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• Lawsuit Filed Over Allegedly Defective Clutch Safety Interlock Switches Lawsuit says older Chrysler/Dodge vehicles have dangerous clutch safety interlock switches.

  

  Dec 29, 2014 — A class-action lawsuit has been filed against the makers and distributors of a "clutch safety interlock switch" used in older Chrysler/Dodge vehicles with manual transmissions. The lawsuit, filed in Oklahoma federal court, accuses Stoneridge Inc. , FTE Automotive USA Inc ., and Arrow Manufacturing of hiding the facts about the switch. Also included in the lawsuit as a nominal defendant is Old Carco , a name Chrysler used before its bankruptcy. The lawsuit was ...

• Mercedes-Benz Extends Warranty On Gas Tank Components Federal investigation closed after Mercedes extends warranty coverage on E-Class and CLS-Class cars.

  

  Dec 27, 2014 — Following a federal investigation into problems with the gas tanks, Mercedes-Benz is extending its original warranty to 15 years on gas tank components in 2003-2009 E-Class vehicles and 2006-2011 CLS-Class vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) originally opened the investigation in early 2012 based on complaints about the 2003-2006 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG. The investigation was expanded in 2013 based on new complaints about E-Class ...

• Cadillac Window Sticker Lawsuit Survives Motion to Dismiss Lawsuit can proceed alleging Cadillac CTS cars were sold with false safety ratings on the stickers.

  

  Dec 21, 2014 — A federal judge has denied a motion to dismiss a Cadillac window sticker lawsuit that alleges General Motors sold cars with window stickers that included false safety ratings. The original Cadillac window sticker class-action lawsuit was filed by Geri Siano Carriuolo, who purchased a new 2014 Cadillac CTS sedan in Florida. An amended complaint then added a Tennessee customer who purchased a 2014 Cadillac CTS and who claimed the window sticker had false safety ...

• Nissan Agrees To Settle Delta Stroke Sensor Brake Defect Lawsuit Owners claim Nissan Armada, Nissan Titan and Infiniti QX56 vehicles have dangerous brake problems.

  

  Dec 17, 2014 — Nissan has agreed to settle a lawsuit over defective brakes with delta stroke sensors that allegedly can cause brake failure in about 350,000 older vehicles. The Nissan delta stroke sensor lawsuit names the vehicles as the 2004-2008 Nissan Titan, Nissan Armada and Infiniti QX56. Lead plaintiffs Brandon and Erin Banks filed the class-action lawsuit in 2011 that accused Nissan of selling trucks and SUVs that experience brake failures. The plaintiffs claim Nissan ...

• Jeep Sunroof Leak Lawsuit Filed Against Chrysler Class-action lawsuit filed over leaking sunroofs in Jeep and Chrysler vehicles.

  

  Dec 16, 2014 — A Chrysler / Jeep sunroof leak lawsuit alleges the drain tubes are causing serious water damage to numerous models. The leaking sunroof lawsuit names the vehicles as the the 2009-present Jeep Patriot, Jeep Liberty, Jeep Compass, Jeep Commander, Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler Town and Country and the Chrysler 300 series. The lawsuit says lead plaintiff, David Cox, bought a new 2010 Jeep Patriot that has continually leaked water through the sunroof. ...

• Chrysler Group Changes Name To FCA US Chrysler Group changes name to FCA US, no other company changes announced.

  

  Dec 16, 2014 — Beginning today, don't be surprised if the name "Chrysler" starts disappearing a little bit from public view. The company is still here, but its formal business name (Chrysler Group LLC) isn't. The automaker announced it is now called FCA US LLC, or Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US. The automaker said nothing else has changed, including its location, management team or brands. The name change follows the official parent company name change in October to Fiat ...

• GM Ignition Switch: 38 Deaths, 51 Injuries GM compensation fund approves 38 death claims, 51 injury claims over defective ignition switches.

  

  Dec 8, 2014 — General Motors has approved 38 death claims related to defective ignition switches in millions of older vehicles. GM started its compensation fund after a blizzard of lawsuits were filed alleging GM concealed the defect for over 10 years. The defective switches cause cars to shut off with just a bump to the ignition key, and in some cases, a heavy key ring can cause the ignition switch to turn off. The compensation fund was opened August 1 and will remain ...

• Hyundai Wants Santa Fe Engine Problems Lawsuit Dismissed Hyundai files motion to dismiss Santa Fe engine stall class-action lawsuit.

  

  Dec 7, 2014 — Hyundai has filed a motion to dismiss a Hyundai Santa Fe engine problems lawsuit that claims model year 2010-2012 Santa Fe SUVs can stall and cause all kind of dangers on the road. Lead plaintiffs Greg Battaglia and Julia Reniger filed the lawsuit alleging Hyundai concealed a defect that causes engine problems in the affected SUVs, mainly engine stall. The lawsuit alleges owners have complained about their Santa Fe SUVs completely shutting off without warning ...

• Takata Tells Government to Take a Hike Over Airbag Recalls Takata rejects U.S. demands to recall driver-side airbags nationwide.

  

  Dec 3, 2014 — Airbag maker Takata has told U.S. safety regulators to take a hike by saying it won't expand a recall of dangerous exploding airbags that have killed and maimed people . The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had demanded Takata recall all affected driver-side airbags nationwide after the company ordered only regional recalls. The regional recalls involved areas of high absolute humidity that can cause moisture to affect the airbag ...

• Mercedes-Benz Gas Leak Lawsuit: Leaks and Smell Are Dangerous Mercedes-Benz gas leaks allegedly cause harmful smell and serious danger of fire.

  

  Dec 2, 2014 — A Mercedes-Benz gas leak lawsuit alleges model year 2003-2009 W211 E-Class cars leak liquid gas and cause harmful gas vapors so severely the seats get wet. New Jersey resident Helena Barinova claims she bought a new Mercedes-Benz E350 in 2005 that started leaking gas to the point of saturating the back seat. The lawsuit alleges leaks can occur both outside and inside the Mercedes-Benz cars and cause health problems and a severe risk of fire. The lawsuit ...

• Takata Airbag Deaths and Injuries A list of alleged Takata airbag deaths and injuries going back to 2003.

  

  Nov 30, 2014 — Takata airbag deaths and injuries are just now coming to light after government investigations , recalls and a growing number of lawsuits . The number of deaths and injuries from exploding Takata airbags is not known, but some estimates have the total as high as 160 injuries alone. Based on court documents and information released by automakers, the following list of Takata airbag deaths and injuries provides the name, location, make/model of vehicle involved, ...

• Mazda Files Motion to Dismiss CX-7 VVT Lawsuit Mazda says CX-7 VVT (variable valve timing) lawsuit should be tossed.

  

  Nov 29, 2014 — Maxda has filed a motion to dismiss a Mazda CX-7 variable valve timing (VVT) lawsuit that alleges the automaker concealed a defect that caused VVT-related failures. Furthermore, the VVT lawsuit alleges Mazda refused to repair the cars even though they were under warranty. The Mazda CX-7 VVT lawsuit was filed by James Stevenson , who bought a new 2008 CX-7 which provided warranty coverage for 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever occurred first. The car also came ...

• Honda Accord Side Curtain Airbag Lawsuit Granted Final Approval Owners claim Honda Accord side curtain airbags deploy without anything hitting the cars.

  

  Nov 28, 2014 — A Honda Accord side curtain airbag class-action lawsuit has been granted final approval five years after the case was first filed. Lead plaintiffs Heather Gutierrez and Connie Kaupa filed the side airbag lawsuit in 2009 alleging the side curtain airbags in the 2003, 2004 and 2008 Accord can deploy without a crash. According to the lawsuit, plaintiff Heather Gutierrez was driving her 2003 Honda Accord on an interstate highway when the passenger side curtain ...

• Minivans Fail Miserably In Small Overlap Crash Test Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows popular minivans have serious safety problems.

  

  Nov 27, 2014 — If you own a minivan you should pay attention to this. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety performed crash testing on some of the most popular minivans and the results are scary. The Nissan Quest, Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, Volkswagen Routan and Toyota Sienna were put through the small overlap frontal crash test. The test replicates what happens when 25 percent of a vehicle's driver-side front-end hits a rigid barrier at 40 mph, a test ...

• Did Honda Intentionally Conceal 1,729 Injuries and Deaths? Honda admits it failed to report 1,729 injuries and deaths for 11 years.

  

  Nov 24, 2014 — After pressure from the Center for Auto Safety and in the midst of a federal investigation, Honda has admitted it failed to report 1,729 injuries and deaths to U.S. safety regulators. The massive failures didn't occur over just a few months, or even a few years. Honda admits "data errors" and a "narrow interpretation" of the law occurred since 2003. But hey, at least they stopped making the Prelude -- so that's something, right? The NHTSA Investigation On ...

• Candice Anderson: GM Victim Found Innocent in Crash Fatal crash first blamed on Candice Anderson now blamed on defective GM ignition switch.

  

  Nov 24, 2014 — Candice Anderson, GM car owner and victim of a 2004 Texas crash, has been found innocent in the death of her fiance, Gene Erickson. Mr. Erickson, 25, was killed when Anderson's 2004 Saturn Ion crashed head-on into trees. Anderson, 21 at the time, believed she was to blame and pleaded guilty to criminal negligent homicide. She was ordered to pay for Erickson's funeral, perform 260 hours of community service, pay $3,500 in court costs and sentenced to 5 years of ...

• Ford Explorer Exhaust Fumes Lawsuit Still Breathing Ford Explorer lawsuit alleges exhaust fumes can enter SUVs and make occupants sick.

  

  Nov 23, 2014 — A Ford Explorer exhaust fumes lawsuit will continue as a Florida federal judge denied Ford's motion to dismiss the carbon monoxide lawsuit. The Ford Explorer exhaust fumes lawsuit was filed by Florida resident Angela Sanchez-Knutson who claims her 2013 Ford Explorer made her and her 5-year-old daughter sick. The lawsuit alleges Sanchez-Knutson and her daughter were poisoned by carbon monoxide entering the Explorer while the SUV was on the road. Ford filed the ...

• Toyota Dashboard Melting? Lawsuit Says It Can Happen Lawsuit says dashboards can melt in Toyota Camry, Lexus ES and Lexus IS cars.

  

  Nov 23, 2014 — An alleged Toyota melting dashboard in a 2009 Toyota Camry has led to a proposed class-action lawsuit against the automaker. The lawsuit alleges the Toyota Camry dashboard melted and caused a shiny glare so bad it can blind a driver. The plaintiff, Melissa Graham, bought a new 2009 Toyota Camry from a Toyota dealership in South Carolina in 2008. The lawsuit alleges Toyota designed, manufactured and sold model year 2006-2008 Lexus ES, 2006-2008 Lexus IS and ...

• GM Sued By The State of Arizona For $3 Billion State of Arizona lawsuit says the 'new' GM wasn't born innocent.

  

  Nov 20, 2014 — Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne has filed a lawsuit against General Motors that could possibly cost GM $3 billion. Filing the 125-page GM lawsuit on behalf of the residents of Arizona, the attorney general claims the automaker constantly concealed numerous safety defects for a decade, all to save money. The "New" GM The Arizona lawsuit against GM separates the "old" GM and the "new" GM, with the "new" GM incorporated in 2009 after the automaker filed ...

• Hien Tran's Death Caused By Exploding Honda Accord Air Bag Lawsuit says Orlando resident Hien Tran's death was caused by Takata air bag.

  

  Nov 19, 2014 — The family of Hien Tran has filed a lawsuit against Honda and Takata after the death of the 51-year-old Orlando woman in a Honda Accord. Hien Tran’s death was originally thought to be a homicide because of severe wounds Hien suffered when her 2001 Accord crashed in a low-speed accident. Police and paramedics saw Tran was wearing a seat belt and the windshield was intact, yet Tran had deep stab-like wounds on her neck. The cuts were so severe on Tran’s neck ...

• U.S. Government Demands Nationwide Takata Air Bag Recall NHTSA demands national recall of driver-side frontal air bags made by Takata.

  

  Nov 18, 2014 — Takata, the maker of air bags that have caused the recalls of million of vehicles , has announced a recall of model SPI, PSPI, and PSPI-L passenger frontal air bag inflators. Takata didn't name the automakers affected by the recall, but the air bag maker said the defective inflators were manufactured April 13, 2000, to July 31, 2004. However, the recall involves only vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in areas with high absolute ...

• GM Admits 33 Deaths Caused by Ignition Switches, Extends Deadline to File Claims GM ignition switch deaths at 33 as automaker extends deadline to file claims to Jan. 31, 2015.

  

  Nov 17, 2014 — General Motors has extended the deadline to file claims related to deaths or injuries related to defective ignition switches that can move out of position and shut off the vehicles. The original deadline was December 31, 2014, but GM has given consumers another month to submit claims, until January 31, 2015. GM compensation fund administrator Kenneth Feinberg made the announcement as GM said 33 death claims have been approved as of November 14, 2014. A total of ...

• Chrysler TIPM Lawsuit Alleges Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep Vehicles Stall Chrysler TIPM lawsuit alleges Totally Integrated Power Modules are defective, and expensive.

  

  Nov 16, 2014 — A Chrysler TIPM lawsuit has been filed in New York alleging Chrysler vehicles have defective Totally Integrated Power Modules that cause a ton of problems. The TIPM class-action lawsuit alleges Chrysler sold vehicles that can lose all electrical functions and cause the engines to stall at any speed. The lawsuit alleges Chrysler has concealed the TIPM defect since 2005 and continued installing faulty TIPMs until the 2014 model year. Chrysler has ordered recalls ...

• Remi Walden Wrongful Death Lawsuit Targets Chrysler Lawsuit accuses Chrysler of wrongful death of 4-year-old Remi Walden in Jeep Grand Cherokee fire.

  

  Nov 15, 2014 — The case of Remington "Remi" Walden is in the news again over two years after 4-year-old Remi was killed in a Jeep Grand Cherokee fire. The Wall Street Journal reports a Georgia judge has ordered Fiat/Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne to give a videotaped deposition in the lawsuit. The lawsuit accuses Chrysler of negligence and for the wrongful death of Remi Walden who burned to death in a 2012 rear-end crash. On March 6, 2012, Remi was in his booster seat in ...

• Honda and Takata Sued Over Exploding Air Bags Honda and Takata lawsuit alleges both companies knew about exploding air bags in 2004.

  

  Nov 15, 2014 — A class-action lawsuit against Honda and Takata accuses the companies of knowing in 2004 that air bags in Honda vehicles could explode and send metal shrapnel throughout the vehicles. The lawsuit alleges that in 2004, Honda and Takata were aware of an accident in Alabama where a driver of a Honda vehicle was severely injured by flying metal. Furthermore, the lawsuit claims both companies considered the exploding air bag an "anomaly" and ignored the real ...

• MINI Cooper Gas Mileage Lawsuit Filed As Class-Action MINI Cooper gas mileage lawsuit claims the 2014 model gets less mpg than advertised.

  

  Nov 14, 2014 — A MINI Cooper gas mileage lawsuit has been filed in a Florida federal court just two weeks after the federal government ordered the fuel economy values lowered on the model year 2014 MINI Cooper. The lawsuit alleges BMW misrepresented the fuel economy of 2014 MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S 3-door cars with both semi-automatic and manual transmissions. Plaintiffs Karen and Michael Jarvis claim they bought their 2014 MINI Cooper after relying on advertising for ...

• Takata Exploding Air Bags Target of U.S. Criminal Investigation U.S. grand jury looking for evidence related to Takata exploding air bags.

  

  Nov 14, 2014 — Air bag maker Takata is facing a criminal investigation over exploding air bags after a federal grand jury in New York subpoenaed documents related to the defective air bags. It's the first time U.S. investigators have actively sought evidence of what Takata has known about the exploding air bags. The air bags have caused the recalls of millions of vehicles after reports of occupants receiving serious injuries from shrapnel exploding out of the air bags. Along ...

• Kia Sorento Class-Action Lawsuit Targets Engine Problems Kia Sorento lawsuit alleges owners experience stalling engines and engine failures.

  

  Nov 6, 2014 — A Kia Sorento class-action lawsuit over engine problems is proceeding based on claims model year 2002-2009 Kia Sorento SUVs have front pulley balancers that can break and cause engine failure. The lawsuit claims Kia had "longstanding knowledge of the problem" but intentionally didn't tell customers about the allegedly defective crankshaft assemblies. Further, the Kia class-action lawsuit claims there are "latent defects" in the 2003-2005 Kia Sorento that have a ...

• EPA Fines Hyundai and Kia $350 Million Over False MPG Claims Hyundai and Kia busted for wrong mileage claims and emissions violations.

  

  Nov 4, 2014 — Hyundai and Kia have been slammed by a $100 million civil penalty from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for giving consumers false information about real-world fuel economy values. Additionally, Hyundai and Kia will forfeit over $200 million in greenhouse gas emission credits the companies previously claimed. Further, both automakers must spend approximately $50 million to prevent future violations. Automakers earn greenhouse gas emission ...

• Is Honda Hiding Air Bag Injuries and Deaths? Center for Auto Safety wants criminal investigation into exploding air bags in Honda vehicles.

  

  Nov 3, 2014 — The Center for Auto Safety (CAS) has asked the federal government to investigate Honda for allegedly failing to submit early warning reports to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. As Ferrari recently found out when NHTSA fined the automaker $3.5 million , early warning reports are to be filed with NHTSA every three months to help the government track safety issues. The reports are to include information such as complaints, warranty claims, ...

• Ferrari Ignores U.S. Safety Laws, Gets Fined $3.5 Million Ferrari fails to inform U.S. government about three incidents involving auto deaths.

  

  Nov 1, 2014 — Ferrari will pay $3.5 million to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for ignoring U.S. federal laws concerning early warning reports. Early warning reports (EWR) are required from large automakers and their affiliates to help NHTSA track potential safety problems. Reports are to be filed every three months and should include information such as deaths and injuries, complaints, warranty claims, accidents and property damage ...

• MINI Cooper Water Pump Lawsuit Down The Drain Federal judge dismisses MINI Cooper water pump lawsuit due to lack of information.

  

  Oct 26, 2014 — A MINI Cooper water pump lawsuit won't see the light of day after a California federal judge dismissed the $85 million class-action lawsuit based on a lack of information. The lawsuit alleges the water pumps in model year 2007-2013 MINI Coopers have a defect that cause the pumps to fail, yet BMW didn't inform customers of the alleged defect. Plaintiff Trish Herremans claimed her water pump failed twice, once after the warranty expired which caused her to shell ...

• Government Looks At Dodge Ram Tie-Rod Recall Process Government wants to know what took so long in the recall of Dodge Ram trucks for tie-rod problems.

  

  Oct 26, 2014 — Dodge Ram tie-rod problems will get a closer look from the government over concerns previous Ram tie-rod recalls were a jungle of mismanagement . The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a "recall query" into 971,721 model year 2003-2012 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 trucks to look into the potential of the left tie-rod ball stud to break and cause a loss of steering. After Chrysler ordered technical service bulletins and recalls ...

• Takata Air Bag Lawsuit On The Way Over Exploding Inflators Takata air bag lawsuit being researched over exploding air bags.

  

  Oct 24, 2014 — A Takata air bag lawsuit is on the way over air bags exploding from faulty metal inflators that can rupture and kill occupants at the very second an air bag should protect occupants. Hagens Berman, the law firm that took on Toyota over unintended acceleration , will file a class-action lawsuit against air bag manufacturer Takata after the recall of millions of vehicles. The Takata air bag lawsuit will allege a cover-up caused millions of vehicles to be ...

• Takata Exploding Air Bags Allegedly Linked to 4 Deaths Four deaths possibly linked to exploding Takata air bags in Honda cars.

  

  Oct 24, 2014 — As air bag manufacturer Takata faces a probable class-action lawsuit over exploding air bags , a fourth person has died with wounds consistent with injuries from metal flying from an air bag. Hien Tran, 51, was involved in a Florida crash where her Honda Accord hit another car and triggered the Takata-equipped air bag in the Accord. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, paramedics saw deep cuts on the right side of Tran's neck that didn't appear to be ...

• BMW 2014 Mini Cooper MPG Values Have Been Wrong EPA will require lower fuel economy ratings on four Mini Cooper vehicles.

  

  Oct 22, 2014 — Another automaker has been nailed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for over-estimating vehicle fuel economy values. BMW will have to lower its estimated miles per gallon values on four model year 2014 BMW Mini Coopers, some by as much as four miles per gallon. The EPA conducts fuel economy testing on vehicles each year to verify government values correspond to values submitted by the automaker. The EPA calls this an "audit" that required BMW to ...

• GM Sued For $10 Billion As Automaker Approves More Death Claims Two new GM lawsuits seek $10 billion for loss of value due to defective ignition switches.

  

  Oct 21, 2014 — GM has been sued for $10 billion in two proposed class-action lawsuits that accuse the beleaguered automaker of causing a loss of value in 27 million General Motors vehicles. One lawsuit covers all GM vehicles bought or leased between July 11, 2009 and July 3, 2014. The second lawsuit covers GM vehicles purchased or leased before July 11, 2009, and only those with ignition switch defects. According to the lawsuits, GM-branded vehicles started losing value in ...

• Government Gives Air Bag Warning to Owners of 7.8 Million Vehicles U.S. government warns millions of car owners about dangers of exploding Takata air bags

  

  Oct 20, 2014 — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is warning owners who receive Takata air bag recall notices to get the vehicles immediately repaired. NHTSA says 7.8 million vehicles have air bags that can explode and send razor-sharp metal into the occupant areas. The Takata air bags have been the source of numerous recalls involving about 12 million vehicles, especially in areas where high absolute humidity can cause moisture to build in the air ...

• Dodge Ram 'Death Wobble' Lawsuit Affects 6 Ram Models Owners of 6 models of Dodge Ram trucks claim 'death wobble' linked to steering linkage.

  

  Oct 15, 2014 — A Dodge Ram "death wobble" lawsuit alleges Ram trucks wobble out of control at highway speeds to the point drivers believe they have blown out a tire. The class-action lawsuit was filed by Richard Samuel, who claims his 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 started shaking violently to the point he had to pull off the highway. The lawsuit alleges the "death wobble" happened again even after Samuel had the Ram equipped with new tires. Samuel received a recall notice on his 2007 ...

• Jeep Liberty Window Regulator Lawsuit Says Chrysler Sold Bad Parts Jeep Liberty lawsuit says windows fall into doors because of defective window regulators.

  

  Oct 14, 2014 — A Jeep Liberty window regulator class-action lawsuit will proceed even though one of the plaintiffs was accused of destroying crucial evidence. Chrysler was first sued in 2010 by plaintiff Michael Wolfington who allegedly repaired his Jeep Liberty 11 times for window regulator problems, in some cases paying $400 for each repair. Wolfington later dropped his lawsuit and joined a separate class-action lawsuit filed in April 2013. The lead plaintiff in the 2013 ...

• Ford Cracked Tailgate Class-Action Lawsuit Ongoing Ford cracked tailgate class-action lawsuit goes on after thousands of consumer complaints.

  

  Oct 13, 2014 — A consolidated Ford cracked tailgate class-action lawsuit is moving forward on claims Ford sold SUVs with tailgates that are prone to crack because of defective materials. The affected SUVs named in the cracked tailgate lawsuit are the 2002-2005 Ford Explorer, 2002-2005 Mercury Mountaineer and the 2003-2005 Lincoln Aviator. The lawsuit alleges that even though Ford sold millions of those SUVs, consumers might not have purchased the SUVs if the defect had been ...

• Infiniti InTouch App Lawsuit Alleges System Is Defective Owners of Infiniti Q50 claim in lawsuit the InTouch app doesn't work in infotainment system.

  

  Oct 12, 2014 — The Infiniti InTouch app is the target of a lawsuit that alleges the InTouch "infotainment" system is pretty much worthless in the 2014 Infiniti Q50. Lead plaintiff Leon Zingerman purchased a 2014 Infiniti Q50 with the InTouch system that is advertised as a way to use email and calendars, along with Facebook and music-related services. The InTouch system requires Infiniti owners to download the InTouch application onto their phones and to perform software ...

• Large Luxury Cars Get Mixed Results in Small Overlap Crash Test Lincoln MKS gets 'poor' rating in the frontal small overlap crash test.

  

  Oct 11, 2014 — Car crash testing is a necessary component to find out which cars are safest in certain crash situations. Although the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration performs government crash test ratings, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is typically known for more stringent testing methods. IIHS is funded by insurance companies, and if any company wants safer vehicles on the roads it's insurance companies. One of toughest tests performed by ...

• BMW Demo Car Lawsuit Given Preliminary Approval Judge says BMW demo cars were sold as new when they weren't.

  

  Oct 11, 2014 — A BMW class-action lawsuit settlement over demo cars has been preliminarily approved by a New Jersey judge. The lawsuit was filed by plaintiff Sanjay Saini who claimed BMW sold demonstration cars as new with an "ultimate warranty" but didn't tell consumers the cars were demo cars. Saini purchased the 2011 BMW 335d from a BMW dealership in Virginia believing the car was brand new with the full four-year warranty. Saini was in for a surprise when he took the ...

• Mazda Lawsuit Filed After Complaints of Melting and Shiny Dashboards Lawsuit alleges Mazda3 and Mazda6 dashboards melt in the sun and are so shiny they blind drivers.

  

  Oct 8, 2014 — Mazda Motor Corp. will have to answer if the 2009-2011 Mazda3 and Mazda6 have dashboards that melt in the sunlight and cause occupants to be blinded due to a reflection from the dashboard. Two Mazda owners have filed a class-action lawsuit alleging material used in the dashboards is prone to failure in direct sunlight. The lawsuit alleges the problem is so bad the dashboard should be classified as a safety defect because of how shiny the dashboard becomes over ...

• Toyota Tacoma Rusted Frames Lawsuit Filed in Arkansas Class-action lawsuit filed after complaints of rusted frames in older Toyota Tacoma trucks.

  

  Oct 7, 2014 — Days after Toyota recalled 690,000 Tacoma trucks because of corrosion on the rear suspension leaf springs, an Arkansas man has filed a class-action lawsuit against Toyota over rusted Tacoma frames. Plaintiff Ryan Burns claims model year 2005-2009 Tacoma trucks have frames that are likely to rust and cause owners to spend their own money to correct the problem. The lawsuit alleges Toyota refuses to acknowledge the problem as a safety defect that creates a hazard ...

• Hyundai Sonata Brake System Lawsuit Gets Partial Green Light Judge says Hyundai Sonata brake pad/rotors lawsuit can proceed on breach of warranty claims.

  

  Oct 7, 2014 — A Hyundai Sonata brake pad/rotors class-action lawsuit is still alive after a federal judge denied part of the plaintiffs' claims but retained others . Specifically, U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Karas tossed the breach of contract and unjust enrichment claims but allowed the lawsuit to proceed based on breach of warranty claims. The Sonata defective brakes lawsuit was filed in 2012 after numerous owners complained about squealing brakes in model year ...

• Fire-Breathing Counterfeit Air Bags Sold on eBay Two brothers charged with selling exploding Chinese counterfeit air bags on eBay.

  

  Oct 6, 2014 — You can buy just about anything on eBay, but can you order the latest fashion in counterfeit air bags? Apparently so, as the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Washington busted two men for selling fake air bags on the auction website. Abdul Masood Qayumi, 25, and his brother Abdul Masih Qayumi, 26, were selling the Chinese-made counterfeit air bags on eBay where any consumer could allegedly find a replacement air bag for their Honda, BMW or ...

• Mercedes-Benz Forced To Lower MPG Values on Cars EPA requires Mercedes-Benz to re-label cars with correct fuel economy values.

  

  Oct 6, 2014 — Mercedes-Benz will be forced to lower its fuel economy values that appear on the stickers of model year 2013-2014 Mercedes-Benz C300 4-matic models. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says the Mercedes-Benz FFV and PZEV have been sold with overstated mileage values since the introduction of the cars. Although the fuel economy will lower by only one mile-per-gallon, Mercedes will be required to re-label all the affected cars. When a new car is ...

• GM Sued Over Side-Saddle Gas Tanks Lawsuits accuse GM of allowing millions of dangerous older trucks to stay on the roads.

  

  Oct 2, 2014 — General Motors has been hit with two lawsuits that accuse the automaker of designing and selling trucks with deadly side-saddle gas tanks prone to fires in side-impact crashes. The lawsuits accuse GM of ignoring the dangers of installing gas tanks on the sides of model year 1973 to 1987 pickup trucks. Millions of trucks were manufactured with gas tanks on the side and located outside the frame with only the thin metal of the truck to protect the ...

• Cadillac 'Super Cruise' To Debut in 2017 Cadillac to introduce vehicle-to-vehicle technology in model year 2017 cars.

  

  Sep 30, 2014 — General Motors will release new technology called "Super Cruise" on its 2017 Cadillac cars that allow the cars to "talk" to other vehicles. Called vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications, the technology could allow vehicles to "talk" to each other in an effort to avoid crashes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration believes vehicles equipped with V2V technology will help to avoid rear-end, lane change and intersection accidents. The vehicles will ...

• Automakers Take 'Small Overlap Crash Test' Very Seriously Structural improvements to Kia Soul, Forte and VW Jetta earn the cars higher safety ratings.

  

  Sep 30, 2014 — Automakers depend on good crash-test ratings to protect passengers and avoid lawsuits, but a good rating is also a great marketing tool for selling the cars in the first place. One test that many a manufacturer has faced (and failed) is the small overlap crash test, performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The test is meant to put a strain on the occupant compartment by replicating what happens when 25 percent of a vehicle's front-end on ...

• Judge Denies BMW Motion to Dismiss Convertible Top Lawsuit Lawsuit alleges BMW 6 Series convertibles have tops that don't fully open or close.

  

  Sep 29, 2014 — A BMW 6 Series convertible class-action lawsuit won't be dismissed , despite BMW claiming it should be. A New Jersey federal judge has ruled the lawsuit can proceed based on claims model year 2004-2013 6 Series convertibles have defective retractable tops. The lawsuit was filed by BMW owner Ronald Gray, who owned two models of BMW E64 convertibles with tops that failed to completely close, and in some cases, failed to completely open. The lawsuit claims a light ...

• Audi Agrees To Settle Oil Consumption Lawsuit Owners say salespeople didn't mention excessive oil consumption in the Audi A4, A5 and Q5.

  

  Sep 28, 2014 — It's normal for a car to use oil, but owners of the Audi A4, A5 and Q5 say their oil consumption has been far from normal. Now Audi and Volkswagen have agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit about that very subject. The lawsuit alleges about 126,000 Audi vehicles have defects in the 2.0L turbocharged engines that caused the vehicles to guzzle oil. The affected vehicles are the 2009-2010 Audi A4 and Audi A5, and the 2011 Audi A4, Audi A5, and Audi Q5 with the ...

• Honda Agrees to Settle CR-V Door Lock Actuator Lawsuit Honda agrees to settle CR-V door lock lawsuit after years of complaints.

  

  Sep 27, 2014 — Honda CR-V door lock actuator complaints have flooded the internet for years, and now owners of the 2007-2011 Honda CR-V will have a little something to celebrate. Honda has agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit that alleges the door locks have a defect the automaker hid from consumers. Lead plaintiffs Scott Carter, Kevin Davitt, and Mark Tudyk purchased new Honda CR-Vs between 2007 and 2008 and started having door lock problems between 2011 and 2012. The ...

• Complaints Grow About Toyota Unintended Acceleration Events at Slow Speeds Toyota Corolla owner petitions government to investigate Toyota cars for surging at slow speeds.

  

  Sep 23, 2014 — Toyota might be facing more questions from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about unintended acceleration if a Rhode Island man gets his way. Toyota has spent years fighting allegations its cars have defects that caused accidents, injuries and deaths. Toyota has always said the problems are caused by stuck gas pedals or misplaced floor mats that trapped the gas pedals. However, in December 2013, Toyota agreed to enter talks to settle ...

• Legislators Put Safety Regulators on the Grill Over GM Failures Lawmakers accuse NHTSA of failing to protect the American driver in GM ignition switch scandal.

  

  Sep 20, 2014 — Legislators on Capital Hill had tough questions for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) over its handling of the deadly General Motors ignition switch defect . House committee members of both parties grilled David Friedman, acting deputy administrator of NHTSA, about why the agency responsible for protecting American lives spent over 10 years ignoring clear and evident problems at GM. Although legislators admitted GM should take most of ...

• GM Admits 19 Deaths Related to Defective Ignition Switches Attorney for GM compensation fund says ignition switch defect traced to 19 deaths, up from 13.

  

  Sep 17, 2014 — General Motors has finally admitted the death toll from its defective ignition switch is more than the 13 fatalities originally traced to the defect . Kenneth R. Feinberg, the attorney in charge of the GM ignition switch compensation fund, says 19 death claims have been processed and approved for payments. GM created the compensation fund after an admitted 10-year delay in ordering ignition switch recalls caused accidents, injuries and deaths. A simple bump of ...

• Toyota Highlander Liftgate Problems Cause Class-Action Lawsuit Owners says Toyota Highlander liftgate problems can cause thousands of dollars to repair.

  

  Sep 15, 2014 — Toyota has been hit with a class-action lawsuit alleging the Toyota Highlander has a rear liftgate that is defective and prone to become stuck open. Lead plaintiff Annita Emerson claims the rear liftgate in her 2009 Toyota Highlander got stuck open after the power lift arm broke and caused the hinge to bow. Repairing the liftgate meant shelling out $4,700 because the incident occurred after the 3-year/36,000 mile warranty had expired. The lawsuit alleges ...

• GM Says 2015 Chevy Corvette Has Air Bag and Brake Problems GM tells dealers they can't sell 2015 Chevy Corvette until problems are fixed.

  

  Sep 12, 2014 — Although saying it's not currently an official recall, General Motors has ordered dealers to stop selling the model year 2015 Chevy Corvette because of air bag and parking brake problems. About 2000 of the sports cars might have air bags that could fail in a crash because of a defective part that attaches the air bag to the steering wheel. GM didn't say much about the problem other than to say all sales have been halted and shipments have been stopped from the ...

• Chevy Cruze Antifreeze Leak Lawsuit Filed in New York Class-action lawsuit targets Chevy Cruze antifreeze leaks and smell.

  

  Sep 4, 2014 — After years of Chevy Cruze owners complaining about antifreeze leaks along with an overwhelming smell in the cars, a class-action lawsuit has been filed against General Motors in New York federal court. Plaintiff Sheilah Feliciano says she bought a 2011 Chevy Cruze in early 2013 and within the first month saw leaking antifreeze. On top of that, Feliciano smelled a strong smell of antifreeze in her car. The lawsuit says she repeatedly took her Cruze to a ...

• Chrysler Wants Dodge Ram Tie-Rod Lawsuit Dismissed Chrysler says lawsuit should be tossed because tie rods were repaired during recall.

  

  Sep 3, 2014 — Chrysler isn't too happy about a class-action Dodge Ram tie-rod lawsuit and wants the suit dismissed. The tie-rod lawsuit was filed earlier this year accusing Chrysler of manufacturing defective tie rods in numerous models of trucks. The plaintiffs allege the 2008-2012 Dodge Ram 2500, Ram 3500, Chassis Cab 4x2, Ram 4500 and Ram 5500 have tie-rod ball studs that can fracture and cause a loss of steering. In November 2013, Chrysler recalled 1.2 million trucks ...

• Over 100 GM Ignition Switch Death Claims Filed GM says 13 deaths linked to ignition switch defect, receives over 100 death claims for compensation.

  

  Sep 3, 2014 — General Motors says it knows of 13 deaths related to the defective ignition switch that GM ignored for 10 years. But lawyers representing GM families say that number is much higher, as evidenced by the number of death claims submitted to GM's compensation program. GM created the program for those who have lost loved ones or who have suffered injuries, with family members of those who died eligible for at least $1 million. The spouse or dependent of a deceased ...

• Auto Customer Satisfaction Reaches 5-Year Low in 2014 Report shows decline in customer satisfaction among major automakers.

  

  Sep 3, 2014 — The auto industry isn't exactly known for perfect customer satisfaction scores, as seen in the numerous complaints submitted to CarComplaints.com. Now the newest results from the American Customer Satisfaction Index ( ACSI ) confirm what many suspected: Consumers are increasingly dissatisfied with their cars. The ACSI tracks vehicles purchased within the past three years and the 2014 report shows recalls do impact the satisfaction of car owners. Owners who had ...

• Dodge Dart Transmission Class-Action Lawsuit Filed in California Lawsuit alleges 2013-2014 Dodge Darts have defective manual transmissions that cause engine stall.

  

  Sep 2, 2014 — When you buy a new car you expect it will be free of defects, but a California couple claim that didn't happen with their Dodge Dart. Joshua and Marta Hardt have filed a class-action lawsuit against Chrysler alleging the 2013-2014 Dodge Dart has transmission problems that are a risk to safety. The lawsuit claims the plaintiffs noticed a problem with the manual transmission six months after buying the Dart. The Hardts took the Dart to a dealer after the car ...

• Mazda Engine Valve / Timing Chain Lawsuit Filed Class-action lawsuit accuses Mazda of hiding engine valve defect in L-series engines.

  

  Aug 31, 2014 — Mazda is facing a class-action lawsuit that accuses the automaker of defective continuous variable valve timing assemblies in its L-series engines. The lawsuit claims Mazda knew the L-series engines had defective valves in 2007 when the automaker sent a technical service bulletin to dealers. However, the lawsuit says Mazda never warned consumers of the defect. The alleged variable valve timing assembly defect can cause the timing chain to detach and destroy the ...

• Judge Says Chrysler TIPM Class-Action Lawsuit Can Move Forward Chrysler wanted TIPM class-action lawsuit dismissed, federal judge says no way.

  

  Aug 28, 2014 — A federal judge has partially dashed the hopes of Chrysler that a class-action lawsuit would be dismissed over defective total integrated power modules. The lawsuit accuses Chrysler of selling numerous models with TIPMs that can cause failure of the engines to start, fuel pumps that won't shut off and engines to stall. The vehicles named in the lawsuit include the following: 2011-2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2011-2012 Dodge Durango 2010-2014 Dodge ...

• Driving a Recalled Car That Was Never Fixed? Now You'll Know New search tool allows you to use your VIN and know if your car was recalled but not repaired.

  

  Aug 22, 2014 — For the first time since the invention of the automobile, consumers can use a free online government tool to find out if a motorcycle, car or truck has been recalled but never repaired. All you'll need is the vehicle identification number (VIN) that you can find in the lower left dash area under the vehicle's windshield. The 17-digit number can also be found on your registration card or in some cases your insurance card, and inside the driver’s door. When you ...

• Honda Upgrades 2015 Honda Fit Front Bumpers To Pass Crash Test 2015 Honda Fit now a 'Top Safety Pick' after automaker strengthened front bumper.

  

  Aug 22, 2014 — In a sign of the seriousness of crash-test results performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Honda will make alterations to the front bumpers of 12,000 model year 2015 Honda Fit subcompact cars. IIHS is funded by insurance companies and known for performing crash tests that are more stringent than the U.S. government. One of those tests is the small overlap frontal crash test that replicates what happens when 25 percent of a vehicle's front end ...

• When Will Chrysler Do Something About Defective TIPMs? Center for Auto Safety petitions government to investigate defective Chrysler TIPMs.

  

  Aug 22, 2014 — The influential Center for Auto Safety (CAS) has petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to open an investigation into failures of Totally Integrated Power Modules (TIPMs) in Chrysler vehicles. CAS names the affected vehicles as the 2007-2015 Chrysler Grand Voyager, Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Durango, Dodge Journey, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Ram Cargo Van, Dodge Nitro, Dodge Ram 1500, Dodge Ram 2500, Dodge Ram 3500, Dodge Ram ...

• Only One Small Car Out of 12 Rates "Good" In Crash Test Small overlap front crash test claims more victims in the small car category.

  

  Aug 19, 2014 — The small overlap crash test performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has claimed more victims, this time in the small car category. The test is conducted by replicating what happens when the front corner of a car collides with another vehicle or object. It's more demanding than a head-on crash test because the small overlap test makes 25 percent of a car's front-end on the driver's side hit a rigid barrier at 40 mph. The test is harsh ...

• Mercedes-Benz Must Fix S-Class Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Government says Mercedes tire pressure monitoring warning lights violate federal safety rules.

  

  Aug 19, 2014 — Did Henry Ford foresee the red tape an automaker must go through to get or keep a car on an American road? Not a chance. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has safety hoops galore that an automaker must jump through when manufacturing a vehicle, and that applies to foreign companies as well as American. Mercedes-Benz recently discovered that fact after petitioning NHTSA for an exemption to a federal safety rule about tire pressure ...

• Toyota Agrees To Fix Camry Hybrid Brake Problems Toyota to perform a "limited service campaign" to replace Camry Hybrid brake reservoir.

  

  Aug 17, 2014 — People who have complained about brake problems in the Toyota Camry Hybrid should be happy to hear Toyota is at least acknowledging the problem, somewhat. About seven months after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into braking problems , Toyota announced a "limited service campaign" to replace the brake reservoir. NHTSA opened the investigation into model year 2007-2008 Toyota Camry Hybrids after complaints ...

• Tesla Upgrades Model S Warranty to 8 Years and "Infinite" Miles Tesla Model S drive unit warranty upgraded to match battery pack warranty

  

  Aug 17, 2014 — A report from Consumer Reports magazine apparently got the attention of electric automaker Tesla after the magazine said the Tesla Model S had more than its share of problems. The magazine purchased a Model S anonymously in 2013 at a cost of $89,650. That same year Consumer Reports talked highly of the Model S, but recently complained the car experienced problems with the outside door handles, trunk latch and it had a few electrical problems. The problematic ...

• Hyundai Santa Fe Class-Action Lawsuit Filed Over Stalling Engines Owners claim engines stall at any speed in the 2010-2012 Hyundai Santa Fe.

  

  Aug 11, 2014 — A Hyundai Santa Fe class-action lawsuit has been filed alleging the engine can stall at any speed and leave a driver out of control of the SUV. Plaintiffs Julia Reniger and Greg Battaglia claim model year 2010-2012 Hyundai Santa Fe crossover SUVs have the stalling defect and Hyundai waited years to admit the problem. The lawsuit alleges any Santa Fe owner who complained to Hyundai was told nothing was wrong with the SUV, the dealer couldn't replicate the ...

• Hyundai Genesis Brake Fluid Defect Will Cost Hyundai $17.35 Million Hyundai agrees to pay $17.35 million for failing to recall Hyundai Genesis.

  

  Aug 10, 2014 — In October 2013, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into brake problems in model year 2009 Hyundai Genesis cars. Hours later Hyundai recalled over 27,000 of those cars to replace the brake fluid . NHTSA says that Genesis recall came too late, $17.35 million too late. That's the amount Hyundai has agreed to pay for failing to report a safety-related defect to NHTSA within five days. NHTSA imposed the $17.35 ...

• Recall Notices Haunt Family of GM Victim, Ben Hair GM keeps sending recall notices to deceased ignition switch victim, Ben Hair.

  

  Aug 6, 2014 — While much of the media attention has been focused on recalls , investigations and lawsuits over the General Motors defective ignition switch, behind those news topics are real people affected by GM's failures. By its current count, the automaker estimates 54 accidents and 13 deaths tied to ignition switches that can move out of the "run" position and turn off the engine. Having the engine suddenly shut off at 65 mph can lead to disastrous results, including no ...

• Toyota and Lexus Lawsuit Filed Over Melting Dashboards Toyota and Lexus owners claim melting dashboards become sticky, shiny and cracked.

  

  Aug 4, 2014 — After years of complaints about melting dashboards in Lexus and Toyota vehicles, two Lexus owners have filed a class-action lawsuit against Lexus and its parent company, Toyota Motor Corporation. The Lexus melting dashboards class-action lawsuit, filed by the Ferraro Law Firm in Miami, alleges heat and sunlight can cause the dashboards to be sticky, shiny and cracked to the point of being hazardous to driving. The lawsuit says Toyota issued a technical ...

• No Recall For Saturn Outlook/GMC Acadia Headlight Failures Government says petition denied concerning headlight failures in the Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia.

  

  Aug 4, 2014 — After waiting over two years to respond, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has denied a petition to officially investigate or recall 248,000 model year 2007-2009 Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadias for headlight failures. NHTSA says it received 473 complaints about one or both headlights going out, with many owners saying the head lamp wiring harness sustained damage from overheating . Out of those 473 complaints, NHTSA found: 69 ...

• Should CarMax Fix Recalled Used Cars Before Selling Them? Petition seeks to block CarMax from selling used cars unless safety recall repairs have been made.

  

  Aug 3, 2014 — What do you get when you buy a used car that has passed a "50-point inspection" before the sale? What about a 125+ point inspection? According to eleven consumer and safety organizations, those inspections should mean the cars have been repaired if they've been recalled for safety defects. However, in a petition filed with the Federal Trade Commission, the Center for Auto Safety, Consumers Union and nine other organizations accused CarMax of selling defective ...

• Chrysler Class-Action Lawsuit Filed Over Jeep Ignition Switch Move over GM. Chrysler sued over defective Jeep ignition switch.

  

  Aug 2, 2014 — It was only a matter of time, and the time has come for Chrysler to be on the receiving end of a class-action lawsuit over defective ignition switches. General Motors has cornered that market for the past several months as it's faced investigations, recalls and numerous lawsuits about deadly ignition switch failures . Chrysler recently recalled 792,000 model year 2006-2007 Jeep Commander and 2005-2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs because a bump to the key could ...

• Kia Lawsuit Alleges Cars Still Have Defective Brake Light Switches Class-action lawsuit claims Kia ignored cars with defective brake light switches.

  

  Jul 30, 2014 — Kia Motors America, Inc. has faced a $185 million settlement over inflated mileage claims, a lawsuit over exploding gas tanks , and now a class-action lawsuit over an allegedly defective brake switch. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, claims Kia hid the defective brake switch in some models while acknowledging the defect in other vehicles. Lead plaintiff William Precht purchased a new 2011 Kia Sportage and ...

• Cadillac Dealers Ordered to Stop Selling CTS and SRX GM has no idea how to fix ignition switch defects in the Cadillac CTS and SRX.

  

  Jul 21, 2014 — Don't expect to purchase a 2003-2014 Cadillac CTS or 2004-2006 SRX any time soon, as General Motors has told dealers to stop selling those models. The stop-sale was ordered because GM doesn't have a "fix" for the cars which can be shut down by simply bumping a knee against the ignition key. The 554,000 cars were recalled in June after GM employees shut off the engine three times by bumping the ignition key in a 2012 Cadillac CTS. As with the millions of GM ...

• 'Hide No Harm Act' Could Send Auto Execs to Prison Hide No Harm Act could hold corporate executives responsible for hiding safety defects.

  

  Jul 21, 2014 — In the wake of the General Motors scandal of hiding known ignition switch defects for over 10 years, U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), has introduced a bill called the Hide No Harm Act. The legislation would allegedly hold corporate executives criminally responsible for hiding safety problems that could cause injuries or deaths. While many corporate execs have faced jail time over theft or embezzlement, hiding a defective product won't get a corporate ...

• Texas Woman Wants Pardon in Deadly Saturn Ion Crash Candice Anderson was convicted in deadly crash now linked to GM ignition switch defect.

  

  Jul 21, 2014 — Most owners affected by the General Motors defective ignition switch recalls will only have to go through the trouble of making a dealer appointment and waiting to have their cars repaired. An inconvenience for sure, but for some GM owners their lives have been affected by defective GM cars in ways much larger than a simple inconvenience. One of those owners is Texas resident Candice Anderson, who lived years believing her actions caused the death of her ...

• Chrysler Lawsuit Filed After Jeep Grand Cherokee Fire Chrysler lawsuit alleges location of gas tank caused Jeep Grand Cherokee to explode in crash.

  

  Jul 19, 2014 — Two California brothers have filed a lawsuit against Chrysler after suffering severe burns in a Jeep Grand Cherokee fire. On April 5, 2014, plaintiffs Magdaleno and Raymundo Sanchez were traveling in a 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee when the Jeep was struck from behind by a 2011 Honda Accord. The impact caused the Grand Cherokee gas tank to catch fire and within seconds the Jeep was engulfed in flames. With the seats burning and fire all around, the brothers got ...

• Jeep Trailer Hitch "Fix" Will Take 2 Years to Complete Chrysler FINALLY ready to fix Jeep Liberty and Grand Cherokee SUVs with trailer hitch.

  

  Jul 17, 2014 — Owners of 1.5 million Jeeps might finally have their vehicles equipped with a trailer hitch to allegedly protect the rear gas tanks from exploding in a crash. The dangerous soap opera began over four years ago when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into model year 1993-1998 Grand Cherokees and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty SUVs. After years of complaints, NHTSA wanted to know if the placement of the gas tank could cause ...

• Subaru Class-Action Lawsuit Targets Excessive Oil Consumption Owners claim Subaru cars burn oil because of defective piston rings.

  

  Jul 17, 2014 — A class-action lawsuit against Subaru claims some of its most popular models burn oil at an expensive and excessive rate. The lawsuit, filed in a New Jersey federal court, alleges the cars are defective because the piston rings wear out early and can cause engine failure while on the road. The class-action lawsuit names the cars as the: 2011-2014 Subaru Forester (2.5L) 2013 Subaru Legacy (2.5L) 2013 Subaru Outback (2.5L) 2012-2013 Subaru ...

• Ford Lawsuit Claims Steering Defects in Ford Fusion and Focus Cars Ford lawsuit alleges defects in power steering, gear assembly and sensors.

  

  Jul 17, 2014 — Safety features on cars are supposed to improve safety, but a class-action lawsuit against Ford says that just doesn't happen in model year 2010-2014 Ford Fusion and 2012-2014 Ford Focus cars. Filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, the plaintiffs allege Ford knows the power steering system is defective in the cars. Based on court documents, the plaintiffs claim the power steering system is advertised with a feature that helps ...

• Hack a Tesla Model S, Win A Prize Hackers compete for $10,000 prize to control a Tesla Model S remotely.

  

  Jul 16, 2014 — Hackers are known for breaking into all types of computerized toys. That's what hackers do. The common desktop and laptop computer might be the most popular target, but all that is starting to change as our vehicles become computers on wheels. Having your computer hacked can seriously ruin your day, but having your car hacked while driving could seriously ruin your life. With the U.S. government wanting cars connected to talk to each other and to surrounding ...

• Toyota Fuel-Cell Car Faces Government Hurdles Toyota petitions government asking for safety exemption for a fuel-cell hydrogen car.

  

  Jul 4, 2014 — While many automakers focus attention and research on electric or hybrid vehicles, Toyota believes the cars of the future will be fuel-cell cars that run on hydrogen. Unlike electric cars, a fuel-cell car doesn't require an electrical outlet to charge the car. While electric motors are used to move a fuel-cell car, the electricity for the motors is created by hydrogen gas and the use of special platinum plates. New technology can face government hurdles ...

• GM Sued Over Allegedly Wrong Window Sticker Safety Ratings GM class-action lawsuit filed over allegedly wrong window sticker safety ratings.

  

  Jul 1, 2014 — One of the first things a car buyer will check on a dealer lot is the window sticker on the car. The sticker, known as a Monroney sticker, gives details about the car, from pricing to optional equipment. Automakers also proudly display safety ratings on window stickers, especially if the vehicle has received 5-star ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A good safety rating from NHTSA can mean the difference between the car ...

• GM Ignition Switch Compensation Fund Open August 1, 2014 Accepting GM's money means giving up the right to sue over ignition switch defect.

  

  Jul 1, 2014 — While GM is facing dozens of lawsuits over defective ignition switches, the automaker has created a compensation fund for victims of GM's deadly 10-year delay in recalling millions of cars. In what could cost GM billions of dollars, the program will be for those who have lost loved ones or who have suffered injuries, with family members of those who died eligible for at least $1 million. The spouse or dependent of a deceased victim will qualify for an ...

• Ford Dealers Told How to Fix Rough Idle and Rattle Noise Ford issues technical service bulletin to dealers about how to fix rough idle and rattle noise.

  

  Jun 29, 2014 — Ford engineers might have finally found what has been causing complaints about rough idling and vibrations in certain vehicles equipped with 5.4-liter V-8 engines. The automaker has issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) to dealers about the 2004-2010 Ford F-150, 2006-2008 Lincoln Mark LT, and the 2005-2013 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs. A TSB isn't a recall that will require Ford contact affected vehicle owners to have their vehicles ...

• GM Sued After Woman Blinded by Chevy Cruze Air Bag General Motors sued by Georgia woman after her Chevy Cruze air bag exploded in her face.

  

  Jun 28, 2014 — A Georgia woman has sued General Motors after claiming her 2013 Chevy Cruze air bag exploded and blinded her in one eye. Brandi Owens, of Forsyth County, Georgia, filed the lawsuit after claiming she was driving in stop-and-go traffic when she rear-ended another car at a very slow speed. The October, 2013, accident caused the air bag to explode to the point of detaching from the steering wheel. Owens was struck in the face and suffered a rupture to her left ...

• Ford Explorer Carbon Monoxide Lawsuit Filed Lawsuit says 2013 Ford Explorer sickens people because of carbon monoxide exhaust fumes.

  

  Jun 22, 2014 — A Florida woman has filed a Ford Explorer carbon monoxide lawsuit against Ford alleging her 2013 Ford Explorer is making her and her 5-year-old daughter sick. Angela Sanchez-Knutson, 34, alleges she took her Ford Explorer to a dealer eight times because of smelling exhaust fumes inside the SUV, but the dealer had no answers. The lawsuit claims the Ford mechanics could smell the fumes but denied it would harm anyone, even though Sanchez-Knutson says her and her ...

• BMW Sued After Heat Stroke Death of Graciela Martinez Lawsuit claims BMW 328i has dangerous defect that locks children in cars.

  

  Jun 18, 2014 — BMW North America is the target of a lawsuit that alleges a 14-year-old California girl died as the result of a “double-locking mechanism” that made it impossible to open the locked car doors from the inside. The lawsuit was filed by the family of Graciela Martinez, 14, who died from heat stroke and hyperthermia while locked inside a 1997 BMW 328i. Graciela had arrived at school with her sister and brother in the BMW but decided to take a nap before her first ...

• General Motors Flushes Another $420,000 Down the Drain General Motors fined $420,000 over ignition switch failures.

  

  Jun 16, 2014 — People might still be buying cars from General Motors, but GM is doing its part to throw out money as fast as it comes in. GM had been paying a daily fine of $7,000 to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a delay in answering questions about defective ignition switches. NHTSA had submitted 107 questions to GM about its failure to recall millions of cars with a defect traced to numerous deaths and accidents. GM didn't respond to all the ...

• Ford To Reimburse Owners Over False Mileage Ratings Ford overstates fuel economy ratings on six popular models.

  

  Jun 14, 2014 — Most consumers buy a hybrid car for the alleged fuel savings it can bring compared to a standard gas-powered car. EPA stickers on hybrid cars are typically the first thing a buyer checks when shopping for a car, but just how accurate are those MPG claims? According to Ford, not very accurate at all, at least for some of their hybrid models. Ford has announced it will lower the fuel economy ratings for its model year 2013-2014 hybrid and plug-in hybrid ...

• General Motors Report Shows Nothing "New" About the New GM Ignition switch defect report shows GM as a company hiding from its safety responsibilities.

  

  Jun 5, 2014 — In a 325-page report on the reasons why General Motors took 10 years to recall millions of cars with a safety defect, example after example pointed to complete failures of GM to clearly see evidence right in front of its face. Anton Valukas, a former federal prosecutor hired by GM to find out what went wrong, said everyone at GM had a responsibility to fix the problem. Instead, nobody took any responsibility. The report shows a company hell-bent on cutting ...

• GM Sends Recall Notices To Families of Deceased Accident Victims Families of ignition switch defect fatalities receive recall notices from General Motors.

  

  Jun 3, 2014 — In a year full of cover-ups and colossal mistakes, this has to be GM’s most cringe-worthy move. According to a report from Reuters , GM mailed out recall notices to families who lost loved ones in ignition switch defect related crashes, in some cases nine years after the accident. This happened despite most of these cars having been destroyed. One grieving family received multiple recall notices even though they had moved to a new state to escape the pain of ...

• Volkswagen Jetta Door Wiring Harness Lawsuit Almost Final VW Jetta door wiring harness lawsuit says defective harness can cause window and door lock problems.

  

  May 28, 2014 — Owners of the 2005-2006 Volkswagen Jetta have complained for years about defective door wiring harness assemblies that cause failures of the door locks and windows. Some owners have alleged the wiring harness can cause additional electrical problems with the trunk and alarm system. Here's a few complaints submitted to CarComplaints.com about the 2006 VW Jetta wiring harness problems . "Poor design should be a recall. Wiring harness is too damn short. ...

• Preventing Child Heat Stroke in Cars Don't depend on products made to prevent child heat stroke in cars.

  

  May 27, 2014 — Summer heat always brings government warnings about the serious danger of leaving a child in a hot car, whether intentionally or unintentionally. According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA,) over 527 children under age 14 have died of heat stroke in cars since 1998. About 75 percent of the fatalities were children under two years old. When most people think of leaving a child in a hot car, images of negligent ...

• Hyundai Calls $248 Million Tiburon Steering Knuckle Verdict 'Outrageous' Jury finds Hyundai Tiburon steering knuckle defect caused deaths of three people.

  

  May 19, 2014 — Hyundai said it will appeal what it calls an "outrageous" verdict of $248 million in a Montana court case involving the deaths of three people. Hyundai was sued after a July 2011 crash of a 2005 Hyundai Tiburon that crossed the center line of U.S. Highway 93 and struck another vehicle. The lawsuit claimed the Tiburon, driven by 19-year-old Trevor Olson, went out of control because a defective steering knuckle broke and caused the head-on crash. The accident ...

• Chevy Silverado Rusted Brake Lines Ignored by GM and NHTSA Four years later, Chevy truck owners still wait for answers to rusted brake lines.

  

  May 18, 2014 — Ask the owner of an older Chevy Silverado about rusted brake lines and you'll likely get an earful of "advice" about General Motors and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It's been four years since NHTSA opened an investigation into rusted and corroded brake lines in 6 million trucks and SUVs, including the Chevy Silverado. NHTSA opened its preliminary investigation in March 2010, which focused on popular GM trucks and SUVs, including the ...

• GM's '4-Letter Words' No Employee Should Ever Use GM employees were told not to use these words when writing reports.

  

  May 17, 2014 — No company wants an employee to say something to the media that would intentionally, or unintentionally, make the company look bad. Even words used in internal company memos could come back and haunt the company in a court case. Most reasonable people would agree, but what if the company is a huge automaker where using the word "safety" is a no-no? According to internal documents related to the congressional investigation of General Motors, the automaker issued ...

• Family of Brooke Melton Re-File Cobalt Ignition Switch Lawsuit Re-filed lawsuit claims GM lied in court about death of Cobalt driver Brooke Melton.

  

  May 12, 2014 — The parents of 29-year-old Brooke Melton have first-hand knowledge about the consequences of GM's failure to recall millions of cars with a known safety defect. Melton, of Hiram, Georgia, was killed in 2010 when her 2005 Chevy Cobalt crashed on a rainy night after it went out of control and was hit by another vehicle. Melton had complained about the car shutting down and losing all steering and braking control four days before the accident. In the first ...

• Lawsuit Dismissed Against Volkswagen Over Audi Q7 Brake Problems Federal judge says Volkswagen held to their end of the warranty, case dismissed.

  

  May 10, 2014 — In a case that shows what it means to read and understand the small print in a warranty, a federal judge has dismissed a class-action lawsuit against Volkswagen about allegedly defective brakes. In Speier-Roche v. Volkswagen Group of America Inc. et al ., plaintiff Sandra Speier-Roche claimed the brakes and rotors on her 2007 Audi Q7 were defective and needed constant replacement. Other drivers have complained about the same problems in the 2007 Audi Q7, ...

• Senator Puts Blame on GM and NHTSA For Fatalities Senator Markey says GM and NHTSA knew ignition switch defect was linked to Wisconsin fatalities.

  

  May 8, 2014 — Senator Ed Markey, D-Mass., says GM documents prove GM and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) knew a defective ignition switch caused air bags to fail in a fatal Wisconsin crash. The Chevy Cobalt accident killed two teens and was investigated in 2007 by an independent contractor and the Wisconsin State Patrol Academy. The reports showed the accident was linked to a failure of the air bags because the ignition switch was not in the "run" ...

• Should Car Side-View Cameras Replace Side Mirrors? Tesla and auto alliance group petition government to allow side-view cameras on cars.

  

  May 4, 2014 — If you read investigations and recalls announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA,) you'll see many caused by electronic or software problems in the affected vehicles. Cars are an intricate web of wiring, sensors and software that can fail and cause a trip to the dealer. An average vehicle has about 60 microprocessors and over 10 million lines of software code. And chances are, you'll be forced to visit a dealer for repairs as shade ...

• Two Midsize SUVs Do Well in Small Overlap Crash Test Finally, some good news for GM as two models earn good score in demanding crash test.

  

  May 1, 2014 — If there is one crash test most automakers dread it's the small overlap test performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS,) a nonprofit auto safety organization funded by insurance companies. The test is considered more stringent than head-on crash tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and more difficult than other IIHS tests. The test is important because it replicates something that happens in many real-world ...

• Porsche Settles Cayenne Plastic Coolant Pipes Lawsuit Owners of Porsche Cayennes win class-action lawsuit over defective cooling pipes.

  

  Apr 30, 2014 — Porsche has agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit involving over 42,000 U.S. owners of model year 2003 to 2006 Porsche Cayennes. The lawsuit had been consolidated from eight proposed lawsuits that accused Porsche of using defective plastic cooling tubes that fractured and caused damage to the engine. The plaintiffs alleged Porsche knew the affected Cayennes had problems with the plastic tubes but failed to inform customers. Porsche argued the tubes failed ...

• GM Taking Heat to Issue 'Park-it-Now' Warning Over Ignition Switch Defect Two U.S. senators ask Department of Transportation to step into GM ignition switch fiasco.

  

  Apr 29, 2014 — General Motors probably thought it dodged a bullet when a U.S. judge ruled the automaker didn't have to issue a "park-it-now" warning to customers of GM's defective ignition switch . The lawsuit claimed the ignition switch defect had already caused at least 13 deaths and numerous injuries , therefore GM should issue a notice to keep all the affected cars off the roads. If granted, the order would have kept the cars parked until GM performed the required ...

• General Motors Facing 60 Pending Class-Action Lawsuits General Motors target of 60 lawsuits, five government investigations, and dropping profits.

  

  Apr 25, 2014 — General Motors is in more trouble than most of us thought, at least according to its regulatory filing that admitted GM is facing about 60 pending class-action lawsuits related to an ignition switch defect . The disclosure shows 55 class-action lawsuits filed in the U.S. and five in Canada. The lawsuits focus on an ignition switch that can move out of the "run" position just by having items on a key ring. The affected cars include the:  2003-2007 Saturn ...

• MyFord Touch Lawsuit In Limbo As Ford Files Motion to Dismiss Ford wants MyFord Touch class-action lawsuit dismissed.

  

  Apr 25, 2014 — Angry owners of the MyFord Touch, MyLincoln Touch and MyMercury Touch "infotainment" systems are awaiting their day in court as Ford fights to have a nationwide class-action lawsuit dismissed . The lawsuit claims the system not only contains defects that keep it from operating as advertised, but is a danger to the safe operation of the vehicle. In its motion to dismiss, Ford claims the lawsuit is without merit because none of the plaintiffs alleged their ...

• Mazda Class-Action Lawsuit Filed in California Class-action lawsuit claims Mazda RX-8 has engine flooding problems.

  

  Apr 24, 2014 — The owner of a 2004 Mazda RX-8 says she has had so many problems with her car the only way she knows to get it fixed is to file a class-action lawsuit. And that's exactly what Christina Paschal did in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. Paschal, represented by Knapp Petersen & Clarke and attorney Robert L. Starr , claims her RX-8 had numerous engine flooding problems before the engine finally failed. The lawsuit says Mazda knows ...

• GM Waited Years to Recall Deadly Saturn Ion Steering Defect GM and NHTSA in more hot water for failure to recall Saturn Ions with power steering defect.

  

  Apr 20, 2014 — General Motors is just about running on empty after the negative publicity over its failure to recalls millions of cars with a known safety defect. GM has been playing defense since customers realized they were driving cars with an ignition switch that could turn off from a minor bump in the road . While facing questions from congressional leaders about GM's lack of leadership, GM announced a recall of 1.3 million cars for power steering problems . That brought ...

• Jeep Owners Still Wait for Trailer-Hitch Fix Jeep owners wait for trailer-hitch fix, 10 months after recall, 4 years after investigation.

  

  Apr 15, 2014 — It's been four years since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into rear-impact fires in several models of Jeep vehicles. At one point almost five million model year 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 1993-2001 Jeep Cherokee, and 2002-2007 Jeep Libertys were involved. Chrysler repeatedly claimed the Jeeps were safe, while the Center for Auto Safety said the location of the gas tank had caused 478 crash-related ...

• Chrysler Class-Action Lawsuit Targets Truck Tie-Rod Problems Lawsuit says Ram trucks have lost value because of tie-rod problems.

  

  Apr 11, 2014 — Chrysler has been hit with a class-action lawsuit that claims tie rods can break in numerous models of trucks and cause a total loss of steering. The lawsuit names the trucks as the 2008-2012 Dodge Ram 2500, Ram 3500, Chassis Cab 4x2, as well as the Ram 4500 and 5500 models. The focus of the lawsuit is the left tie-rod ball stud that can fracture causing a loss of steering. In November 2013, Chrysler recalled 1.2 million trucks over the same complaints , ...

• Class-Action Lawsuit Accuses GM of Securities Fraud GM faces lawsuit claiming the automaker violated federal securities laws.

  

  Apr 10, 2014 — General Motors has lawsuits piling up over the failure to recall cars with an ignition switch defect , and now comes a lawsuit related to federal securities laws. The lawsuit, filed in a U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Michigan, claims GM and some of its officers made false and/or misleading statements about GM's business operations. The lawsuit specifically alleges: 1. GM was in breach of industry and government regulations and policies ...

• GM Fined $7,000 a Day For Missing Ignition Switch Deadline Government fines GM for failing to answer 107 questions about ignition switch defect.

  

  Apr 8, 2014 — General Motors has been fined $28,000 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for missing an April 3 deadline to answer 107 questions about GM's failure to recall over 2.5 million vehicles with a defective ignition switch.  NHTSA says GM will keep incurring a $7,000 per day fine until the questions are answered. All the questions concern GM's decision to wait 10 years to recall millions of cars with an ignition switch that could easily ...

• Toyota Oil Consumption Lawsuit Filed Toyota oil consumption lawsuit targets some of Toyota's biggest models.

  

  Apr 8, 2014 — A Toyota oil consumption lawsuit has been filed on behalf of consumers in California, Florida, Washington, New York and New Jersey. The plaintiffs, represented by Richard D. McCune, Jr. of McCuneWright LLP , claim Toyota knew certain vehicles equipped with 2AZ-FE engines have a defect that causes oil consumption at a rapid rate. The Toyota vehicles cited in the lawsuit include the following: 2007 – 2011 Camry Hybrid 2007 – 2009 Camry 2009 ...

• Safety Group Wants Investigation Into 143 GM Fatalities Petition wants government to investigate air bag failures in Chevy Impalas.

  

  Apr 7, 2014 — General Motors hasn't looked too good in the media lately, and rightfully so. But the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) isn't doing too well in the public relations category, either. The auto safety advocacy group Center for Auto Safety (CAS) wants to know why NHTSA has ignored a defect petition to investigate alleged air bag failures in model year 2003-2010 Chevrolet Impalas. The petition was filed by accident investigator Don Friedman ...

• Rear-View Cameras Will Be Mandatory in U.S. in 2018 After years of delays, every vehicle under 10,000 pounds must have a rear-view camera in 2018.

  

  Apr 1, 2014 — After years of discussions and delays, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today issued a rule requiring rear-view technology in all new vehicles manufactured on or after May 1, 2018. NHTSA said the rule applies to all vehicles under 10,000 pounds, which includes everything from the smallest cars to trucks and buses. The rule requires the driver to see a 10-foot by 20-foot zone directly behind the vehicle. Additional requirements will ...

• GM's 57-Cent Disaster Goes Before House Subcommittee GM's CEO Mary Barra faces touch questions about 10-year delay in recalling ignition switches.

  

  Apr 1, 2014 — General Motor's new CEO, Mary Barra, faced tough questions from members of Congress on the first day of hearings that will try to discover how and why GM waited 10 years to recall millions of defective cars. A striking number popped up during the hearing when Barra was shown a faulty ignition switch. The switch, it turns out, was a 57-cent switch that caused GM to ignore clear evidence of a problem in 2005 and label a recall as " too expensive. " Barra told ...

• Emergency Motion Filed Against GM to 'Park It Now' Law firm files emergency motion demanding GM tell customers to park their cars until fixed.

  

  Mar 29, 2014 — An emergency motion filed in a Texas court wants General Motors to inform customers to park their cars if they are equipped with a defective ignition switch responsible for the recalls of 2.5 million cars. The motion indicates GM is gambling with lives by allowing customers to drive cars with a known defect traced to numerous deaths and accidents. Girard Gibbs LLP filed the emergency motion alleging GM failed to respond to warning signs about problems with the ...

• Class-Action Lawsuit Claims GM Ignition Switch Fix Isn't Enough Class-action lawsuit says GM should do more than just replace the defective ignition switch.

  

  Mar 29, 2014 — If GM management expects clear skies and smooth sailing any time soon, they might want to lower their expectations. Another class-action lawsuit has been filed over GM's ignition switch defect, this time on behalf of Pennsylvania resident Chris Shollenberger. The law firm of Chimicles & Tikellis LLP alleges the planned replacement of the ignition switch in 2.5 million GM cars isn't enough to fix the problem. The lawsuit says plaintiff Shollenberger was ...

• GM Issues Chevy Cruze Stop Sale Wanted to buy a Cruze this weekend? You're probably out of luck.

  

  Mar 28, 2014 — You know that giant hole GM has been digging themselves into lately? Yeah, it just got a bit deeper. GM has issued a stop-sale on the 2013–2014 Chevy Cruze , which means those model years can’t be sold or delivered until a specific problem has been addressed. What is it? That remains anyone’s guess at this point since GM has yet to specify the problem, but you can bet it’s pretty serious for the manufacturer to bring attention to another one of its failing ...

• New 2015 GMC Yukon Goes Up in Flames During Test Drive Brand new GMC Yukon burns to the ground during routine test drive.

  

  Mar 24, 2014 — Driving is dangerous, just ask the driver of a 2015 GMC Yukon who watched the SUV go up in flames during what should have been a routine test drive. According to KTLA-TV , no one was injured when the 2015 GMC Yukon started shooting flames from near the engine compartment. Numerous people filmed the incident on a residential street in Anaheim, Calif., that showed flames engulfing the Yukon and tires exploding as the fire spread. Firefighters told KTLA there ...

• Toyota Charged With Criminal Wire Fraud, 1.2 Billion Penalty Toyota must pay $1.2 billion for hiding the truth about sticky gas pedals.

  

  Mar 19, 2014 — Toyota has been charged with criminal wire fraud, accused of defrauding consumers by using misleading statements about safety issues in Toyota and Lexus vehicles. The charges were brought by numerous agencies, including the Attorney General of the United States, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Transportation, and the Assistant Director-in-Charge of the ...

• GM Ignition Switch Class-Action Lawsuits Begin First GM ignition switch class-action lawsuit filed, more on the way.

  

  Mar 17, 2014 — While news spreads about the most recent General Motors recall of 1,500,000 vehicles for air bag and brake problems , law firms are gearing up for legal battles over GM's "other" issue. The "other" refers to why GM waited over 10 years to recall over 1.3 million vehicles because the ignition switch could move out of the "run" position while the vehicle is moving. GM said 13 fatalities might be linked to the defect, a defect GM knew about since 2004. GM had ...

• Safety Group Accuses Government of Ignoring 303 GM Car Fatalities Center for Auto Safety says government ignored 303 deaths in recalled GM cars.

  

  Mar 14, 2014 — General Motors isn't the only organization feeling heat for the debacle of waiting over 10 years to recall 1.3 million cars. GM recalled the cars after reports of 13 front-seat fatalities and 31 accidents where the air bags didn't deploy because the ignition switch wasn't in the "run" position. The recalled cars include the 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, 2006-2007 Chevy HHR, 2006-2007 Pontiac Solstice, 2006-2007 Saturn Sky, 2005-2007 Chevy Cobalt and the 2007 Pontiac ...

• Test Time: U.S. Government Takes General Motors Back to School GM has a lot of questions to answer about delayed ignition switch recall. 107 questions.

  

  Mar 6, 2014 — General Motors might have been known as "Government Motors" after receiving billions of dollars in a government bailout, but now the government might be asking GM for $35 million for failing to follow recall regulations. U.S. safety regulators want to know why it took 10 years for GM to recall 1.3 million cars with ignition switch problems. Last month, GM recalled 780,000 model year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt and 2007 Pontiac G5 cars because the air bags could ...

• The 12 Worst Cars According to Consumer Reports Consumer Reports says you can buy these cars, but don't say you haven't been warned.

  

  Mar 5, 2014 — The disappointing dozen? That's what Consumer Reports calls the 12 worst cars based on internal Consumer Reports' testing. Actually it isn't just cars that make the worst-of list because SUVs and trucks also had the lowest test scores in recent testing. Consumer Reports says these 12 just don't make the grade and consumers can find better cars at the same prices. What causes poor test results? Let's see. Sloppy handling, engine noise, lackluster ...

• Ford Agrees to Fix 1,600,000 Cars That 'Limp Home' Electronic throttle body failures cause Ford to fix 1,600,000 cars that limp home.

  

  Mar 4, 2014 — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has closed their investigation into throttle body problems in Ford vehicles after Ford agreed to fix about 1,600,000 cars and SUV's. Apparently Ford doesn't want to call it a recall, and NHTSA says it's not a recall. Instead, they are calling it a massive "customer satisfaction program" that extends the warranty of the electronic throttle body (ETB) for up to 10 years of service or 150,000 ...

• Chrysler Sued Over Alleged 'False Park' Death Lawsuit claims Chrysler trucks have deadly "false park" defect.

  

  Mar 3, 2014 — A Colorado man has sued Chrysler claiming a transmission defect caused the death of his wife. Gil Sanders, of Arvada, Colo., claims his wife, Kari Sanders, was killed by their 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 after it experienced a "park-to-reverse" event. The lawsuit alleges that on March 13, 2013, Kari Sanders entered her garage to start the 2003 Dodge Ram 2500, then got out and left the door open. She walked to the rear of the truck and was found hours later pinned ...

• Do Side Air Bags Really Protect You in a Crash? How side and rollover air bags can decrease your odds of being killed.

  

  Mar 1, 2014 — Curtain and side air bags were created to protect occupants in near-side impacts and have been available in the U.S. since 1996. By model year 2011, 85 percent of new cars and light trucks and vans (LTVs) were equipped with curtain plus torso bags for drivers and right-front passengers. Air bags that deploy in rollover crashes began to appear in 2002 and by 2011 about 45 percent of new cars and LTVs were equipped with these bags. Types of Side Air ...

• Law Firm Investigates Toyota Excessive Oil Consumption Complaints Possible class-action lawsuit after complaints of excessive oil consumption in Toyota vehicles.

  

  Feb 27, 2014 — The law firm of Chimicles & Tikellis is investigating a possible class-action lawsuit against Toyota after complaints of excessive oil consumption in certain vehicles. The vehicles include the 2007-2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid; 2007-2009 Toyota Camry; 2009 Toyota Corolla; 2009 Toyota Matrix; 2006-2008 Toyota RAV4; 2007-2008 Toyota Solara; 2007-2009 Scion tC; and the 2008-2009 Scion xB. A Defective Design? Chimicles & Tikellis say the vehicles might contain ...

• Former NHTSA Administrator Says GM Committed 'Immoral Act' Faulty GM ignition switch gets attention of the feds.

  

  Feb 26, 2014 — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced they will look into why it took General Motors 10 years to recall cars that had a known safety defect. Those cars - the 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, 2006-2007 Chevy HHR, 2006-2007 Pontiac Solstice, 2006-2007 Saturn Sky, 2005-2007 Chevy Cobalt and the 2007 Pontiac G5 - each have an ignition switch with serious problems. GM said the switch can move out of the "run" position and cause the engine to shut off ...

• The Most American-Made Car Brand The most American-made car brand using North American parts.

  

  Feb 21, 2014 — Part of the job of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is gathering information from automakers concerning just how "American-Made" a car really is.  That's where the American Automobile Labeling Act (AALA) comes in. Before each model-year vehicle is released, automakers must calculate the amount of U.S./Canadian equipment and parts in each passenger vehicle. How the AALA Works The AALA defines a passenger vehicle as a vehicle ...

• Recall Labels Updated to Distinguish from Junk Mail Government changes recall label requirements because of junk mail confusion

  

  Feb 16, 2014 — How much junk mail do you throw out every month?  It's a daily occurrence for most of us and it's likely we sometimes throw things away we should keep.  Maybe even read. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says it doesn't do much good to mail a recall notice that is mistaken for junk mail, so starting February 18, 2014, NHTSA will require a change of the recall label used on mailed notices. Beginning the 18th, all manufacturers must use ...

• J.D. Power Study: Vehicle Problems on the Rise J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study says engine and transmission problems increased.

  

  Feb 15, 2014 — The annual J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study has been released for 2014 based on responses from more than 41,000 original owners of 2011 model year vehicles. Overall dependability is determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles. The big winners are General Motors, which received eight awards, Toyota that had seven, followed by Honda which had six segment awards. The study shows a 6 percent increase in problems from 2013, the ...

• Tesla Model S Catches Fire in Toronto Garage Investigators to determine why Tesla Model S caught fire in a Toronto garage.

  

  Feb 14, 2014 — A month after Tesla recalled almost 30,000 model year 2013 Model S cars for risk of fire, a Toronto homeowner says his Tesla caught fire in his garage. Last month Tesla recalled the Model S because a fire could occur in the charger or wall outlet. That caused Tesla to argue what should be labeled a "recall" because all Tesla did to "fix" the problem was send an electronic software update and mail a replacement adapter. Now come the questions of what caused ...

• Volkswagen Settles $69 Million Lawsuit Over Leaking Sunroofs Volkswagen class-action lawsuit settled after six-year fight.

  

  Feb 12, 2014 — It's taken six years, but owners of Volkswagen and Audi vehicles who complained about leaking sunroofs will finally get some relief.  The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit has approved a $69 million settlement stemming from a class-action lawsuit that started in 2007. In 2007, two class-action lawsuits were filed against Volkswagen alleging certain Volkswagen and Audi vehicles had defects in the design of the sunroofs.  According to the lawsuits, ...

• Why You Should Beware of Car Dealer Ads Federal and state authorities cracking down on deceptive car dealer advertisements.

  

  Feb 11, 2014 — Used car dealers have one of the worst reputations of any industry, and lately that has been for good reason.  Used car dealers have such a bad rap they removed the word "used" from their marketing technique. Instead of selling a used car they now sell "pre-owned" cars.  A nicer phrase that can still mean, "this car has been driven to hell and back and now the owner doesn't want the pile of junk." And then there are those radio and TV advertisements where the ...

• Flashing Headlights to Warn Drivers of Speed Traps Can you be arrested for flashing your headlights to warn oncoming drivers of police radar?

  

  Feb 10, 2014 — Do you flash your headlights to warn drivers of a speed trap?  Have you been careful to make sure no cops are around to see it, thinking you might be busted if caught? Two recent legal cases have tackled that very issue of warning drivers about speed traps, and both outcomes were not in favor of law enforcement agencies. The "Holding Warning Signs" Case in Texas One case in Texas involved Ron Martin, 33, who was arrested after holding signs in the center ...

• Talking Cars Are on the Way New technology will help cars "talk" to each other to avoid crashes.

  

  Feb 10, 2014 — Talking cars are on the way, at least in a language the vehicles will understand.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is moving forward on vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication technology for light vehicles. V2V technology would allow vehicles to "talk" to each other in an effort to avoid crashes, especially rear-end, lane change, and intersection accidents.  The vehicles will exchange data such as speed and vehicle position at a rate ...

• Ford Wants Class-Action Lawsuit Thrown Out Ford wants unintended acceleration class-action lawsuit dismissed.

  

  Feb 8, 2014 — Toyota might be the automaker known for unintended acceleration lawsuits, but Ford is fighting its own battles over claims of alleged unintended acceleration issues. Ford was sued last year after complaints of possible unintended acceleration in over 35 models of Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles.  The lawsuit includes plaintiffs from over 30 states and alleges the affected vehicles made from 2002-2010 were defective from the start. The plaintiffs allege ...

• Congrats Chrysler! Most Recalls of 2013 Chrysler had more recalls than any other automaker in 2013.

  

  Feb 6, 2014 — Who doesn't like driving across the finish line waving the checkered flag for first place?  Chrysler probably doesn't, especially when the trophy goes to the automaker which had the most recalls in 2013. That's not to say being listed first when you'd rather be last is necessarily a bad thing.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) correctly says many factors could affect why one automaker has more recalls than another.  Maybe one ...

• Will 'TXTL8R' Block Teens from Texting While Driving? Iowa ready to spend money on cell phone app to disable texting in cars, kinda.

  

  Feb 3, 2014 — The Iowa Department of Transportation is preparing to try to do something about the problem of texting and driving, at least with certain teens. The DOT will soon release a cell phone application called TXTL8R that seeks to block Iowa teens from texting while driving.  TXTL8R (text lingo for "text later") will use GPS to disable text and phone capabilities while driving.  If someone tries to text the driver, a message is sent that the driver is unavailable and ...

• Overweight People More Likely to Die in a Car Crash Risk of death is 80 percent greater for the morbidly obese.

  

  Feb 1, 2014 — And you thought overweight people only had heart disease, diabetes, and blood pressure problems to worry about? Based on a study published in the Emergency Medicine Journal , obesity increases the odds of being killed in an auto accident.  For the morbidly obese, the odds increase by a whopping 80 percent. Researchers said the "slightly obese" were 21 percent more likely to die in an auto accident, compared to an occupant of normal weight.  According to the ...

• Car Dealer Sues Government Over 'Obamacare' Minnesota car dealer says he will be forced to fund 'morning-after' drugs.

  

  Feb 1, 2014 — The owner of Minnesoto-based car dealerships has filed a federal lawsuit against the U.S. government claiming a section of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) violates his religious beliefs. Owner Doug Erickson said the so-called "contraceptive mandate" of the ACA will require him to provide abortion-inducing drugs to his employees. Erickson, who owns Hastings Automotive, Inc., and Hastings Chrysler Center, said his religious beliefs conflict with providing his ...

• Toyota in the Hot Seat: Stops Selling 6 Models Weak fabric + heated seats could spell trouble.

  

  Jan 31, 2014 — Heated seats might be nice in the winter, unless the seats are so hot they go up in smoke.  Toyota might have to recall about 36,000 vehicles because the seat fabric could possibly catch fire. Although the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) hasn't ordered a recall, Toyota has told dealers to stop selling six popular models: 2013-2014 Toyota Camry 2013-2014 Toyota Avalon 2013-2014 Toyota Sienna 2013-2014 Toyota ...

• Tips to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Cars One carbon monoxide leak could cause one huge headache (literally)

  

  Jan 30, 2014 — Winter months mean driving with the windows up and the heater cranked to 10.  Accidents are common on ice and snow, but another kind of accident is one that can usually be completely prevented. Every winter, carbon monoxide poisoning kills auto occupants without any warning.  Carbon monoxide can't be seen, heard, or smelled, but can easily enter a car and cause a host of health problems. At low levels, signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, ...

• Government Approves 'Sham' Jeep Trailer Hitch Recall Center for Auto Safety says Jeep trailer hitch recall a "sham"

  

  Jan 24, 2014 — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has formally closed its investigation into rear-impact fires in 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 1993-2001 Jeep Cherokee, and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty vehicles. The investigation eventually grew to include 5 million vehicles that were affected by fuel systems located behind the rear axle. Safety regulators were concerned a rear-end crash could cause a rupture of the tank or fuel system. In June, 2013, ...

• 10 Out of 11 Minicars Flunk Crash Test Only one of 11 minicars pass the small overlap crash test.

  

  Jan 21, 2014 — The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has bad news when it comes to the safety of minicars.  IIHS says only one minicar out of 11 tested received an "acceptable" rating in the small overlap crash test.  According to IIHS, these cars are the worst out of any type of cars tested so far. The small overlap test replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle hits another vehicle or an object such as a tree or utility pole.  In the test, 25 ...

• Man Sues Toyota Over 'New Car Smell' New Jersey man says the interior of his Toyota Prius made him sick.

  

  Jan 20, 2014 — Who doesn't appreciate that new car smell that comes along with that new car sitting in the driveway?  Apparently a New Jersey man didn't really appreciate it after purchasing a 2012 Toyota Prius. Thomas Meyers has filed a lawsuit against Toyota alleging the interior of his Prius caused him lesions on his legs and upper body, all within 24 hours of owning the car.  Meyers claims he also suffered swelling of the lips, breathing problems, and neurological ...

• Class-Action Lawsuit Filed Over MyFord Touch Complaints Class-action lawsuit says MyFord Touch system a danger to drivers.

  

  Jan 14, 2014 — A federal class-action lawsuit claims the MyFord Touch communication and navigation system is so flawed that it's a danger to drivers. Ford Fusion owner, Sandra Storto, filed the lawsuit accusing Ford of deceptive trade practices, fraud, and warranty violations.  Storto says the system, which includes the GPS, radio, and heat/cold controls, isn't worth the money because it's a flawed product that nothing can fix. According to the lawsuit, even trying to ...

• Used-Car Dealers Sue CARFAX Lawsuit claims CARFAX violates federal antitrust laws.

  

  Jan 13, 2014 — Over 500 used-car dealers are plaintiffs in a class-action lawsuit accusing CARFAX of violating federal antitrust laws.  CARFAX provides vehicle history reports to car dealers and consumers who want more background information on a vehicle before purchasing the car. The Claims The used car dealers are suing CARFAX for $50 million in damages, alleging: CARFAX blocks used-car dealers from using any other provider of vehicle reports. CARFAX blocks ...

• The Worst Cars and Car Problems of 2013 Our annual list of the worst problems and worst cars in 2013.

  

  Jan 3, 2014 — At the end of each year, CarComplaints.com releases our list of the worst car problems and cars based on data from over 150,000 reports from vehicle owners.  Not surprisingly, some vehicles make the list each year because the problems only get worse over time. For this year, we decided to list the top reported complaints of any make, model, and year, then list the model year 2013 vehicles that are already showing problems , even though 2013 just ended. Top ...

• Putting on Pounds Sours You to Seatbelts Study finds overweight drivers are less likely to wear seat belts -- greater risk of injury or death

  

  Jun 6, 2012 — Need another reason to lose weight?  According to a study from the University of Buffalo, in New York, overweight drivers are at greater risk of injury or death in an auto accident because they don't wear their seat belt. The study found that normal weight drivers are 67 percent more likely to wear a seatbelt than morbidly obese drivers. Drivers were considered overweight or obese if they had a BMI (body mass index) of 25 or more, according to the World Health ...

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