Almost 14,000 Holden cars recalled over possibly deadly defect
A recall notice has been issued for almost 14,000 Holden cars amid fears a brake defect could lead to potentially deadly accidents.
The concerning problem led the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications to recall 13,898 Holden ZB Commodores this week.
The vehicles in question were sold to drivers from 2017 to 2020.
“Due to a manufacturing defect, the brake booster may fail,” the department said in its alert.
“If this occurs the stopping distance in the un-boosted condition would exceed the distance prescribed by the Australian Design Rule (ADR) 31/03.
“The vehicles is not compliant with the vehicle standard (ADR) 31/03-Brake Systems for Passenger Cars.”
If the brake booster doesn’t work as intended, “it could increase the risk of an accident causing serious injury or death to vehicle occupants and/or other road users".
Holden drivers offered free software update
The department said owners of affected cars will be contacted by General Motors Australia and New Zealand.
Drivers will then be urged to visit their local dealers to have the Electronic Brake Controls Module software updated for free.
“No one wants their vehicle to be a part of a recall but it is important that you take action if you see or receive a recall notice about your vehicle,” the department’s website reads.
“Taking swift action can help you, or someone you know, to avoid injury or even death.”
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The German-built ZB was the last car to feature the iconic Commodore name before Holden announced it would be retiring the brand in Australia and New Zealand.
The vehicle identification numbers of the affected cars can be accessed online.
The news comes just months after Kia issued an urgent recall on more than 31,000 SUVs.
The safety recall applies to Sorento models built between 2014 and 2020 and Sportage models built between 2015 and 2021.
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