Recalled Pickup Trucks: Dangerous Vehicles on the Streets of Indiana

June 30, 2017 / Product Injury

Auto recalls in the U.S. hit a record high last year, with more than 50 million vehicles deemed unsafe. A significant percentage of these vehicles, including many best-selling pickup trucks, have not yet been returned to the dealer for repair. This creates a real and ongoing safety hazard for motorists in our state.

Traffic accidents occur in various ways. Some result from driver error. The error can be any type of driving mistake, from changing lanes without signaling, to driving while intoxicated. In all such cases, though, the potential victims are limited to those in the immediate vicinity at the time of the crash.

Other traffic accidents result from auto manufacturer error. The danger associated with these accidents is broader. Design flaws, substandard parts, improper assembly – the consequences of any of these mistakes are not limited by time or location. Mass production multiplies the risk. If the defect occurs in a popular model of pickup truck, for example, potential victims may number in the hundreds of thousands.

Recalls can rectify manufacturing errors, but only if the necessary repairs are performed. It is therefore crucial that owners of affected vehicles become aware of recalls. With that in mind, information on recent pickup truck recalls is provided below. Indiana truck owners can also search for recalls by VIN number on the NHTSA website.

If a recalled pickup has already caused an accident, and you or a loved one was injured, then it is time to speak with an attorney. Contact Stephenson Rife to get advice about your pickup truck accident.

Recent Pickup Truck Recalls:

• Dodge Ram – 1 million vehicles

Due to a software glitch, impact to the underbody of the truck by road debris can trigger a shutdown of the airbags and seatbelt tensioners. Affected models: Ram 1500 and 2500 (2013-2016); Ram 3500 (2014-2016).

• Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra – 900,000 vehicles

A flexible cable connects the seatbelt to the truck. Over time, as drivers repeatedly bend the cable while getting into the seat, the cable may wear and break. Affected models: 1500 (half-ton) (2014-2015).

• Toyota Tacoma – 228,000 vehicles

The rear differential may leak fluid. Once drained, the gears may seize, causing the driver to lose control. Affected models: Tacoma (2016-2017).

• Ford F-150 – 225,000 vehicles

Leaks in the brake master cylinder may lead to front brake failure. Affected models: F-150s with 3.5-liter V-6 engines (2013-2014).

• Toyota Tundra – 73,000 vehicles

Impact to the corner of the rear step-bumper may cause hidden damage. The bumper could then break off when stepped on, causing someone climbing into the bed of the truck to get hurt in a slip and fall accident. Affected models: Tundra (2016-2017).

• Ford F-250 – 50,000 vehicles

The transmission may contain a defective park rod actuator plate. This can allow the truck to roll away after the driver places the gear shift lever in park. Affected models: F-250s with 6.2-liter gasoline engines (2017).

• Nissan Titan – 12,000 vehicles

Fuel tank breather tubes may not be attached correctly. As a result, the truck may unexpectedly run out of fuel, even though the gauge on the dashboard indicates a partially full tank. Affected models: Titan Diesel XD (2016).

• Honda Ridgeline – 9,200 vehicles

A wiring harness under the truck bed may not be watertight. Moisture in this part of the electrical system can cause a sudden, unnecessary application of the brake-assist system. Affected models: Ridgeline AWD (2017).

• Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon – 3,000 vehicles

The power steering may fail, due to a bad electrical connection. Affected models: Colorado/Canyons (2015).

• Nissan Frontier – 1,500 vehicles

Terminals on the starter motor may have been installed improperly. If the terminals contact other components of the truck, a fire can result. Affected models: Frontiers with V-6 engines (2016).

Each of these recalls involves a different part or function of the truck. But the defects all have one thing in common – they increase the risk of someone getting hurt. If you believe a recalled but unrepaired pickup truck caused your accident, contact the personal injury lawyers at Stephenson Rife. We have offices in Indianapolis and Shelbyville, and initial consultations are always free.