Practical tips, maintenance knowledge, and current recalls — free for every vehicle owner in our area.
Squealing is often the wear indicator already grinding. At the first soft pedal feel, longer stopping distance, or dashboard light, get a measurement. Catching pads at 3–4 mm remaining saves rotors and money.
Most “dead Tesla / dead EV” tow calls are a failed 12-volt battery, not the high-voltage pack. Test and replace the 12V on the manufacturer’s interval (often 3–5 years) even if the car “seems fine.”
Modern long-life coolants still break down. Color change, oily film, or low level without visible leak are early warnings. A $150 flush beats a $2,000 water pump or heater core job later.
Before any multi-day trip: check roof seals, run the generator under load for 15 minutes, verify all slides and jacks, test propane appliances, and confirm spare tire pressure. 90% of “vacation-ruining” failures are preventable.
A $20 code reader that erases the light without fixing the cause just resets the timer. Proper diagnosis finds the root — sensor, wiring, mechanical, software — then confirms the fix with live data.
Check cold pressures monthly and before any long drive. Underinflation kills fuel economy, heat builds, and sidewalls fail. Keep a quality gauge in the glovebox — don’t trust the pump’s readout alone.
These are selected high-visibility or high-risk recalls relevant to vehicles commonly seen in our service area. Always verify your VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls or the manufacturer’s owner site. We can help coordinate recall work when mobile-eligible or advise on dealer scheduling.
| Make / Model | Issue | Risk | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Various Tesla Models | Autopilot / FSD related software & camera issues (ongoing campaigns) | Safety / Compliance | Check Tesla app / service for software updates & hardware inspections |
| Ford / Lincoln (various) | Takata airbag inflators (legacy campaigns still open on some VINs) | High — Injury risk | Check NHTSA immediately; free dealer replacement |
| GM Trucks / SUVs (certain years) | Transmission park lock / shift cable issues on some models | Rollaway risk | Verify VIN; free repair at dealer |
| Hyundai / Kia (multiple) | Engine fire risk (certain Theta II / GDI engines) & ABS module | Fire / Control | Check manufacturer portal; some require software or hardware |
| BMW (various) | Takata inflators & positive battery cable issues on older models | High | NHTSA + BMW recall portal |
| Mercedes-Benz | Brake booster vacuum pump / ESP software on select models | Stopping distance | Dealer software / hardware campaign |
| Stellantis (Jeep / Ram / Chrysler) | Fuel pump module & airbag control module campaigns | Stall / Airbag | Check VIN on FCA recall site |
| Toyota / Lexus | Fuel pump (low pressure) & certain hybrid battery ECU campaigns | Stall / Hybrid | Toyota Owners portal |
| RV Chassis (Ford / Chevy / Workhorse) | Multiple chassis-level recalls (brakes, steering, fuel) that also affect motorhomes | Varies | Use chassis VIN + coach serial; we can help identify |
| Various EVs | High-voltage contactor / battery software thermal management updates | Range / Safety | Manufacturer over-the-air or service visit |
Disclaimer: This list is for awareness only and is not exhaustive. Recall status changes frequently. Always confirm with your VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls or the manufacturer. We are not a recall repair facility for all campaigns but can advise and, where mobile-eligible, assist.
Call or text. Happy to talk through symptoms or maintenance questions at no charge for quick guidance.
(805) 585-0366