General Motors Recalls Hummers For Potential Fire Danger
General Motors Recalls Hummers For Potential Fire Danger
General Motors is issuing an auto defect recall for more than 196,000 Hummer SUVs worldwide because the ventilation fan motor controls can overheat and start a fire.
According to an Associated Press report, the recall covers the 2006 to 2010 Hummer H3 and the 2009 and 2010 H3T.
GM issued a statement that the module, which controls the heating and air conditioning blower motor speed can overheat when operated for a long time, causing nearby plastic to melt and increasing the risk of a fire.
The company has so far received 42 reports of fires including three that resulted in burn injuries.
When the recall begins, dealers will replace the faulty module and wiring harness at no cost to owners.
GM says the recall covers about 165,000 Hummers in the U.S.
The Danger of Car Fires
With any type of overheating in a vehicle there is the risk of a car fire. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), approximately one in seven fires in the country is a vehicle fire.
Nearly 86 percent of highway vehicle fires occurred in passenger vehicles. Also, 61 percent of highway vehicle fires and 35 percent of fatal highway vehicle fires originated in the engine, running gear and wheel area of the vehicle.
The leading cause of highway vehicle fires was mechanical failure (44 percent). Vehicle fires have the potential to cause severe burn injuries or even fatalities.
If You Have Been Recalled
When a manufacturer issues a recall, they usually send a letter and/or email to vehicle owners letting them know about the recall and also informing them about how to get the fix for the problem.
Under the law, these repairs stemming from recalls must be performed at no charge to consumers. If parts are not available right away, the dealership is required to notify you when parts become available.
Once an automaker alerts the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it has 60 days to notify owners.
If your vehicle has been recalled for a fuel leak or a fire risk, you may also want to park it outside and away from any structures until the fix has been made.
If the automaker tells you to stop driving the vehicle, tow the car to a dealership and ask for a loaner, although such situations may be rather rare.
If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a defective vehicle, please contact an experienced auto product liability lawyer who will ensure that your legal rights and best interests are protected, and that the negligent automaker is held accountable.
