Volvo is recalling more than 85,000 sedans because of faulty fuel pumps that could cause the engine to stall or lose power, posing a serious crash risk.
According to Consumer Reports, the recall involves a range of Volvo vehicles that could feature the dangerous fault. The potentially defective vehicle models included in the recall are the S60 and S90 sedans, XC60 and XC90 SUVs, and V60 and V90 wagons from the 2019 and 2020 model years.
Details of the Recall
In these vehicles, if the fuel pump fails while the vehicle is in motion, the engine could stall and the vehicle could end up losing power. Hybrid vehicles included in the recall may briefly run only on battery power before stalling. If the fuel pump fails while the vehicle is switched off, it may not start at all. Warning lights may also show on the gauges behind the steering wheel.
According to documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) by Volvo, a 15-amp fuse in the fuel pump may blow unnecessarily, which could cut off fuel to the engine thereby leading to a stall. Volvo has said it is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to this recall.
When the recall begins, Volvo dealerships will replace the 15-amp fuse with a 20-amp fuse, which should not blow easily. New vehicles are already being built with fuel pumps that include a 20-amp fuse. Vehicle owners are asked to contact Volvo directly at 1-800-458-1552 for more information. If you suspect you may own one of these vehicles, visit NHTSA’s website and plug in your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number or VIN to find out if your vehicle is included in this recall.
Dangers of Vehicle Stalling
Stalled vehicles have the potential to cause significant injuries and damages. When your vehicle suddenly stalls on a busy roadway or freeway, for example, there is the danger of getting struck by other vehicles at high speed. When a vehicle stalls when it is in motion, there is a possibility that the driver loses control and crashes. A number of accidents on California’s freeways involve stalled vehicles that are struck by others on the freeway.
Automakers have a responsibility to manufacture and design vehicles that are safe for consumers. They also have a legal obligation to report vehicle defects in a timely manner and issue recalls promptly. If you have been injured as the result of a vehicle defect, whether or not the vehicle is part of a recall, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.
Injured victims can file an auto product liability lawsuit seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. If you have lost a loved one as the result of an auto defect, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation as well. An experienced auto defect lawyer can help injured victims and families that have lost loved ones to defective automobiles secure justice and fair compensation for their losses.
