Ford, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, and Jaecoo issue local recalls – is your car affected?
Words: Andrew Sluys
Ford, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz and Omoda have recently issued recalls for popular models in New Zealand.
2022 Ford Ranger/Everest
The most recent relates to the Ford Everest and Ranger, with model year 2022 vehicles involved.
According to the notice, this recall relates to remedy software which may not have been properly installed.
It reads: “Because the correct software may not have been installed on your vehicle, the underlying condition specified in Safety Recall 23S40 may still exist. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software on your vehicle may, under certain conditions, limit the alternator’s charging output leading to battery drain whilst driving.”
Owners are instructed to present potentially affected vehicles to their nearest Ford dealer.
2025 Jaecoo J7
The next affects Jaecoo J7 models from the model year 2025.
The notice reads: “Due to a manufacturing defect, the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) wiring harness may chafe against the engine mounting bracket and become damaged. As a result, this could lead to a sudden loss of motive power and/or engine shutdown without warning.
“Owners of affected vehicles will be contacted by Jaecoo in writing asking them to schedule an appointment with their local dealership to have the vehicle inspected and repair work carried out, free of charge.”
2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Issued on January 30, the next notice involves the 2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which might suffer a wiring issue.
“The transmission wiring harness might chafe on the front drive shaft. This could damage the wiring harness, thus, potentially resulting in a loss of propulsion without prior warning.”
Owners are instructed to contact their nearest authorised Mercedes-Benz Service Centre.
2022-2025 Toyota Prius
Issued on the same day, Toyota has advised Prius owners of an issue with the rear door locking system.
The notice reads: “The subject vehicles are equipped with electric rear door lock system, which includes a door opener switch and a rear door lock release actuator to release the latch from outside the vehicle.
“If the seal performance for this switch is reduced as a result of thermal cycling and water is present due to large amount of water splashes on the switch (for example, at a car wash), then closing the door with a high force can temporarily allow water to enter the switch. If the water contains detergent, this can lead to a short circuit that can cause the switch to activate.”
“If the door is unlocked when this occurs, the door could open unexpectedly and there will be a notification on the combination meter, and a buzzer will sound if the vehicle is in motion. If the door opens unexpectedly while driving, this could increase the risk of injury to occupants.”
It’s important to note here not all vehicles within the model years listed are affected.
“As an owner of an involved vehicle, you will be contacted by registered letter requesting you to contact your nearest authorised Toyota Store to arrange a convenient time to have the repairs completed at no cost. Alternatively, contact Toyota’s Customer Dialogue Centre to discuss.”
