Automatic clutch unit operation potentially compromised
Selected Hino 500 Series vehicles are being recalled with automatic clutch unit (ACU) issues.
The ACU has two motors that operate the clutch. An ACU motor may not operate correctly if wear occurs on the internal brush.
If one motor fails, the other can compensate for this and continue to operate the clutch system.
However, “in this situation, the ACU may not function correctly due to the ACU control software being unable to account for changes to the ACU motor’s operating characteristics”, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) says.
“If the ACU is unable to operate, a warning light in the vehicle may appear, and the vehicle may not operate.
“This may lead to an accident risk for the occupant and other road users.”
Hino 700s were also recalled recently with suspension issues. Read more, here
Owners of affected vehicles should contact their local Hino dealership to get their vehicle’s AMT electronic control unit reprogrammed.
The two ACU motors will also be replaced free of charge.
The recall affects 1,175 vehicles sold between November 30, 2011 and September 30, 2017.
A list of VINs can be found here.