Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[REPORT: Ford loses appeal in rollover case, must pay $55M]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/ford-loses-appeal-in-roll-over-case-must-pay-55m/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/ford-loses-appeal-in-roll-over-case-must-pay-55m/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/ford-loses-appeal-in-roll-over-case-must-pay-55m/#comments Filed under: , , ,



According to The Detroit News, the Supreme Court has let stand a ruling that Ford Motor Company is at fault for a 2002 rollover crash involving a 1997 Ford Explorer and the Dearborn, MI-based automaker must pay $55 million in punitive damages. Benetta Buell-Wilson's Explorer rolled over four-and-a-half times after she swerved to avoid debris. When the roof collapsed on her neck, it severed her spinal cord and left her paralyzed.

Ford unsuccessfully argued that it shouldn't be punished due to the fact that the Explorer complied with federal safety standards when it was built. Buell-Wilson was originally awarded $369 million in damages, but a pair of California courts cut down the total value of damages to $82.6 million.

[Source: The Detroit News]

REPORT: Ford loses appeal in rollover case, must pay $55M originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> benetta buell-wilsonBenettaBuell-wilsonfordford explorerFordExplorerrolloversupreme courtSupremeCourt Tue, 01 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota dealers caught off guard by pedal recall]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-toyota-dealers-caught-out-by-pedal-entrapment-recall/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-toyota-dealers-caught-out-by-pedal-entrapment-recall/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-toyota-dealers-caught-out-by-pedal-entrapment-recall/#comments Filed under: ,



Last week Toyota publicly announced that it was recalling 3.8 million Avalon, Camry and Lexus ES 350 models on account of fears over unintended acceleration. The fix for Toyota's sudden acceleration issue includes the reshaping and/or replacing of accelerator pedals, with replacement pedals reportedly arriving in April. As you'd probably guess, the massive recall has led to many customers calling dealers for additional info, but unfortunately dealers weren't exactly prepared to respond.

Wards Automotive is reporting that Toyota didn't inform its dealer body of the proposed changes, which apparently includes the reconfiguration of the floor of some models, before the announcement was made. The industry trade journal says that a Toyota spokesman told them that the severity of the situation meant there was no time to inform dealers first, though all dealers have been informed by now.

Wards spoke to a couple dealers who sound more than a little frustrated by the situation. Earl Stewart of Earl Stewart Toyota of North Palm Bay, FL reportedly called the situation "confusing" and "embarrassing," adding that his dealership has been fixing floor mats the past few months without getting paid by Toyota for their work.

While we agree that Toyota was right in getting this information out to the public as quickly as possible, we're surprised it didn't first alert its dealer body. After all, the dealership is the public face of the company, and if customers call and dealers don't have answers, it looks like the situation is anything but under control. The official recall notices for the Avalon, Camry and ES are expected to come by year end, while five other models, including the Prius, Tacoma, Tundra and Lexus IS 250/IS 350, will receive similar notices sometime in 2010.

[Source: Wards Automotive, sub. req'd]

REPORT: Toyota dealers caught off guard by pedal recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> recallsudden accelerationSuddenAccelerationtoyotatoyota recallToyotaRecallunintended accelerationUnintendedAcceleration Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:59:00 EST <![CDATA[BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Toyota has announced that it will recall some 3.8 million cars and trucks to reshape and/or replace their accelerator pedals. The action is the result of fears that loose floormats may cause the accelerator pedal to stick, increasing the risk of an accident. The recall will be the largest in the Japanese automaker's history, and it will cover a wide range of vehicles from the 2004 model year through 2010 - a complete list is available after the jump. The move comes after an earlier action where Toyota announced it would recall 3.8 million vehicles to only swap floor mats.

Working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Toyota will effect the recall by sending letters to owners of its Avalon, Camry, and Lexus ES 350 models by year's end. Five other models, including the Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, and Lexus IS 250/IS 350 will receive similar notices sometime in 2010.

The plan includes training dealer service representatives to reshape gas pedals, and Toyota will develop and ship redesigned gas pedals beginning in April. Those customers who have elected to have their pedals initially reshaped will still be able to have the pedal replaced when the updated unit becomes available. Vehicles fitted with Toyota or Lexus-made all-weather floor mats will also receive a new set of redesigned front mats.

Interestingly, Toyota will also install a a brake override system that will turn off the engine if both the accelerator and the brake are depressed simultaneously. According to Automotive News, this update will occur on "involved Camry, Avalon, and Lexus ES 350, IS 350 and IS 250 models 'as an extra measure of confidence.'" This action appears to be limited to vehicles that employ Toyota's push-button start system, but interestingly its hybrid-only Prius has apparently been excluded.

For its part, Toyota says the cost of the action will come entirely from its dedicated recall fund, a $5.6 billion dollar stash, and therefore, the recall will have "no effect" on its business. The news come on the heels of yesterday's announcement that Toyota will recall 2000-2003 Tundra pickups over frame rust issues.

A complete list of vehicles covered under the action and both NHTSA and Toyota's official press releases are available after the jump.

[Sources: Reuters; Automotive News; NHTSA; Toyota]

Continue reading BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals

BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> breakingbreakingnewsCamryfloor matfloormatfloormat recallFloormatRecallfloormatsfloormats recallFloormatsRecallLexus ISLexus IS 250Lexus IS 350Lexus IS250Lexus IS350LexusIsLexusIs250LexusIs350PriustoyotaToyota AvalonToyota CamryToyota PriusToyota TacomaToyota TundraToyotaAvalonToyotaCamryToyotaPriusToyotaTacomaToyotaTundratoyta recallToytaRecall Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST <![CDATA[NHTSA opening probe into Ford Freestar/Mercury Monterey transmission defect]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/nhtsa-opening-probe-into-ford-freestar-mercury-monterey-transmis/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/nhtsa-opening-probe-into-ford-freestar-mercury-monterey-transmis/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/nhtsa-opening-probe-into-ford-freestar-mercury-monterey-transmis/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating hundreds of reports that 2004-2005 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans are fitted with defective transmissions that could dangerously fail without warning. Most alarming is that many of the transmissions reportedly fail at highway speeds. In a common complaint, the engine will suddenly surge and then all power is immediately lost. The vehicle is forced to coast powerlessly to a safe spot out of the flow of traffic. Angry owners have flooded message boards to report incidents of transmission failures which leave them stranded and stuck with $3,500 repair bills.

To date, there have been 654 customer complaints and 2,791 warranty claims. However, according to NHTSA, as many as 205,000 vehicles may be affected. The investigation, expected to take a year, will focus on the torque converter output shaft which drives the wheels. Ford Motor Co. has not yet released an official statement regarding the investigation.

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

NHTSA opening probe into Ford Freestar/Mercury Monterey transmission defect originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> DefectFord Freestarford minivansFordFreestarFordMinivansFreestarMercury MontereyMercuryMontereyMontereyNHTSARecallTorque ConverterTorque Converter FailureTorqueConverterTorqueConverterFailureTransmissionTransmission FailureTransmission problemTransmissionFailureTransmissionProblem Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST <![CDATA[Toyota extends Tundra rust recall to include 2000-03 models, totalling 110,000 trucks]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/toyota-extends-tundra-rust-recall-to-include-2000-03-models-tot/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/toyota-extends-tundra-rust-recall-to-include-2000-03-models-tot/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/toyota-extends-tundra-rust-recall-to-include-2000-03-models-tot/#comments Filed under: , , ,



If you've been following the Toyota Tundra rust saga, you're aware that NHSTA recently requested data from Toyota about the purported frame corrosion affecting 2000 and 2001 models. Today, Toyota has extended that recall to include the 2002-03 model years, saying that a small number of trucks could suffer from frame corrosion that could cause the spare tire to detach from its underbody housing. That brings the total up to 110,000 Tundras located in 20 cold-weather states and the District of Columbia.

Toyota will begin an inspection program next month which will run through January of 2010, and if you're driving one of the affected pickups, you can get all the details in the press release below the fold. Hat tip to Mike from Pickuptrucks.com.

Continue reading Toyota extends Tundra rust recall to include 2000-03 models, totalling 110,000 trucks

Toyota extends Tundra rust recall to include 2000-03 models, totalling 110,000 trucks originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20020002000 toyota tundra2000ToyotaTundra20012001 toyota tundra recall rust2001ToyotaTundraRecallRust20022002 toyota tundra recall rust2002ToyotaTundraRecallRust20032003 toyota tundra recall rust2003ToyotaTundraRecallRustframesrecallrustspare tireSpareTiretoyotatoyota tundraToyotaTundratundra Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:27:00 EST <![CDATA[Dodge recalling nearly 85k 2007 Nitro models over failing wiper concern]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/dodge-recalling-nearly-85k-2007-nitro-models-over-failing-wiper/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/dodge-recalling-nearly-85k-2007-nitro-models-over-failing-wiper/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/dodge-recalling-nearly-85k-2007-nitro-models-over-failing-wiper/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Roughly 85,000 2007 Dodge Nitros are being recalled for a windshield wiper issue. Use of the delay settings could lead to the wiper not working at all in any setting. The recall is expected to begin this month, and dealers will repair the wiper mechanism and software for free. For further information you can read the press release after the jump or contact the NHTSA.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Dodge recalling nearly 85k 2007 Nitro models over failing wiper concern

Dodge recalling nearly 85k 2007 Nitro models over failing wiper concern originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2007 dodge2007 dodge nitro2007 nitro2007Dodge2007DodgeNitro2007Nitrododgedodge nitroDodgeNitroNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsanitro Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota forced to submit data on Tundra frame rust to NHTSA]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/toyota-reportedly-forced-to-submit-data-on-tundra-frame-rust-to/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/toyota-reportedly-forced-to-submit-data-on-tundra-frame-rust-to/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/toyota-reportedly-forced-to-submit-data-on-tundra-frame-rust-to/#comments Filed under: , ,



The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began a preliminary evaluation last month of rusting Tundra frames from the 2000 and 2001 model years. Around 200 complaints had been registered before the NHTSA commenced its investigation, with upwards of seventy more complaints coming in since then.

As with the rusting Tacoma frames, the Tundra members in question were made by Dana. Importantly, though, the Tundra examination is focused only on "the cross member that supports the spare tire -- not the entire frame." Still, that area has been blamed by consumers for the spare tire coming loose, and for brake system failures due to corrosion at the brake line mounting points.

Toyota ended up buying back Tacomas or extending warranties to settle the rust issue, but Tundra frames were built at different Dana plants and to different specifications, so the Tundra issue is not assumed to be the same as the Tacoma issue. Toyota had until last week to submit its information on the frames, now the NHTSA will need to decide what to do next.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

REPORT: Toyota forced to submit data on Tundra frame rust to NHTSA originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2000 toyota tundra2000 tundra2000ToyotaTundra2000Tundra2001 toyota tundra2001 tundra2001ToyotaTundra2001TundraNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsasafetytoyota tundraToyotaTundra Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST <![CDATA[Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Owners of model year 2007-2008 Jeep Wranglers with automatic transmissions may have to visit their local dealers as Chrysler is recalling 161,450 of the SUVs over potential transmission overheating problems. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), Wrangler models manufactured between June 2006 and July 2008 with automatic transmissions were not fitted with a transmission fluid temperature warning system. If the AT fluid in the affected vehicles overheats, it may boil over and come in contact with hot engine or exhaust components - possibly leading to a fire.

To help alert drivers that their Jeep's transmission is overheating, dealers will inspect and install a visual "Hot Oil" message in the instrument cluster accompanied by an audible chime to indicate the elevated fluid temperature. The service will be performed free of charge starting in December. For more information, owners of the affected models may call Chrysler at 1-800-835-1403, NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236, or visit www.safercar.gov. Full press release after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence

Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2007 Jeep Wrangler2007JeepWrangler2008 Jeep Wrangler2008JeepWranglerAT fluidAtFluidfirefluidJeep RecallJeep Wrangler RecallJeepRecallJeepWranglerRecallNHTSAnhtsa recallNhtsaRecalloverheatRecallTransmissionwrangler pickupwrangler truckWranglerPickupWranglerTruckWranglerUnlimited Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:57:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota may 'shorten' gas pedals to fix unintended acceleration issue]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/report-toyota-may-shorten-gas-pedals-to-fix-unintended-accele/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/report-toyota-may-shorten-gas-pedals-to-fix-unintended-accele/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/report-toyota-may-shorten-gas-pedals-to-fix-unintended-accele/#comments Filed under: ,


The Toyota "unintended acceleration" issue has been a hot-button topic for nearly two months, with the Japanese automaker working closely with the National Highway Traffic Safety Association to come up with a permanent solution to the growing problem. Toyota recently published a statement to address the issue, stating it would "take a closer look at the potential for an accelerator pedal to get stuck in the full open position due to an unsecured or incompatible driver's floor mat."

Inside Line and Kyodo News are reporting that Toyota may be close to announcing that they will shorten the gas pedal of the four million vehicles affected by the recall.

The alleged fix would be performed by Toyota dealership employees at no charge to the customer. The report doesn't mention whether the floor mats would be secured in addition to the pedal shortening, but we're assuming Toyota and Lexus dealers will kill two birds with one stone. Swapping out four million accelerator pedals will probably be a pricey endeavor, but Toyota claims it has saved up $5.6 billion over the years in its recall kitty for just such a rainy day.

[Source: Inside Line]

REPORT: Toyota may 'shorten' gas pedals to fix unintended acceleration issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> accelerator pedalAcceleratorPedaltoyota recallToyotaRecall Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:57:00 EST <![CDATA[Pole Dance: NHTSA to add new side-impact crash test? [w/VIDEO]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/pole-dance-nhtsa-to-add-new-side-impact-crash-test-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/pole-dance-nhtsa-to-add-new-side-impact-crash-test-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/pole-dance-nhtsa-to-add-new-side-impact-crash-test-w-video/#comments Filed under: , , ,

NHTSA side-impact pole test - click above to watch the video

Not satisfied with cars that manage crash forces well enough to avoid spilling your drink, and engines that run so clean they'll barely asphyxiate ants, a new crash test is reportedly coming in the works from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Along with the test will come new dummies and new testing equipment, all of which means it's likely to have a big impact on future car designs. The side-impact pole test will simulate side collisions with objects like trees or telephone poles, a type of accident that current side-impact tests don't accurately simulate.

According to The New York Times, the new test will use a 10-inch round pole that will collide with the car at speeds of up to 20 mph. A 75-degree angle will be used, and the point of impact will be just aft of the A-pillar. Naturally, automakers won't have to pass the test all at once, the standard will be phased in. For 2011, 20 percent of an automaker's fleet will have to meet the standard and by 2014, the pole crash standard will be at 100 percent - all new cars will have to comply.

It's a change that could potentially change the face of auto design, the same way pedestrian impact standards in Europe have led to some peculiar front sheetmetal. Materials changes may also be employed to meet the regulation, with additional high-strength steel being substituted. The more conventional metals currently used are easier to form, while stronger metals require all sorts of hot pressing and tempering to be put into shape. Manufacturing cost will go up, which means prices will probably also increase, or profit will decrease while prices hold steady. Safe cars are a laudable goal, but how safe is safe enough? Follow the jump to see a video of how Ford's 2010 Mustang GT convertible and coupe models fare, then let us know what you think by leaving a comment.

[Source: The New York Times]

Continue reading Pole Dance: NHTSA to add new side-impact crash test? [w/VIDEO]

Pole Dance: NHTSA to add new side-impact crash test? [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> crash testcrash test videocrash test videoscrash testingcrash testsCrashTestCrashTestingCrashTestsCrashTestVideoCrashTestVideosfordford mustangford mustang crash testFordMustangFordMustangCrashTestmustangmustang crash testMustangCrashTestnhtsanhtsa standardnhtsa videoNhtsaStandardNhtsaVideopole impact crash testPoleImpactCrashTestvideovideos Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:56:00 EST <![CDATA[2010 Top Safety Picks announced by IIHS, new roof strength rule shakes things up]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/2010-top-safety-picks-announced-by-iihs-new-roof-strength-rule/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/2010-top-safety-picks-announced-by-iihs-new-roof-strength-rule/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/2010-top-safety-picks-announced-by-iihs-new-roof-strength-rule/#comments Filed under: ,

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has once again announced the winners of its Top Safety Pick award - all 27 of them. This time out, 19 cars and eight SUVs made the all-important grade. To break it down a bit for you, Subaru is the only make to earn top marks in each of the classes in which it competes (four), winning a total of five awards. Ford and Volvo combined to take home six Top Safety Pick awards (the most of any automaker), VW/Audi comes away with five and Chrysler gets four. Added to this year's safe list in the small car segment are also two new competitors, the Nissan Cube and Kia Soul.

New for 2010 are more stringent rollover standards used in the evaluations by the IIHS, a tweak which is apparently responsible for keeping Toyota, the world's biggest automaker in terms of sales, from receiving a single award - even though last year, between Toyota, Lexus and Scion there were eleven winners. BMW, Mazda, Mitsubishi and Saab were also absent from the list for the same reason, as the was the Ford Fusion. The Toyota Camry, meanwhile, didn't make the cut because of a marginal rear crash rating. All 27 winners - and a full press release - can be found after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 IIHS Top Safety Picks

Large carsLarge carsLarge carsLarge carsMidsize cars

[Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]

Continue reading 2010 Top Safety Picks announced by IIHS, new roof strength rule shakes things up

2010 Top Safety Picks announced by IIHS, new roof strength rule shakes things up originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Top Safety Pick2010 Top Safety Picks2010TopSafetyPick2010TopSafetyPicksIIHSInsurance InstituteInsurance Institute for Highway SafetyInsuranceInstituteInsuranceInstituteForHighwaySafetySafetyTop Safety PickTopSafetyPick Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:58:00 EST <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz and Hughes release app-based "mbrace" telematics for iPhone, Blackberry]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mercedes-benz-and-hughes-release-app-based-mbrace-telematics-f/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mercedes-benz-and-hughes-release-app-based-mbrace-telematics-f/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mercedes-benz-and-hughes-release-app-based-mbrace-telematics-f/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz has teamed up with Hughes Telematics to begin offering a new system that allows drivers to enable dozens of their vehicles features with their Apple iPhone or Blackberry.

Dubbed "mbrace," the telematics setup covers everything from locking and unlocking doors to contacting roadside assistance and pinpointing an mbrace-equipped Mercedes-Benz in a parking lot.

The system will be included on all new Mercedes products, and current customers with the automaker's outgoing Tele Aid system are eligible to retrofit their aging Mercs with mbrace. The technology could also be used to stream music from the web, upload video content and connect to users PCs, however, that's further down the road. The system is available now for $280 a year, and you can get all the details in the press release below the fold.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz and Hughes release app-based "mbrace" telematics for iPhone, Blackberry

Mercedes-Benz and Hughes release app-based "mbrace" telematics for iPhone, Blackberry originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Blackberryhughes telematicsHughesTelematicsiPhonembracemercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenztelematics Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:29:00 EST <![CDATA[Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi Evo X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Potential corrosion of the front impact airbag sensor has prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to recall up to 29,353 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution models. NHTSA is concerned that long-term exposure to a mixture of melted snow and salt thrown up by other vehicles on the road may cause the wintery mixture to adhere to the front impact sensor and lead to corrosion over time. In the event of an accident or collision, a damaged sensor may short-circuit and delay airbag deployment possibly causing driver or passenger injury. The recall is currently limited to states where heavy road salt is used in the winter (i.e., Connecticut, New York, Wisconsin, etc...).

Mitsubishi dealers have been instructed to replace the airbag sensors with a redesigned model with improved corrosion resistance. Of course, the service will be performed at no charge. While the safety recall isn't scheduled to begin until November 27, 2009, owners may contact Mitsubishi Customer Relations at 888-648-7820, contact NHTSA's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or visit NHTSA on the Internet at www.safercar.gov. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X


[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Continue reading Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors

Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2008 mitsubishi lancer2008 mitsubishi lancer es2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X2008MitsubishiLancer2008MitsubishiLancerEs2008MitsubishiLancerEvolution2008MitsubishiLancerEvolutionX2009 mitsubishi lancer ralliart2009MitsubishiLancerRalliartAir Bagairbagauto recallAutoRecallcar recallCarRecallcorrosionEVOEvo XevolutionEvoXLancerlancer EVOlancer evolutionLancerEvoLancerEvolutionMitsumitsubishimitsubishi recallMitsubishiLancerMitsubishiRecallNHTSA RecallNhtsaRecallRecallSafety RecallSafetyRecallsalt Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash-test video shows off exploding door hinges]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/video-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-crash-test-video-shows-off-explodin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/video-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-crash-test-video-shows-off-explodin/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/video-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-crash-test-video-shows-off-explodin/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash test - click above to watch the video after the jump

It's a sad fact that incredibly expensive, highly desirable cars have to be smashed to bits in the name of safety, but we have to admit we quietly enjoy watching the carnage. The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG had to endure its time with the crash barrier, and the video proves that the $200,000 supercar can hold its own against the international wall of destruction. The offset impact crash showed that virtually all of the energy was absorbed by its long front end while the cockpit remained largely intact. But what if the SLS flipped on its lid, rendering the gullwing doors inoperable?

In order to comply with federal standards that mandate that a door must be operational in the event of a rollover crash, MB built explosive charges into the hinge pins so that the doors could be blown off in the event of a rollover. As evidenced by the video after the jump, the charges worked, although in the video shown here, the explosives were triggered by an outside switch. In the event of a real-wold crash, yanking on the door handles would trigger the explosives once the SLS AMG was upside-down for a pre-determined amount of time.

If you haven't seen the vid already, click past the break to view it in full. It's a bit long and boring at the beginning, but it gets interesting around the halfway point when the merciless destruction begins.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Mercedes-Benz via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash-test video shows off exploding door hinges

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash-test video shows off exploding door hinges originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 sls amg2011SlsAmggullwingmercedessls amg crash testSlsAmgCrashTest Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Michigan legislature pondering eco-friendly motoring tips in driving school]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-michigan-legislature-pondering-eco-friendly-motoring-tip/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-michigan-legislature-pondering-eco-friendly-motoring-tip/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-michigan-legislature-pondering-eco-friendly-motoring-tip/#comments Filed under: ,



There's always a mouthful of teeth gnashing whenever lax US driver's ed standards are brought up. Yes, we need sixteen-year-olds on the road so they can get to their part time jobs at Taco Bell, but most are really lousy drivers. Or are they just uneducated drivers? Remember, even though 9 and 3 o'clock are the proper way to hold a steering wheel, kids in the US were taught 10 and 2 for generations (though in the mid-90s it was switched to 9 and 3 with the proliferation of airbags). Point is, in terms of car control and emergency handling, US drivers lag behind some other (*cough* Germany *cough*) countries.

However, rather than focusing what we think is most important while driving (avoiding accidents), a couple members of Michigan's legislature are looking to mandate environmentally friendly education into their state's drivers ed curriculum. The Detroit News' Manny Lopez nearly has a coronary attacking the proposed legislation -- "trust me, environmental activism is a religion" -- but we don't really see the big deal.

Especially as the three parts of the bill Lopez brings up are learning about the importance of car-pooling and public transportation, identifying a fuel-efficient vehicle, and recycling vehicle parts and fluids. With the exception of the public transportation aspect (that really has no place in drivers ed unless it's learning how to avoid hitting buses), all of the above is good stuff to know. A smart state legislator might even grab into this proposed legislature and help to pass it only if teaching emergency lane change and braking procedures gets added in.

[Source: Detroit News | Photo Source: Jim Gray/Getty Archives]

REPORT: Michigan legislature pondering eco-friendly motoring tips in driving school originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Drivers EdDrivers EducationDriversEdDriversEducationManny LopezMannyLopezMichigan Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota may offer to fix 4 million accelerator pedals]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/toyota-may-offer-to-fix-4-million-accelerator-pedals/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/toyota-may-offer-to-fix-4-million-accelerator-pedals/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/toyota-may-offer-to-fix-4-million-accelerator-pedals/#comments Filed under: , , ,


While Toyota maintains its position that recent accelerator issues have only to do with floor mats, the company has reportedly agreed to "make changes to gas pedals in certain U.S. models under an agreement with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration." That means that 3.8 million Toyota products - among which are the Camry, Avalon, Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, and Lexus IS250, IS350, ES350 - will be recalled to address the accelerators.

With negotiations said to be ongoing between the NHTSA and Toyota, the automaker hasn't said what those changes will be, nor has it stated exactly when the recall will begin. According to Reuters, Toyota has a $5.6 billion slush fund to pay for recalls so the repair costs, while sure to be intergalactic, shouldn't affect earnings. The company can only hope now that the rumors, current lawsuits, other current lawsuits, yet-to-be-filed lawsuits, and the 24-hour news cycle don't do the kind of damage that is much worse than merely financial.

[Source: Reuters, MarketWatch]

REPORT: Toyota may offer to fix 4 million accelerator pedals originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> floor matsFloorMatsNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsarecallsafetytoyotatoyota acctoyota accelerationtoyota floor matsToyotaAccToyotaAccelerationToyotaFloorMats Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:02:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Low-flying pelican results in Bugatti Veyron Hydro Edition <b>[*UPDATE:</b> Now with actual crash footage!]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/video-low-flying-pelican-ends-up-creating-bugatti-veyron-hydro/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/video-low-flying-pelican-ends-up-creating-bugatti-veyron-hydro/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/video-low-flying-pelican-ends-up-creating-bugatti-veyron-hydro/#comments Filed under: , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

This is one of the saddest, yet most amusing sights we've ever seen. A $1.6 million Bugatti Veyron sitting in a salt water lagoon, door open, in two feet of nasty, corrosion-inducing muddy water. While the sight is sad, how the event allegedly transpired is downright hilarious. The unnamed owner of the vehicle, traveling through Galveston, Texas to look at some high-end property, was reportedly talking on his cell phone when a low-flying pelican distracted him. The driver swerved to avoid the big bird, dropped his cell phone, and in the process the front passenger tire hit a mud patch.

A quad-turbo, 16-cylinder engine may be able to get you to 60 mph in under three seconds, but it doesn't work well with mud, so the supercar made a b-line for an adjacent lagoon. The ultra rare Veyron (reportedly one of 15 copies here in the States) was still running after it rested nearly belt-line high in the salt water, as local news affiliate KHOU reported the 1,000+ hp engine "gurgled like an outboard motor for about 15 minutes before it died." It probably would have been a great idea to kill power to the engine (and even shut the door) once the Veyron hit the muck, but hey, what do we know?

Hit the jump to watch video of the Veyron as it is extracted from its salty abyss. And if you own a Veyron, let this be a lesson to you that having money doesn't necessarily mean you have the skill to drive a supercar, especially when you're on the phone. Thanks to everyone for the tips!


*UPDATE: Now with actual (incredible) crash footage! (and no, we don't see any pelicans, either). WARNING: Second video contains explicit not-safe-for-work language.

Gallery: First Drive: Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.
[Sources: KHOU; YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Low-flying pelican results in Bugatti Veyron Hydro Edition [*UPDATE: Now with actual crash footage!]

VIDEO: Low-flying pelican results in Bugatti Veyron Hydro Edition [*UPDATE: Now with actual crash footage!] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bugatti veyronBugattiVeyroncar accidentcar crashCarAccidentCarCrashdistracted drivingDistractedDrivinggalvestonlake galvestonLakeGalvestonveyronveyron in lake galvestonVeyronInLakeGalveston Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:59:00 EST <![CDATA[NHTSA to investigate 3 million 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee over gas tank fires?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/nhtsa-to-investigate-3-million-1993-2004-jeep-grand-cherokee-ove/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/nhtsa-to-investigate-3-million-1993-2004-jeep-grand-cherokee-ove/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/nhtsa-to-investigate-3-million-1993-2004-jeep-grand-cherokee-ove/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The position of the plastic fuel tanks in 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees makes them potential fireballs, argues the Center for Auto Safety. The nonprofit organization says that the fuel tank's location makes the pre-2005 Grand Cherokees prone to catching on fire when involved in an accident. Located behind the rear axle and hanging down below the bumper, shorter vehicles can impact the tank directly, says the Center. The fuel filler neck has also sheared off during some of these incidents, leading to fuel spills and the increased potential for fires.

The Center is petitioning the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to open an investigation and recall some three million vehicles. Chrysler says the Grand Cherokee will come out of the study having met or exceeded any applicable standards. The organization also notes that NHTSA's files reveal 1993-2004 Jeeps involved in 172 crashes with fires and 254 deaths, while just one post-'05 Cherokee has had a fatal fire incident. The defect petition got underway with NHTSA on November 6, and could take a while, though this isn't the first time the agency has looked at problems with these Jeeps.

NHTSA's "defect petition" process began earlier this month, but a resolution isn't immediately forthcoming - such investigations can take many months - possibly years.

[Source: AutoWeek]

NHTSA to investigate 3 million 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee over gas tank fires? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Center for Auto SafetyCenterForAutoSafetycherokee nhtsaCherokeeNhtsaGrand Cherokeegrand cherokee firegrand cherokee investigationgrand cherokee recallGrandCherokeeGrandCherokeeFireGrandCherokeeInvestigationGrandCherokeeRecalljeep nhtsaJeepNhtsaNHTSAnhtsa jeepnhtsa recallNhtsaJeepNhtsaRecall Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:28:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: More than 25% of US bridges are "structurally deficient or functionally obsolete"]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/report-more-than-25-of-us-bridges-are-structurally-deficient/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/report-more-than-25-of-us-bridges-are-structurally-deficient/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/report-more-than-25-of-us-bridges-are-structurally-deficient/#comments Filed under:



Here's some bad news for all of us: Over 150,000 bridges in the U.S. have been judged to be "structurally deficient or functionally obsolete." And get this, there are less than 598,000 bridges in America. That means 25.7% aren't in very good shape. It turns out that the state with the most structurally deficient or functionally obsolete (SD/FO) bridges is Texas, with 9,564 such bridges. However, Texas is ginormous - almost half the size of Alaska - and therefore has a lot of bridges, but the percentage of Texan SD/FO bridges is 19%. And that's significantly lower than the national average.

What state has the most SD/FO bridges? Betcha never would have guessed the District of Columbia. For one thing, it's not even a state! For another, you'd think being in such close proximity to all that Washingtonian largesse would be good for something. Turns out, not. Anyhow, 55% of the bridges in our nation's capital are going to fall down/fail sooner than later says The Better Roads Bridge Inventory survey.

The actual State with the highest percentage of bad bridges is Rhode Island with 53%. Pennsylvania takes second place honors with 39%. The really bad news, according to the frighteningly detailed article, is that all these numbers might be low.

[Source: Better Roads via The Car Connection | Image: Scott Olson/Getty]

REPORT: More than 25% of US bridges are "structurally deficient or functionally obsolete" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bridgeBridgesFunctionally ObsoleteFunctionally Obsolete BridgesFunctionallyObsoleteFunctionallyObsoleteBridgesinfrastructureroad constructionroad infrastructureroad networkroad safetyRoadConstructionRoadInfrastructureRoadNetworkRoadSafetyroadworkspanStructurally DeficientStructurally Deficient bridgesStructurallyDeficientStructurallyDeficientBridgestraffic safetyTrafficSafety Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: NHTSA probe opened into Honda airbag recall timing]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-nhtsa-probe-opened-into-honda-airbag-recall-timing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-nhtsa-probe-opened-into-honda-airbag-recall-timing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-nhtsa-probe-opened-into-honda-airbag-recall-timing/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2001 Honda Accord - Click above for high-res image gallery

Over the last year, Honda has recalled roughly 444,000 vehicles to repair overpressurized airbag inflators in certain 2001-2002 Honda Accord, 2001 Civic and 2002-2003 Acura TL models. According to the automaker, there has been one death and multiple injuries stemming from the defect, which can send small metal fragments through the airbag and onto the vehicle's occupants.

For whatever reason, the total recall was announced in two separate increments that were eight months apart - and NHTSA wants to know why. Earlier, Honda had said that the problem was traced back to Takata Corp., which supplied the faulty inflators, and that the supplier had made "incorrect assumptions" about the numbers of parts it had sent to Honda. Says Honda spokesman Chris Martin:
The initial range of recalled vehicles was based on a relatively small sample of problematic airbag deployments...It took some further customer reports of airbag deployments for us to be able to look back and say, these vehicles are not in the lot we identified but have the same problem.
Honda denies any wrongdoing and promises to fully cooperate with the NHTSA investigation.


Gallery: 2001 Honda Accord


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: NHTSA probe opened into Honda airbag recall timing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> hondahonda accordhonda accord recallhonda airbaghonda airbag recallhonda civichonda civic recallhonda recallHondaAccordHondaAccordRecallHondaAirbagHondaAirbagRecallHondaCivicHondaCivicRecallHondaRecallnhtsanhtsa probeNhtsaProbe Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:30:00 EST