Mitsubishi Galant and Legnum VR4 safety alert

Questions and answers

Why is LTSA ordering these vehicles off the road now?

The action follows the LTSA receiving new information from Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand highlighting the potentially dangerous nature of the brake defect.

How many vehicles are affected by the fault and what type are they?

There are 343 1996/97 Mitsubishi Galant and Legnum VR4 vehicles affected in New Zealand. These have automatic transmission and have been fitted with the ‘automatic stability control option’.

What exactly is the problem with the brakes on these models?

The fault can result in leaking nitrogen causing the brakes of the vehicle to become spongy, which in some cases may lead to brake failure.

Have there been any accidents as a result of the fault?

While the LTSA is not aware of any injury crashes, we have been informed of several incidents of brake deterioration and one complete failure in New Zealand.

When will replacement parts be available?

Mitsubishi has advised the parts will be available in approximately six to nine weeks.

Who will be paying for my vehicle to be fixed?

Unfortunately the LTSA cannot assist with matters such as legal advice or provision of parts or services – these issues are between the owner and the vendor (the person or organisation from which you purchased the vehicle).

Will I get any compensation for my vehicle being off the road?

Unfortunately the LTSA cannot assist with matters such as legal advice or provision of parts or services – these issues are between the owner and the vendor (the person or organisation from which you purchased the vehicle).

What will happen if I ignore this advice and continue driving?

Should you ignore this advice and continue to drive the vehicle(s) specified in this notice, you may be in breach of section 6(1) Land Transport Act 1998 which states that a person may not operate an unsafe motor vehicle on a road.

Contravention of section 6(1) is an offence under s. 34(1)(a) and carries a maximum penalty on conviction of a fine not exceeding $2,000.

How will this be enforced?

The Police have been advised of all vehicles affected by this braking fault and if they are found driving on the road after owners have received notification, the driver could be charged with operating an unsafe motor vehicle (as above).

Once the parts have been replaced, will I need to get a new Warrant of Fitness straight away?

No, as long as the parts have been replaced, your Warrant of Fitness will remain valid until its expiry date.

Where can I get more information?

The Land Transport NZ website now has an area devoted to this issue at http://www.landtransport.govt.nz/vehicle-safety/alerts should you wish to obtain further information. Alternatively, you can ring the Land Transport NZ Helpdesk on 0800 699 00.

Last updated: 16 February 2005