Category: Car Defects

Trouble With Your 2025 Honda Pilot? You’re Not Alone

8/24/2025

Buying a new SUV should bring confidence, but if you’re behind the wheel of a 2025 Honda Pilot, you might already be second-guessing that decision. Between engine failures, safety system malfunctions, and a growing list of recalls, this model is showing signs of trouble very early in its life cycle. For some drivers, that has turned into repeated service visits, and for others, it’s resulted in fear behind the wheel.

A Surge in Car Complaints

The 2025 Honda Pilot has racked up over 60 consumer complaints through NHTSA so far, with drivers reporting complete electrical failures, random engine stalls, and unpredictable behavior from the collision avoidance system. When so many issues surface early, it’s hard to know if the vehicle is a good investment, making it one of the worst cars of 2025.

Engine and Powertrain Issues

Drivers report engine stalling, misfiring, and gear shifting problems that sometimes happen within days of their new Honda Pilot purchase. Stalls occurred in the middle of busy intersections, and the SUV has been known to slip into neutral or reverse without warning at stoplights.

Forward Collision Avoidance Failures

The Pilot’s safety system is supposed to prevent accidents, but in some cases, it’s causing them. Several owners reported the automatic braking system triggering at highway speeds without reason. Sensors also failed entirely, leading to low-speed crashes with trees, toys, and parked vehicles.

Electrical System Shutdowns

A large number of complaints involve complete electrical failure. In some cases, the SUV shut off and wouldn’t restart, locking the doors and leaving owners stranded.

Visibility and Structural Defects

There have also been issues with windshield cracking under normal driving conditions and no replacement glass available. Distortion in the glass, mirror detachment, and poorly mounted components that compromise visibility and structure also impair visibility for 2025 Honda Pilot drivers.

Recalls for the 2025 Honda Pilot

So far, four recalls have been issued for this model. One involves a software defect in the fuel injection system that can cause engine stalls. Another concerns a loose brake pedal pin that may stop the brakes from functioning correctly. Honda has also recalled vehicles for a third-row seatbelt issue and a fuel filler pipe defect that could lead to a dangerous leak. These recalls cover major safety systems and affect hundreds of thousands of vehicles.

Your SC Lemon Law Rights

If your new 2025 Honda Pilot has persistent problems, you don’t have to keep waiting for the next repair. South Carolina’s Lemon Law exists to protect you when your new vehicle turns out to be unreliable. Steve Moskos helps clients across the state take legal action when car complaints go unanswered or unresolved. We’re here to help if your newly purchased Honda Pilot in South Carolina qualifies. Reach out and ask us how the SC Lemon Law may apply to your case.

VinFast’s Shaky U.S. Footing: What SC Buyers Should Know Before Taking the Keys

7/30/2025

Buying a new EV from a rising brand might feel like you’re taking a confident step into the future. However, if you’re considering a VinFast vehicle in South Carolina or if you’ve already bought one, you may want to take a closer look at what’s happening behind the scenes. The Vietnamese EV automaker has started closing stores in Canada, halted plans for a U.S. manufacturing plant in North Carolina, and continues to struggle with recalls and financial instability. If you purchased your vehicle here in South Carolina, these developments could matter more than you think.

A Company Scaling Back and What That Means for You

VinFast launched with some very big promises when it came to their direct-to-consumer model. In just a few years, it opened 10 stores across Canada, began selling in the U.S., and announced a $4 billion plant in North Carolina. Now, half of those Canadian stores are closing, and the U.S. factory has been put on hold. According to the company’s own financial reports, VinFast lost nearly $600 million just in the first quarter of 2023. That’s on top of $2.1 billion in losses the year before.

As of now, there’s a Charlotte-area VinFast location in Fort Mill, SC, but if the trend continues, there’s a possibility that local support could shrink or disappear. That matters if your vehicle develops defects, and you may struggle to get service or parts quickly.

Recalls and Risk: The VF8’s Early Warning Signs

VinFast’s debut in the U.S. market came with serious safety concerns. In May 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a recall for all 999 VinFast VF8s. The issue involved a software glitch that could cause the dashboard display to go blank while driving. For an EV, where critical information is shown digitally, that’s extremely dangerous.

When you combine a serious safety recall with financial instability and shrinking infrastructure, it raises real concerns about long-term support for your vehicle. If parts become harder to get or the service network thins out, your ownership experience may not be what you were promised.

SC Lemon Law Protections Depend on Where You Buy

South Carolina’s Lemon Law only protects vehicles that are both purchased and registered here. If you buy a VinFast across state lines, those protections will not apply, so you should take that into consideration if the current store closes and you go out of state to purchase your vehicle. Also, if VinFast does end up closing its South Carolina presence, support for your warranty could get a lot more complicated.

You deserve a vehicle that performs as expected, and, when things go wrong, you should be able to rely on service and repairs promised by the manufacturer. If your new VinFast is already showing signs of trouble, or you’re unsure whether your purchase qualifies under Lemon Law, it’s worth getting legal clarity from Steven Moskos. We can help you understand whether it qualifies under the state Lemon Law. Contact us today to discuss your situation and find out what next steps are available.

The Impact of Imported Parts Shortages on Your New Vehicle

7/26/2025

If you’re waiting for a new vehicle or dealing with unexpected repair delays, you need to understand how the current global supply chain issues could affect you. You might think that buying a vehicle built in the U.S. shields you from these problems, but that’s not always true. Many vehicles assembled in the U.S. still rely on parts imported from other countries. A recent example involving Volvo’s Ridgeville, South Carolina plant shows just how quickly these issues can disrupt production and repairs.

How the Volvo Parts Shortage Unfolded

Volvo’s Ridgeville plant, which is well known for building the EX90 electric vehicle, was forced to temporarily stop their production as the result of a shortage of key components. Even though the shutdown lasted only a few days, it raised some serious concerns for both potential buyers and current owners. The EX90 may be assembled here in South Carolina, but it depends on parts from all over the world. About 30 percent of the parts come from China, another 30 percent from Mexico, and additional critical components are sourced from Canada, Sweden, and the U.S.

When just one part is unavailable, it can delay the production of new vehicles and any repairs you might need for a vehicle already on the road. This means you could end up with longer wait times, greater uncertainty, and possibly more trips back to the dealer for unresolved problems.

The Impact of Supply Chain Issues on Lemon Law Claims

If your new vehicle keeps breaking down and the shortage of parts prevent the manufacturer from making timely repairs, you could face months of frustration. SC Lemon Law protects buyers like you from being stuck with defective vehicles that can’t be fixed after a reasonable number of attempts, which includes days out of service. However, these protections apply only when your car meets specific legal definitions and conditions.

If a part shortage is the reason your vehicle sits in the shop without repairs, you might wonder whether the delays impact your rights. Ultimately, you should know that the manufacturer is still responsible for addressing defects within a reasonable time, no matter where the parts come from.

What You Should Consider When Buying or Waiting on Repairs

Before buying a vehicle or while waiting for yours to be fixed, make sure you ask questions about where key parts come from and how the manufacturer is handling the rising supply chain issues. Don’t assume that buying American-built means that repairs are going to be free from delays. If you’ve ordered a vehicle, stay in close contact with the dealer for updates. If your new vehicle keeps having issues that can’t be resolved, you should consider reaching out to a South Carolina lemon lawyer to explore your options.

Get Help From a South Carolina Lemon Lawyer

We understand how frustrating it is to deal with repeated breakdowns or long repair delays that are beyond your control. Steve Moskos is here to help you understand your rights under the SC Lemon Law. Contact us today to discuss your situation and see what steps you can take.

Trouble Under the Hood: The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander and Lemon Law in South Carolina

7/9/2025

When you buy a new vehicle from a manufacturer with a long-standing reputation like Toyota, you expect long-term dependability. However, for many drivers who bought the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, that expectation has started to fall apart. With over 120 consumer complaints already reported to the NHTSA, the Grand Highlander is raising some very serious questions for buyers, and its reliability concerns have put it on our list as one of the worst cars of 2025.

What the Car Complaints Are Telling You

If your new Grand Highlander has been acting up, you’re not just imagining things. These aren’t just isolated glitches, as hundreds of owners share the same frustrations across multiple systems.

Axle and Steering Concerns

One of the top car complaints for the 2025 Toyota Highlander involves clicking or knocking noises during turns that have been traced to the axle or steering system. Unfortunately, drivers have been told by dealerships that no fix is currently available.

Engine and Acceleration Issues

Complaints also focus on issues where the Grand Highlander hesitates when accelerating from a stop, especially when pulling into traffic. Additionally, owners have described moments where the car barely responds to the gas pedal, creating high-stress situations during turns or lane merges. For a vehicle marketed as a safe family SUV, that kind of delay can make you question your buying decision.

Fuel System Discrepancies

Another major safety concern involves the panoramic moonroof spontaneously exploding while driving. These aren’t minor cracks or chips from debris. In several cases, the glass shattered outward with no external impact and no warning, including while traveling at highway speeds with children in the vehicle. Toyota refuses to take responsibility in many of these cases, even when debris was ruled out as the cause, leaving owners frustrated and concerned about future incidents.

Structural Failures: Exploding Moonroofs

Recalls Raise Further Questions

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander has two official recalls. One involves a labeling issue related to weight capacity, and the other involves a potential airbag malfunction. In the airbag recall, Toyota admitted that side curtain airbags may not deploy properly in a crash, reducing protection for passengers. That alone is enough to warrant serious concern when your family depends on those safety systems.

Know Where You Stand With the SC Lemon Law

When your new 2024 Grand Highlander is already showing defects that can’t be resolved through normal service, the SC Lemon Law could give you a path forward. The law covers new vehicles purchased in the last three years with recurring problems that affect safety, value, or overall function. You don’t have to wait for the next breakdown or delay. If the dealer can’t or won’t fix your car after multiple attempts, you may be entitled to a refund or replacement.

Steve Moskos helps drivers across South Carolina understand their options. Contact us, and we’ll help you determine whether your vehicle qualifies under the SC Lemon Law and guide you toward a resolution that puts you back in control.

Investigating GM’s Latest Model Flaws and Your Rights Under Lemon Law

4/7/2025

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When you go looking for a new vehicle, you probably can’t wait for the advanced features, comfort, and reliability. However, for owners of certain General Motors vehicles, this anticipation has turned into a serious concern. The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recently initiated a preliminary probe into 877,710 GM vehicles, creating some unease for consumers.

Uncovering the Issue

The investigation is currently targeting popular models of full-sized trucks and SUVs, including the Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade. The model years range from 2019 to 2024, and they are all equipped with the L87 V8 engine. These vehicles are under scrutiny due to alarming reports of engine failures leading to a seizure of the engine or a connecting rod breaking through the engine block when the engine seizes. This increases the likelihood of a serious crash that puts you at risk. To date, the NHTSA has gathered 39 complaints from concerned vehicle owners, each reporting no signs of malfunction before the engine seized, creating an unpredictable defect.

What This Means for Owners

This probe is classified as a preliminary evaluation to determine the extent and severity of the problem. This step helps investigators understand whether a full-scale recall is necessary. General Motors has stated that it will cooperate fully with the NHTSA to resolve the matter efficiently.

The Risks Involved

The potential for sudden engine failure is a significant hazard. Not only does it pose a direct risk to the safety of the vehicle’s occupants, but it also endangers other road users. The abrupt loss of vehicle power, especially on highways, could lead to multi-car accidents with catastrophic outcomes.

Legal Recourse and Lemon Laws

If you purchased one of these GM models in the last three years and have experienced these engine issues, it’s important to know your rights under the South Carolina Lemon Law. This law protects consumers from the burdens of defective vehicles so that your investment is safeguarded. South Carolina’s Lemon Law provides relief if your vehicle has a persistent defect that the dealer cannot fix even after a number of attempts. Given the nature of these engine failures, where there is no forewarning and immediate resolution isn’t always possible, you might be entitled to a replacement or refund.

Secure Your Safety: Contact Us Now for the Best South Carolina Lemon Law Assistance

If you are concerned that your new GM vehicle might be one of the vehicles affected by these engine issues, contact Steve Moskos whose practice focuses on Lemon Law claims and can help you understand your legal rights and options. We are committed to ensuring that you get the help you need. Reach out today, and let us help you find a resolution.

Navigating the Uncharted Road: Lemon Law Help for the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck

7/13/2024

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When innovation meets the road, it is a very exciting idea that you want to join in on. The 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, with its futuristic design and promises of cutting-edge technology, was supposed to revolutionize the pickup truck market through the Tesla brand. However, in the short time since its release, there have been a series of consumer complaints and recalls that show that it might not be as amazing as you expected. Luckily, the South Carolina Lemon Laws are in place to protect consumers like you.

Consumer Complaints and Recalls

Even with its robust appearance and advanced features, the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck has 7 official complaints filed with the NHTSA in the short time it has been on the market, making it one of the worst cars of 2024. This shows the potential reliability and safety concerns associated with this vehicle for consumers like you. The issues include electrical system failures and steering problems, which could leave you without control of your vehicle when you need it most. There are also concerns about visibility due to wiper malfunctions. One alarming report involved a steering alert that prevented the vehicle from being driven just after delivery, illustrating immediate and significant risks to driver safety.

Recall Details Impacting Safety

On top of the car complaints, Tesla has initiated two recalls affecting the Cybertruck that address critical safety issues that could impact drivers unexpectedly. This is more than many vehicles have in their entire life cycle. The first recall involves a trapped accelerator pedal, which could lead to unintended acceleration—a dangerous scenario on any road. The second, a systemic issue with incorrect font sizes on warning lights, might seem minor but can severely affect a driver’s ability to respond to critical alerts. Ultimately, this increases the risk of accidents.

Understanding Your Rights Under the SC Lemon Law

South Carolina’s Lemon Law provides you with the protection you need as a vehicle owner when you find yourself facing repeated and unresolved issues from a new vehicle that you purchased in the last three years. If your Cybertruck has persistent problems that Tesla cannot fix, you might be eligible for relief under the Lemon Law. You may be able to get a replacement vehicle or even a refund. That means you won’t find yourself left to shoulder the burden of a defective vehicle on your own.

Assert Your Rights Under the SC Lemon Law Today

You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Steven Moskos is ready to help. If your experience with a 2024 Tesla Cybertruck is turning your dream into a distressing liability, it might be time to assert your rights. Contact us today to explore your options under the SC Lemon Law.

Uncovering the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica: Navigating Lemon Law Risks in South Carolina

6/6/2024

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When you purchase a new car, you anticipate reliability, safety, and smooth driving. However, if you own a 2022 Chrysler Pacifica, you may have found that this celebration of a new car has turned into a series of unexpected and dangerous issues. This vehicle was once celebrated for its family-friendly features but is now one of the worst cars on the road because of consumer complaints and significant safety recalls.

A Closer Look at the Car Complaints

According to the NHTSA, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica owners filed 143 complaints based on their experiences with this vehicle. They experienced issues ranging from complete power loss on highways to unpredictable braking and electrical malfunctions. Here’s what owners are facing:

Electrical System Failures

The electrical system has been notably problematic. Owners reported a total loss of vehicle control and unexpected warning messages that led to the car shutting down even when driving on the highway. This has led to multiple drivers being left in dangerous driving conditions.

Braking and Speed Control

The vehicle’s braking system and vehicle speed control, with 11 complaints, have behaved erratically. Drivers have experienced phantom braking with no obstacles present, leading to near-miss rear-end collisions. This unpredictable behavior raises questions about the reliability of the Pacifica’s safety features.

Recall Details Impacting Safety

On top of all the complaints, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica has been issued three critical recalls affecting many of its fundamental systems. Over 67,000 vehicles were recalled due to an electrical short that could cause unexpected engine shutdowns, increasing the risk of accidents. Another recall involved improperly tightened windshield wiper arms on over 500 vehicles, potentially leading to reduced visibility in bad weather. Additionally, more than 1,000 vehicles were recalled because seats were not properly secured, heightening the risk of injury in a crash.
If you are the owner of a new 2022 Pacifica that you purchased in the last three years, you need to be aware of these critical issues. They directly impact your safety and the reliability of your vehicle.

Your Rights Under the SC Lemon Law

In South Carolina, the Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers from the financial and safety burdens of defective vehicles. If your 2022 Chrysler Pacifica has shown consistent and unrepaired defects, you may be entitled to compensation or a vehicle replacement. It’s important that you document all issues and seek legal advice from a South Carolina Lemon Lawyer, like me, if your vehicle’s performance and safety are compromised.

This lawfirm focuses on Lemon Law and claims associated with auto fraud. So, if you are experiencing problems with your 2022 Chrysler Pacifica, reach out for legal support to navigate the complexities of SC Lemon Law and ensure your rights are protected.

What is a lemon vehicle?

3/20/2022

Way back in 1960, Volkswagen created an ad with the slogan “We pluck the lemons; you get the plums.” The ad was about the manufacturer’s high quality when it came to inspecting cars before they left the factory and focused on an inspector’s discovery that the chrome strip on the glove compartment on one car was blemished and had to be replaced.

Would that Volkswagen be considered a “lemon” in South Carolina? Under South Carolina law, a new car is considered a “lemon” when it has a manufacturing defect that affects the safety, value, or use of the vehicle. If that defect shows up within the first twelve months or 12,000 miles of a car’s purchase, whichever one comes first, then the manufacturer must fix the vehicle for free.

You can’t just arbitrarily decide your vehicle is a “lemon” and return it to the dealership expecting a full refund. Whether the problem you’re having with your car fits the above criterion is something a court would have to decide.

While you’re reading this, you might be thinking, what about my 2001 car that I just bought from the used car dealership? It needs a lot of repairs, and the salesman didn’t tell me about any of this. Doesn’t that mean the car is a “lemon”? Technically, yes, the car is a “lemon”, meaning it’s a bad car, but it isn’t a “lemon” under South Carolina law because it isn’t a new car.

Does that mean you have no recourse if you’ve purchased a used car? Not at all. An experienced lawyer knows laws that apply to used vehicles and can help guide you in the right direction. Just because you’ve purchased an “unofficial lemon” doesn’t necessarily mean you’re stuck with it.

So, whether you’ve purchased a new “lemon” or a bad car, talking to a lawyer is your best bet. The laws involving vehicles are complicated and can be quite confusing. It just makes sense to get advice from someone who has read and understands those laws.

Does the Lemon Law Cover Business Vehicles?

8/15/2020

When your business depends on reliable transportation, mechanical issues with your vehicles can cause a loss of income or even customers. When it’s a new vehicle that is not running properly, your frustration can be even worse.

The lemon law states that a vehicle that does not operate correctly and the manufacturer (or an authorized agent of that manufacturer) cannot repair the vehicle within a certain amount of time, you are entitled to a replacement or a refund.

In South Carolina, only vehicles that are designed to transport ten or fewer people are covered. The law also covers trucks that weigh less than 9,000 pounds when they are empty. This law pertains only to new vehicles, not used or previously leased vehicles.

To be considered a lemon, the problems must show up within the the warranty period. The mechanical problem must substantially affect the vehicle’s market value, safety, or use, and it cannot be repaired within a reasonable amount of time. Under South Carolina law, a reasonable amount of time is considered to be when the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair for thirty or more days or three attempts to repair the same problem.

Business vehicles are not covered by the Lemon Law. But what is a business vehicle? Obviously, a tractor trailer rig or a piece of farm equipment are business vehicles and not covered. On the other hand, a vehicle can be owned by a business but still be covered by the Lemon Law. The issue comes down to whether the motor vehicle is normally used for personal, family, or household purposes and subject to the manufacturer's express warranty.

As the business owner, you also need to be very careful about how your vehicles are driven. If the mechanical problem is caused by abuse or neglect of maintenance guidelines, your lemon law rights may be affected. Also, if you plan to alter your car in any way, such as adding a trailer hitch or roof racks, you should have an authorized dealer install the items. If the alterations are not approved or installed by the dealer, the manufacturer can claim those alterations caused the mechanical problems, and you will have a harder time proving your car is a lemon.

Just remember, the more you use the vehicle in your business, the more ammunition you give the manufacturer’s lawyer to claim that the vehicle does not qualify under the lemon law.
If you have problems with a vehicle, start documenting everything that is done to repair it from the very first trip to an authorized mechanic. Keep all paperwork and notes of any discussions you may have with the dealership. You will need to notify the manufacturer of the problems within the time frame, and be sure to have copies of any documents you send to anyone. You should also document lost wages for when you were unable to use your vehicle for your business.

After three attempts to repair the vehicle, it may be in your best interest to hire an attorney who has experience with the lemon laws of your state. Your lawyer can advise you of the next steps you need to take to receive a refund or a replacement on your vehicle.

Do I Need a Lawyer if my Car is a Lemon?

6/28/2020

Anyone can end up with a new car that has constant problems. A new car like this is known as a “lemon” car, and there are laws to protect consumers who may purchase one. If you have one, you may be angry and not sure what to do first. If contacting the dealer where you purchased the vehicle does not bring you the results you need, you should contact an attorney who specializes in the “lemon laws” of your state.

why you Need an Attorney

Just like other professions, attorneys often specialize in certain areas of the law. When you begin your search, make sure you ask the lawyer how much experience they have with lemon laws. If they don’t have much experience, you would be better off to search for another lawyer. The laws can be confusing, and you need someone who is familiar with the law in your area to guide you through the process of getting your vehicle repaired or replaced.

To be considered a lemon, a new vehicle must have a defect that is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty that became known during a certain time frame or number of miles you have driven. Every state has different lemon laws and different timelines which is why it’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after you start having problems with your new car as they are best able to guide you in the process.

If you are unlucky enough to purchase a new vehicle from a dealership that cannot repair your vehicle, an attorney can contact the dealer or manufacturer on your behalf. Sometimes, a letter from an attorney is enough to force the dealer or manufacturer to discuss options with you, but this isn’t always the case.

Most manufacturers require you to go through non-binding arbitration first. You and your attorney will have the opportunity to present your proof of attempted repairs and the time you were without your new car. Once the arbitration board has heard your case, the manufacturer may make an offer. You and your attorney can discuss whether to accept or decline the offer.
If you decide the offer is not satisfactory to you, your attorney can file a law suit against the manufacturer of your vehicle. Your attorney can offer more of the evidence you have collected in court. Always be sure to keep careful records of repairs that were completed on your vehicle and any discussions you have had with the dealer you purchased the car from. All of this will be important in helping your lemon law attorney in building a strong case for your law suit.

While it may seem like this is a simple process that you can handle on your own, the complexity of lemon laws are very confusing to someone who isn’t experienced with the law. You may miss an important detail or deadline that will prevent your car from being declared a lemon and repaired or replaced. It would be best to let an experienced lemon law attorney handle the process for you so you get the best outcome for your situation.

How Technical Service Bulletins Differ From Recalls

2/6/2020

What is a Recall?

When a car manufacturer discovers a safety problem on their vehicle, they start an investigation into the issue. If the problem is serious, they may even stop production of any models that could be affected. Once a solution to the issue is developed, the manufacturer issues a recall for any models that have been affected by the faulty part or programming.

The manufacturer will send out notices to all owners of vehicles with a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) that could be affected. Recalls are mandatory and must be completed by a registered dealer of that make and model of car. Recalls are free to owners.

What is a Technical Service Bulletin?

Manufacturers track warranty claims. When a common problem surfaces, the manufacturer will usually investigate the problem. Once the manufacturer discovers a solution, the repair procedure is posted as a technical service bulletin.

These service bulletins are a good place for mechanics to start the diagnostic process when someone brings a vehicle to them with a problem.

Technical service bulletins are issued for non-safety issues. They are voluntary and are not free to car owners. However, the problem may be covered under your car’s warranty, or the manufacturer may open a special warranty period for the problem. In these cases, your repairs will be free of charge.

How to Find Recalls or Technical Service Bulletins

You can take your vehicle to a local dealer’s service center where they will look up your car’s vehicle identification number and determine if your vehicle has any outstanding recalls, but this may require a service appointment and may cost you.

You can also find recalls and some technical service bulletins online. Many car forum sites offer this information from people who share what they have learned. You can also check the manufacturer’s website or the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.

The trouble with airbags—the recalls seem to be non-stop.

1/14/2019

You never know when a car accident might happen, but you can make sure you’re protected when it does thanks to safety features like airbags. Although airbags save lives, they’re not always foolproof – especially in recent years, as airbag recalls seem to permeate the news without signs of slowing down. Recently, Toyota and Subaru recalled more than 1 million vehicles with faulty airbags worldwide. Similarly, Mazda expanded its Takata airbag recall to an additional 155,000 cars. Not long ago, GM and Audi announced airbag recalls as well, with more than 100,000 cars affected. With all these car manufacturers announcing recalls, which cars are actually safe to drive?

A lot of the smaller recalls, such as GM and Audi’s, affect newer models – so if you bought an Audi in recent years, it’s worth checking whether your airbag has been recalled. However, the largest recall of 2018 by Toyota and Subaru affects a lot more drivers. But don’t worry. While 1 million vehicles worldwide is a huge number to recall, keep in mind that only about 17,000 of those are in the United States. Here, the recall only covers about 17,000 Scion xA vehicles released from 2004 through 2006. Usually, you won’t have to look up for yourself whether a part of your car has been recalled because your dealer or manufacturer should contact you. But it is concerning to know that so many cars are not as safe as we thought they were.

So why are all of these airbag recalls happening all of a sudden? There’s actually a simple explanation. The recalled airbags all come from a company called Takata, which provides airbags for multiple manufacturers. The issue at hand is specific to Takata’s airbags – basically, the ammonium nitrate used in the airbags becomes unstable and can cause them to suddenly inflate, launching metal shrapnel in the process. At least fifteen people have died because of this airbag issue in the United States, so it’s a serious issue. Takata’s airbags first started getting recalled about ten years ago, and regulators even launched an investigation. All in all, the recalls have affected nineteen manufacturers and 37 million vehicles across the world. If you haven’t checked already, now is a good time to make sure your car isn’t among them.

How to file a Vehicle Safety Complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

1/7/2019

If something isn’t working correctly in your vehicle, it’s your responsibility to report it to the proper authorities. That’s how a lot of recalls end up happening – enough consumers complain and a company is forced to correct the problem. It’s actually a lot easier than you might think – all you have to do is file a Vehicle Safety Complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at this website.

The process is simple, and all you need to have on hand is your email address, Vehicle Identification Number, Make, Model, Year, and documentation related to the complaint like photos or a police report. It takes about five minutes to fill out the form on the site. The NHTSA insists that all complaints are reviewed; however, only some will lead to an investigation and potential recalls. The review process can take a long time, but you should be notified if there is a recall based on your complaint. People whose cars have had a recall due to Takata airbag safety issues should make sure to note that on their complaint, as the NHTSA already has an open investigation.

What counts as a valid vehicle safety complaint? Faulty airbags, brakes that don’t function as intended, widespread ignition issues, and all kinds of other things that go wrong. You may not even realize that your car’s problem is a safety complaint, which is why it’s good to fill out the form. Note that the NHTSA will never share your personal information with the public after you file a complaint. It is added to a public database, but all of your personal information is removed first.

It’s important to notify the NHTSA if you think there’s something wrong with your car, like an airbag issue that could potentially be dangerous. If the NHTSA receives similar reports from multiple people about the same product, they can open an investigation to determine whether the defect should result in a recall. If you don’t report car safety issues, then the NHTSA can’t do anything to make sure car manufacturers are held responsible.

Podcast Guest/The Car Chick

5/24/2018

I was a guest on the podcast by The Car Chick (which is all about car knowledge for women and smart men) recently where we talked about the lemon law, what it means, and more. You can find more podcasts and much more information at www.whoisthecarchick.com.

Does a Carfax tell You Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy a Car?

3/29/2018

CarFax is the leading company in used car record tracking and is often publicized as a promotional tool to prove the soundness of a used vehicle. While CarFax claims to compile over 100,000 sources to document each car's history, you should consider it a tool rather than a final answer when you're in the process of buying a used vehicle.

Importance
CarFax compiles records from a wide range of sources that track Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), odometer readings, and accidents among other statistics. That means you'll have access to some title transfers, odometer readings, reported accidents, and manufacturer recalls concerning the vehicle in question.

Do You Need More Information?
You should have any used vehicle inspected and driven by a trusted mechanic before you buy. It's also a good idea to have the seller provide you with a written statement outlining the condition of the car and detailing any damages it may have.

What Might be Missed?
A CarFax report is only as good as its sources, and therein lies the problem. If a vehicle was in an accident that wasn't reported to police, it won't show up. Furthermore, if it was reported and the police department doesn’t provide reports to Carfax, you won't get the accident information. If the vehicle was in an accident or flood and was repaired by a mechanic or body shop that doesn't report to CarFax, you won't learn that information. In addition, insurance companies do not provide reports to Carfax. These are only a few examples, so if you have a question about your vehicle's condition, ask.

Why Use CarFax if not All Information is Reported?
Although CarFax may not cover every angle of a vehicle history, it is a valuable tool when buying a used car. Here are some key benefits you'll find on a CarFax report:

The Safety and Reliability section combines information from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Highway Loss Data Institute, and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration and outlines the average cost for repairs of the vehicle make and model. The reliability section lists potentially expensive issues the model may be prone to as well as the average cost of ownership and the average risk of injuries and accidents.
CarFax lists the type of owner the vehicle has had. This can alert you to a former leased or rental vehicle and, combined with the odometer reading, can give you an idea of the type of use the vehicle has seen. A low odometer reading can tell you to be on the alert for low mileage driving issues.
The Owned in the Following States section can be a red flag. If the vehicle has been relocated several times in a short period of time, it may have been salvaged in one state, repaired in another, and sold in a third to avoid detection.
The Frame Damage Check means the vehicle was in a wreck so you should have the frame checked by your own mechanic for unrepaired damage.
If the Airbag Deployment Check is positive, it means the car has been in a wreck where the airbag deployed. Make sure the airbag was replaced.

What Can You do if You have an Issue?
CarFax guarantees a clean title on its report, but make sure you read the fine print. Register the car with CarFax if you buy it and be aware the guarantee is very specific.

If you suspect you've purchased a car that's been damaged without disclosure, it's important to get legal representation. Consumer laws are made to protect unsuspecting car buyers from fraud, and you may have a valid case.

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A Surge in Car Complaints

Recalls for the 2025 Honda Pilot

Your SC Lemon Law Rights

A Company Scaling Back and What That Means for You

Recalls and Risk: The VF8’s Early Warning Signs

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How the Volvo Parts Shortage Unfolded

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Recall Details Impacting Safety

Your Rights Under the SC Lemon Law