Holden is recalling Commodore and Caprice models built in 2013 after discovering a problem that could render the windscreen wipers inoperable, potentially compromising safety.
The problem is described on the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) website as a potential safety issue in which the "driven gear in the wiper motor may fail due to incorrect grease application," creating a situation in which the "windscreen wipers may not work and visibility may be reduced, potentially posing an accident hazard to the driver and other road users."
The recall covers all Commodore VE/VF models and WM/WN Caprice vehicles built in 2013 between February 27 and October 31, with a VIN number range from 6G1EK8E49CL711575 to 6G1NP5E21EL946263.
The vehicles were sold nationally through the company's Australian dealer network and, given that Holden was selling Commodore and derivative models at a rate of around 3000 vehicles a month during the period, it is estimated that in excess of 24,000 cars are affected.
Holden says customers should contact their preferred Holden dealer for a free of charge inspection and, if necessary, to have a replacement wiper motor fitted.
The company has previously issued recalls on its VF Commodore and WN Caprice models, most recently in May this year, when the seat buckle assembly was found to have the potential to wear its way through the wiring harness for the seatbelt pretensioner. In November 2006, Holden issued a recall for VE Commodore and WM Statesman and Caprice models, when it discovered a problem with the rear seatbelt buckles, while in October the same year, V8 Commodores and V8 Statesman and Caprice models were recalled to fix a fuel line problem.
According to ACCC records, Holden has issued a total of 12 recalls on Commodore and associated models since the VE was introduced in 2006.