CHILD SEATS:
Graco is recalling 18 ComfortSport child restraint systems, Model 8C02MRC2, manufactured on October 22, 2007, for failing to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 213, “Child Restraint Systems.” These seats were produced with convoluted foam that was 1.5” thick instead of the 1″ thick foam that Graco specified and tested. Seats with 1.5” foam have not been tested so it is unclear as to what impact this will have on compliance to the standard and on child seat safety. The purpose of this standard is to reduce the number of children killed or injured in motor vehicle crashes. Graco will notify owners and replace the affected seats. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08C-001

Evenflo is recalling 1,000,000 Models 390, 391, 534, and 552 Discovery car seats or associated travel systems manufactured from April 2005 through January 2008. In recent laboratory tests conducted by Evenflo and NHTSA to evaluate the performance of these seats in high impact side collisions, it was revealed that the car seat could potentially become separated from its base under these conditions. In the event of a side impact vehicle crash, the car seat could become separated from its base, possibly resulting in serious injury or death. Evenflo will notify registered owners and provide a free supplemental dual-hook fastener to ensure that the car seat remains attached to its base in a high impact side collision similar to those in the recent tests. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. Evenflo has not made a decision that these units contain a safety related defect; however Evenflo will provide a free supplemental dual-hook fastener. 08C-002

EQUIPMENT:
Femtec is recalling 4,287 Ultra aluminum wheels, Series 223/224, 8 lug - 170 and 8 lug - 6.5, size 17″ x 8.” Some of these wheels may crack due to the marginal dimension on the spoke especially if mounted on tires larger than the recommended maximum tire diameter of 32.5 inches. Cracked spokes could cause eventual separation of the wheel and tire from the rim possibly resulting in a vehicle crash. Femtec will notify owners and replace the wheels with the same style or a similar product at no cost which will include free mounting and balancing. The recall began on January 2, 2008. 08E-001

Trimark is recalling 9,297 single rotor door latches with product date codes R40Z, R41Z, R42Z, R43Z, R44Z, and R45Z, installed for use as original equipment on Peterbilt and Kenworth heavy trucks. These door latches fail to comply with the transverse pull static load requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 206, “Door Locks and Door Retention Components.” A malfunction in the sintering furnace did not exhaust lubricant which contaminated some parts passing through the furnace. In the event of a vehicle crash, force could cause the rotor to crack and the door would not have primary or secondary closing security which could possibly lead to injury of the vehicle occupant. Trimark is working with Paccar to notify owners and replace the door latches. Owners should contact their vehicle manufacturers for more information. 08E-002

Dana is recalling 68 pinion gears, Part Nos. 129737 and 127420, manufactured on December 4, 2007, and assembled into the axle assembly of tandem-rear or single drive axles installed as original equipment for certain International, Paccar, and Volvo heavy trucks. Wrong induction hardness process settings were used resulting in excessive hardness of the pinion gears. The excessive hardness can potentially result in the threaded end of the pinion breaking off. This failure could result in the driveshaft disconnecting from the axle, which would cause loss of vehicle power. It is also possible that the driveshaft may separate from the vehicle possibly resulting in a vehicle crash. Dana is working with the vehicle manufacturers to notify owners to have their vehicles repaired. Owners should contact their vehicle manufacturer for more information. 08E-003

Intermotive Vehicle Controls is recalling 250 wheelchair lift interlock systems, Part No. ILIS605-H3 ILIS activation kits (Interlock option for Gateway 401), sold for use as aftermarket parts for 2005-2008 Chevrolet C4500 and C5500 Kodiak) vehicles equipped with 6.6l diesel engines in which a protection diode was used. The diode can be exposed to voltage spikes greater than what it can withstand. The diode could fail, which could prevent vehicle interlock operation when a wheelchair lift is deployed. Should the diode fail, it will be possible to move the vehicle with the wheelchair deployed, which could result in injury to anyone using the lift. Intermotive will notify owners and repair the vehicles. The recall began on November 20, 2007. This recall only pertains to aftermarket Intermotive wheelchair lifts and has no relation to any original equipment installed on Chevrolet and GMC vehicles manufactured by General Motors. 08E-004

VCAN International is recalling 29,134 VCAN and Outlaw motorcycle helmets, Model V530, sizes XS, S, M, L, XL, and XXL, for failing to comply with the penetration, strap retention, and labeling requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 218, “Motorcycle Helmets.” In the event of a crash, the wearer of one of these helmets may not be adequately protected possibly resulting in serious injury. VCAN will notify owners and replace the helmet. The manufacturer has not yet provided the agency with a notification schedule. This recall was the subject of an investigation, OA-218-070919, conducted by the Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance. 08E-005

Hyundai is recalling 185 aftermarket Expressway 996 (Part No. 00285-03000) and Expressway 995 (Part No. 00285-03001) hitch style bicycle racks received from Thule, Inc. during January and February 2005. These bicycle racks can be installed on Nissan Quest, Murano, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder, Titan, Armada, and Infiniti FX35, FX45, QX56, and QX4 sport utility vehicles. A pinch bolt exists between the bicycle arm bracket and the upright assembly of the “hitch” style bicycle rack. When moving the bicycle arm bracket to its down position, this pinch bolt has the potential of causing severe laceration or amputation to the user’s fingertips or hand. Thule will provide a repair kit and instructions to owners of these bicycle racks. 08E-006

Active Technology is working with DoubleTree RV to recall 359 Actibrake electric-hydraulic actuators, Part No. AB-1-14. These actuators are used on hydraulic disc brakes and installed as original equipment on certain DoubleTree trailers. The trailer wiring configuration of the circuit breaker allows high current to be continuously applied to the Actibrake even after the trailer circuit breaker is tripped and the 30 amp fuse on the Actibrake is blown. Therefore there is a situation wherein the 50 amp breaker in the trailer wiring does not protect the Actibrake battery charger circuit from over-current. Trailer brakes are not operative with an incapacitated brake actuator, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash. Active Technology is working with DoubleTree to notify owners and repair the trailers (please see 08V040). 08E-007

Terex is recalling 4,060 TC, TCX, XM, RM, RMX, OM, TM, HA, 6-Series, and FC Series aerial devices equipped with hydraulic rotary selector valves, Part Nos. 68698, 459713, 463130, 476618, and 9118243, manufactured between January 1996 and January 1, 2008. The valve is used on closed center, hydraulic system aerial devices. Failure can occur when the vehicle is parked and the aerial device is operating. The aerial devices are installed on trucks to transport the aerial device to the work site to facilitate working on electrical power lines and communication lines. Failure of the valve may cause loss of oil, the handle being expelled at high speed, and the machine will be inoperable, which may result in serious injury or death to the operator. Terex will notify owners and replace the defective hydraulic rotary select valve. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08E-008

Terex is recalling 1,167 TC Series aerial devices equipped with check valve, Part No. 443847, installed from September 2001 until March 2007. The valve is located on the lower boom lift cylinder. Failure can occur only when the vehicle is parked and the aerial device is in operation. The check valve is used in retiming of the boom when the platform is out of level. The flow through the check valve can cause the snap ring to fail if the retiming flow is abnormally high. The check valve components will flow into the lift cylinder if the snap ring fails. Debris may scratch the cylinder wall or get into holding valves and cause the platform to drift down slowly, which could possibly result in serious injury or death to the platform user. Terex will notify owners and replace the defective check valves. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08E-009

TIRES:
FTS is recalling 350 FTS chassis container tires with the brand name Direction, size 11.22.5, for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 199, “New Pneumatic Tires.” These tires were not branded with the maximum single use load range. The manufacturer has not provided a description of the consequence as it relates to motor vehicle safety. FTS will notify owners and bring the tires into compliance by branding them with the required information. The manufacturer has not yet provided the agency with a notification schedule. 08T-001

FTS is recalling 7,350 FTS chassis container tires with the brand name Maersk, sizes 11.22.5 and 10.00-20, for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 199, “New Pneumatic Tires.” These tires were not branded with the maximum single use load range. The manufacturer has not provided a description of the consequence as it relates to motor vehicle safety. FTS will notify owners and bring the tires into compliance by branding them with the required information. The manufacturer has not yet provided the agency with a notification schedule. 08T-002

VEHICLES:
Monaco is recalling 113 MY 2007-2008 Simba Toyhauler Class A motor homes. These motor homes lack the required jounce clearance between the rear wheels. The tires may rub on the flat panels that enclose the holding tank area and the screws which secure these panels may rub the inner sidewall of the rear dual tires. If the screws continue to rub the inner rear dual tire, it is possible that there could eventually be a tire failure. A tire blow out could result in a loss of control of the vehicle increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, if the vehicle is run on a flat tire, this could lead to a potential fire in the wheel well area. Dealers will remove the rear dual tires and cut out an area of foam from the inner wheel wells that will be replaced with a piece of ABS plastic formed panel and an angle to seal the area. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-001

Paccar is recalling 2,794 MY 2008 Kenworth 953, C500, K500, T2000, T300, T6000, T800, W900 and Peterbilt 320, 325, 330, 335, 340, 365, 367, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, and 389K trucks equipped with Eaton Synflex Eclipse brand extruded nylon air brake hose tubing for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 106, “Brake Hoses.” The tubing was manufactured with only four layers of nylon material, instead of the specified five layers. The diameter of the hose affects the fittings which may allow air to leak from the brakes and create the potential for a vehicle crash. Dealers will inspect the air brake hoses and, if necessary, replace the hoses. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. 08V-002

NABI is recalling 92 MY 2006 60BRT articulated 60′ transit buses. The main castings may prematurely fail. If the casting fractures, loss of vehicle control could occur increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the main castings. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-004

Western RV is recalling 85 MY Alpine Coach Class A motor homes equipped with Atwood sealed burner ranges. The range and slide-in burner tubes leading from the gas manifold to the burner heads had a depression or “kink” in the exterior bend restricting proper airflow and gas mixture. This condition could result in carbon monoxide poisoning. Western RV is working with Atwood to have the tubes replaced on these ranges. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA07-006, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-005

Mercedes-Benz is recalling 9,004 MY 2007 E-Class, GL-Class, M-Class and R-Class vehicles equipped with diesel engines. The crankshaft sensor could fail due to separation of bond wires from the lead frame in the sensor. This results in an interruption in the electrical connection in the chip housing of the sensor. When this happens, the vehicle may lose power rather than enter a limp-home mode. In addition, the vehicle cannot be restarted after failure of the electrical connection in the sensor, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the crankshaft sensor. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-006

Prevost is recalling 600 MY 2004-2008 H3-41, H3-45, MY 2007-2008 X3-45, and MY 2004-2006 XLII motor coaches equipped with ZF/Arens Astronic shift selectors. A cell phone placed in the proximity of the shifter touch pad could cause the display to change from ‘R’ (reverse) to ‘D’ (drive) should the phone receive a call. This interference can cause the transmission to not operate or cause improper shifting, as forward gear can be engaged from neutral only, if the vehicle has been stopped, and if the brake pedal has been depressed. If the malfunction occurs while ‘R’ (reverse) is being
selected, the shifter may possibly change to ‘D’ (drive), increasing the risk of a crash. Prevost will mail stickers and installation instructions to their owners and will also arrange to have the transmission software upgraded. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-007

Gillig is recalling 249 MY 2006-2007 Phantom and Low Floor transit buses equipped with Graham-White air dryers. The air dryer timer modules may allow sufficient quantities of moisture to enter and affect the operation of the vehicle air brake system. Failure of the air brake system due to moisture could result in a crash. Gillig, in conjunction with Graham-White, will replace the air dryer timer module on the affected vehicles. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EQ07-001, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-008

Four Winds is recalling 35 MY 2007-2008 Presidio 400 and MY 2008 Presidio 360 motor homes built on Freightliner chassis and equipped with Axle Alliance Company (AAC) front axles. The fasteners that attach the steering arm or tie rod arms to the spindle may be over or under-tightened. Incorrectly torqued steering arm fasteners may fatigue and fracture which could cause a crash without warning. Four Winds will be working with Freightliner to repair these vehicles. 08V-009

New Flyer is recalling 1,049 MY 2006-2007 C40LFR, D40LF, D35LF, D40LFR, DE41LFR, MY 2006 DE41LF, and MY 2007 DE35LF, D35LFR, and D61LFR buses. These buses have stainless steel hydraulic lines with 90º flange fittings which are subject to failure due to errors in both the design and manufacture of these lines. Failure of these lines, located in the engine compartment, could result in a vehicle fire. New Flyer will remove these lines and replace them with a previously proven design of flexible lines. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-010

International is recalling 1,027 MY 2006-2007 BE, CE, FE, and RE school buses and MY 2006-2007 CE and FE commercial buses for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 404, “Platform Lift Installations in Motor Vehicles.” A passenger can approach the exposed lift doorway without the audible alarm alerting them of their proximity to the threshold. Should the threshold warning system fail to operate, the lift user can fall from the vehicle and be seriously injured. International is working with Braun to have the doorway lift fixed (please see 06E094). 08V-011

Triple E is recalling 141 MY 2004-2008 Empress motor homes built on Freightliner chassis and equipped with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculation balls to escape from the recirculation ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Triple E is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V343 and 07E049). This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA07-004, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-012

Fleetwood is recalling 376 MY 2008 Expedition, Bounder Diesel, Discovery, Providence, Excursion and Revolution LE motor homes equipped with a field effect transistor (FET) board built by Magnum Energy, Inc. The circuitry inside certain inverters can cause an inoperative condition resulting in overheating of the inverter. Overheating of the inverter may result in a potential fire. Dealers will inspect and replace the inverter. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-013

Glaval is recalling 215 MY 2006-2007 Universal, Primetime, Titan, Titan II, Concorde II, and MB-55 transit buses for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 404, “Platform Lift Installations in Motor Vehicles.” A passenger can approach the exposed lift doorway without the audible alarm alerting them of their proximity to the threshold. Should the threshold warning system fail to operate, the lift user can fall from the vehicle and be seriously injured. Glaval is working with Braun to have the doorway lift fixed (please see 06E094). 08V-014

Newmar is recalling 126 MY 2004-2005 Essex, Dutch Star, and Mountain Aire Diesel Pusher motor home chassis built on Freightliner VCL or XC chassis and equipped with ZF model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculating balls to escape from the recirculating ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Newmar is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V-343 and 07E049). This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA07-004, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-015

Alfa Leisure is recalling 603 MY 2003-2008 Gold and MY 2007 See Ya motor homes built on Freightliner chassis and equipped with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculation balls to escape from the recirculation ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Alfa Leisure is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V343 and 07E049). This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA07-004, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-016

Damon is recalling 73 MY 2004-2005 Escaper motor home chassis built on Freightliner chassis and equipped with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculation balls to escape from the recirculation ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Damon is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V343 and 07E049). This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA07-004, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-017

Collins is recalling 296 MY 2005-2006 Bantam, Grand Bantam, Super Bantam, and Omni school buses for failing to comply with all the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 209, “Seat Belt Assemblies,” and No. 210, “Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages.” The web of the belt rubs up against the retractor’s metal sleeve causing friction and abrasion, and over time, may fray the belt. In the event of a vehicle crash, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained possibly resulting in injury. Collins will notify owners and replace the seat belt. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-018
Coachmen is recalling 116 MY 2007-2008 Sportscoach Elite Class A motor homes built on Freightliner chassis and equipped with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculation balls to escape from the recirculation ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Coachmen is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V343 and 07E049). This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA07-004, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-019

Pierce is recalling 22 MY 2007 Arrow XT, Dash, Lance, Enforcer, Quantum, Saber, Velocity, and Impel fire trucks equipped with TRW steering gears, Models TAS85 and RCS85. These steering gears contain potentially defective sector shafts with an incorrect gear tooth which may interfere with the rack-piston teeth, resulting in a stick or bind condition. This condition has the potential to cause the steering gear to stall and restrict the steering turning angle of the vehicle which could result in a vehicle crash. Pierce is working with TRW to replace the defective steering gear (please see 07E101). The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA08-002, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-020

New Horizons is recalling 77 MY 2007 fifth wheel travel trailers equipped with Atwood sealed burner ranges. The range and slide-in burner tubes leading from the gas manifold to the burner heads had a depression or “kink” in the exterior bend restricting proper airflow and gas mixture. This condition could result in carbon monoxide poisoning. New Horizons is working with Atwood to have the tubes replaced on these ranges. This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA07-006, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-021

Mitsubishi is recalling 7,340 MY 2006-2007 Endeavor vehicles. The right side lower seat belt anchor may separate during a severe vehicle crash. A severe crash could allow the seat belt to not properly restrain the passenger and potentially result in injury or death. Dealers will replace the front passenger side seat belt and bracket assembly. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-022

National RV is recalling 107 MY 2008 Dolphin, Pacifica, Sea Breeze, and Tropi-Cal motor homes for failing to comply with all the requirements of Part 567, ‘Certification.’ The vehicles were provided with incorrect Federal certification labels. The tags could contain erroneous information regarding chassis model, weight and tire pressure. National RV will provide customers with corrected Federal certification labels and corrected RVIA consumer information stickers by certified mail along with installation instructions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an agency of the United States Department of Transportation, has been notified that National RV, Inc. and its holding company, National RV Holdings, Inc., have filed for bankruptcy. NHTSA has been advised that owners who wish to pursue claims related to safety recall repair work on their National RV vehicles may file a proof of claim with the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California, Riverside Division. The case number assigned to this matter is 07-17941. The Proof of Claim form and instructions are available online at the Court’s website www.cacb.uscourts.gov. Additional information about the bankruptcy and its proceedings may also be found at www.omnimgt.com/nationalrv. National RV’s phone number is (951) 943-6007. Information about safety recalls on National RV’s products may be found at www.safercar.gov. The NHTSA wishes to advise owners of recalled products that, in the interests of their safety and the
safety of the motoring public, all safety recall work should be performed on motor vehicles and items of equipment. 08V-023

Autocar is recalling 28 MY 2007-2008 WX vehicles. These vehicles were built with a telescoping steering shaft between the in-cab steering components and the power steering gear box, located on the vehicle’s frame. The steering shaft has been determined to be too long. The additional length in the steering shaft results in the need for increased steering effort on the part of the vehicle’s driver. The driver may not be prepared for such need, which could result in an unpredictable reaction by the driver, increasing the risk of a crash. Autocar will provide instructions for scheduling the repair of these vehicles at an authorized Autocar service facility. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-024

Newmar is recalling 5,575 MY 1994-2003 Dutch Star, Kountry Aire, Kountry Star, Mountain Aire, and Scottsdale Class A motor homes constructed on Ford F-53TY1 and P131 motor home chassis and equipped with speed control. The speed control deactivation switch may overheat. Overheating could result in smoke or burn and an underhood fire. Newmar is working with Ford to install a fused wiring harness into the speed control system. (Note: see Ford recalls 05V017, 05V388, 06V286, 07V078 and 07V336). This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA05-005, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-025

Goshen Coach is recalling 746 MY 2005-2006 Pacer II, GC II, Sentinel, and Euroshuttle buses equipped with Braun platform lifts for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 404, “Platform Lift Installations in Motor Vehicles.” A passenger can approach the exposed lift doorway without the audible alarm alerting them of their proximity to the threshold. Should the threshold warning system fail to operate, the lift user can fall from the vehicle and be seriously injured. Goshen Coach is working with Braun to have the doorway lift fixed (please see 06E094). 08V-026

Tiffin is recalling 1,292 MY 2005-2008 Allegro motor homes built on Freightliner chassis and equipped with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculating balls to escape from the recirculating ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Tiffin is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V343 and 07E049). This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA07-004, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-027

Volvo Trucks is recalling 798 MY 2008 VNL and VT vehicles. An incorrect software parameter was loaded which resulted in the diesel particulate filter (DPF) ‘inhibit’ function being disabled. The ‘inhibit’ function is a means for the driver to stop a DPF regeneration from occurring if a vehicle is in a location that may present a hazardous situation. If the driver believes that regeneration has been stopped when it has not, it could result in a fire. Dealers will change the control parameters. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-028

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is recalling an undetermined quantity of MY 2008 Columbia, Cascadia, Century Class trucks and XCR motor home chassis. Incorrect fasteners may not provide adequate clamping force between the brake caliper and brake anchor plate potentially resulting in reduced brake effectiveness. Reduced brake effectiveness could lead to a vehicle crash.
Dealers will inspect the vehicles to determine if incorrect bolts were used. If incorrect bolts are found, vehicles will be inspected for possible additional damage and repaired as required. The recall is expected to begin during March 2008. 08V-029

Eldorado National – Kansas (ENK) is recalling 14 MY 2006-2008 Aero Elite buses built on Chevrolet chassis and equipped with Link suspension brackets. The axle side lateral control rod bracket of the suspension has cracked in some cases. This crack could result in a failure of the bracket. If the lateral control rod bracket fractures, the handling of the vehicle will be adversely affected, including possible loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. ENK is working with Link to repair these buses (please see 07E086). 08V-030

Daimler Trucks is recalling 141 MY 2008 Classic XL, FLD Classic, and FLD SD trucks and truck-tractors. The jam nuts on the brake pushrod between the pedal and the brake valve may not have been tightened. These nuts secure the adjustment of the brake pedal pushrod. This could result in a gradual loss in braking performance leading to a possible vehicle crash without prior warning. Dealers will inspect and correct the brake pedal pushrod assembly. The recall is expected to begin during March 2008. 08V-031

Volvo is recalling 1,900 MY 2008 V70 and XC70 vehicles equipped with rear integrated booster seats for failing to comply with the labeling requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 213, “Child Restraint Systems.” Labels on the affected vehicles are missing warning information indicating that ‘death or serious injury can occur’ if the manufacturer’s instructions are not followed when using child restraint systems. This standard specifies requirements for child restraint systems used in motor vehicles and aircraft for the purpose of reducing the number of children killed or injured in motor vehicle crashes and in aircraft. Dealers will install a new label with the correct warning information. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. 08V-032

Volvo is recalling 23,000 MY 2004-2006 S40 and V50 vehicles sold in or currently registered in the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. Reoccurring, long-term exposure to certain environmental conditions such as salty-wet conditions, it is possible for the pump electronic module (PEM) to become corroded internally. This can cause a faulty signal to the fuel pump, resulting in low or no fuel pressure to the engine. If this occurs, the check engine light may illuminate. In some cases, the vehicle may fail to start or may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the PEM and install it in a new location to prevent corrosion. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. 08V-033

Four Winds is recalling 10 MY 2008 Presidio 360 and Mandalay motor homes built on Freightliner chassis and equipped with Bendix SR-7 spring brake modulating valves. The internal rubber check valve may leak causing a delay in the application of the spring brakes to park the vehicle after the operator pulls the dash valve button. This could cause a delay or failure in applying the parking brakes which could result in a vehicle roll away, increasing the risk of a crash. Four Winds is working with Freightliner and Bendix to install a check valve repair kit for the affected SR-7 spring brake modulating valve (please see 07V302 and 07E037). The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. 08V-034

Volkswagen is recalling 96 MY 2008 Touareg vehicles. A fuel supply line was changed during production which could lead to insufficient sealing of the fuel supply line connector. This condition could lead to a fuel leak. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire. Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel supply line, if necessary. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-035

Volkswagen is recalling 510 MY 2008 New Beetle Special Edition Triple White Sedan vehicles. An incorrect adhesive may have been used to attach the roof spoiler to the rear glass of the vehicle. If the incorrect adhesive was used, the spoiler could become loose or fall from the vehicle without warning, even though initially the spoiler may feel secure. If this happens, the spoiler could cause injury by striking persons outside the vehicle or could become an obstacle to other drivers, possibly resulting in a crash. Dealers will replace the roof spoiler on these vehicles. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-036

Keystone RV is recalling 247 MY Fuzion fifth wheel travel trailers. The propane hose for the slide room is too long allowing the hose to hang down too close to the tire. The propane line may become damaged as a result of contact with the tire. A propane leak, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire and/or explosion causing property damage and/or personal injury. Dealers will replace the propane hose with one of shorter length and will also shorten the hose support to move the hose away from the tire. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-037

Elgin Sweeper is recalling 66 MY 2006-2008 Broom Bear sweepers equipped with compressed natural gas (CNG). Sweeping debris may build up in front of the rear axle and in the exhaust discharge pipe. Under heavy sweeping conditions, the CNG exhaust temperatures can exceed 800 degrees. The exhaust temperature could ignite the debris. Personnel near the street sweeper could be injured or property damage could occur. Elgin will install a new exhaust system in these vehicles that will redirect the exhaust discharge away from the elevator system and debris. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-038

Eldorado National – California (ENC) is recalling 31 MY 2005-2007 MST, MST II, and Transmark buses equipped with Ricon platform style wheelchair lifts for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 404, “Platform Lift Installations in Motor Vehicles.” The threshold warning system may not detect the presence of a wheelchair or mobility aid user in a certain spot within the defined threshold area. The user of the lift could be injured should the lift move unintentionally. ENC is working with Ricon to correct the wheelchair lift (please see 07E095). 08V-039

DoubleTree RV is recalling 359 MY 2007 Elite, Mobile Suite, and Select Suite fifth wheel travel trailers equipped with a disc brake system produced by Active Technology. ActiBrake actuators installed on these vehicles, over time, may overheat damaging the braking system. This could create a fire or loss of braking power increasing the risk of a crash. DoubleTree is working with Active Technology to repair these vehicles (please see 08E007). The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-040

International is recalling 4,360 MY 2008-2009 ProStar trucks. The retention system of the pin that attaches the hood travel limiting shock to the mounting bracket on top of the radiator may become disabled due to interference between it and the grab handle pocket of the hood. This could allow the pin to work out of the connection resulting in the hood separating from the shock. With the vehicle in a stationary position, this condition may cause a situation where the individual opening the hood would have to manually support the weight of the hood without warning which could result in personal injury. Dealers will replace the hood/hood travel limiting shock connection pin and pin retention system with a system that does not interfere with the hood grab handle pocket. The recall is expected to begin during April 2008. 08V-041

Glaval is recalling 62 MY 2007-2008 Synergy transit buses built on Freightliner XB-R chassis and equipped with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculation balls to escape from the recirculation ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Glaval is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V343 and 07E049). This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA07-004, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-042

Eldorado National - California (ENC) is recalling 21 MY 2005-2007 MST, MST II and Transmark buses equipped with Ricon platform style wheelchair lifts manufactured from April 2005 to June 2007. The lifts fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 404, “Platform Lift Installations in Motor Vehicles.” The anti-stow interlock may not detect the presence of a wheelchair or mobility aid user. The pressure sensing switch that detects the presence of weight on the platform was not adjusted to the necessary sensitivity level. The lift could stow even though someone or something is still on the lift. A lift occupant can be injured should the lift begin to stow unintentionally. ENC is working with Ricon to correct the wheelchair lift (please see 07E097). 08V-043

Triple E RV is recalling 21 MY 2007 Empress, Regency, Regal, and Senator motor homes equipped with Atwood sealed burner ranges. The range and slide-in burner tubes leading from the gas manifold to the burner heads had a depression or ‘kink’ in the exterior bend restricting proper airflow and gas mixture. This condition could result in carbon monoxide poisoning. Triple E RV is working with Atwood to have the tubes replaced on these ranges (please see 07E030). This recall was the subject of an Equipment Query, EA07-006, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation. 08V-044

Nissan is recalling 5,523 MY 2008 Titan, Frontier and Xterra vehicles for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 110, ‘Tire Selection and Rims for Motor Vehicles.’ The tire placard lists an incorrect vehicle capacity weight. This standard specifies requirements for tire selection to prevent overloading. Nissan will mail a correct tire placard and installation instructions to owners of the affected vehicles. The recall is expected to begin during March 2008. 08V-045

GM is recalling 181,516 MY 2006-2008 Chevrolet HHR vehicles not equipped with optional roof rail air bags for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 201, ‘Occupant Protection in Interior Impact.’ In tests, one of the upper interior occupant protection test points exceeded the standard’s requirement. This standard specifies performance requirements to provide head impact protection for occupants. Dealers will install an energy-absorbing plastic piece to the headliner trim. The recall is expected to begin during March 2008. This recall was the subject of an investigation, OA-201-060918B, conducted by the Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance. 08V-046

Kawasaki is recalling 4,645 MY 2008 ZG1400A8F, ZG1400A8FL, ZG1400B8F, and ZG1400B8FL motorcycles. The pivot pin for the latches that secure the saddlebags to the vehicle can break if force is applied to either saddlebag, such as in the event the vehicle falls over while parked or if the saddlebag is improperly attached. Continued use of the vehicle with either saddlebag latch broken can result in the saddlebag coming free of its mount during vehicle operation, creating the possibility of a crash resulting in injury or death. Dealers will replace the saddlebag latch assemblies with reinforced latches. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-047

Kawasaki is recalling 3,611 MY 2008 ZG1400A8F, ZG1400A8FL, ZG1400B8F, and ZG1400B8FL motorcycles. The rear carrier platform could break if a Kawasaki genuine accessory luggage system is installed on the carrier platform and a passenger leans against it. The carrier platform and luggage system could become detached from the vehicle, creating the potential for a crash which could result in injury or death. Dealers will inspect and replace the rear carrier platform if necessary. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 08V-048

Cottrell is recalling 68 MY 2002-2007 C-8ENC enclosed car haul trailers that are equipped with roofs that raise and lower. The roofs are attached to a raising/lowering mechanism by round tubes that are welded to the roof. There are 4 tubes welded to each roof and 2 roofs per each complete piece of equipment. The base material around the welded connection may experience a fatigue failure during high mileage operation. Should failure occur on all four lift points, the roof might separate from the trailer increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will add an additional weld pass around the roof lift tube, install an inner and outer gusset tying the roof into the roof lift tube. The recall began on November 21, 2007. All owners have been contacted. 07V-548

Honda is recalling 34,300 MY 2007-2008 Fit vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. The wire harness for the occupant detection system (ODS) and the occupant position detection system (OPDS) is routed underneath the carpet on the driver’s side floorboard. In areas where road salt is used, salt from the snow on the driver’s shoes will melt and may penetrate the carpet and leak into the wire harness. If the harness is exposed to salt brine, corrosion may occur and the wire may break causing the SRS indicator light to illuminate. A failure of the ODS and OPDS may not detect the presence of a child seat or an out-of-position passenger and deployment of both the front seat passenger’s frontal and side air bags will not be suppressed. In the event of a crash, a deploying front passenger air bag or front passenger’s side air bag will increase the risk of injury to small or out-of-position occupants. Dealers will inspect and replace the wire harness. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-549

Maserati is recalling 56 MY 2008 Granturismo vehicles equipped with the advanced passenger seat air bag weight sensor system. A malfunction can occur in the supplemental restraint system (SRS) electronic control unit (ECU) software when the battery is not fully charged. In the event of a crash, the passenger side air bag and passenger seat belt pre-tensioner may not deploy increasing the risk of injuries. Dealers will replace the SRS ECU units as necessary. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-550
Honda is recalling 43,200 MY 2005-2008 Acura RL passenger vehicles. Prolonged high under-hood temperatures may cause the power steering hose to deteriorate prematurely causing the hose to crack and leak power steering fluid. Power steering fluid leaking onto a hot catalytic converter will generate smoke and possibly lead to an under-hood fire. Dealers will install a new heat resistant power steering hose. The recall is expected to begin during January 17, 2007. 07V-551

Blue Bird is recalling 1,747 MY 2001-2007 Micro Bird school buses mounted on Ford diesel chassis produced with an optional battery compartment. A fusible link provided on Ford chassis PDU power cable was removed when the cable was shortened to accommodate an optional battery compartment. A vehicle fire can occur. Blue Bird will notify owners and repair the buses by installing a fusible link in the PDU power cable circuit and will also provide protective loom to be used as temporary protection around any sections of the power cable that the owner identifies as being damaged or chafed. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-552

Ford is recalling 1,176,000 MY 1997-2003 F-Super Duty, E-Series and Excursion vehicles equipped with 7.3L diesel engines. The camshaft position sensor located on the engine of the vehicle may function intermittently, possibly resulting in an engine stall. In the event of an engine stall, a crash could result without warning. Dealers will inspect the sensor and replace it with an improved camshaft position sensor. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-553

Suzuki is recalling 40,424 MY 2006-2007 Grand Vitara vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 114, “Theft Protection.” The automatic transmission selector lever “park” lock function may be inoperative due to a sticking shift lock arm. The shift lever may be able to be shifted out of “park” with the key removed and without depressing the brake pedal. This can give rise to increased incidents of crashes resulting from the roll away of parked vehicles as a result of inadvertently moving the shift lever from the “park” position when the parking brake is not fully engaged. Dealers will replace the shift lock module. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-554

Chrysler is recalling 576,418 MY 2001-2002 Dakota, Durango, Ram van and MY 2002 Ram pick-up trucks equipped with automatic transmissions. The ignition/park shift interlock system may become inoperative. This can allow the shifter to be moved out of the “park” position with the ignition key removed (or in the “lock” position). This can also allow the ignition key to be removed when the shifter has not been placed in the “park” position. Either of these conditions could allow the vehicle to roll away causing a crash without warning. Dealers will replace the gearshift blocker and bracket assembly. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-555

Blue Bird is recalling 451 MY 2006-2007 All American, Conventional, and Micro Bird school buses equipped with Model 900 Series wheelchair lifts manufactured by the Braun Corporation. The threshold warning system may not activate as designed which fails to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 404, “Platform Lift Installations for Motor Vehicles.” Should the threshold warning system fail to operate, the lift user can fall from the vehicle and be seriously injured. Owners will be notified by Blue Bird instructing them to contact Braun for a free repair. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-556

Porsche is recalling 37 MY 2008 911 GT3 and GT3RS 2-door coupe vehicles. The switch console for the Porsche active suspension management (PASM) and the traction control (TC-OFF) switches was inappropriately installed. The LEDs in the switches can signal a functional change in the PASM mode or the deactivation of traction control even though the switches are not actuated. If the traction control or active stability management system are inadvertently disabled, and the subsequent warning lamp illumination in the instrument panel onboard computer is unnoticed by the driver, the safety benefits of these systems would be unavailable to the driver which could increase the possibility of a crash during aggressive driving maneuvers. Dealers will replace the switch console. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. 07V-557

Genie is recalling 78 MY 2007 TZ-34 and TZ-50 trailer mounted aerial work platform booms. The turntable bearing bolts may not be tightened to specifications. Bolts that are under-torqued can come loose over time. This could cause the turntable lift structure to separate from the chassis resulting in the platform falling increasing the risk of injury or a crash. Repair instructions will be mailed to owners advising them to torque the turntable bearing bolts to specifications. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-558

Weekend Warrior is recalling 6,243 MY 1989-1991 2400, 2805, MY 1989-1990 2800, MY 1989-1994 3205, MY 1989-1996 3605, 4005, MY 1994-2000 RHSL, MY 1997-2002 SE, MY 1998-2004 FB Pull Trailer, MY 1994-1999 RH, MY 1992-2000 FW, MY 1994-1999 SL Pull Trailer, MY 1995-1998 SL, MY 1997-2004 SLC, MY 1998-2004 FK, MY 2000-2004 FS, MY 2000-2004 LE, MY 2001-2004 FT, MY 2002-2004 FBD and CL pull, fifth wheel and toy hauler recreational trailers equipped with a two-door refrigerator manufactured by the Dometic Corporation. The refrigerator may have a defect in the boiler tube. Pressurized coolant solution could be released into an area where an ignition source (gas flame) is present. Release of coolant under certain conditions could ignite and result in a fire. Weekend Warrior will be working with Dometic in order to repair these refrigerators (please see 06E076). Dometic will repair these refrigerators by installing a secondary burn housing, a thermal fuse, and a melt fuse. Dometic has retained Stericycle Inc. to manage this campaign. Stericycle will assist the owner in locating dealerships or service centers and will provide assistance with scheduling of appointments. 07V-559

Weekend Warrior is recalling 289 MY 2007 CL, CR, FB, FS, FSC, and LE toy hauler recreational trailers equipped with Great Plains Industries (GPI) fuel transfer pumps. Due to insufficient epoxy adhesive applied at the time of installation at the factory, a fuel leak can occur at the pump’s inlet valve. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire can occur. GPI has replaced all the fuel pumps involved in the recall. 07V-560

BRP is recalling 476 MY 2008 Can-Am Spyder Roadster passenger vehicles. There is a presence of an abnormal quantity of air in the hydraulic circuit of the front brake. The brake pedal may go almost to the floor when depressed. A driver may be unable to stop the vehicle as expected increasing the risk of a crash. BRP has notified each owner informing them of this problem and scheduling a pick-up time to retrieve the vehicle. Dealers will inspect and perform a bleeding of the brake system if needed. The recall began on November 21, 2007. 07V-561

Triumph is recalling 3,698 MY 2005-2008 Sprint ST 1050 and MY 2004-2008 Tiger 1050 motorcycles equipped with an optional accessory luggage rack. Undersized washers were used which prevents the sliding carriage from moving as intended. Reduced stability can occur if the motorcycle is ridden with the fitted accessory, exceeded maximum weight, and at speeds far in excess of the 80 mph limit warning, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect the accessory racks for lateral movement. Those racks not displaying any movement will be repaired. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-562

Volvo is recalling 37,000 MY 2007-2008 XC90 sport utility vehicles. Under certain conditions, the climate control module (CCM) may receive a ’shut-down signal’ from the engine control module (ECM) after ignition key insertion. If this condition occurs, the climate control functions will not be available (including the defroster) during that driving cycle. Inoperative defrosters under inclement weather conditions could cause impaired visibility which has the potential to result in personal injury and/or vehicle and property damage. The ECM software will be upgraded. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. 07V-563

Girardin is recalling 33 MY 2003, 2005, and 2006 MB II and MB IV school and commercial buses on Ford and GM chassis with 6.6L engines equipped with Braun Lift Models NL916, NL917, and NL919. The threshold warning system may not activate as designed which fails to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 404, “Platform Lift Installations for Motor Vehicles.” Should the threshold warning system fail to operate, the lift user can fall from the vehicle and be seriously injured. Owners will be notified by Girardin instructing them to contact Braun for a free repair. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-565

Volvo is recalling 1,695 MY 2008 XC70 sport utility vehicles for failing to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, “Tire Selection and Rims for Motor Vehicles Other Than Passenger Cars.” The wheel information label located on the rear driver’s side door pillar was printed missing the wheel size (rim) information. The purpose of this standard is to provide safe operational performance by ensuring that vehicles to which it applies are equipped with tires of adequate size and load rating and with rims of appropriate size and type designation. Owners will be provided with a correct certification label and installation instructions. If the owner prefers, a dealer can install the label for them. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. 07V-566

Champion Bus is recalling 375 MY 2005-2007 Champion, Challenger, Crusader, CTS, Defender and General Coach Corporal and M1235 buses for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 403, “Platform Lift Systems for Motor Vehicles.” A passenger can approach the exposed lift doorway without the audible alarm alerting them of their proximity to the threshold. Should the threshold warning system fail to operate, the lift user can fall from the vehicle and be seriously injured. Champion Bus is working with Braun to have the doorway lift fixed (please see 07E094). 07V-567

Forest River is recalling 84 MY 2007 All American XLR fifth wheel trailers. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) label located on the front of the hitch pin box of the unit contains an improper listing of the GVWR This label is giving conflicting GVWR information. The GVWR of the trailer is 18,000 lbs. and the hitch label reads 15,500 lbs. Owners were mailed a corrected label as well as installation instructions. The customer will have the option for dealers to install this label if they prefer. The recall began on October 1, 2007. 07V-568

Wheeled Coach is recalling 1,006 MY 2004-2007 Ford E-350 vans, E-350 and E-450 cutaway ambulances originally sold in or currently registered in the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. Corrosion may occur on the ANL 400 amp fuse due to exposure to calcium chloride elements that are used in the “salt states” during the winter season. The deterioration of the fuse can cause a disruption of power resulting in loss of service in the patient compartment. Retrofit kits and installation instructions will be mailed to customers. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-569

Freightliner is recalling 10,053 MY 2005-2006 XC motor home chassis built using inline power steering filters, Part No. 14-16829-000. The filter can plug due to failure of the screen adhesion to the filter housing causing a rise in return line pressure. This can lead to hose separation from the filter or steering gear fitting resulting in a sudden loss of steering fluid and power assist. Sudden loss of steering assist without warning involving a motor home could be a problem for certain drivers increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the affected filters with a larger filter. The recall is expected to begin on or about February 1, 2008. 07V-570

Freightliner is recalling 31 MY 2005-2007 4900 and 6900 heavy duty trucks built with SISU FR2P-21, SISU FR2P-26, SISU FR3P-33, or SISU FR3P-48 rear axles. A counter-bore machined in both ends of the worm wheel opening of the slack adjuster housing reduces material thickness between the worm wheel opening and the worm shaft opening. Under normal service a crack may develop in this area rendering the slack adjuster inoperable and reducing brake effectiveness. Reduced vehicle braking could lead to a crash. Dealers will inspect the slack adjusters, and replace the adjuster if found defective. The recall is expected to begin on or about February 2, 2008. 07V-571

Kalmar Industries is recalling 915 MY 2006-2007 Ottawa 30, 50, 60T, 4×2 DOT/EPA, and 6×4 DOT/EPA terminal tractors. The heater/air-conditioning (AC) duct under the dash was not properly routed or secured. Chaffing may occur exposing the steel spiral reinforcement. If this reinforcement is contacted with an electrical power connector, such as the power stud on the firewall, it may cause an electrical short resulting in a spark and potential fire. Owners will be provided with instructions on how to inspect their vehicle for the presence of the defective heater/AC hose duct. If after inspection, the vehicle is determined to have an improper heater/AC hose, Kalmar will send a replacement heater/AC hose. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-572

Volvo Trucks is recalling 104,845 MY 2003-2008 VHD, VNL, VNM, and MY 2005-2008 VT heavy duty trucks. The circuit protection (i.e. automatic circuit breakers) used to protect the vehicle lighting system may not provide adequate protection. If a short circuit occurs and is left untreated, components and wiring may be subject to overheating which could possibly result in a vehicle fire. Dealers will replace the circuit breakers with fuses. The recall is expected to begin on or about February 25, 2008. 07V-573

Girardin Minibus is recalling 640 MY 2004-2008 MB II and MB IV school and commercial minibuses built on Ford E350 and E450 diesel chassis. The affected buses are equipped with option BBX (battery box). The protection from abrasion on the battery cables that cross in the battery box is inadequate. It may create a short circuit if the abrasion between the cables is excessive. This short circuit could result in a fire. Girardin will notify owners and repair the buses by adding protective tubes. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-574

Winnebago is recalling 4 MY 2005-2006 Special Purpose Commercial coaches equipped With Braun platform lifts. These lifts fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 403, “Platform Lift Systems for Motor Vehicles.” A passenger can approach the exposed lift doorway without the audible alarm alerting them of their proximity to the threshold. Should the threshold warning system fail to operate, the lift user can fall from the vehicle and be seriously injured. Winnebago is working with Braun to have the doorway lift fixed (please see 07E094). 07V-575

Honda is recalling 25,422 MY 2006-2007 CBR1000RR motorcycles. These motorcycles have an improper welded vent pipe in the bottom of the fuel tank. Due to vibration, the improperly welded tanks may crack and drip fuel. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire. Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel tank. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-576

Winnebago is recalling 1,972 MY 2004-2008 Vecta and Itasca Horizon motor home chassis equipped with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These steering gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculation balls to escape from the recirculation ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Winnebago is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V343 and 07E049). 07V-577

Truck Equipment is recalling 112 MY 1997-2008 Cornhusker 800R 3-axle trailers with 16′ dump boxes. Cracks can develop in the welds which hold the ‘nose’ of the frame to the main chassis. The 16′ box mount causes a steel frame plate to be shortened causing a reduction in strength. The chassis and box can separate from the drawbar causing a loss of control which could result in a crash. Trailer owners will inspect the welds where the sloped frame ‘nose’ welds to the horizontal main frame rails. If cracks are found, a frame update kit will be sent to the owners to have the repairs performed locally. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-578

Toyota is recalling 15,616 MY 2007 Tundra 4-wheel drive pickup trucks. Due to the improper heat treatment of the slip yokes that had been reworked during the manufacturing process, the hardness of the slip yoke may be insufficient. In this condition, there is a possibility that the yoke may break causing the propeller shaft to separate at the joint and come into contact with the road surface or the fuel tank which could result in a loss of vehicle control or a fuel leak. Dealers will inspect the slip yoke and replace the propeller shaft if necessary. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-579

Big Dog is recalling 8,061 MY 2005-2008 Mastiff, MY 2005-2007 Chopper, MY 2006-2008 K-9, MY 2005, 2007 Bulldog, and MY 2008 Mutt motorcycles. The rear fender strut attaching bolts can fail allowing the rear fender to detach from the motorcycle. This could occur without prior warning and could result in an injury or a crash. Dealers will remove existing strut bolts and replace with higher tensile strength attaching bolts and updated washers. Higher torque values will be observed when installing the replacement fasteners. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-580

Mack is recalling 126 MY 2008 LEU trucks. An incorrect switch may have been used. This could possibly result in the cruise control not deactivating when the brake pedal is pressed, which may result in a vehicle crash. Dealers will inspect the switch and replace it if necessary. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-581

Monaco Coach is recalling 107 MY 2007-2008 Holiday Rambler Arista and Safari Passage Class A motor homes built on Ford chassis. The front run panel has an exposed terminal post on its side which allows the oil dipstick to potentially make contact when checking the oil level. The location of the exposed terminal post is under the front engine access hood. When the oil level is checked, it may be possible for the dipstick to contact the exposed wire terminal stud and, if the other end of the dipstick is grounded, could result in an electrical shock or a spark which could create a fire. Dealers will remove the wire from the terminal and install boot covers, then reinstall the wire and slip cover over the connection. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-582

Fleetwood is recalling 238 MY 2004-2005 American Eagle and American Tradition Class A motor homes built on Freightliner chassis and equipped with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculation balls to escape from the recirculation ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Fleetwood is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V343 and 07E049). 07V-583

Four Winds is recalling 1,174 MY 2004-2008 Mandalay motor homes built on Freightliner chassis and equipped with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculation balls to escape from the recirculation ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Four Winds is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V343 and 07E049). 07V-584

Hi-Lo is recalling 114 MY 2007-2008 25′ and 28′ Classic, and 24′ and 27′ Tow Lite travel trailers equipped with a power winch unit, Model P55000, built by Carefree of Colorado. An incorrect material was used in the manufacture of the cable shafts on some of these power winch units. Under certain circumstances while the folding camping trailer top is being lifted, if the winch is placed into a stall condition, the cable shaft may break prior to the fuse or circuit breaker tripping. Should the cable shaft break, the trailer top could then free-fall into the lower position, possibly resulting in injuries. Hi-Lo is working with Carefree of Colorado to have new cable shafts installed (please see 07E077). The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-587

Mercedes-Benz is recalling 3 MY 2007 SLR McLaren vehicles. The windshields were not installed correctly. Either the primer or activator was missing at the time of installation. The manufacturer has not yet provided a consequence for this campaign. Dealers will remove the windshields, clean and reinstall them correctly with primer and activator. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-588

GM is recalling 275,936 MY 2005-2007 Cadillac CTS, SRX, STS, MY 2006-2007 Pontiac Solstice, and MY 2007 Saturn Sky passenger vehicles. The rear axle pinion seal does not meet all of the specifications and may experience a fluid leak. A rear differential failure may cause loss of motive power and possibly loss of vehicle control increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the pinion seal. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 07V-589

Monaco is recalling 96 MY 2008 Dynasty, Executive, Signature, Holiday Rambler Imperial, Navigator, Beaver Marquis and Patriot Class A motor homes equipped with TRW steering gears, Models TAS85 and RCS85. These steering gears contain potentially defective sector shafts with an incorrect gear tooth which may interfere with the rack-piston teeth, resulting in a stick or bind condition. This condition has the potential to cause the steering gear to stall and restrict the steering turning angle of the vehicle which could result in a vehicle crash. Monaco is working with TRW to replace the defective steering gear (please see 07E101). The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-590

Paccar is recalling 559 MY 2008 Kenworth C500, T2000, T660, T800 and Peterbilt 320, 365, 467, 384, 386, 387, 388, 389, and 389K heavy duty trucks equipped with TAS85 TRW steering gears. The inner surface of the outer sector shaft teeth of the steering gears may have an incorrect involute profile, which may lead to chipping and damage of the gearing system. This type of damage may cause a “bind/stick” condition in the vehicle steering during a turn increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will repair and replace any suspect TAS85 steering gear assemblies. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. 07V-591

Keystone RV is recalling 223 MY 2007-2008 Challenger and Everest fifth wheel travel trailers. A liquid propane (LP) line for the slide room may be too close to the tire. This could cause an increased risk of property damage and possible fire. Dealers will reroute the LP line away from the tire. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008.
07V-585

Blue Bird is recalling 58 MY Wanderlodge 450LXi motor homes equipped with ArvinMeritor and TRW tie rod ends. The front axle curb weight may exceed the specified 16,000 pound weight rating. Failure to follow proper vehicle loading specifications or a misprinted label could increase the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the left and right hand front tie rod ends along with a certification label stating the correct weight limits. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. 07V-586

Freightliner is recalling 220 MY 208 Argosy, Business Class M2, Cascadia, Century ST, Classic, Classic XL, Columbia, Coronado, FLD (glider), FLD SD, Sterling A-Line, L-Line, and Western Star 4900 trucks equipped with TRW steering gears, Models TAS85 and RCS85. These steering gears contain potentially defective sector shafts with an incorrect gear tooth which may interfere with the rack-piston teeth, resulting in a stick or bind condition. This condition has the potential to cause the steering gear to stall and restrict the steering turning angle of the vehicle which could result in a vehicle crash. Freightliner is working with TRW to replace the defective steering gear (please see 07E101). The recall is expected to begin on or about February 8, 2008. 07V-592

Eldorado is recalling 25 MY 2006 Transmark, Escort RE, MST and MST II buses equipped with Braun platform lifts for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 403, “Platform Lift Systems for Motor Vehicles.” A passenger can approach the exposed lift doorway without the audible alarm alerting them of their proximity to the threshold. Should the threshold warning system fail to operate, the lift user can fall from the vehicle and be seriously injured. Eldorado is working with Braun to have the doorway lift fixed (please see 06E094). 07V-593

Sprinter is recalling 6,101 MY 2007 Dodge and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 utility vans. The crankshaft sensor in certain diesel engines could fail due to separation of bond wires from the lead frame in the sensor. This results in an interruption in the electrical connection in the chip housing of the sensor. When this happens, the vehicles may lose power rather than enter a limp-home mode. In addition, the vehicle cannot be restarted after failure of the electrical connection in the sensor, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the crankshaft sensors. The recall is expected to begin during February 2008. 07V-594

Host is recalling 73 MY 2007-2008 Bachelor, Rainier, Tahoe, Yellowstone, Yukon and Everest truck campers and MY 2007-2008 270 and 330 Class C motor homes equipped with Suburban glass top, sealed burner ranges and cook tops with serial numbers included in a range beginning with 063413053 and ending with 064704399, P/NOS. 2950A, 2951A, 2952A, and 2953A. A threaded connector on the tube between the burner valve and the burner may not have been fully tightened during the manufacturing process. If the threaded connector is not properly tightened, it is possible for the gas to leak from the connection when the burner is turned on. Liquid propane (LP) gas is heavier than air and any leaked gas could accumulate in an enclosed or low area in the recreational vehicle. A sufficient quantity of accumulated gas, if ignited, could cause a fire or explosion. Host is working with Suburban to repair these cooking appliances. 07V-595

Farber Specialty Vehicles is recalling 32 MY 2002-2007 specialty vehicles such as bookmobiles, medical, dental, display and command buses built on Freightliner chassis and equipped with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculation balls to escape from the recirculation ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash. Farber is working with Freightliner and ZF to replace the steering gear (please see 07V343 and 07E049). 07V-596

Ducati is recalling 865 MY 2006-2007 Hypermotard motorcycles. The license number plate holder support bracket posts can crack. The license plate can fall off the motorcycle. Dealers will install a redesigned bracket. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. 07V-597
Freightliner is recalling 250 MY 2008 Columbia and Century ST trucks equipped with Caterpillar EPA07 C155 engines. The extension pipes attached to the after-treatment regeneration device may develop a crack or hole and heat or flame may escape during a regeneration of the diesel particulate filter. A vehicle fire can occur. Caterpillar is conducting this recall (please see 07E100). 07V-598

Nissan is recalling 114 MY 2007-2008 Altima passenger vehicles. If the body control module (BCM) was replaced during service at a dealership, the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) may have been inadvertently deactivated due to an issue with the dealer service software. If the TPMS is turned off, it would not alert the driver to a decrease in the tire pressure as designed. Driving on under-inflated tires is unsafe and could result in a crash. Dealers will check the TPMS function and reactivate it if necessary. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. 07V-599

This week we have another milestone. Toyota outsold Ford in the U.S. market last month by a tally of 228,000 cars to Ford’s 215,000. Ford still sold more vehicles in 2007, but the gap is now less than 200,000 vehicles. But in the grand scheme of things, this week’s news isn’t really staggering. But take a look at the seven-year wake leading up to this event. That’s staggering. In 2000, Ford sold 4 million cars, about what GM sold this year. From then until now, Ford’s sales have fallen by 1.3 million vehicles. Imagine taking Honda’s sales in 2000 and simply wiping them out. That’s how far Ford has fallen in seven years. In that time, Toyota sales soared by 1 million vehicles to 2.6 million. So it wasn’t just the industry darling who prospered at Ford’s expense. No wonder the company’s stock hit a 22-year low at $6 a share today.

That’s a long way down, and not the last of it. Like its crosstown rivals, Ford is struggling to cope with $3 a gallon gasoline. The housing crisis continues to sap home equity, which buyers once used to buy cars. And even fatter incentives are luring consumers to trade in for something new. For Ford, its highest-volume cars, like the yesteryear Mustang, brawny F-150 pickup, gas-chugging Explorer and unwanted Taurus sedan, are all frozen on the lot. Only the Fusion sedan and Edge suv seem to have captured a following. Looking at Ford’s lineup and the economy, CEO Alan Mulally’s second year looks even tougher than the first.

Source

GM says it could have driverless cars on the road by 2018.

According to the Associated Press, GM is working with parts suppliers, university engineers and other automakers to develop cars that drive themselves. Company Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner will discuss the idea Tuesday afternoon in a keynote address to the Consumer Electronics Show.

“This is not science fiction,” Larry Burns, GM’s vice president for research and development, tells the AP.

Burns says the biggest obstacles may not be technical, but bureaucratic. Government regulation, liability laws and other issues pose a bigger impediment to driverless cars than any technical hurdles. He says GM will begin testing driverless cars by 2015 and have them on the road by 2018.

We’re not sure about that. Although the DARPA Urban Challenge has shown robotic cars work, the technology is still a long way from feasibility on a scale anywhere near GM is proposing. At least two competitors collided during the challenge, two mysteriously stopped in an intersection and a third ran into a building. In the end, just six of the 35 teams that entered finished the 60-mile race.

On the other hand, Carnegie Mellon University’s Tartan Racing team won the race - with a Chevrolet Tahoe supplied by GM (that’s it in the picture).

Source

And these are the facts.

Luxury Cars
1. White/White Pearl - 25%
2. Black - 22%
3. Silver - 16%
4. Grey - 12%
5. Blue - 7%
6. Red - 7%
7. Yellow/Gold - 6%
8. Green - 3%
9. Light Brown - 2%
10. Others - <1%

Sport/Compact
1. Silver - 18%
2. Black - 15%
3. Grey - 15%
4. Red - 15%
5. Blue - 13%
6. White/White Pearl - 10%
7. Light Brown - 6%
8. Yellow/Gold - 4%
9. Green - 2%
10. Others - 2%

Full/Intermediate
1. Silver - 25%
2. Blue - 13%
3. Gray - 12%
4. White/White Pearl - 12%
5. Black - 10%
6. Red - 10%
7. Light Brown - 10%
8. Green - 4
9. Yellow/Gold - 4%
10. Others <1%

SUV/Truck/Van
1. White/White Pearl - 26%
2. Silver - 16%
3. Gray - 13%
4. Black - 13%
5. Red - 11%
6. Blue - 10%
7. Light Brown - 6%
8. Green - 4%
9. Yellow/Orange - 1%
10. Others - <1%

Now, let’s get to our list of the fastest, sexiest cars available to anyone — as long as they are extremely wealthy!

10. Aston Martin V12 Vanquish S

Made of lightweight aluminium and carbon fiber, it has a V12 engine that puts out 520 hp, enough to get this British Lady to a maximum speed of 200 mph (320 km/h). It can get from 0 to 60 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.8 seconds and it’s a car built with understated elegance and excellent craftsmanship, a symbol of luxury and technology combined into an elegant design.

9. Ruf RT 12 Porsche

The German carmaker Ruf is doing a lot more than copying Porsche models and shoving steroids up their throats. Over the years, it has imposed itself as a serious, hard-working official tuner, much like AMG is for Mercedes and M-Power for BMW. This model also has a 200 mph (320 km/h) top speed, but a slightly improved acceleration, of 4.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph (0-100 km/h).

8. Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren “722 Edition”

It’s enough to say Mercedes to think of great cars and German technical perfection, but when adding the name McLaren, which requires no further presentation, you can be sure that the outcome can only be a superb car. She has a 650 hp, 5.5 liter V8 engine, a 209 mph top speed and gets from 0 to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds.

7. Lamborghini Murcielago LP640

Lamborghini was the supreme supercar of the 90s with the now classical and forever great Diablo. The new Murcielago in this limited edition can only be the proud successor of a true legend. It has a 6.5 L version of the legendary Lamborghini V12 engine, 640 hp and a top speed of 211 mph (339 km/h), with a 0-60 mph acceleration of 3.5 s

6. Pagani Zonda C12 F

A not so famous car, produced by Argentinan car manufacturer Pagani in Italy, again, but lacking a long history behind the brand name, but a truly magnificent piece of work, having a 600 hp engine and a 3.5 second sprint to 62 mph (97 km/h), with a top speed over 217 mph (350 km/h).

5. Bristol Fighter T

An even more anonymous car was produced in small numbers in 2004 by British manufacturer Bristol Cars. She’s a huge rocket, having a V10 engine producing 1012 hp and huge 1036 lb ft of torque, with 225 mph + top speed (+362 km/h). Fighter T gets from 0 to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds.

4. McLaren F1

The brand name says it all. What it doesn’t say is that it was conceived as an exercise in creating what its designers hoped would be considered the ultimate road car. She’s strange looking, having the driver’s seat mounted in the center and two passenger seats on each side, but to the back. She was the fastest production car ever built (having achieved a top speed of 240.14 mph, 386.5 km/h) until surpassed in 2005 by the Koenigsegg CCR and then the Bugatti Veyron a few months later.

3. Koenigsegg CCR

The second latest supercar form the Swedish manufacturer Koenigsegg, she has a 4.7 L twin supercharged DOHC V8 engine, 806 hp, a 0-60 mph acceleration of 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 251 mph (403 km/h)

2. Bugatti Veyron

Many people think this monster is still the fastest, most powerful and most expensive street-legal production car in the world. Indeed, she has a proven top speed of 253.2 mph (407.9 km/h). Built by the German carmaker Volkswagen through its subsidiary Bugatti Automobiles SAS, in France, it represents almost 70 years or racing history, with the Bugatti cars ruling the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours competition in the 1930s and 1940s. She has a monster of an engine, too, a 8.0 L quad-turbo W16 that puts out a massive 1001 hp of thrust.

1. Barabus TKR

Few people know this, but this is now the fastest car ever made, having dethroned the Bugatti beast. The name is not to be confused with the German tuner Brabus, as she’s built by the British company Barabus Sportscars Ltd and will be produced in Italy. She has 1005 horsepower, it can do 0 to 60 mph (0-100 km/h) in…unbelievably…1.67 seconds (manufacturer’s results). And, surprisingly, this power doesn’t come from a huge engine, but rather from a “small” 6.0 liter V8 twin-turbocharged with dual intercoolers.

This declared speed is impressive and some people think that such a figure is not even possible: 270 mph (435km/h), nearly 20 more than the Veyron.

Source: Softpedia

One of the most asked questions about buying a car is “When is the best time to buy?” This is a good question because buying a car at the right time could possibly save you thousands! To get the best answer to this question, let’s break it down into two sections:

What’s the best time of the month to buy a car?

While some people may have different experiences, we find that the best day of the month to purchase a new vehicle is the last, or second to last day of the month. The reason for this is simple. Car manufacturers and dealerships usually have some type of promotion going where the dealership gets extra incentives like more money for selling a certain number of vehicles. These promotions always run from the start of the month to the end of the month (or it may span several months.) The point is, towards the end of the month a dealer is liable to strike the best deals — possibly even “giving the car away” for invoice price — just so they can meet the requirements of their current promotion. Even if there is not a promotion at the time, the dealership probably still wants to get rid of some of their inventory to prepare for the next month.

What’s the best time of the year to buy a car?

As with most other items, the best time to buy a car is towards the end of the year. This is because the dealerships are likely to have the best promotions going so that they can get rid of inventory and prepare for the next year’s models to arrive. So, to get the best deal consider buying in September, October, November or possibly December. Remember, wait until the last or second to last day of the month.

A word of advice

Try to keep in mind that you are not the only person seeking the best time to buy a car. Because of this, you should expect to run into larger-than-normal crowds at the dealerships during these times. This means you will probably encounter more delays and less attention from the salespeople than you originally expected.

MSRP: $10,770 - $13,495
User Rating: 8.7 out of 10

Highs: Ride, controls, turning circle.
Lows: ABS option hard to find, acceleration, so-so fuel economy for class, crash-test results.

Overview

The Rio sedan and Rio 5 hatchback have a relatively pleasant, 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine. Fuel economy is good but trails the class leaders. The ride is comfortable and quiet. Handling isn’t particularly agile. ABS is very hard to find. Curtain air bags are standard, but IIHS side-crash-test results are poor.

What’s new in 2007?

The 2007 Kia Rio receives revised 14- and 15-inch alloy wheel designs, new manual and automatic transmission shift knobs, chrome Kia logo on steering wheel center pad and the addition of an illuminated ignition surround. A new SX four-door is added to the lineup featuring front fog lights, 15-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler, metal-finish interior trim, metal pedals, unique black mesh sport fabric inserts with red highlights and red accent stitching on the door panels, chrome accents on instrument panel air vents and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Also new 16-inch alloy wheels are optional for the SX.

Source: Consumer Reports.org

MSRP: $14,810 - $24,590
User Rating: 8.9 out of 10

Highs: Acceleration, engine and transmission, fuel economy, cabin storage, standard ESC.
Lows: Steering feel, road noise, rear seat.

Overview

The Civic is Honda’s compact car, offered in sedan, coupe, and hatchback versions. First introduced as a small, inexpensive hatchback in 1972, the Civic has increased in size while continuing to offer excellent fuel economy. The seventh generation Civic arrived as a 2001 model and the Civic Si returned for 2002. The Civic Hybrid was added as a 2003 model and features gas-electric hybrid technology. The entire Civic line is all-new for 2006. For 2007, the Civic Si adds a sedan version for the first time ever.

What’s new in 2007?

The 2007 Honda Civic receives some minor updates and adds Si Sedan to its lineup that is powered by the same 2.0-liter i-VTEC 197-horsepower engine as the Si Coupe. Sharing the same characteristics as the Si Coupe, the Si Sedan comes in a 6-speed manual transmission with helical-type limited slip differential, standard Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control, an exclusive low-profile rear spoiler wing, sporty interior and standard 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 tires. The Civic Si Coupe receives new darker alloy wheel color, XM Satellite Radio is added as standard on navigation-equipped EX Sedan and Civic Hybrid, and a MP3/Auxillary Input Jack is added to the Civic LX Sedan. The natural gas-powered Civic GX debuted in mid-2006 continues unchanged.

Source: Consumer Reports.org

MSRP: $20,585 - $26,520
User Rating: 8.3 out of 10

Highs: Acceleration, agility, braking, powertrain, fuel economy, top operation, available folding hard top.
Lows: Noise, visibility with the top up, head room, intrusive cup holders.

Overview

The MX-5 Miata is Mazda’s two-seat, rear-wheel-drive convertible sports car that was completely redesigned for the 2006 model year. For the first time, a power retractable hardtop is available for 2007. The third-generation MX-5 Miata features bold fender flares, a large grille, standard 16-inch alloy wheels and dual chrome exhaust pipes for a more aggressive look. The best-selling two-seat roadster in the world, the MX-5 Miata was first introduced in the summer of 1989 and was redesigned for the 1999 model year.

What’s new in 2007?

The 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata adds an available power retractable hardtop that still offers the same amount of trunk capacity—5.3 cubic feet—as when it is equipped with a folding soft-top. With three hinged sections that stack on top of each other when retracted, the power roof stores in the same amount of space the soft-top. The retractable hardtop is made of lightweight materials and the weight increase over the soft-top is only approximately 80 pounds, depending on the trim level. Hardtop versions also receive chrome trim around the grille opening, bright headlight bezels, a chrome band in the door handles and a white-lens center high-mounted stop light.

Source: Consumer Reports.org