Alfa Romeo 8C, Maserati Quattroporte and Granturismo models recalled over rust fears

Mon, 20 May 2013

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced Maserati and Alfa Romeo are recalling certain Quattroporte, Granturismo and 8C models over potentially faulty tie rod ends. According to NHTSA, 2005-2008 Quattroporte, 2008 Granturismo and 2008 8C units may have been assembled with tie rod ends that have insufficient corrosion protection. As such, the components may rust, weaken and potentially fail. If that happens, the driver could lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident.

Maserati and Alfa Romeo will contact owners and replace the tie rod end assemblies once the recall gets underway in June. All told, 7,438 vehicles are impacted by the recall. You can read the full NHTSA notice below for more information.

RECALL Subject : Possible Tie Rod Failure

Report Receipt Date: MAY 13, 2013
NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V196000

Component(s): SUSPENSION

Potential Number of Units Affected: 7,438

Manufacturer: Maserati North America, Inc.

SUMMARY:
Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain model year 2005-2008 Quattroporte, 2008 Granturismo, and 2008 Alfa Romeo 8C vehicles. The rear tie rod assemblies may have insufficient anti-corrosion material applied, allowing them to weaken and possibly fail.

CONSEQUENCE:
Failure of the tie rods may result in a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:
Maserati will notify owners and dealers will replace the tie rod assemblies. The recall is expected to begin by the end of June 2013. Customers may contact Maserati at 1-877-696-2737. Maserati's recall campaign number is 205.

NOTES:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

By Zach Bowman