Car: 2001-2002 Dodge Caravan
Recall: It’s a freak chance, but certain Dodge Caravan models may suffer from excessive moisture forming on the air conditioner vents. This could drip into the radio, and in turn, cause a short circuit that sends direct current to the rear speakers. Consequently, the rear speakers could actually catch fire.
Translation: “Honey, why is the radio so staticky today? And is it just me, or do you smell smoke?”
Note: Smelling smoke is generally a very good reason to pull over and exit the vehicle immediately.
Car: 2004 Toyota Sienna
Recall: Here’s the gist. An improperly secured trim-piece could interfere with the operation of the gas pedal, potentially causing it to be stuck in a nearly wide-open position.
Translation: You pull out to pass an 18-wheeler, and surprisingly, the minivan keeps accelerating once you’ve released the throttle. The kids shout ‘GO DAD!’, but the wife is notably less impressed, as is the traffic cop up the road.
Note: If this ever happens to you, quickly slip the shifter into neutral and turn the engine off, coasting to the side of the road.
Car: 2002-2004 Volkswagen Jetta
Recall: The seat-heater ‘mat’ on certain vehicles could malfunction, possibly overheating to a dangerous level.
Translation: “You know what burns my ass about this car? The seats!” This one could be a nasty surprise. You flick the bun-warmers on for the cold morning commute, and the seat overheats. Smoke is likely, and burning or melting of the seat upholstery is possible. So is a nasty burn to your backside, incidentally.
Note: Ice helps, followed by some antiseptic ointment if blistering occurs.
Recall: It’s a freak chance, but certain Dodge Caravan models may suffer from excessive moisture forming on the air conditioner vents. This could drip into the radio, and in turn, cause a short circuit that sends direct current to the rear speakers. Consequently, the rear speakers could actually catch fire.
Translation: “Honey, why is the radio so staticky today? And is it just me, or do you smell smoke?”
Note: Smelling smoke is generally a very good reason to pull over and exit the vehicle immediately.
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Car: 2004 Toyota Sienna
Recall: Here’s the gist. An improperly secured trim-piece could interfere with the operation of the gas pedal, potentially causing it to be stuck in a nearly wide-open position.
Translation: You pull out to pass an 18-wheeler, and surprisingly, the minivan keeps accelerating once you’ve released the throttle. The kids shout ‘GO DAD!’, but the wife is notably less impressed, as is the traffic cop up the road.
Note: If this ever happens to you, quickly slip the shifter into neutral and turn the engine off, coasting to the side of the road.
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Car: 2002-2004 Volkswagen Jetta
Recall: The seat-heater ‘mat’ on certain vehicles could malfunction, possibly overheating to a dangerous level.
Translation: “You know what burns my ass about this car? The seats!” This one could be a nasty surprise. You flick the bun-warmers on for the cold morning commute, and the seat overheats. Smoke is likely, and burning or melting of the seat upholstery is possible. So is a nasty burn to your backside, incidentally.
Note: Ice helps, followed by some antiseptic ointment if blistering occurs.