Suzuki recalling 184k GM-built models for fire risk

Fri, 23 May 2014

Suzuki is recalling 184,244 total units of the 2004-2008 Forenza (pictured above) and 2005-2008 Reno manufactured under contract by Daewoo, now General Motors Korea, between September 1, 2003, through July 30, 2008, for a risk of fire. The exact split in terms of number of each model isn't available yet.

In the vehicles, the heat generated in the headlight switch or daytime running light module could cause the parts to melt and cause a fire. If this sounds somewhat familiar, it's the same reason that 218,000 units of the 2004-2008 Chevrolet Aveo are being recalled. According to General Motors spokesperson Alan Adler: "It's the same issue."

Adler explained that as the contracted manufacturer, GM is responsible for finding a remedy to this problem and providing it to Suzuki. It's a similar situation as Toyota recalling the Matrix and giving the automaker the repair parts to fix the Pontiac Vibe, which shares the platform.

According to Adler, GM first learned about the fire risk from Suzuki and began investigating. It found the problem in the Aveo and issued the recall. "We don't have a fix yet," he said. However, owners will be notified about the problem soon.

The 2004-2006 Forenza and 2005-2006 Reno were previously recalled because their headlights could stop functioning.

Autoblog has contacted Suzuki for more details. We will update this story, if we hear back. In the meantime, scroll down to read the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall announcement.

RECALL Subject : Headlamp Switch or DRL Module Overheating

Report Receipt Date: MAY 19, 2014

NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V262000
Component(s):
Potential Number of Units Affected: 184,244
Manufacturer: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

SUMMARY:
Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 Forenza vehicles, and 2005-2008 Reno vehicles manufactured from September 1, 2003, through July 30, 2008. In the affected vehicles, heat may be generated in the headlamp switch or daytime running light (DRL) module which could melt the headlamp switch or the DRL module.

CONSEQUENCE:
If the heat generated within the headlamp switch and DRL module located on the left side of the steering column melts the headlamp switch, there is an increased risk of a fire.

REMEDY:
Suzuki wil notify owners but the manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. The remedy for this recall campaign is still under development. Owners may contact Suzuki at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's number for this recall is XA.

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 Chris Bruce