A total of 568,936 vehicles were recalled in Canada over the month of May (14 actions, affecting 30 models from 12 brands), the clear majority of those from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, which asked 490,000 owners to return their vehicles to dealers to address a cruise control issue.
Affecting certain vehicles from model years 2014 through 2018, the electronic issue manifests itself in not being able to deactivate the cruise control, which would result in the vehicle’s trying to accelerate back to its pre-set speed. If it catches the driver by surprise, it could result in a crash, resulting in potential injury or damage to property.
Affected are the Chrysler 200, 300 and Pacifica, the Dodge Challenger, Charger, Durango and Journey, the Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, and Ram pickups of all weight ratings.
Ram HD models (2500 and 3500) from 2013-2018 (a total of 4,350) were also recalled for an accessory problem. Some Mopar gooseneck trailer hitch ball kits may not fully seat and lock into the truck hardware as intended, and if the driver is not aware of the issue, it could result in the trailer breaking free. If it happens at speed, it could result in injury or property damage.
Hyundai Sonatas from 2011-13 were recalled to address an issue with the airbags. Dealers want to check 41,067 cars for damaged airbag control circuits that could result in the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners not deploying as intended in certain collisions.
General Motors recalled 22,078 full-size vans for a potential power widow problem. Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana models from 2014 through 2016 might suffer from water leaking onto the power window switches, which could lead high electrical resistance, causing the switch to heat, smolder or melt, which could lead to a fire.
Also of note is a recall for 2009-13 BMW X5 xDrive35d (diesel models) for a potential power steering problem. Potentially affecting 7,179 vehicles, the issue is caused by an engine belt idler pulley bolt that could come loose or break. This may cause the belt to detach, resulting in a sudden loss of power steering assist, which might lead some drivers finding it difficult to steer the vehicle at low speeds.
Other vehicles on the recall roll include the BMW 3 Series (2010-11) and 2018 5 Series, 2016-18 Chevrolet Cruze, 2015-16 Chevy police and special services Silverado and Tahoe, 2018 Genesis G70 sedans, 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500, Range Rover and Ranger Rover Sport models from 2017, and Volkswagen Eos, Golf, Passat and Touareg (all from 2012-13) and the 2018 Tiguan.