Vehicle has been experiencing a variety of noises from the front wheel area over 20,000 miles. Dealership has made several repairs, including replacing brake pads and installing new design rivets, but the problem persists. Independent mechanic inspected the vehicle and found the brake caliper bolts lose and almost separated from the caliper-- if the caliper had become separated with the vehicle in motion, it may have contacted the wheel rim causing front wheel lock-up.

- Holly Springs, NC, USA

I was driving at about 30 mph and coming to a slow for a stop light when it sounded like it had a flat tire. I started to pull over while continuing to slow the car when it came to a sharp stop and I could go no further to get out of the way of traffic. I got out to look, and saw no flat tire, but noticed front right brake grinded into rim. I had it towed to a repair shop near my home, and they assessed that a large bolt fell out from the brake calliper, and caused my brake to slip out and collide with the rim. My car is just over a year old, and I have never had any brake work done thus far. They found a replacement bolt for me, and I then drove it to the dealership to see if it was warranty covered, they said no. They suggested that I not drive on the rim for fear of not knowing whether or not there were fractures that were not visible, and that hitting one pot hole could collapse the rim and do further damage.

- Webster, TX, USA