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Webasto recalls almost 50,000 sunroofs in Australia

Close to 50,000 aftermarket and factory fitted sunroofs have been recalled in Australia as part of a global recall by the Webasto Group.


The recall applies to sunroofs supplied by Webasto Product Australia Pty Ltd from the Hollandia 700 and 900 Series.

More than 20,000 Ford and Holden vehicles built between 2002 and 2008 have been recalled due to a potential defect with the factory fitted sunroofs.

Holden has been forced to recall 14,612 vehicles with factory fitted sunroofs built between 2002 and 2006. Affected models include: AH Astra, V2/VZ Monaro, VX/VY/VZ Commodore, WH/WK/WL Statesman and Caprice.

A total of 5658 affected Ford vehicles were built between May 8, 2002 and March 7, 2008. Recalled models include: BA/BA II/BF/BF II Falcon, Fairlane, LTD and FPV vehicles.

Close to 28,000 other vehicles that had aftermarket sunroofs fitted by Webasto’s authorised dealer network in Australia are also affected by the recall.

An official statement from Webasto explains that a bonding condition may exist between the glass panel on the sunroof where in some instances the panel could separate from its frame and dislodge from the vehicle while in motion.

“Although unlikely, conditions existing with the adhesive bond between the glass and metal frame in these affected Hollandia 700 and Hollandia 900 Series sunroofs can increase the risk that the sunroof glass may completely debond from its frame,” the Webasto statement says.

“Complete glass-to-frame debonding can develop gradually and may be evidenced by metal corrosion around the sunroof frame, wind noise, vibration, visual bond separation and/or water leakage. These conditions may be observable for several months before complete glass-to-frame adhesion debonding can ultimately occur.

“Webasto is leading this voluntary safety recall to ensure that proper measures are taken to fix the issue. The glass panel will be replaced at no cost to the consumer.”

Webasto Product Australia’s managing director, Christian Mahr, confirmed the Australian recall was the second largest in the world behind the US.

Mr Mahr confirmed no one in Australia had been injured as a result of the defect, but admitted there had been a “very small number” of local reports of the problem.

He confirmed there were enough parts in the country to complete all the repairs and service all Webasto customers.

Both Ford and Holden will write to owners of affected vehicles. Owners are advised to contact authorised dealerships to arrange the recall inspection and rectification.

All owners of factory fitted and aftermarket sunroofs are encouraged to visit Webasto’s Sunroof Check website, which has details on how to determine whether your sunroof is involved in the safety recall and how to submit a claim.

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