DVSA recall round-up: Software issues lead to recalls for over 5000 Toyota and Ford vehicles

David Ross, EditorMon, 08 Jan 2024

• 2300 Toyota bZ4X models recalled due to information display fault
• Close to 2500 Ford Mustangs recalled due to failure of warning light
• SsangYong recalls over 1500 Korando models due to potential steering column mounting failure

Toyota, Ford and Ssangyong are among several manufactures to have issued safety recalls in recent weeks. Toyota is recalling 2289 bZ4X SUVs due to a software failure that can cause a multi-information display to become blank, which can subsequently result in other functions such as indicators, hazard lights and the pre-collision to deactivate. The recall states that deactivation of these systems can mean the vehicle will not meet certain regulations and that driving without these functions may result in an increased risk of a crash in certain driving conditions.

Toyota has advised that a reprogramming of the multi-function display ECU is required to rectify the issue.

Ford recalls Mustang models over warning light failure

Ford has issued a safety recall affecting 2456 Mustang models over the potential failure of a brake system warning light in the instrument cluster. The recall states that in affected vehicles the warning light may not illuminate in the event that the brake fluid is depleted from the brake fluid reservoir. Ford has issued guidance that a software update will rectify the issue.

SsangYong recalls Korando models due to steering column mount failure

SsangYong has recalled 1584 Korando models due to a potential structural failure of the steering column mounting bracket.

Affecting 792 diesel and 792 petrol Korandos built between May 2019 and January 2020, the recall states that affected vehicles should be inspected and a replacement dashboard crossmember should be installed if required.

Recall numberMakeModelProblemR/2023/333ToyotabZ4XDisplay failureR/2023/342FordMustangWarning light failureR/2023/330SsangyongKorandoSteering column mounting failureR/2023/345VolvoXC90Second-row seatbelt mountingR/2023/307Mercedes-BenzSL

12V starter/generator wiring below specification

R/2023/356VolkswagenTouareg

Side airbag in front left seat may not be secured

What is a vehicle recall?

DVSA safety recalls happen when a potentially dangerous issue is identified with a vehicle. Reasons for safety recalls can vary from small technical issues with windscreen wipers to major safety faults with airbags. In all cases, the vehicle will need to be checked by the manufacturer.

This will usually take place at a local dealership.

How do I find out if my car has been recalled?

The manufacturer will get in touch with the owners of any affected vehicles, using details from the DVLA. If your car needs to be recalled you should get a letter, phone call or email. The correspondence will explain what the issue is, how the manufacturer plans to fix it and who to contact to arrange for any checks or work to be carried out.

If you have a second hand car the manufacturer might not be able to reach you so contact a dealership to check if there’s anything outstanding for your vehicle or check on GOV.UK if you’re not sure

Do I have to pay for recall work?

No you don’t have to pay for recall work. Recall fixes and checks are carried out free of charge. Although dealers may try to get you to undertake other work on your car when it’s in for recall work.

Only agree and pay for work that you’re happy to have carried out and that you think your car requires. Ask HJ

Is there a recall on the Peugeot 1.2 PureTech engine?

I have seen online that there was a recall of the 1.2 PureTech across Peugeot and Citroen based on the timing chain and the wrong oil casing it to disintegrate. I have looked at a couple, with the intention to buy for my son and this concerns me now.

As with Covid etc there are many cars out there with missing history and I wonder whether garages would take note of using the correct oil with 100% increase in its costs over the alternative. Does anyone have experience of the recall in the UK and what a timing belt would cost?

Peugeot and Citroen issued a recall in 2021 relating to the wet timing belt degrading and causing restricted oil flow within the engine, which could cause significant damage. Although we would expect any car affected to have had rectification work carried out, it is possible that there are cars out there that have not been using the correct oil grade.

We would expect a replacement timing belt to cost between GBP400 and GBP600.

You may wish to consider an alternative car, or choosing one of the other Peugeot 208 engine options.

Answered by David Ross

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References

1. ^ More Questions (www.honestjohn.co.uk)