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Transport Canada Recalls 6,600 Vehicles Over Steering Column Defect

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Sunday, November 23rd 2025 at 15:32 GMT by Toronto Star

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Transport Canada Recalls Thousands of Vehicles Over Safety Concerns: Is Yours on the List?

Transport Canada’s latest safety bulletin has sent shock waves through the Canadian automotive market, as the government announces a recall that could involve up to 6,600 vehicles from several major manufacturers. The recall is triggered by a defect that could compromise steering control, a critical safety feature that has the potential to endanger drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Below is a comprehensive summary of the issue, the affected models, how the recall will unfold, and what you need to do if your vehicle is on the list.

1. What’s the Core Problem?

The defect centers on the steering column control module (SCCM), a small but vital component that interprets signals from the steering wheel angle sensor and controls the power steering system. According to Transport Canada’s statement, a manufacturing variation in the SCCM’s internal wiring can cause the module to short‑circuit during certain operating conditions—especially when the vehicle’s steering wheel is turned sharply at low speeds.

If the SCCM shorts, the power steering may fail within seconds of an evasive maneuver, leaving the driver with no assistance to maintain control. In the worst-case scenario, the vehicle could veer off the road or collide with an object, potentially leading to serious injuries or fatalities.

The recall comes after an investigation into a handful of on‑road incidents reported by automotive safety analysts and a tragic fatality in late 2023 that involved a vehicle of the same make and model. While the number of accidents is still low, the potential for catastrophic loss of steering warrants a swift response.

2. Which Vehicles Are Affected?

Transport Canada’s notice lists the following models (complete VIN ranges are provided in the official release, which can be accessed via the agency’s website under the “Recalls” tab):

The models are not grouped by brand but rather by the shared use of the same SCCM supplied by a common supplier, Bosch Electronics Canada Ltd. The recall is expected to affect 6,600 vehicles in total.

Transport Canada’s online lookup tool allows owners to enter their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and instantly confirm whether their vehicle falls within the recall scope. The tool is updated daily to reflect any additional findings or newly reported incidents.

3. How Will the Recall Be Executed?

Step 1: Notification
Manufacturers will issue a formal letter to owners in the affected region. The letter will include a summary of the defect, the risk involved, and a detailed repair plan. Owners should keep the letter in their vehicle’s owner’s manual for future reference.

Step 2: Inspection and Repair
Owners are advised to bring their vehicles to an authorized dealership or a repair shop that is part of the manufacturer’s recall network. The repair will involve:

• Replacing the SCCM with a revised unit that includes an updated firmware patch to eliminate the short‑circuit risk.
• Testing the power steering system to confirm full functionality.
• Updating the vehicle’s on‑board diagnostics to register the repair.

The repair is expected to take roughly one hour and will be performed at no cost to the owner.

Step 3: Follow‑up
After the repair, the dealership will upload a repair completion record to Transport Canada’s database. This data will help the agency monitor the recall’s progress and verify that all affected vehicles have been serviced.

4. What Should Owners Do Now?

1. Check Your VIN – Visit the Transport Canada Recalls Portal and enter your VIN.
2. Verify Manufacturer Alerts – Check the manufacturer’s website or contact your dealer.
3. Schedule a Service Appointment – If your vehicle is on the list, book an appointment immediately.
4. Keep Records – Retain the recall notice, repair invoice, and any communication for resale or insurance purposes.

The agency recommends that owners do not drive their vehicle until the SCCM has been replaced, as the risk remains significant.

5. Why This Recall Matters

• Safety First: The SCCM’s failure to provide power steering could cause a driver to lose control during sudden maneuvers—especially dangerous at intersections or during evasive actions.
• Regulatory Oversight: This recall underscores the role of Transport Canada’s enforcement arm, which ensures that all vehicles on Canadian roads meet stringent safety standards.
• Industry Response: The affected manufacturers have pledged full cooperation and have expressed regret over the oversight. They have pledged to enhance their quality control processes to prevent similar incidents.
• Consumer Confidence: While recalls can erode trust, prompt action and transparent communication often restore it. Consumers are advised to view this recall as a proactive measure to protect lives rather than a sign of systemic failure.

6. Links to Additional Resources

• Transport Canada Recalls Portal – https://tc.gc.ca/recalls (search by VIN or model).
• Manufacturer Recall Pages –
  • Honda: https://www.honda.ca/en_US/support/recalls
  • Toyota: https://www.toyota.ca/recalls
  • Ford: https://www.ford.ca/recalls
  • Chevrolet: https://www.chevrolet.ca/recalls

These pages provide detailed repair instructions, contact information for local dealers, and frequently asked questions.

7. Final Thoughts

The recall of 6,600 vehicles for a steering column defect is a reminder that automotive safety is an ongoing, evolving challenge. While the affected vehicles represent a small fraction of Canada’s total fleet, the potential risk to human life warrants a swift, comprehensive response. By staying informed, checking your VIN, and acting quickly, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive—and that you’re not part of a tragic statistic.

For the most current updates, keep an eye on the Transport Canada news feed and the official recall notices from each manufacturer. Stay safe out there, and remember: a quick repair today can prevent a nightmare tomorrow.