Subaru has issued a defective auto product recall for about 15,000 of its model year 2005 to 2006 Baja pickup trucks. According to a news report in Consumeraffairs.com, cracks could develop in the fuel hose connection to the fuel pump, causing a fire. Dealers will replace the fuel pump bracket with a “new and stronger part.” This vehicle safety recall is expected to begin in September.

Fuel hose defects are no doubt dangerous especially in this case because they can cause vehicle fires, which could result in catastrophic burn injuries or even death to the car’s occupants. I’m pleased that Subaru is recalling these defective vehicles. However, as with any product recall, one has to wonder whether the auto maker has been dragging its feet over this recall. Many auto and product manufacturers do too little too late when it comes to recalling their defective and malfunctioning devices or parts. I hope this is not one of those instances and that consumers will hear about these dangerous and defective products and have the faulty fuel hoses repaired.

Auto Products Liability Issues

It’s also interesting that Subaru officials are now saying that they will replace the old fuel hose with the “new and stronger part.” At Bisnar | Chase our California car accident attorneys have dealt with vehicle defect cases for the last 30 years. We have helped numerous clients get compensation for their injuries or loss caused by defective auto products. The one question we as consumer attorneys, ask is: Why didn’t the auto maker make a better, stronger product in the first place? In almost all product defect cases we’ve handled, the manufacturer knew that the products could cause injury or harm.

So why do they do it? There is only one answer to that question, in my opinion – to increase profits. Auto makers have historically put their margins before people. They do not want to spend a few hundred dollars more per vehicle strengthening that roof, a seat restraint system, a seatback or making improvements in say, an airbag. They also do not want to be bothered with costly recalls. What they want to do is make sure they have a steady profit. If that means they need to deny their vehicle defects, they will do it.

Compensation for Personal Injury

If you have been injured in a car accident caused by an auto product defect, please consult with an experienced California personal injury lawyer with a successful track record of handling these auto product liability cases and more importantly, of standing up to large auto makers. Whether or not the defective auto that injured you has been recalled, if it is found defective then, you can seek compensation for your injuries, damages and loss. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free and comprehensive initial consultation to injured victims and/or their families.

Owners of these defective Subaru vehicles may contact the company at 1-800-782-2783. Consumers may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.safercar.gov.