
High mileage oils supposedly are formulated with more robust additive packages for better lubrication and rust inhibition, along with a nourishing agent to bring old, hardened oil seals back to life. Well, if that's true, why didn't the company initially give me its best formulation so that my car would get more mileage out of the engine in the first place? I consulted an expert in the industry to gather more information. Dan Watson, a Certified Lubrication Specialist (STLE) and publisher of www.lubedepot.com and www.maxxtorque.com (an E-Zine about diesel power) sent me some bullet points to consider when offered "high mileage oil."
-High mileage oils are fortified with additional additives for improving the ability of the oil to deal with byproducts of combustion (otherwise known as "crud.") and enhance engine cleanliness.
-The age of the engine has nothing to do with the protection needed to maintain the engine and prevent wear.
-The best procedure is to start out with oil that doesn't break down and leave sludge and varnish in the engine in the first place.
-Start the engine out from day-one using high quality synthetic engine oil and you will have superior protection and cleanliness from the start. You will never need a "better oil" when you get to a higher mileage.
-It is important to note all synthetic oils are not the same. Look for synthetic oils like AMSOIL or Mobil One; these oils have extremely robust additive packages designed for longer oil-change intervals. This insures you are getting maximum protection and superior cleanliness regardless of vehicle mileage.
Bottom-Line: Use high-quality synthetic oil from the start in a new car. If you are driving a used car that you purchased, start using these same sorts of synthetic oils for maximum protection. Don't pay for something the attendant is calling "high mileage" oil, which could mean any number of things.
Does Your Vehicle Need a Fuel System Cleaning?
Maybe. But I can't recommend getting it done at a quick-lube outlet.
Over time, fuel injectors get clogged with varnish deposits and dirt that's picked up in the fuel. When this happens, the injectors dribble fuel into the combustion chamber rather than deliver a fine mist of air/fuel mixture for perfect combustion.
As an automotive machinist, I have seen many cylinder heads and pistons loaded with carbon buildup from inefficient combustion that resulted in inefficient and/or damaged engines. In addition, I can tell you that fuel additives to the fuel tank alone cannot keep a fuel system clean.
Fuel systems do need to be cleaned. During the fuel delivery system cleaning process, industrial strength carbon and varnish cleaners are injected directly into the fuel delivery system while the engine is running.
The problem I have with having this service done at a quick-lube is that they "recommend" the service almost every time you stop in for an oil change. Also, I question the quality of the fuel system service they offer. In order for this service to work effectively, they must use a special machine and a specific set of tools, as well as an industrial grade carbon and varnish cleaner. Such equipment, found in high quality repair facilities or dealerships, is often not available at quick lubes.
Don't get me wrong. Quick lubes have their place in automotive service. However, I think they are out of their league in this area of service.
Bottom Line: This is not a diagnosis or service I would entrust to a quick-lube station.
Does Your Vehicle Need a Brake Fluid Flush?
Brake fluid flushing is a viable service that should be done if there is rust and sediment in the brake master cylinder. After researching several year, make, and model vehicles in the ALLDATA database, I realized that this is not a recommended service from the manufacturer.
At best, carmakers suggest an inspection of the braking system at regular intervals (every 6K miles or so) that includes inspection of the brake fluid along with the rest of the system. The hydraulic braking system is designed as a closed and sealed system. When it is exposed to the atmosphere because of a broken seal or hydraulic cup, the system will draw moisture into itself because of the hydroscopic (moisture absorbing) nature of the brake fluid.
So a simple inspection of the brake fluid is all that is required. When checking brake fluid, look for proper level, color, and smell. Brake fluid that is clear/translucent in color, at the proper level, and has no evidence of a burnt smell indicates a healthy braking system. If the color is black or rust-colored, there is a problem. Simple flushing will not repair the root cause of the condition.
A dark or black color accompanied by a burnt smell is indication that the system has overheated. There are three causes of overheating: A stuck brake caliper, a seized emergency brake, or a contaminated wheel cylinder that causes a brake shoe to stick in the applied position. A rust-colored fluid indicates that moisture has entered the system, and therefore the system should be checked for a leaking component, a compromised line, or a torn master cylinder gasket. Brake fluid flushing alone without an inspection and/or repair of the root cause of the discolored fluid is not a repair. It is like a band-aid on a compound fracture.
Bottom Line: I do not recommend regular brake fluid flushing. It is simply not necessary unless a problem with color, level, or smell of the brake fluid is observed.
Does Your Vehicle Need a Transmission Fluid Flush?
As a regular maintenance practice (every 35 – 40K miles) transmission flushing can ensure proper operation and longevity of the transmission. More often than that is overkill.
Some carmakers suggest this service every 100K miles or more. However, I don't agree with this time frame because transmission fluid is oil, and oil breaks down over time (especially when the unit is worked hard). In addition, I don't agree with just flushing the fluid without replacing the transmission filter. During the flush procedure, if the old filter is left in place, dirt and wear material will be dislodged and go back into the transmission. Dirt will then be flowing through the unit and contaminating it again. In addition, a worn, dirty filter is expected to do the job it once did when it was new! So when flushing transmission fluid, always replace the filter. Period.
On transmissions with high mileage that have a history of being neglected (have not been serviced for many thousands of miles and the fluid is dark and smells burnt -- evidence of overheating), I do not recommend a transmission flush. On a transmission that has been overheated, internal damage might have occurred. If this is the case, when the transmission is subjected to a complete bath of fresh high-detergency transmission fluid, the transmission will fail internally.
Bottom Line: If you have a high mileage vehicle and the quick lube shop has recommended a fluid flush, get a second opinion from a drivetrain expert before proceeding... or pay the consequences.
Does Your Vehicle Need a Transfer Case or Differential Fluid Change?
Transfer cases are very quirky units. When the differential fluid is compromised in any way from overheating or moisture contamination they can malfunction. Symptoms of a malfunction include chatter, engaging and disengaging rapidly while in gear, slowness to engage from low to high range, and a host of other strange maladies.
Different carmakers use different fluids for their respective transfer cases. Each fluid is uniquely formulated for the respective transfer case application.
Bottom Line: This is an area of service that I would never leave to a quick lube, but rather to a drivetrain specialist or a dealership.
There is simply too much room for error when it comes to filling the unit with the wrong fluid.
I hope this clarifies any concerns or questions you might have before heading out to your local quick lube.
Remember, knowledge is empowering, and in this case, can save you a lot of time and money (and that's probably why you are going to the quick lube in the first place).
'Til next time...Keep Rollin'
Dodge Pickups Under Investigation For Steering Complaints
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. safety investigators have launched a new review of steering complaints in Dodge Ram pickup trucks that could result in a bigger recall of the model, government officials said in documents filed today.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration last December recalled 22,274 4500- and 5500-series pickups made by Chrysler between 2008 and 2011 for misaligned steering components.
Investigators said the suspected defect in the medium-duty trucks could cause certain steering rod parts to weaken and possibly break.
NHTSA said in a defect notice that it had opened a preliminary investigation of 2500- and 3500-series Ram trucks for the same model years based on 12 new motorist complaints alleging similar problems.
The new investigation could effect as many as 160,000 vehicles.
A preliminary investigation is often the first step toward a recall. NHTSA has not yet said whether a recall will occur in this case.
Ram trucks, a signature Chrysler product, registered a 24 percent jump in sales in March compared to the same period a year ago.
A second recall of Ram trucks last year centered on potential axle problems in 56,000 vehicles.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration last December recalled 22,274 4500- and 5500-series pickups made by Chrysler between 2008 and 2011 for misaligned steering components.
Investigators said the suspected defect in the medium-duty trucks could cause certain steering rod parts to weaken and possibly break.
NHTSA said in a defect notice that it had opened a preliminary investigation of 2500- and 3500-series Ram trucks for the same model years based on 12 new motorist complaints alleging similar problems.
The new investigation could effect as many as 160,000 vehicles.
A preliminary investigation is often the first step toward a recall. NHTSA has not yet said whether a recall will occur in this case.
Ram trucks, a signature Chrysler product, registered a 24 percent jump in sales in March compared to the same period a year ago.
A second recall of Ram trucks last year centered on potential axle problems in 56,000 vehicles.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Top Safe Cars for Teens
As parents I think we can all agree that our children's safety is foremost on our mind. What parent doesn't get a bit nervous at the thought of our teenagers starting to drive. In a recent article from the Wall Street Journal they ranked the top vehicles based on safety crash-test data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as well as reliability scores from Consumer Reports. They recommend staying away from sporty vehicles as it may tempt young (as well as older) drivers to drive too fast. They have also recommended to stay away from large SUVs as well as pickups because they tend to be easier to roll, and to avoid subcompacts as there's just not enough metal between the driver and whatever obstacle they may hit. Of the safe choices Honda leads the way. The Honda Pilot scored top marks followed by the Honda CR-V in second place and the Honda Accord tied for third.
See full article at:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703712504576244871890273248.html
See full article at:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703712504576244871890273248.html
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Mercedes-Benz recalls M-Class for cruise control glitch
DETROIT (Reuters) - Mercedes-Benz launched a global recall older-model M-Class sport utility vehicles for issues related to cruise control that may lead to a crash, Mercedes parent Daimler AG and U.S. federal safety regulators said.
A wide majority of the vehicles being recalled are model year 2000-2002 M-Class SUVs, but there are a small number of 2000-2004 AMG performance vehicles also covered by the recall.
Some 136,751 vehicles will be recalled in the United States and about 50,000 in Germany, said Mercedes-Benz representatives in the two countries.
No crashes or injuries have resulted from the issue, Mercedes-Benz USA spokesman Rob Moran said.
Tapping the brakes to disengage cruise control may fail, increasing the chances of a crash, a filing with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.
There are other ways, including working a "cruise control stalk" on the steering wheel or applying firm consistent pressure on the brakes, that will still disengage the system in the event that tapping the brakes fails, Mercedes-Benz USA said.
Cruise control also automatically disengages at speeds of 25 miles per hour or less, Moran said.
"Since the situation is triggered by a malfunction of the brake lamp switch, Mercedes-Benz USA will replace the brake lamp switch on these models beginning in September at no cost to customers," Moran said.
He said it will take a half year before the repairs begin to "ensure an adequate replacement parts supply."
U.S. consumers will be informed of the recall in the next few weeks.
"We will also remind them to disengage the cruise control by using the stalk or by applying firm pressure on the brake pedal, and to avoid pumping the brakes," Moran said.
The recall was prompted by several complaints from consumers, NHTSA and the automaker said.
A wide majority of the vehicles being recalled are model year 2000-2002 M-Class SUVs, but there are a small number of 2000-2004 AMG performance vehicles also covered by the recall.
Some 136,751 vehicles will be recalled in the United States and about 50,000 in Germany, said Mercedes-Benz representatives in the two countries.
No crashes or injuries have resulted from the issue, Mercedes-Benz USA spokesman Rob Moran said.
Tapping the brakes to disengage cruise control may fail, increasing the chances of a crash, a filing with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.
There are other ways, including working a "cruise control stalk" on the steering wheel or applying firm consistent pressure on the brakes, that will still disengage the system in the event that tapping the brakes fails, Mercedes-Benz USA said.
Cruise control also automatically disengages at speeds of 25 miles per hour or less, Moran said.
"Since the situation is triggered by a malfunction of the brake lamp switch, Mercedes-Benz USA will replace the brake lamp switch on these models beginning in September at no cost to customers," Moran said.
He said it will take a half year before the repairs begin to "ensure an adequate replacement parts supply."
U.S. consumers will be informed of the recall in the next few weeks.
"We will also remind them to disengage the cruise control by using the stalk or by applying firm pressure on the brake pedal, and to avoid pumping the brakes," Moran said.
The recall was prompted by several complaints from consumers, NHTSA and the automaker said.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Job Market Tight, but Not at Car Dealerships
By Casey Stegall
Published April 01, 2011
FoxNews.com
Here's a little fuel injection for the economy: Despite a national unemployment rate of 8.8 percent for the month of March, there is one industry that’s actually expanding: new car dealerships.
Sales figures from Ford, GM and Chrysler all show gains over last year, which is helping to translate into new job opportunities in that field.
The new jobs aren’t just limited to sales experience either. Dealerships are also looking for mechanics, car porters and employees to work the administrative side.
According to the market research firm IBISWorld USA, new car dealers around the country are projected to add about 90,000 news jobs this year. That’s a 10 percent increase since 2010.
While the numbers look promising, the picture still isn’t so rosy when you look at pre-recession levels. According to IBISWorld, more than 1.1 million people were employed by new car dealerships in 2007. Those numbers were slashed to a little more than 750,000 in 2009. This year the number looks like it will grow to around 988,000, not quite as robust as in the good old days.
However, economists say it is progress and it’ll take time for the automotive industry to fully bounce back because it was hit so hard when the economy tanked.
Other good news that surely gets motors running is that auto manufacturing revenue is projected to rise roughly 17 percent, according to the same research company. The numbers rank new car dealers third on the list of industries with the highest individual-based employment growth for 2011, behind office staffing/temp agencies and tourism jobs.
Paul Taylor, the chief economist for the National Automobile Dealers Association, attributes the growth to a number of things. Taylor says the credit market is loosening, consumer confidence is rising and the average car or truck on the road is more than 10 years old, so more people are in the market for a new vehicle.
He also says roughly 2,250 dealers permanently closed their doors over the last several years during the recession. Now, the existing 17,500 dealerships across America are reabsorbing some of that staff that was laid off. Lastly, Taylor says a higher demand for hybrid and fuel-alternative vehicles are responsible for the boost in sales and employment gains as well.
IBISWorld projects that new car dealership employment levels to be back above the one million mark by 2016.
Published April 01, 2011
FoxNews.com
Here's a little fuel injection for the economy: Despite a national unemployment rate of 8.8 percent for the month of March, there is one industry that’s actually expanding: new car dealerships.
Sales figures from Ford, GM and Chrysler all show gains over last year, which is helping to translate into new job opportunities in that field.
The new jobs aren’t just limited to sales experience either. Dealerships are also looking for mechanics, car porters and employees to work the administrative side.
According to the market research firm IBISWorld USA, new car dealers around the country are projected to add about 90,000 news jobs this year. That’s a 10 percent increase since 2010.
While the numbers look promising, the picture still isn’t so rosy when you look at pre-recession levels. According to IBISWorld, more than 1.1 million people were employed by new car dealerships in 2007. Those numbers were slashed to a little more than 750,000 in 2009. This year the number looks like it will grow to around 988,000, not quite as robust as in the good old days.
However, economists say it is progress and it’ll take time for the automotive industry to fully bounce back because it was hit so hard when the economy tanked.
Other good news that surely gets motors running is that auto manufacturing revenue is projected to rise roughly 17 percent, according to the same research company. The numbers rank new car dealers third on the list of industries with the highest individual-based employment growth for 2011, behind office staffing/temp agencies and tourism jobs.
Paul Taylor, the chief economist for the National Automobile Dealers Association, attributes the growth to a number of things. Taylor says the credit market is loosening, consumer confidence is rising and the average car or truck on the road is more than 10 years old, so more people are in the market for a new vehicle.
He also says roughly 2,250 dealers permanently closed their doors over the last several years during the recession. Now, the existing 17,500 dealerships across America are reabsorbing some of that staff that was laid off. Lastly, Taylor says a higher demand for hybrid and fuel-alternative vehicles are responsible for the boost in sales and employment gains as well.
IBISWorld projects that new car dealership employment levels to be back above the one million mark by 2016.
Toyota to Raise Prices on Most Models
The Detroit Free Press reports that Toyota is raising prices, effective May 1, on nearly all vehicles offered by its three brands, by up to 2.2 percent, to reflect higher raw material costs and the continuing strength of the Japanese yen.
The price hikes range from as modest as 0.4 percent, or $65, on the Scion xD hatchback – now with a suggested price of $15,910 – to a substantial 2.2 percent, or $900, increase on the Toyota Sequoia SUV. Prices on Lexus models will rise by $650 to $900.
Toyota division spokesman Greg Thome said the company decided to raise prices before the earthquake, but he acknowledged that higher material costs and the strength of the Japanese yen were factors in the increases. The yen has remained strong against the U.S. dollar before and after the earthquake. That shrinks the profits on vehicles built in Japan and sold in the U.S. because it takes more dollars to equal the same number of yen.
Separately, Honda said Thursday it will resume limited production at its crucial Sayama and Suzuka assembly plants on April 11.
See the full article at:
http://www.freep.com/article/20110401/BUSINESS01/104010345/Toyota-raise-prices-most-models
The price hikes range from as modest as 0.4 percent, or $65, on the Scion xD hatchback – now with a suggested price of $15,910 – to a substantial 2.2 percent, or $900, increase on the Toyota Sequoia SUV. Prices on Lexus models will rise by $650 to $900.
Toyota division spokesman Greg Thome said the company decided to raise prices before the earthquake, but he acknowledged that higher material costs and the strength of the Japanese yen were factors in the increases. The yen has remained strong against the U.S. dollar before and after the earthquake. That shrinks the profits on vehicles built in Japan and sold in the U.S. because it takes more dollars to equal the same number of yen.
Separately, Honda said Thursday it will resume limited production at its crucial Sayama and Suzuka assembly plants on April 11.
See the full article at:
http://www.freep.com/article/20110401/BUSINESS01/104010345/Toyota-raise-prices-most-models
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