3,000 Land Rover LR2 Freelanders Recalled in the US

It seems there are a lot of recalls taking place all over the world these days, as companies and government organizations are taking the safety of drivers their passengers a lot more seriously. This time, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced a new recall for certain 2010 to 2011 model year Land Rover LR2 Freelanders.

The recall effects some models built from November 12, 2009, through August 23, 2010. According to NHTSA, in the affected vehicles, the driver's frontal airbag may not deploy as intended.

To blame for the malfunction is a potential problem with the shorting bar in the clock spring. It might become disconnected when the air bag module connector is installed. As a result, the airbag might not even deploy at all.

In order to rectify the issue, Land Rover said it will install a spacer into the driver's airbag clock spring harness connector. Like any other such recall, the service will be performed free of charge. The US recall is expected to begin on or before December 13, 2010.

The exterior of the latest Land Rover Freelander has received a new look for 2011. The car sports new front bumper assembly incorporating new front fog lap bezels, a new front grille finish, improved headlights and tail lamps, new full width tailgate applique and new 18- or 19-inch alloy wheel styles. There are three new color schemes for 2011 Kosrae Green, Baltic Blue and Fuji White.

The crossover model benefits from a new 2.2-liter diesel engine available with either 150 hp or 190 hp outputs, a new look exterior plus interior alterations including new instrument dials and a new Premium Pack option.