From the Automotive category

by Amir Izad in Automotive

Honda is recalling over 259,000 cars in the U.S. due to a brake pedal problem. The recall affects certain 2023-2025 Honda Pilots, 2021-2025 Acura TLX, and 2023-2025 Acura MDX vehicles. The issue stems from an improperly secured brake pedal pivot pin, potentially causing the pedal to shift, leading to unintended brake application, abnormal pedal feel, brake malfunction light illumination, or brake lights remaining lit. Honda dealers will inspect and replace the brake pedal assembly if necessary. The company estimates that 1% of the recalled vehicles have this problem. While three warranty claims were received, no injuries were reported. Honda investigated the issue after receiving a report in April 2024, tracing the problem to a now-closed U.S. supplier plant. Production has moved to Mexico, where a camera sensor verifies proper pivot pin installation. Dealer notifications began June 13, with owner letters to follow July 28. Consumers can check their vehicle's status on the NHTSA or Honda recall websites.


by Aaron Irving in Automotive

The Cybertruck, unveiled in 2019, was touted as a virtually indestructible, electrically powered behemoth. Its unique design, inspired by Blade Runner, sparked both excitement and confusion. While prepping experts acknowledge its durability, concerns arose regarding its practicality and safety. The truck's high price, aluminum underbody prone to damage, and limited range challenge its doomsday preparedness claims. Further, its association with Elon Musk's controversial political stances and the use of a Cybertruck by a Chechen warlord, have transformed it into a political symbol, attracting both criticism and ridicule. The Cybertruck's safety features have also been questioned, with incidents highlighting the risks associated with its rigid design. Despite initial high preorders, sales have been poor, leading Tesla to shift its marketing strategy. Experts predict a limited lifespan for the current model, anticipating a redesigned version that aligns more with conventional pickup truck designs.


by Amir Izad in Automotive

Get ready to pay more for your next car. Auto prices in the United States are about to rise, potentially within weeks. President Trump's announcement of 25% tariffs on imported cars and parts, effective April 3rd, will significantly increase production costs for all cars sold in the US – imports and domestically built vehicles. This will lead to a rapid increase in car prices. Previous tariff plans were postponed, but this time, experts predict a substantial price hike, potentially thousands of dollars per vehicle. Automakers might not raise wholesale prices by the full tariff amount, but they could offset costs by reducing incentives like subsidized loan interest rates, effectively increasing the buyer's cost. Even cars built in US factories will be affected because they rely heavily on imported parts. The Trump administration estimates that the average domestic content of US-built cars is only 40-50%, meaning a significant portion of the cost is subject to tariffs. While Trump predicted falling prices due to increased domestic production, industry experts expect the opposite. Estimates of the tariff impact on production costs range from $3,500 to $12,000 or more per vehicle. The additional cost is only part of the equation; car prices are also influenced by supply and demand dynamics and dealer negotiations. Dealers, aware of upcoming price increases, are less likely to offer discounts on existing inventory, further driving up prices. Reduced car production due to tariffs will also likely occur, mirroring the 2021 chip shortage which caused significant price increases in both new and used cars. Experts predict a substantial decrease in vehicle production, leading to tighter supply and higher prices. The situation is expected to be similar to the 2021 chip shortage, potentially causing a 30% hit to production and mirroring the significant price jumps seen then.