German legacy automaker Porsche has just issued a safety recall on more than 31,000 Taycan electric sedans due to brake malfunctions that may increase the crash risk.
Issue
According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) filing, the front hoses of the affected Porsche Taycan EVs can crack over time and leak brake fluid.
Alarmingly, the loss of brake fluid in electric vehicles can diminish the front brake functionality, potentially increasing the risk of a car crash. The Part 573 Safety Recall Report noted that the rear brakes of these Taycan EVs remain fully functional.
“In certain Taycan vehicles, the front brake hoses may, over time, develop cracks leading to brake fluid leakage. Loss of brake fluid may lead to reduced functionality of the front brakes. Rear brakes remain fully functional.”
NHTSA
The issue apparently stemmed from front brake hose compression during intense steering and driving conditions. The loss of brake fluid will trigger the system to warn the driver depending on league size and other factors.
Coverage
As per the report, the safety recall affects 31,689 2020-2025 Porsche Tycan electric vehicles in the United States. The estimated percentage of the defect is 5%.
These vehicles were produced from October 21, 2019, to June 13, 2024. Their VINs range from WP0ZZZY1ZLSA65780 E to WP0AA2Y11SSA08287.
Fortunately, Porsche has not yet received any reports of accidents in the US associated with the issue. Nonetheless, it is issuing the safety recall out of caution.
Remedy
Porsche, through its dealers, will install a new front brake hose on affected Taycan EVs with upgraded flexibility to reduce the load. The replacement will be free of charge for the customers.
Porsche may also offer reimbursements to customers for pre-notification remedies. Dealer notification is expected on July 3, 2024, while owner notification is set for August 6, 2024.
In the meantime, affected customers can reach out to Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. They can also visit the NHTSA website or call its hotline at 1-888-327-4236, with a campaign number 24V-455.
