Sports Cars That Can Catch Fire

High-end vehicle manufacturer, Porsche Cars North America, INC (PCNA) is issuing a recall according to a post on the National Highway Traffic and Safety website for two of their sports cars. A certain set of their newer (2011-2012) turbo vehicles have a manufacturing defect which could put the live of its drivers and occupants at risk.

On the website it is identified as 12V329000 and stamped July 11, 2012 for the manufacturer’s report date. This recall affects a concoction of 270 turbo vehicles; certain model year 2011-2012 Panamera Turbo, 2012 Panamera Turbo S, and Cayenne Turbo vehicles.

Because of a casting defect on the turbine wheel of a turbocharger, the performance of the vehicle is largely decreased. The turbine is susceptible to fractures thus, may cause oil to draw into the exhaust system which can result in smoke and increase the chance of fire.

When the vehicle is in motion on the road and the oil escapes the cracks and begins to create smoke, it may distract the driver or other surrounding motorists, which can in turn steer their attention away from the task at hand. Already a thing of beauty, the Porsche is distracting enough, but smoke coming from the vehicle is a blemish which will not go overlooked.

The chance of a fire can increase the extent of the damage to the motorist and the vehicle.

At an average price tag of about $100,000 per vehicle, owners are probably not expecting this type of quality from the manufacturer. Nevertheless, PCNA will contact the owners and instruct them as how to handle the dilemma.

Dealers are expected to begin working on the affected vehicles as of July. They will replace the turbine wheels free of charge to rectify the situation.

Regardless of receiving a notification from Porsche, those who believe that their vehicles may be affected are encouraged to contact their dealers.