The adage "you get what you pay for," is not always accurate. Owners of certain luxury cars manufactured by Maserati in the Pittsburgh area are likely well aware of this. According to the National Highway Safety Administration, a total of 7,400 vehicles manufactured by Maserati are slated to be recalled due to issues with the suspension. The issue could potentially lead to a driver being involved in a car accident after losing control of the vehicle.
A specific failed auto component appears to be to blame for the issue. The rear tie rods apparently did not receive a sufficient coating of zinc-nickel anti-corrosion compound material which could lead to the threads on the rods rusting. In turn, the rust could cause the tie rods to fail. The issue was apparently discovered as a result of its warranty claims process.
The following vehicles are included in the recall:
- 2008 Alfa Romeo 8C
- 2005-Maserati GranTurismo
- 2005-8 Maserati Quattroporte
Maserati is planning to correct the issue by replacing the tie-rods in affected cars.
At this point is does not appear that anyone has been injured as a result of the auto defect. This is fortunate since depending on the circumstances surrounding a car accident, the outcome can be catastrophic and even lead to death. When someone is injured or dies as a result of a defective product a civil products liability lawsuit may be appropriate. Though it cannot undo the harm that has been committed, compensation recovered in a successful lawsuit could make the lives of those impacted by the problem much easier.
Source: The New York Times, "Maserati to Recall 7,400 Cars for Suspension Problem," Christopher Jensen, May 20, 2013