In the interest of keeping the auto glass technicians informed about pertinent recalls, I will discuss two. Interestingly, the one from Honda is a recall of a recall on a Honda Fit master window switch. The other is the Mitsubishi panoramic roof part that is not properly bonded. In either case, you may be called upon to fix their problem or there may be a complaint from your customer that should be referred to a dealer.
On a similar note, I have heard from a few techs in the field that there is a manufacturer’s defect in the roof of the GM models, Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia. The roof glass is bonded in place and the urethane bead goes to the inside of a stamped hole placed by the manufacturer during the roof panel fabrication. Obviously, the fix is to fill the hole with urethane and check for leaks.
Here are the two recalls as written and reported by the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Summary:
Honda is re-recalling certain model year 2007-2008 Fit vehicles covered under previous recall 10V-033. The remedy applied in this earlier recall may have been insufficient. In the affected vehicles, over time, the plastic cover may separate from the master power window switch allowing water to enter the driver’s window and reach the master power window switch. If the master power window switch is damaged as a result of the water intrusion, overheating and failure of the switch may result.
Consequence:
An overheated switch can cause smoke, melting and fire.
Remedy:
Honda will notify owners in July 2013 and will instruct owners to take their vehicles to dealers to have a free inspection conducted. If the switch is damaged, it will be replaced free of charge. If the switch is not damaged, the owner will be instructed to await a second notification that will instruct them to return to the dealer to have a replacement switch installed free of charge. Honda anticipates it will have sufficient parts in inventory to notify owners of vehicles with undamaged switches to return to dealers for replacements in Fall 2013. Owners may contact Honda at 800/999-1009. Honda’s recall number is JA6.
Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
Summary:
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model-year 2011 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured August 26, 2010 through March 29, 2011. The panoramic glass roof may have been installed without primer being applied before the adhesive.
Consequence:
Without primer being used, the panoramic glass roof may have reduced adhesion, possibly allowing the glass roof to detach from the vehicle, resulting in a road hazard to other vehicles.
Remedy:
MMNA will notify owners and dealers will inspect the panoramic glass to see if primer was installed. If primer is not present, the glass will be reinstalled. MMNA has not yet provided a notification schedule. MMNA’s recall number is SR-13-007. Customers may contact MMNA at 888/648-7820.
If you have any questions, contact the dealer and use the recall numbers above for reference.
