The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported the impending May recall of 2011 Volkswagen Jettas in early April. The reason for this recall is an electrical system malfunction, specifically concerning fuses and circuit breakers.
A potential 71,043 certain model 2011 Jettas, manufactured from March 2010 through March 2011, are being recalled by Volkswagen America, Inc. due to a faulty electrical wiring and fuse layout. The same fuse used by the signal horn and the anti-theft alarm system also protects the converter box; should that fuse be blown, the converter box will become disconnected from the power supply, thus jeopardizing various vehicle applications and motorist safety. Without an intact connection to the power supply, applications such as the engine management system, lighting system, and windshield wipers can be shut down.
The consequences of the affected Jetta’s vehicle applications shutting down can be potentially serious for New Jersey drivers. For example, if the malfunction occurs while the vehicle is being driven, the headlights or wipers may turn off, or the engine could stall, significantly increasing the risk of a sudden accident without warning. Similarly, if there is any effect on the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system, especially when driving on icy or wet roads, a severe and unexpected New Jersey car crash can result.
It is the responsibility of auto manufacturers to ensure that their vehicles are designed and constructed to meet consumer safety standards. When a defective auto vehicle or component results in a New Jersey injury accident, the manufacturer may be held liable for the injuries and damages suffered. In such a case, due to the complex nature of auto product liability litigation, it would be beneficial for an injured consumer to contact an experienced New Jersey defective auto design injury lawyer.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic accident due to defective auto manufacturing or design, the attorneys at Blume Forte can advise you on the merits of your potential claim and the best possible course of action for your situation. Call us at 973-845-4421 to schedule a no-cost consultation.