Two of the most common vehicle manufacturing companies in the U.S. announced recalls this month. Ford Motor Company is recalling parts on 2011 and 2012 Explorers as well as 2012 and 2013 Edge vehicles. The recall for the Ford Explorers involves steering gears that were replaced in vehicles in September of 2013 and January of 2014. The recall is due to those gears locking and preventing the ability to steer properly, in turn increasing the risk of an automobile wreck. The Ford Edge recall affects those made from September of 2010 through last April. The recall applies only to Edge vehicles that contain a 2.0L engine and affects the fuel line. Because the manufacturing process was inadequate, fuel leaks may occur which can cause a vehicle fire.
If you or someone you know have vehicles that may be affected by these recalls, you should expect a notification from Ford to inform you of replacement opportunities for the defective parts.
These recalls as well as other recent automobile recalls inspire us to look back on the biggest recalls of the past ten years. These include the General Motors 2003 recall of 1.8 million cars for windshield wiper motors being defective, Toyota's 2010 recall due to acceleration issues when not intended by drivers, and the 2004 Chrysler recall due to the possibility of vehicles disengaging from the "park" setting when keys weren't in the ignition. In 2012, Toyota recalled select Camry and Corolla vehicles due to fire dangers and in 2009 Toyota recalled multiple models due to the potential for sticking gas pedals.
Automobile recalls are often released because manufacturers realize they may be held liable for injuries and deaths caused by faulty vehicle parts. At Jones & Swanson, our attorneys have experience representing clients that have been injured due to defects in automobiles, such as tire defects. If you or someone you know have been injured in a car crash and believe it was caused by a faulty vehicle part, contact our office for a free consultation at (770) 427-5498 or online at www.awjlaw.com today.