Holden Recalls 34,400 VE Ute for Tailgate Glitch

GM's Australian unit Holden announced over the weekend it is recalling 34,432 current-model VE Utes to fix a problem with the vehicle's tailgates. According to the manufacturer, the tailgates on the affected models can become unlocked if hit from the interior with enough force. According to goAuto, this is the biggest recall made in the country this year.

The models affected by the problem have been manufactured since 2007. Holden says the recall is “precautionary” and comes as a result of two reported incidents. Even so, Holden says the likelihood of such an event occurring is very low.

“But we will always err on the side of caution and administer a recall to ensure customer satisfaction and safety,” Craig Porritt, Holden warranty engineering, customer satisfaction and quality director told the source.

“Until the fix can be made to each vehicle, we ask our customers to continue to secure loose items in the cargo tray as recommended in the owner’s manual and use a Holden tonneau cover where possible to prevent the condition from occurring.”

Holden Ute is the first utility vehicle in Australia that achieved a maximum five star rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) last year. It packs various safety systems, ranging from side impact airbags to Electronic Brake Assist (EBA) and Traction Control System (TCS).

Based on the Commodore, it is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that develops 261 horsepower and 330 Nm of torque while the SS and the SS V versions are featuring a 6.0-liter V8 powertrain producing 362 horsepower and 530 Nm of torque.