Recalls in the automotive industry typically involve airbag faults, engine troubles, or safety-related issues. However, there have been some truly bizarre recalls that stand out from the norm. Let’s delve into eight of the weirdest recalls in the automotive world, where spiders, badge placement errors, and self-starting cars take center stage.
1. The Mazda Spider Recall
In 2011, Mazda faced an unusual problem: spiders. These eight-legged arachnids were infiltrating small fuel tank vent tubes and nesting inside, causing fuel tank pressurization issues in approximately 65,000 vehicles. Initially, Mazda attempted to prevent spiders from crawling into the tubes by installing special springs. However, the persistent spiders still managed to clog up the tubes, leading to potential fuel tank cracks. Mazda eventually developed a software update that lowered the pressure in the tubes, allowing the spiders to nest without risking fuel tank damage. Even after this fix, around 42,000 Mazda 6 sedans required the same update in 2014.
2. Subarus Starting Themselves
Subaru owners in model years 2010 to 2013 experienced an unexpected phenomenon: their cars would start themselves. The fault lay in the key fob remote start system, which caused vehicles to fire up and continue running until manually turned off, the key fob battery died, or the gas tank emptied. While remote start is convenient, having your car spontaneously come to life is less than ideal. Subaru recalled approximately 47,419 vehicles to address this quirky issue by replacing the key fobs.
3. General Motors’ Blown-Out Window
Back in the late ’70s and early ’80s, General Motors faced a peculiar recall involving station wagons from Buick Century, Chevrolet Malibu, Oldsmobile Cutlass, and Pontiac LeMans. The innovative rear-window defogger had a flaw: it could blow out the window! Over 67,000 vehicles were affected, and GM had to address this unexpected issue.
4. Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailer Hitch
Jeep Grand Cherokees and Libertys were at risk of catching fire if hit from behind. The culprit? Their trailer hitch design. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ordered a recall to address this fire hazard. While a trailer hitch might seem unrelated to fire safety, it turned out to be a critical factor in preventing rear-end collisions from turning disastrous.
5. Honda’s Badge Installation Software Errors
In a recall that sounds more like a computer glitch than an automotive issue, Honda had to rectify badge installation software errors. Approximately 20,000 Honda Odysseys had their badges placed in the wrong locations during assembly. While this may not affect performance, it’s a reminder that even small details matter in the world of car manufacturing.
6. Ford’s Fire-Prone Cruise Control Switch
Ford faced a recall affecting millions of vehicles due to a faulty cruise control switch. The switch could overheat and ignite, potentially causing fires even when the car was parked. The recall involved various Ford models, including the popular F-150 pickup trucks. Imagine your truck spontaneously combusting while sitting in the driveway
7. Toyota’s Stuck Accelerator Pedals
Toyota’s massive recall in 2009 and 2010 centered around accelerator pedals that could get stuck, leading to unintended acceleration. The issue caused accidents and fatalities, prompting Toyota to recall millions of vehicles worldwide. The recall highlighted the importance of thorough testing and quality control in automotive manufacturing.
8. Ferrari’s Faulty Wheel Nuts
Even luxury sports cars aren’t immune to recalls. Ferrari recalled several models due to faulty wheel nuts. Imagine paying top dollar for a high-performance vehicle, only to find out that the wheels might come loose! Ferrari swiftly addressed the issue to ensure their customers’ safety and maintain their brand reputation.