GM's Big Trouble

(4/4/2014) GM is really in a big trouble. The recently "admitted" ignition switch problems in some of GM cars has cause 13 deaths. The troubling fact is that GM knew this problem 9 years ago, had a solution (cost around $1) to fix the problem, and decided not to implement that fix. GM's problem does not stop here. GM is facing another quality problem. The airbag issues on some GM models (1.6 millions compact cars estimated) may cause 303 death in the U.S.

In the same time, Chrysler recalled 870,000 SUV's on its brake problems, BMW had around 250,000 X5 trucks recalled due to a fragile bolt, 1.9 millions of Toyota Prius are also recalled due to software glitches.

(5/20/2014) GM's problem continues to escalate. At this moment the total number of GM vehicles recalled has reached more than 15 millions.

Recall? No Recall? Can Car Buyers Trust Jeep?

(6/30/2013) For an issue as big as life and safety, can it be more confusing like Jeep's handling their safety issue? After three year's investigation about Jeep's SUV over fuel tank leaking and causing fire, the US National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration recommended Chrysler to recall its 2.7 million SUV. Several weeks after, after some talk between the CEO of Chrysler and DOT secretary, Jeep corrected that this recall only covered 1.5 millions of SUVs. Some years and some models won't need recall because they have different designs. Some Chrysler Jeep owners now are confused and concern their safety driving their Jeep.

Jeep's argument might be valid since the recall is expensive. However, the communication from Chrysler to their Jeep owners is definitely not sufficient. Losing the trust from their loyal consumers might outweigh the saving from a smaller recall.