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Top Vehicle Recalls of May 2019: Key Safety Issues & Affected Models
Critical Vehicle Recalls: Safety Alerts Every Car Owner Should Know
When automotive manufacturers issue recalls, they're not just bureaucratic formalities—they're urgent safety notifications that could mean the difference between safe driving and catastrophic failure. At MotorVero, we track these critical announcements to keep you informed about potential risks affecting your vehicle.
Why Recalls Matter More Than You Think
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that only about 70% of recalled vehicles ever get repaired. This startling statistic means millions of potentially dangerous vehicles remain on roads unnecessarily. Staying informed about recalls isn't just about vehicle maintenance—it's about protecting yourself, your passengers, and everyone sharing the road with you.
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Major Vehicle Recalls You Need to Address
1. Ram Pickup Trucks (2015-2018 Models)
Vehicles Affected: 410,000 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickups
Safety Issue: The power locking tailgate system contains an actuator limiter tab that may fracture during operation. This defect can cause the tailgate to unexpectedly unlatch and open while driving.
Solution: FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) has authorized dealerships to repair the tailgate latch mechanism at no cost to owners. The repair typically takes less than an hour to complete.
Risk Factor: While not directly life-threatening to vehicle occupants, an open tailgate at highway speeds creates significant hazards for following traffic and can lead to cargo loss or rear-end collisions.
2. GM Heavy-Duty Trucks (2017-2019 Models)
Vehicles Affected: 324,200 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra HD pickups
Safety Issue: The engine-block heater cord and associated terminals may fail due to material degradation. This electrical fault can lead to complete heater failure or, in rare cases, create fire risks.
Solution: General Motors engineers are developing a permanent fix. In the interim, owners in cold climates should have their vehicles inspected at authorized service centers. GM will notify owners when the final remedy is available.
Additional Models: This recall affects Silverado 4500/5500/6500 chassis cabs along with 2500/3500 heavy-duty models and their GMC Sierra counterparts.
3. Ford Fusion (2013-2016 Models)
Vehicles Affected: 259,000 sedans
Safety Issue: The bushing connecting the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade over time. Complete detachment could allow the vehicle to move even when shifted to Park with the ignition key removed.
Interim Solution: Ford recommends drivers always engage the parking brake until repairs can be made. The automaker is developing a permanent fix and will notify owners when available.
Historical Context: This marks the third major recall for 2014-2018 Fusion models, highlighting persistent transmission linkage issues in this generation.
4. Chrysler Pacifica (2017-2019 Models)
Vehicles Affected: 198,000 minivans
Safety Issue: A loose battery ground connection may cause intermittent power-steering failure or complete engine stalling while driving.
Solution: Dealers will inspect battery ground surfaces, clean contact points, and reassemble connections. This repair typically takes about 30 minutes and is performed at no charge.
Safety Tip: If you experience sudden power steering loss, maintain firm control of the wheel and gradually brake to a safe stop. Restarting the vehicle may temporarily restore systems.
5. Honda CR-V (2019 Models)
Vehicles Affected: 118,600 SUVs
Safety Issue: Steering wheel metal cores may contain burrs that can damage internal wiring harnesses. Compromised wiring may prevent airbag deployment during a crash or cause unexpected deployment while driving.
Solution: Honda dealers can perform immediate inspections and replacements of affected components. The repair involves either smoothing metal surfaces or replacing the steering wheel assembly.
Urgency: This defect directly impacts crash safety systems, making prompt attention critical for all affected CR-V owners.
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How to Check for Open Recalls on Your Vehicle
Beyond these major announcements, hundreds of smaller recalls are issued monthly. Protect yourself with these verification methods:
- NHTSA's VIN Lookup Tool: Enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number at nhtsa.gov/recalls for a complete recall history
- Manufacturer Websites: All major automakers maintain recall databases with VIN search functionality
- MotorVero Recall Center: Our regularly updated database aggregates recall announcements across all brands
- Mobile Apps: Several third-party apps provide recall notifications based on your registered vehicles
Don't Ignore Recall Notices
Recalls represent documented safety risks with free repair solutions. Even if your vehicle shows no symptoms, addressing recalls promptly ensures your protection and maintains your vehicle's value. Bookmark this page and check back regularly for critical updates affecting your make and model.
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Understanding Recall Classifications
The NHTSA categorizes vehicle defects by severity to prioritize repair campaigns:
- Safety Compliance Recalls: Address violations of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
- Emission Recalls: Correct issues causing excess pollution (regulated by the EPA)
- Voluntary Recalls: Manufacturer-initiated campaigns for potential safety issues
- Service Campaigns: Non-safety related improvements offered as goodwill
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Your Rights Regarding Vehicle Recalls
U.S. law provides strong consumer protections for recall-related repairs:
- All safety recall repairs must be performed free of charge
- Manufacturers must attempt to notify all registered owners
- There's no time limit for completing safety recall repairs
- If parts aren't immediately available, manufacturers must provide interim safety guidance
Remember that recall repairs don't affect your vehicle's warranty status, and dealers cannot charge diagnostic fees for recall-related inspections. If you encounter resistance when seeking recall repairs, contact the manufacturer directly or file a complaint with the NHTSA.
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Last Updated On Jul, 16-2025