Nissan, Volvo and Lexus recently recalled vehicles for a range of front-end problems that could lead to loss of control.
Nissan is recalling certain Altima sedans from the 2011 and 2012 model years to replace transverse link bolts that may not have been tightened to the proper specification. The 20,000 or so cars included in the recall were built from April 25 through June 10, 2011, at the company’s Canton, Miss., plant.
In a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Nissan said it discovered a problem with loose bolts in the cars during the past two months. The inadequate tightening could allow the bolts to loosen, which would cause vibration and rattling. If the bolt detaches, the driver could have trouble controlling the vehicle’s direction, which could lead to a crash.
Nissan will replace the transverse link bolts and nuts and tighten them to the proper torque specification. The recall is expected to begin on or before Aug. 1. Owners can contact Nissan at 800-647-7261.
Volvo is recalling 8,406 S80 sedans from the 2007 model year to fix a potential problem with their power steering systems. The affected cars were built from March 8, 2006, through May 16, 2007.
The problem stems from a power steering reservoir return hose that may have been incorrectly routed and could lead to excessive pressure in the system that could cause the hose to burst. If this happens the system would lose fluid and the power-steering would stop working, which could increase the risk of a crash.
Under the recall, dealers will inspect the routing of the power steering hose and make repairs as needed. The recall is expected to begin next month. Owners can contact Volvo at 201-768-7300.
Toyota is recalling certain Lexus RX 350 crossover SUVs from the 2011 model year to fix a brake problem that could keep the vehicles’ antilock-brake and stability-control systems from working properly.
The car maker said the recall affects 32 vehicles built from Aug. 30, 2010, through May 18, 2011 and equipped with a system called vehicle dynamics integrated management, or VDIM. Because of improper calibration of hydraulic control valves, the right front brake may not be controlled properly when the antilock-brake or stability-control systems area activated.
The problem could result in longer stopping distances and the failure to correct skids, which increase the risk of a crash.
Toyota says dealers will replace the brake actuator with a new one, free of charge.