Rivian announced on Friday that it is recalling more than 12,000 vehicles due to a possible issue of a loose fastener, which could affect the steering of the electric car.
The Irvine, California-based company said it learned on Sept. 28 about seven reports that could be related to the safety issue but had not received reports of any injuries, The New York Times reported.
In a regulatory notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Rivian said that a fastener that connects the upper control arm and steering knuckle of the vehicle may have been improperly installed, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Rivian is recalling nearly all of its vehicles to address a potential problem that could cause customers to lose steering control https://t.co/ce7iMGcKvF
— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) October 8, 2022
The defect could lead to excess wheel camber or tilt, and in some cases, separation of the steering wheel, impacting the driver’s ability to guide the vehicle, the newspaper reported. Noise, vibration and harshness from the vehicle’s front suspension are among the symptoms, the Times reported.
The recall involves 12,212 electric pickups, vans and SUVs, according to paperwork Rivian filed with the NHTSA, according to CNN. The company has produced 4,317 vehicles this year, CNBC reported.
Rivian said it sent an email to customers impacted by the recall, according to The Wall Street Journal.
“In rare circumstances, the nut could loosen fully,” Rivian Chief Executive RJ Scaringe said in a letter to customers. “It’s important not to minimize the potential risks involved and why we are volunteering to conduct this recall.”
Customers who experience any unusual noises or vibrations from the front of their vehicles are advised to contact Rivian immediately, according to CNN. The company plans to set up “pop-up” service in areas that have a high number of Rivian numbers, the cable news outlet reported.
In May, Rivian recalled 502 of its electric pickup trucks because of a potential air bag defect.
Last month, Rivian said it was teaming with Mercedes-Benz to build a factory in Europe to produce electric vans for both companies, according to The Associated Press.
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