Alfa Romeo Calls Back Giulia Sedans Over Fuel Leaks

Alfa Romeo is recalling high-end Giulia sedans over defects that pose serious safety risks.

The cars could develop fuel leaks that cause them to shut down unexpectedly, the Italian luxury automaker recently told federal regulators in the U.S. In some cases, the problem could spark car fires, according to the company.

“The fuel line sensor fuel leak may cause fuel starvation of the engine,” Alfa Romeo said in a defect notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

“Fuel starvation may result in an unexpected loss of motive power, which can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning,” the company added. “In rare circumstances, if the leaked fuel comes in contact with an ignition source, a fire could occur.” 

The recall covers fewer than 300 Giulia sedans from model year 2021. The company plans to notify owners of recalled cars by June 19. Alfa Romeo Giulia drivers can check the NHTSA website in the meantime to see if their vehicles are covered by the recall.

The company will ask owners of recalled cars to bring their vehicles to authorized dealers for inspection and repair. Service providers will replace fuel line sensor housing in the vehicles.

Owners should also be on alert for signs of problems until their cars are fixed.

“Vehicle occupants may notice a fuel smell while the engine is running or reduced vehicle performance, Alfa Romeo said in the defect notice.

This is not the first time that the luxury automaker has been forced to call back cars in the U.S. over serious safety issues.

The company said last year that it was recalling certain Tonale sport utility vehicles as a result of fire risks. Loose integrated dual charging module cables in the plug-in SUVs were to blame, the company said at the time.

How the California Lemon Law Works

The good news for Alfa Romeo and other car owners in California is that you do not need to wait for a recall to get a defective vehicle fixed. The state’s lemon law provides important legal rights and protections.

The law generally requires carmakers to perform a wide range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. That means you do not need to wait around for a recall to get a malfunctioning car fixed.

The lemon law also forces manufacturers to buy back vehicles that they are unable or flat out refuse to fix. That means compensating the owner for the vehicle’s purchase price, as well as financing charges, rental car costs and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of recall requests or attempts that must be made before the buyback or replacement requirement kicks in. A California lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights and explore your options.

Talk with an Orange County Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, an Orange County lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with an Orange County lemon law attorney.