Advice

 

This section of the website is used to update you on some of the manufacturer component issues and failures we are observing.  The Vehicle Inspectorate’s website also lists product recalls, though please note, not all issues that cause fires are classified as product recalls, and so may not be listed on the VI site.  We advise you to read the VI’s website as well as ours to gain a more complete view. For links to our partners and associations click here.

 

Manufacturer Issues

 

VW and Audi TDi's

Concern: The dual-mass flywheel is breaking-up and causing fires. VW Audi group are well aware, and have recalled some models, but not all that seem to be affected.

 

Vauxhall

Concern: Some Corsa models are catching fire (mostly while parked) due to water ingress into the ABS connector. Now recalled twice.

 

Iveco

Concerns: With the Tector: Fires starting in the cab behind the fascia panel close to the clutch pedal. Now the subject of a recall.

With the Eurostar: the grid heater relay fires (mounted on the nearside chassis rail at rear of cab) occurring whilst parked - also now recalled. Daily 35s starter motor troubles and also ABS module moisture ingress.

 

General Issues

 

Concern: Rain and road salt have been causing electrical breakdown and fires in a wide range of vehicles, commonly due to ingress into the ABS connectors and engine cooling fan ECUs. We have seen the latter affecting Fords, Mazdas and BMWs - interestingly, the components all look very similar.

 

Diesels

Concern: Modern diesels with particulate filters and catalytic converters seem to occasionally overheat during the filter regeneration cycle. We are interested to hear from anyone who has experienced any problems in this regard. The technology is new and, although tested, the longer term may bring problems for drivers who are only using their cars on short journeys. This means the regeneration cycle does not get completed. NOTE: Jaguar have recalled some models due to problems of this nature.

 

Fuses

Halfords (and others) have recalled batches of electrical fuses that were made in China and which do not provide adequate protection. Potentially, in the event of an electrical fault, they could allow damage and overheating to occur.

 

Latest Updates

 

If you would like to know the very latest news regarding vehicle faults, please contact one of our fire investigation team or use the quick enquiry form below:

 

 

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