The problem
XL Hybrids Inc. (XL) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Isuzu Reach vehicles modified to be equipped with XL's electric hybrid system. The cardan (universal) joint on the front driveshaft may fail, possibly causing the front driveshaft to detach.
The risk
If the front driveshaft detaches from the vehicle, drive power will be lost, increasing the risk of a crash. The detached driveshaft may also create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash for following traffic.
The fix
XL will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driveshaft with an updated one, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact XL customer service at 1-866-414-3212.
Contacts
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Isuzu dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 19V098000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.