BMW, Rolls-Royce, Toyota Supra Owners Alerted to Child Car Seat Defect
» Posted September 1, 2021 • Resources | Share This Post
A range of vehicles across BMW, Rolls Royce and Toyota brands are being recalled because of a defect that could put child passengers at risk.
A faulty seat belt component makes it difficult to install child car seats in some 21,000 recalled vehicles, according to Consumer Reports. That makes car seats less secure in the event of an accident.
“The passenger seat belt Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) may deactivate early, before the webbing fully retracts,” federal regulators said of the problem in a recent letter to BMW. “During a crash, a seat belt retractor that does not function as intended increases the risk of injury.”
The recall covers a wide range of 2021 vehicles, including various BMW models, Mini Cooper hatchbacks and convertibles, Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUVs and Ghost and Phantom sedans, as well as Toyota Supra coupes.
The defect impacts only the front passenger seat belts in many of the vehicles, where it is already not recommended that car seats be used. The 2021 BMW 2 Series convertible and M2 Competition Coupe, 3 Series and M3 sedans, and 5 Series sedans may have faulty automatic locking retractors in the rear seats.
Owners of recalled cars are being asked to bring them to a local dealer for a fix, at no cost.
Car Defects and Your Rights Under California's Lemon Law
Recalls like this are unfortunately common around the world, as manufacturers often spot serious safety problems long after their cars have already hit the road.
The good news for car owners and lessors in California is that you do not have to wait for a recall to get a malfunctioning vehicle fixed.
The state’s lemon law requires carmakers to perform various repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. The law also forces manufacturers to buy back - or, in some cases, replace - cars that the companies are either unable or not willing to properly repair.
There is no standard number of repair requests or attempts that must be made before the buyback-or-replace requirement kicks in. That is one of several reasons why it is important to consult an experienced lemon law attorney. The law requires the manufacturer to pick up the tab for legal fees that you incur while enforcing your rights.
Talk with an Orange County Lemon Law Attorney
If you have been stuck with a malfunctioning vehicle, an Orange County lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back and hold the company accountable. An attorney at our firm will explain your rights and explore your options for getting your car replaced or your money back.
Our lawyers understand the stress and frustration that can come with being sold a lemon. We work with clients across the state to resolve these matters efficiently and effectively.
Our firm’s offices are conveniently located in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with an Orange County lemon law attorney today.
