Car recalls in the US have surged in 2024, affecting millions of vehicles and exposing major safety problems. From airbag malfunctions to engine faults, these recalls involve various popular brands and models, impacting drivers across the country. Staying informed about these recalls helps reduce safety risks for all road users.
Before exploring the top 10 US auto recall in 2024, it’s important to understand the basics of car recalls and the reasons behind them.
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What Is a Car Recall?
A vehicle recall is issued when a vehicle manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a vehicle does not meet federal safety standards. These standards apply to critical parts like brakes, tires, and lighting. When a recall is issued, the manufacturer is required to fix the problem (generally free of charge) or, in severe cases, repurchase the affected vehicles.
Why Do Car Recalls in the US Happen and Who Handles Them?
US auto recalls typically result from vehicle safety issues, such as problems with steering, fuel systems, or other crucial components. These defects can lead to serious accidents or injuries if not addressed. Manufacturers are responsible for issuing recall notices and covering the cost of repairs. Car owners can verify recalls and stay updated through the NHTSA website and recall notifications.
Top 10 Vehicle Recalls of 2024
Here’s a closer look at the top 10 biggest car recalls in the US for 2024, detailing the major defects, the affected vehicles, and what steps owners need to take to stay safe.
1. Tesla (January 30, 2024)
The Tesla recall on January 30, 2024 is the largest of the year, affecting around 2.2 million vehicles, including the Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y, and Cybertruck. The issue involved the brake, park, and anti lock brake warning lights being too small to meet federal standards. Tesla resolved this by issuing a free over-the-air software update to adjust the warning light sizes. Despite the large number of affected vehicles, the recall was minor as it did not require physical repairs.
2. Ford Motor (February 16, 2024)
The Ford car recall in the US on February 16, 2024 is the second largest motor vehicle issue of the year, affecting nearly 1.9 million Explorer SUVs from the 2011-2019 model years. This recall addresses an issue where clips holding the trim on the roof supports near the windshield can become loose and potentially detach, posing a safety risk to other drivers. The recall followed 164 consumer complaints and over 14,000 warranty reports.
Ford said it estimates that about 5% of the affected Explorer vehicles may face this problem. Dealers have been instructed to inspect the trim pieces and apply adhesive if needed to secure them.
3. Honda (February 28, 2024)
In February 2024, Honda Motor issued a recall in the US affecting over 750,000 vehicles across its Honda and Acura brands. The recall included various models such as the 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Odyssey, and Civic, along with Acura’s 2020-2022 RDX, 2020-2021 TLX, and 2020 and 2022 MDX. The issue involves a weight sensor in the front passenger seat that could crack and short circuit. This malfunction might cause airbags to deploy inappropriately, even if the seat is occupied by a child, increasing the risk for injury during a crash.
Additionally, Acura recalled 4,174 of its 2024 Acura ZDX All-Wheel Drive electric SUVs due to a problem with the anti-lock brake system (ABS). The ABS may activate unexpectedly and release brake pressure at speeds below 25 mph on dry surfaces. This can reduce stopping performance or cause the service brakes to become inoperative, raising the risk of a crash. Dealers are instructed to replace the faulty components at no cost, and owner notifications were sent out on March 28.
4. Jaguar (March 15, 2024)
Jaguar issued a US auto recall in 2024 (March 15), affecting 2,760 2019 Jaguar I-Pace electric vehicles due to concerns about the high-voltage battery potentially overheating. Even if vehicles had previously received updates with improved diagnostic software, they may still be at risk of thermal overload.
This condition can lead to fire or smoke, posing safety risks to occupants and others, as well as potential property damage. Owners are advised to have the new remedy applied to their vehicles to address this issue.
5. Stellantis (April 10, 2024)
Stellantis, the parent company of brands like Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram, issued a car recall in the US on April 10, 2024. This US auto recall in 2024 involves 1.033 million vehicles due to a software issue that could elevate the risk of a crash. One of the biggest recalls, it affects several models, including the 2021-2022 Dodge Durango, 2021-2023 Chrysler Pacifica, 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2022 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500, as well as the 2022-2023 Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram Promaster.
The problem involves the radio software, which may prevent the rearview cameras from displaying correctly when the vehicle is in reverse. Stellantis addressed this issue by updating the radio software in the affected vehicles at no cost to the owners.
6. General Motors (March 18, 2024)
In March 2024, General Motors issued a car recall in the US for nearly 820,000 trucks. This recall affected specific 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500 models, along with GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The problem involved a defective electronic latch mechanism that could short circuit if exposed to water, potentially causing the tailgate to open while parked.
This defect could lead to cargo falling out while driving, creating a safety hazard. GM received over 130 complaints, including one minor injury and three reports of property damage. The company replaced the affected tailgate switches with more water-resistant versions. Notifications to owners began on March 18.
7. Kia America (June 10, 2024)
Kia America issued a car recall in the US for 462,869 Telluride SUVs from the 2020-2024 model years due to a fire risk. The problem involved a power seat slide knob that could get stuck, causing the front seat’s motor to overheat and potentially start a fire, whether the vehicle was parked or in use.
Dealers were instructed to replace the faulty seat slide knobs and install a protective bracket for the switch covers. Owners were advised to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures until the repairs were completed. Notifications to owners began on July 30 and 31. Kia reported seven incidents related to the defect, including one fire and six cases of melted seat motors, but no injuries or fatalities.
8. Toyota (February 27, 2024)
On February 27, 2024, Toyota Motor issued its largest recall of the year, involving 381,000 2022-2023 Tacoma pickup trucks. This recall exceeded a previous one involving 280,000 vehicles due to concerns about unexpected movement when the vehicles were in neutral. The issue stemmed from axle housings that were improperly welded, causing potential instability and brake performance issues. Dealers were required to inspect and repair the rear axle assemblies at no cost, with notification letters sent to owners on April 13.
9. Volkswagen Group of America (July 27, 2024)
Volkswagen recalled over 270,000 SUVs due to potential airbag system faults. The recall addressed issues with the wiring that might affect the vehicle’s ability to detect passengers properly and deploy airbags as needed. This fault increased injury risks in crashes. Affected models included various 2020-2024 SUVs.
10. Ram 1500 Trucks (September 9, 2024)
FCA US LLC recalled over 1.2 million Ram 1500 trucks in the US due to a software issue with the anti-lock brake system, which could disable electronic stability control and increase crash risk. The recall also affected 7,299 ABS control modules sold as replacement parts.
The problem, involving modules from Continental Automotive Systems, required dealers to update the software at no charge by September 12, 2024. Owners would receive notification letters between October 3 and October 10, 2024.
US Auto Recall in 2024: What Should You Do if Your Car is Recalled?
- Check for Recall Notices. Look out for official notifications from the automaker that detail the problem and the necessary steps. You can also check the NHTSA website for updates on car recalls in the US using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Contact Your Dealer. Schedule an appointment with an authorized dealer as soon as you receive the recall notice. The dealer will inspect and repair the vehicle at no cost if it is included in the recall.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions. Follow any specific instructions provided in the recall notice. This may include parking the vehicle in a certain way or avoiding specific driving conditions until the repair is done.
- Verify Repairs. Make sure that the necessary repairs are completed properly. Request documentation of the repair and confirm that all issues related to the recall are addressed.
- Stay Updated. Keep informed about any new developments related to the recall from the manufacturer. There may be additional steps or repairs required if new information becomes available.
- Keep Records. Retain copies of the recall notice, repair invoices, and any related communication. This documentation can be useful for future reference or if further issues arise.
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When a car is recalled, you need to get in touch with the manufacturer right away to check available remedies. As mentioned, the majority of those named in the US auto recall in 2024 will be serviced free of charge so there’s no need to worry.
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