April saw a lot of recalls and lot of models recalled in Canada, but with relatively average numbers. A total of 147,607 vehicles were recalled in 35 actions affecting 65 models from 25 brands.
The largest recall involved 51,742 Ford pickups (F-150, F-450 and F-550 from 2017 and 2018) to address a transmission problem that could see the automatic transmission settle into the wrong gear. The clip that locks the gear shift cable to the transmission may not be fully seated and over time, it could result in a gear selection different from what it displayed to the driver. It could allow the driver to shift the transmission lever into Park and remove the key without the parking gear being selected, which might result in the vehicle rolling away.
Not far behind, 47,704 Audis were recalled to address an engine problem with the 2.0-litre turbo. Audi A4, A5, A6, Allroad and Q5 from model years 2013 through 2016 might have an electric coolant pump that could experience a short circuit, and/or it could overheat, which under the wrong circumstances might lead to an underhood fire.
An engine fire is also the basis of a recall of 2008 and 2009 model year Smart Fortwos. The recall affects 7,028 rear-engined cars that might have an engine insulation mat that could deform, deteriorate and loosen, possibly coming in contact with exhaust system components that could ignite the mat under extreme heat.
The Land Rover Discovery Sport from 2015 through 2017 was recalled to concerning a problem with the bolts attaching the power steering gear assist motor to the gear housing. In heavily salted areas, the bolts on could corrode and fracture, which would cause the motor to move, causing the drive-belt for the power assist to move and resulting in a loss of steering assist. At low speeds, this would make the car harder to steer.
A fifth large recall affected 5,356 Volkswagen Tiguans from 2018. The affected crossovers might have an improperly-welded rear shock-absorber mount that could allow it to separate from the chassis, affecting the vehicle’s stability, which at speed could lead to a crash.
Other large recalls for the month (in excess of 1,000 vehicles) included 2012-18 Tesla Model Ss (4,275 sedans), 2006-07 Volkswagen Passats (3,339), 2004-06 Mitsubishi Lancers (3,172), 2017-18 Chevrolet Bolts (2,754), and 3,739 vehicles from the BMW Group (BMW 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X5 and X6; Mini Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S and Cooper John Cooper Works, and Cooper S and John Cooper Works Clubman, Convertible and Coupe; and Rolls-Royce Ghost).
