Recalls for May 31, 2016

Holiday or not the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration was hard at work gathering their list of recalls.

This week air bag troubles top the list.  Other issues concern brake systems, suspension problems, breaking seats, child car seat problems, parts that might fall off vehicles, transmission trouble and more.

After reviewing this list, if your vehicle is affected by a recall please have it repaired as quickly as possible.

Have a safe motoring week!    




To find out if your specific vehicle is included in the recall, use our VIN Look-up Tool.

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V239
Manufacturer :	Pitts Enterprises, Inc
Make / Model Years :	PITTS TRAILERS / 2014-2016
Subject :	Suspension Welds May Crack
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V241
Manufacturer :	Toyne Inc.
Make / Model Years :	TOYNE / 2014-2015
Subject :	Transmission May Shift Out of Gear
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V247
Manufacturer :	Ford Motor Company
Make / Model Years :	FORD / 2008-2012 LINCOLN / 2009,2011 MERCURY / 2008
Subject :	Air Bag Second Stage may not Inflate Properly
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V255
Manufacturer :	Legacy Equipment Company
Make / Model Years :	LEGACY EQUIPMENT / 2013-2016
Subject :	Valve Bank Cover May Crack and Detach
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V259
Manufacturer :	Monroe Truck Equipment
Make / Model Years :	MONROE / 2013
Subject :	Valve Bank Cover May Crack and Detach
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V260
Manufacturer :	Thor Motor Coach
Make / Model Years :	THOR / 2017
Subject :	Anchorage Strength Requirements/FMVSS 210
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V261
Manufacturer :	Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Make / Model Years :	FREIGHTLINER / 2015-2016 MERCEDES BENZ / 2015-2016
Subject :	Windows may Separate from Vehicle in a Crash
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V262
Manufacturer :	QT Equipment
Make / Model Years :	QT EQUIPMENT / 2013-2016
Subject :	Valve Bank Cover May Crack and Detach
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V263
Manufacturer :	Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp.
Make / Model Years :	KME / 2012-2014
Subject :	Cab Doors may Open Unexpectedly
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V264
Manufacturer :	Maserati North America, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	MASERATI / 2014-2016
Subject :	Improperly Torqued Rear Tie Rod Bolt
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V265
Manufacturer :	Blue Bird Body Company
Make / Model Years :	BLUE BIRD / 2017
Subject :	Seat May Separate From the Base Frame
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V266
Manufacturer :	Adkins Truck Equipment Co
Make / Model Years :	ADKINS / 2013-2016
Subject :	Valve Bank Cover May Crack and Detach
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V268
Manufacturer :	Volvo Car USA LLC
Make / Model Years :	VOLVO / 2016
Subject :	Sunroof may Fully Close Unintentionally
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V270
Manufacturer :	Newmar Corporation
Make / Model Years :	NEWMAR / 2015-2016
Subject :	Front Sway Bar May Detach
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V272
Manufacturer :	General Motors LLC
Make / Model Years :	CHEVROLET / 2016
Subject :	Electronic Stability Control Systems/FMVSS 126
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V273
Manufacturer :	Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Make / Model Years :	DODGE / 2009-2016
Subject :	Power Steering Return Hose may Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V276
Manufacturer :	Elpers Truck Equipment
Make / Model Years :	ELPERS / 2013-2016
Subject :	Valve Bank Cover May Crack and Detach
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V277
Manufacturer :	Winnebago Industries, Inc
Make / Model Years :	ITASCA / 2016 WINNEBAGO / 2016
Subject :	Front Sway Bar May Detach
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V281
Manufacturer :	Turtle Top
Make / Model Years :	TURTLE TOP / 2016
Subject :	Seat May Separate From the Base Frame
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V288
Manufacturer :	Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Make / Model Years :	JEEP / 2011-2016
Subject :	Clockspring Assembly May Become Contaminated
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V290
Manufacturer :	Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Make / Model Years :	JEEP / 2007-2010
Subject :	Clockspring Assembly May Become Contaminated
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V295
Manufacturer :	Champion Bus, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	CHAMPION / 2016
Subject :	Seat May Separate From the Base Frame/FMVSS 222
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V302
Manufacturer :	Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Make / Model Years :	FIAT / 2012-2016
Subject :	Clutch Diaphragm Spring May Fracture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V303
Manufacturer :	Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Make / Model Years :	FIAT / 2013-2016
Subject :	Propulsion System May Shut Down
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V334
Manufacturer :	Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	MITSUBISHI / 2006-2007
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V340
Manufacturer :	Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
Make / Model Years :	LEXUS / 2006-2011 PONTIAC / 2009-2010 SCION / 2008-2011 TOYOTA / 2006-2011
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V341
Manufacturer :	Ferrari North America, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	FERRARI / 2009-2011
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V343
Manufacturer :	Ford Motor Company
Make / Model Years :	LINCOLN / 2016
Subject :	Child Seat Tether Anchor Blocked/FMVSS225
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V344
Manufacturer :	Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Make / Model Years :	ACURA / 2003-2011 HONDA / 2002-2011
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V345
Manufacturer :	Ford Motor Company
Make / Model Years :	FORD / 2013-2014
Subject :	Loss of Brake Fluid
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V346
Manufacturer :	Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Make / Model Years :	ACURA / 2009-2011 HONDA / 2006-2011
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V347
Manufacturer :	Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Make / Model Years :	HONDA / 2006-2010
Subject :	Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V349
Manufacturer :	Nissan North America, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	INFINITI / 2003-2010 NISSAN / 2007-2011
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V352
Manufacturer :	Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Make / Model Years :	CHRYSLER / 2005-2012 DODGE / 2004-2012 JEEP / 2007-2012 MITSUBISHI / 2006-2009 RAM / 2010 STERLING / 2008-2009
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V354
Manufacturer :	Mazda North American Operations
Make / Model Years :	MAZDA / 2003-2011
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V356
Manufacturer :	Mazda North American Operations
Make / Model Years :	MAZDA / 2007-2011
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V358
Manufacturer :	Subaru of America, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	SAAB / 2006 SUBARU / 2003-2011
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V359
Manufacturer :	Subaru of America, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	SAAB / 2006 SUBARU / 2003-2008
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V361
Manufacturer :	Subaru of America, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	SUBARU / 2003-2004
Subject :	Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture

Dr. Gizmo Column

"Dr. Gizmo"

By Phil Arendt

Rear Gate Won’t Unlock  

Question 1

I have a 2004 Buick Rendezvous.  The rear tailgate only opens with "REAR" button on the FOB.  At one time it opened like the rest of the doors with the "UNLOCK" button.  My sister has a 2006 Rendezvous with the same problem.  What’s up?  R.W., email

Answer 1

It’s possible the cure will be different for both vehicles, but maybe it will.  Since the rear gate opens with the key fobs in your vehicle and sister’s cruiser the trouble likely is caused by a fault in the body control module.  It appears the circuit is sound but it is advisable to check to make sure.

Tests of the circuit and module will find the cause of the trouble.  If the trouble is caused by a faulty module, replacement is the cure.

New Spark Plugs Fail To Smooth Idle

Question 2

The 2.3-liter motor in my 1993 Ford Mustang idles rough.  When cruising, the motor runs fine. 

I went to an auto parts store where tests did not find any computer codes.  I removed the spark plugs and found the electrodes on both spark plugs in cylinder two were burnt.  I replaced all of the spark plugs but the motor still runs rough at an idle.

I purchased the vehicle three years ago.  Presently, it has 55,000 miles.  The car is in like-new condition.  What should I check next?  D.J., email

Answer 2

Consider checking the 2016 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350R.  I think you will forget all about the 2.3-liter engine in your stang when you ignite 526 horsepower in the Shelby.  All kidding aside, the trouble might be caused by a lean fuel mixture especially in cylinder two.  Causes for such a condition might be related to a vacuum leak or perhaps valve train issues.  It’s also possible fuel system trouble such as low pressure or volume might be the cause. 

It’s time to send your ailing pony to a technician for diagnostic tests.

Suspension Leveling System Fails After Tire Rotation

Question 3

Recently, I took my 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 to a local tire shop to have the tires rotated while I waited.  When I got home I noticed that rear of the vehicle was lower than normal.  I called the tire shop about the trouble.  They said to bring it back for an inspection.  Did they do something to the rear suspension?  M.D., email

Answer 3

If you are asking if they sabotaged your vehicle, I doubt it.  Also, a tire rotation service does not involve tinkering with the suspension. 

Your vehicle is equipped with a ride leveling system.  It’s possible that a sensor on the rear suspension has failed.  Also, there is linkage connected to the ride leveling sensor that might have disconnected when the vehicle was raised for the tire rotation. 

A visual inspection of the linkage and tests of the sensor and circuit should find the cause of the condition.

Top Fails To Go Down

Question 4

The top in my 1997 BMW 328i goes down about half way and then stops.  Usually the trunk opens for the top to go all the way down but it does not open.

With warm weather here I need to put the top down.  It worked without any problem last fall.  Is there a simple fix for this problem?  S.M., email

Answer 4

The system has motors that have micro switches within them.  It’s possible a micro switch has failed which would require replacing a motor.  It’s also possible there is a broken wire.  Additionally, a loose or corroded plug could cause this problem. 

Considering vehicle age and the number of moving parts to the top system and trunk a close examination of the wiring might find a broken wire.  If so, a simple repair will once again let the sun shine upon you.      

Computer Needs To Sync New Parts 

Question 5

The 4.0-liter engine in my 2005 Jeep Wrangler hesitates and cuts out when accelerating.  Also, the check engine light is on.

I do a lot of repairs on my vehicles so I went to an auto supply store for tests.  They found code P0344 for the cam sensor.  I replaced the sensor but this did not cure the trouble.  My partsman did another test and found the same code.  He exchanged the sensor but the replacement did not cure the trouble.  Now he says that the engine module might need flashing.  He suggested that I go to a dealer to have the work done.  Is this necessary or is there another problem?  B.K., email

Answer 5

There might be two issues for this condition.  One issue is the part.  More than likely the newly installed part is an aftermarket part.  Aftermarket parts are supposed to meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer specifications but sometimes they don’t perform as well as OEM.  Consider installing an original equipment part.  It might be the cure.

The second possible issue is the camshaft and crankshaft sensors might need to go through a relearn process.  To do this a technician must connect a scan tool to the vehicle and follow relearn procedures.  In some cases a generic scan tool is capable of performing the procedure along with a test drive but it might be necessary to use a manufacture specific tool called a DRB that some independent shops have in their arsenal of equipment.  If you can’t find an independent shop with a DRB, you’ll need to visit a dealership for the work.

No Spy Needed To Break Code

Question 6

I read your column every week.  You have helped me more than once, but I have a suggestion.  Frequently, questions refer to codes that have been retrieved from a module.  You explain codes but I would like to know if there is a way to decipher a code when I read your column.  Is there an easy way to do that?  R.G., email

Answer 6

You’ll need a team of government spies and code breakers to decipher malfunction codes.  All kidding aside, if you type a code into the search engine of your internet browser you’ll find a ton of information.  It won’t be specific to your vehicle but it will provide generic information.

To help take some of the mystery out of a code let’s look at code P0344 from the last question that indicates an issue with the camshaft position sensor.  P relates to a powertrain issue.  If it was B, C or U the code would relate to body, chassis or network problems.  The zero following the P denotes a generic code.  If the numeral is one instead of zero, one denotes a manufacture specific code.  The numeral three following the zero indicates an ignition system problem.  Number forty-four following the ignition system code indicates a component, section of a system or specific fault. 

Now that you have this knowledge, all you’ll need is a decoder ring, CIA operative and Dr. Gizmo to help break codes.                             

                                               

Thank you for all the great questions.  Dr. Gizmo can’t wait to answer more.

Phil Arendt is a columnist, consultant and A.S.E.-Certified Master Technician.  Readers may send questions to Dr. Gizmo at P.O. Box 548, Cary, IL. 60013 or e-mail address drgizmo@hotmail.com.  05/2016 ® DR. GIZMO © 1989 - Present

Recalls For May 23, 2016

Good morning.  It's the start to another work week for us and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.  This week the list is a shorter than usual.

This week recall issues include parts that  might fall off causing a road hazard, brake fluid that could impair the brake system, tire pressure monitor system troubles, transmission interlock problems, incorrect labeling, seats that might break, brake systems that might remain applied, malfunctioning brake lights and more.

Please review the list of recalls.  If your vehicle is affected by a recall please have it repaired as quickly as possible.  We want you to be safe.

Have a safe motoring week!    


To find out if your specific vehicle is included in the recall, use our VIN Look-up Tool.

NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V238
Manufacturer :	Winnebago Industries, Inc
Make / Model Years :	ITASCA / 2014 WINNEBAGO / 2014
Subject :	Trailer Brakes may Stay Activated
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V243
Manufacturer :	Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	VOLKSWAGEN / 2016
Subject :	TPMS Incorrectly Calibrated/FMVSS 138
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V249
Manufacturer :	Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Make / Model Years :	JEEP / 2016
Subject :	Brake Transmission Shift Interlock Failure
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V250
Manufacturer :	Ford Motor Company
Make / Model Years :	FORD / 2016
Subject :	Driver Seat Riser Weld may Fail/FMVSS 207,210
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V251
Manufacturer :	Subaru of America, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	SUBARU / 2015
Subject :	Electronic Stability Control System/FMVSS 126
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V252
Manufacturer :	Newmar Corporation
Make / Model Years :	NEWMAR / 2014-2016
Subject :	Trailer Brakes may Stay Activated
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V253
Manufacturer :	Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Make / Model Years :	RAM / 2014-2016
Subject :	Trailer Brake Lights may not Illuminate/FMVSS 108
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V254
Manufacturer :	Custom Truck and Equipment
Make / Model Years :	CUSTOM TRUCK / 2013-2016
Subject :	Valve Bank Cover May Crack and Detach
NHTSA Campaign ID Number :	16V258
Manufacturer :	Forest River, Inc.
Make / Model Years :	FOREST RIVER / 2016-2017
Subject :	Incorrect Information on Federal Placard/FMVSS 110