Windshield Wiper Snafu Forces Volvo to Recall 87,000 Cars
» Posted September 11, 2020 • Resources | Share This Post
Windshield wipers are definitely a must for anyone hitting the road. Still, defects with the blades that keep drivers’ viewing area clear probably are not the first thing that comes to mind when a car maker recalls tens of thousands of vehicles because of a problem the company says could cause crashes.
Volvo recently announced that it is recalling some 87,000 XC60 sport utility vehicles due to faulty windshield wipers. A loose nut could render wipers ineffective, according to the Swedish company.
“Volvo has identified that the front windshield wiper arm fixation nut to the spline joint has been assembled with low torque,” the company said in a recent notice to dealers. “This may cause unusual noise for the customer if the wiper arm should come in contact with the edge of the hood. It might also cause reduced or no wiping function.”
The company also explained the risk in a separate notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
“In certain circumstances, the wiper function could be reduced and vision could be impaired,” Volvo told NHTSA. “This may increase the risk of a crash.”
The recall covers certain 2018-2020 XC60 SUVs, according to Volvo. The company plans to begin notifying owners of recalled cars in mid-October.
How the California Lemon Law Works
This, unfortunately, is not Volvo’s first rodeo when it comes to car recalls.
Last year, Volvo recalled roughly 500,000 cars over concerns that engines could overheat and even catch fire. The company blamed a defective plastic engine inlet piece for the safety hazard.
The good news for car owners in California is that the state’s lemon law offers some important rights and protections. The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act requires car manufacturers to do certain repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty and to buy back or replace vehicles the company is unwilling or unable to fix.
There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts that must be made before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. That is one reason why it is important to consult an experienced California lemon law attorney. The lemon law obligates a car manufacturer to compensate an owner for any legal fees he or she incurs enforcing his or her rights.
Talk with a Los Angeles Lemon Law attorney
If you are a California car owner with a defective vehicle, it is important that you consult an experienced lawyer to consider your rights and options. Los Angeles lemon law attorney Brian Bickel and his team at the Bickel Law Firm have represented hundreds of clients in defective vehicle cases across the state.
Our 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 a Los Angeles lemon law attorney.
