Almost all automobile consumers know that manufacturers are required to issue recalls on vehicles that have problems that affect the safety, value and use of the models they manufacture. We have blogged about rental companies and consumers failing to repair recalls, and have encouraged everyone to check our recall list and make sure recalls have been repaired. Many consumers don’t realize, however, that automobile manufactures also issue Technical Service Bulletins (TSB’s). TSB’s are issued after several complaints of unanticipated problems are received, but the manufacturer is not required to do the repairs. The manufacturer is not obligated to notify consumers of the problems and are not required to pay for the repairs or to do them at a reduced fee to the owner. It is important for drivers to know if a TSB exists on their vehicle because the information on the reports can save technicians troubleshooting time, provide organized, itemized repair procedures, and standardize the repair process. This can enhance the quality of the maintenance and can save the vehicle owner money by allowing the technician to repair the problem quickly. If you are experiencing problems with your vehicle and are taking it in to have repairs done, it is in your best interest to research TSB’s related to your problem. If you find one that could be related, let the service manager know that it exists and make sure it is noted on the repair order.
Archive for the ‘Technical Service Bulletins’ Category
Automobile TSBs Can Save You Money
Monday, September 10th, 2012TSB Copyrights Hurt The Consumer
Sunday, April 3rd, 2011A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) is a bulletin issued by an automobile manufacturer to an auto dealer notify them about warranty extensions and fixes for known repeated problems. Because it is not a recall, the dealer is under no obligation to make the repair or to even notify customers of the problem. The publication of these TSB’s gives information that could save consumers large amounts of money on repairs, but still the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has declined to post these reports on their web site. The reason: The NHTSA has been warned that the TSB’s are copyrighted.
According to NHTSA spokeswoman, Karen Aldana, “Many manufacturers say that technical service bulletin information is copyrighted, and therefore the NHTSA has a legal obligation to leave them “off” their site.” These manufacturers believe that the bulletins should not be published because they show how to make repairs that “should not be performed by do-it-yourselfers. These bulletins, however, can be obtained through commercial services which sells the information to repair shops as well as individuals.
But not all automakers copyright their bulletins. Automakers like BMW, Chrysler, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Subaru and Volvo all say they would not object to publication by the agency. Some say that failing to do so could be seen as the agency being more concerned about catering to the auto industry instead of helping consumers.
Kia Inspects Accelerator Pedals On Optima
Wednesday, December 8th, 2010Kia has issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) to dealers asking them to inspect accelerator pedals on any 2011 Optimas made between October 16 and November 24. The automaker reported a potential problem with the spring design which may lead to noisy, sticky or unresponsive acceleration.
The Kia Optima was designed to compete against mid size sedans such as the Camry and Accord, and though it has done poor in the past, the totally redesigned 2011 model the Optima is starting to live up to it’s name. With it’s new look, increased performance and safety, and outstanding fuel economy Kia continues to build it’s brand in the U.S.
Toyota To Fix Coolant Pumps In Prius
Tuesday, November 30th, 2010
Toyota has announced that it will repair almost 380,000 2004-2007 Prius models in the United States for coolant pump problems. There have been no reports of injuries or accidents related to the problem, but complaints of power loss has lead the company to fix the minor repair without issuing a recall. A Toyota spokesperson explained that air bubbles entering the system through the pump reduces the efficiency of the cooling system. When the pump malfunctions, the car’s hybrid system switches off to prevent overheating and the vehicle’s regular gasoline engine takes over. Overheating of the vehicle could activate a warning light on the dashboard, and a significant loss of power will be noticed. Toyota said it would begin notifying owners of the Prius repair campaign in the United States in early December.
It’s Important To Get Your Recalls Done
Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), we are not very good at following up on recalls. Recall completion rates are about 30% for child seats, less than 50% for tires and more than 70% for vehicles. What about all the recalls that were not done? Is the product no longer used, has it been sold and the recall hasn’t made it to the new owner, or is it just the neglect of the consumer?
It is in your best interest for the safety of yourself and those around you to seek out any recall information for the products you own, especialy if safety could be a concern. Get your RECALLS and TSB’S at the click of a button with the California Lemon Law Specialist.
GMC Technical Service Bulletin
Monday, September 14th, 20092009 GMC – Steering – Intermittent stiff steering after driving through a puddle of water. This may be caused by the water splashing on to the drive belt which in turn causes belt to slip on the pulleys.
Are you disappointed with your Buick. Do you keep having repetitive problems and the dealership is unable to fix them? Call the California Lemon Law Firm of Delsack and Associates for a Free review. Call 888-Ex-Lemon (395-3666).
Buick Enclave Technical Service Bulletin
Monday, September 14th, 20092009 Buick Enclave – Steering – Intermittent stiff steering after driving through water. This may be caused by the water reaching the drive belt which causes the belt to slip on the pulleys.
Are you frustrated with your Buick. Do you have to keep going in for the same problem and the dealership is unable to fix it? Call the California Lemon Law Firm of Delsack and Associates for answers. 888-Ex-Lemon.
GMC T Series Technical Service Bulletin
Thursday, September 10th, 2009GMC T SEries – In some cases when the ignition key is turned off, the engine may continue to run. This could be caused by a voltage back feed through the A/C wiper diode.
Concerns about your GMC vehicle. Call the California Lemon Law Firm of Delsack and Associates for help. You can reach them at 888-Ex-Lemon.
Honda Technical Service Bulletins (TSB’s)
Tuesday, July 28th, 20092008 Civics – May pop or clunk when turning. The noise comes at slow speeds and may be from incorrectly torqued mounting bolts, which need to be retorqued.
If you think your Honda may be a lemon, call the California Lemon Law Firm, Delsack and Associates at 888-Ex-Lemon (888-395-3666). They are specialists in the field with over 21 years experience.
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