The ACCC has announced as of late last week three recalls for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and B-Class, the Hummer H3 and the Volvo XC90.
Holden, as the GM agent in Australia, is handling the recall for the Hummer, which sold in Australia up to and briefly beyond the onset of the Global Financial Crisis in 2008. Approaching 2000 units were reportedly sold in Australia, according to VFACTS.
Holden says that the Hummer is being recalled for a wiring connector that may overheat in the event the cabin fan is switched to run at medium or high loads. Over extended periods the heat may be a fire risk. Vehicles recalled are in the VIN range from ADMDN13E774379990 to ADMEN13E594484566 and the build dates applicable were March 7, 2007 to December 3, 2008. Although there have been no reported cases surfacing in Australia, Holden advises, the recall affects 1857 vehicles sold here.
The Benz recall applies to A-Class and B-Class models sold between September 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013. According to the recall notice, 1788 vehicles sold locally are affected. Driveshaft retaining rings may break in extreme circumstances, the importer advises, which will bring the car to a halt and possibly pose a hazard to passengers and other road users.
Volvo is contacting owners of the five-cylinder diesel XC90 (V8 diesel model pictured) built in model years 2009 and 2010. The importer says that 346 vehicles (VIN range from 512232 to 545469) are subject to the recall, which is aimed at rectifying a power steering hose that may make contact with the engine cooling fan. Volvo anticipates that this would result in the fan severing the hose and leaving the SUV without power assistance for the steering.
All three car companies will contact owners of the vehicles concerned by mail.