Tag Archives: automobile fire

Jaguar I-Pace EV Fire Risk When Parked

Posted on by

Jaguar I-PaceIn a recent development, owners of 2019 Jaguar I-Pace vehicles are being urged to take immediate action due to a critical safety concern that could potentially lead to vehicle fires. The issue revolves around battery packs manufactured within a specific time frame, which have been identified as prone to technical faults, posing a significant risk of thermal overload.

The affected battery packs, produced between March 1, 2018, and May 31, 2018, have exhibited several technical deficiencies that increase the likelihood of short circuits within the battery cells. These short circuits generate excessive heat, particularly when the battery state of charge exceeds approximately 85%, ultimately triggering a thermal overload condition.

While some vehicles have undergone modifications through a previous safety recall (H441), mitigating the risk to some extent, Jaguar is ensuring the safety of all potentially affected vehicles and a new safety recall, identified as H484, has been initiated to address this critical issue.

The ramifications of a vehicle thermal overload event, such as fire or smoke, are severe and pose significant risks to occupants and bystanders alike. Occupant injury, damage to property, and even injury to persons outside the vehicle are potential outcomes of such incidents, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue promptly and comprehensively.

In response to this safety concern, Jaguar has outlined interim measures for affected vehicle owners to mitigate the risk until a permanent solution is implemented. Owners are advised to park and charge their vehicles outdoors, away from structures, and to limit charging to a maximum of 75% state of charge. These precautions aim to minimize the risk of thermal overload incidents until the necessary repairs are completed.

Notification letters are scheduled to be dispatched to affected owners starting April 26, 2024. The recall process, identified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number 24V-183, aims to rectify the underlying issue and ensure the safety and peace of mind of Jaguar I-Pace owners.

It’s imperative for owners of 2019 Jaguar I-Pace vehicles to heed this safety warning and comply with the manufacturer’s instructions promptly. Failure to address this issue in a timely manner could potentially lead to catastrophic consequences. Additionally, owners are encouraged to stay informed about further developments regarding the recall and to take appropriate action as advised by Jaguar and regulatory authorities.

NOTE: This recent safety recall, identified by NHTSA Recall Number 24V-183, is not the first instance where concerns regarding the same problem have been raised. Previous recalls, such as, NHTSA Recall Numbers 24V-085, 23V-709, and 23V-369, have also addressed issues related to thermal overload and potential fire hazards in Jaguar I-Pace vehicles. These recalls underscore the seriousness of the underlying technical issues and the manufacturer’s ongoing efforts to rectify them. Owners should be vigilant and proactive in responding to these recalls to ensure the safety and integrity of their vehicles.

Hyundai Genesis Oil Feed Pipe Leak

Posted on by

Hyundai Motor America (HMC) is reaching out to owners of specific Genesis G70, G80, and G90 vehicles equipped with a 3.3-liter V6 turbocharged engine about a crucial safety concern. This issue involves the oil feed pipe that could potentially deteriorate and lead to oil leakage, posing a risk of engine compartment fires.

What’s the Problem?

The defect lies in the left hand (LH) turbocharger oil supply pipe within these vehicles. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures in the engine compartment can cause this pipe to crack, potentially resulting in oil leaks onto the exhaust manifold. Such leaks significantly increase the risk of engine compartment fires.

Investigation and Decision to Recall

HMC initiated an investigation into this issue in June 2023 after reports of similar incidents in foreign markets. The Data Review Committee (DRC) noted a concerning trend of turbocharger oil supply pipe repairs during colder seasons. After escalating the investigation to the Technical Review Committee (TRC) in February 2024, HMC confirmed the need for a safety recall.

The TRC observed repeat repairs related to a prior recall (Recall 003G – 19V-538) addressing oil leak issues caused by insufficient swaging of the turbocharger oil supply pipe fitting. The affected vehicles, including those addressed in the previous recall, were manufactured before a material change to stainless steel pipes was implemented by the supplier around August 2021.

Affected Vehicles and Reports

The recall affects approximately:

  • 14,186 model year 2019-2022 Genesis G70 vehicles
  • 7,372 model year 2018-2020 Genesis G80 vehicles
  • 6,881 model year 2017-2022 Genesis G90 vehicles

As of January 15, 2024, HMC has received 81 reports alleging the defect in the U.S. market. However, no confirmed crashes, injuries, or fires related to this issue have been reported.

Signs of Trouble

Owners should remain vigilant for signs indicating a potential problem with the oil feed pipe, including:

  • White smoke
  • Burning smell
  • Oil leaking onto ground surfaces

What Next?

All affected vehicle owners will receive notification by first-class mail, providing instructions to visit a Genesis retailer for replacement of the LH turbocharger oil supply pipe. The recall number assigned to this issue is 019G. The NHTSA campaign number is 24V-191, replacing the previous recall number 19V-538. Vehicles previously serviced under recall 19V-538 will require another repair.

Electric Oil Pump Failure May Cause Fire

Posted on by

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and Kia America, Inc. (Kia) are contacting owners of certain 2023-2024 vehicles because these vehicles are potentially affected by a critical issue related to the electric oil pump assembly. The problem could lead to a vehicle fire.

According to the defect report, the problem lies in a Multi-Layer Ceramic Capacitor (MLCC) located on the printed circuit board within the Idle Stop & Go (ISG) electric oil pump assembly for the transmission. During the manufacturing process, the MLCC may have incurred damage from the supplier. This damage can have severe consequences on the electrical operation of the pump, leading to heat damage to the electric oil pump circuit board, connector, and wiring harness.

The consequences of this heat damage are twofold. Firstly, it escalates the risk of a vehicle fire, which can pose a significant threat to both the occupants and the vehicle itself. Secondly, there is a potential for a Controller Area Network (CAN) communication disruption for multiple onboard controllers. This disruption could lead to operational issues and compromises in the vehicle’s performance.

A range of 2023-2024 Hyundai and Kia models have been identified as being susceptible to this issue. The affected vehicles include:

The vehicles affected include:

2023 Hyundai Elantra
2023 Hyundai Kona
2023-2024 Hyundai Palisade
2023 Hyundai Sonata
2023 Hyundai Tucson
2023-2024 Kia Seltos
2023 Kia Soul
2023 Kia Sportage

Drivers may notice smoke from the vehicle’s under-body, a burning or melting odor or an illuminated Malfunction Indicator Light and other system dashboard warning lamps.

To address this potential problem, Hyundai and Kia are taking immediate action by issuing a recall. Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified and requested to schedule an appointment with their nearest Hyundai or Kia dealerships. During the inspection process, the electric oil pump controller will be inspected, and if necessary, replaced to ensure optimal performance and safety.

As a precautionary measure until the recall repair is completed, owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures. This will minimize the potential risk of a vehicle fire and provide added safety for both the vehicle and surrounding property.

For reference, Hyundai has designated the recall with the number 246, and the corresponding NHTSA campaign number is 23V-526. Meanwhile, Kia has assigned the recall with the number SC275, and the associated NHTSA campaign number is 23V-531.

Ford Fusion PHEV Battery Problem
Risk Of Stall Or Fire

Posted on by

Ford Fusion with smoke from trunk

Certain Ford Fusion PHEV vehicles may experience damage to their Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) due to excessive voltage and current flow. This issue can lead to a loss of motive power and pose safety risks such as the possibility of a crash or a localized fire around the BECM. Ford is currently working on a fix for this safety issue.

Problem was first discovered in July 2022, when Ford’s Trend and Early Warning Support (TEWS) team alerted the Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) about five fire reports involving 2019 Fusion PHEV vehicles equipped with 30Ah high voltage batteries. These fires occurred while the vehicles were at dealerships during a replacement BECM service to address various issues like voltage sense Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), check engine light, no start, or loss of motive power concerns. Ford’s High Voltage Battery Systems Team conducted an analysis and determined that the fires originated from the BECM. Further examination by the supplier revealed that the Current Interrupt Device (CID) had been activated in the high voltage battery cells of the affected units, though the reason behind this activation remains unknown. Due to the rate and severity of the concern, Ford’s CCRG initiated an investigation.

In February 2023, Ford published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that advises replacing the high voltage battery if vehicles come in for service with one or more voltage sense DTCs, instead of just replacing the BECM. This measure aims to address the underlying issue and prevent further damage.

While a permanent remedy is under development, Ford urges owners not to charge their vehicles until the remedy is implemented. To ensure owners are aware of the safety risk, interim letters have been sent to them as of July 14, 2023. Second letters will follow once the remedy becomes available. This recall is identified as 23S33 by Ford, and the NHTSA campaign number is 23V-440.

Ford Escape, Ford Maverick And Lincoln Corsair Engine Failure

Posted on by

Ford Motor Company (Ford) has recently announced a crucial safety recall for specific models of Ford Escape, Ford Maverick, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The recall aims to address a potential issue that could lead to a vehicle fire, urging affected owners to promptly visit their dealers for necessary repairs and precautions.

The vehicles affected by this recall include those equipped with 2.5L HEV/PHEV engines, manufactured during the specified time frames. The identified problem revolves around the premature failure of these engines, which can have severe consequences. When an engine fails, there is a risk of significant quantities of engine oil and/or fuel vapor being released under the vehicle’s hood. These substances may then migrate to and accumulate near potential ignition sources, posing a potential fire hazard. In addition to the risk of fire, localized melting of components or the emission of smoke may also occur.

The specific models affected by this recall are the 2020-2023 Ford Escape, the 2022-2023 Ford Maverick, and the 2021-2023 Lincoln Corsair. Ford has identified isolated engine manufacturing issues as the root cause of the 2.5L HEV/PHEV engine failures that result in engine block or oil pan breaches. Despite the breach, the HEV/PHEV system continues to propel the vehicle, allowing the driver to continue operating it. Unfortunately, this means that as the driver continues to drive after a block breach, oil and/or fuel vapor continues to be expelled and accumulate near ignition sources, exacerbating the risk.

Owners of the affected vehicles should be aware of the signs indicating engine failure. These signs include loud noises such as a metal-to-metal clank, which will be audible to the vehicle’s occupants. Additionally, an engine failure will lead to a reduction in engine torque. If drivers notice any unexpected engine noises, experience an unexpected torque reduction, or observe smoke emanating from the engine compartment, they are strongly advised to safely park the vehicle and promptly shut off the engine.

Ford is actively working on developing the remedy for this issue. In the meantime, interim letters have been sent out to notify owners of the safety risk. These letters were mailed on June 23, 2023, to inform owners about the importance of addressing the issue. Once the remedy is available, a second round of letters will be sent out to inform owners and provide instructions for getting the necessary repairs. It’s important to note that this recall, identified by Ford as recall number 23S27, expands and replaces the previous recall number 22V-484. Therefore, even if the vehicles have been previously repaired under recall number 22V-484, owners will still need to have the new remedy completed to ensure their safety.

Lincoln MKC Fire Risk While Parked

Posted on by

Lincoln MKC under hood fire

Ford Motor Company has made a decision regarding a defect that poses a risk to motor vehicle safety in specific models of Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured between 2015 and 2019. These vehicles, produced during the mentioned time frame, have been found to have a potential for under hood fire, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off.

In March 2023, Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) was made aware of the issue related to 18 reports of under hood fires involving 2015 to 2017 model year MKC vehicles in North America and China. It is noteworthy that all these incidents occurred when the vehicles were parked and not in use.

Ford’s CCRG initiated a thorough investigation that spanned throughout March, April, and May. The investigation encompassed various activities, such as comprehensive vehicle inspections, reviews of suppliers involved in the manufacturing process, assessments of product designs, detailed analysis of field data, and rigorous examination of components and subsystems in laboratory settings.

At present, the investigation has not been able to find the cause or origin of the fires. Nevertheless, it was observed that the fires seemed to originate in close proximity to the vehicles’ 12-volt batteries, which raised concerns regarding the potential link between the fires and the battery system.

As of May 2023, Ford’s CCRG has received information about 19 potentially related incidents of under hood fires, all of which occurred while the vehicles were parked and turned off.

Ford’s Field Review Committee thoroughly examined the matter and decided to undertake a field action to provide guidance to vehicle owners. As part of this field action, Ford advised owners to park their vehicles outside and away from any structures until the completion of the ongoing investigation. This precautionary measure aims to minimize the risk of potential fires until a conclusive resolution is reached.

For reference, customers and owners can refer to Ford’s designated number for this recall, which is 23S28, and the corresponding NHTSA campaign number, which is 23V-378.

2019-2024 Jaguar I-Pace Battery Could Overheat

Posted on by

Certain 2019-2024 Jaguar I-PACE SUV electric vehicles are facing a critical issue that could pose a potential threat of vehicle fires due to excessive heat buildup inside the high-voltage battery. The Jaguar Product Safety and Compliance Committee (PSCC) identified this problem in February 2022 through the Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) critical concerns reporting process. As a result, Jaguar initiated a thorough investigation into the matter.

To address the issue, Jaguar collected the batteries from the affected vehicles and conducted meticulous inspections at their testing facilities. Subsequently, the batteries were sent back to the supplier for further and more detailed analysis. In addition, Jaguar acquired Diagnostic Over The Air (DOTA) data for comprehensive examination and evaluation.

According to the defect report, specific 2019-2024 Jaguar I-PACE SUV electric vehicles have experienced instances of thermal overload, which can manifest as smoke or fire. The overheating primarily occurs beneath the vehicle, where the high-voltage traction battery is located. While investigations are still ongoing, Jaguar has proactively decided to install software that will effectively monitor the battery’s status.

Owners of the affected vehicles will receive notifications regarding the issue. They can visit a dealer or opt for an over-the-air (OTA) update to have the battery energy control module software updated. This updated software will continuously monitor the operational status of the battery pack assembly, identifying conditions that may lead to a thermal overload. In order to ensure safety, the software will provide enhanced driver warnings regarding the battery’s condition. When a risk is detected, the charging capacity of the High Voltage battery will be limited to 75%. A warning message will alert the driver, accompanied by instructions in the Owner Guide, which will direct them to take their vehicle to a Jaguar retailer for diagnosis and, if necessary, repair. The retailer will conduct a thorough inspection and, if required, replace the affected battery module or pack.

Jaguar has assigned the identification number H441 to this recall, while the NHTSA campaign number is 23V-369.

Brake Pressure Switch Short May Cause Fire In Chevy Trucks

Posted on by

General Motors. LLC (GM) has decided that a problem exists in certain 2019-2023 Chevrolet 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD medium-duty trucks. The brake pressure sensor assembly could leak brake fluid into the brake pressure switch and cause an electrical short circuit.

GM opened an investigation in August 2022 following reports of a vehicle fire on a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado medium-duty truck. As part of that investigation, GM reviewed field data potentially related to the problem and warranty returned brake pressure sensors.

While a series of tests failed to duplicate the condition, in January, a warranty-returned sensor and harness were identified as exhibiting signs of heat damage. This part was subjected to more detailed analysis, including X-ray scans and a chemistry laboratory analysis. The results from these analyses revealed the presence of brake fluid past the diaphragm seal, into the brake pressure switch, and through the actual wire harness into the pump’s fuse circuit. An inspection of the returned components also revealed delamination of the corrosion-inhibiting sealant, which allowed slow seepage of the brake fluid past the diaphragm seal.

According to the defect report, a zinc-nickel plating and sealant used to inhibit corrosion within the pressure sensor assembly may cause delamination of the sealant which results in small fragments of sealer underneath the diaphragm during assembly which allows brake fluid to slowly seep past the seal and into the pressure switch. The brake fluid may seep into the sensor’s electrical components and short the brake pressure switch and the associated fuse. If brake fluid shorts the brake pressure switch and the fuse, the circuit can generate enough heat and could result in a fire. An under-hood fire may occur when the vehicle is off and possibly unattended.

Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the master cylinder pressure sensor and inspect the wire harness. If the harness is damaged, it will be replaced as well. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed on May 29, 2023. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. GM’s number for this recall is N222375270 and the NHTSA campaign number is 23V-266.