12289

Bulletin number

12289

Component

Engine and engine cooling

Summary

12289 - Service Update. These vehicles may have been produced with potential inadequate design clearance between the battery cable B+ terminal and the starter solenoid. If contact is made between the battery feed and the starter solenoid terminal, the starter motor circuit will be energized and the starter motor will begin to spin. However, the solenoid terminal for the drive pinion gear is not powered therefore, the pinion will not engage the flywheel ring gear and the engine will not be cranking. Within approximately 1 minute excessive heat will begin to melt certain internal starter motor components, the armature will freeze in position and the brush wires will fracture. When this occurs the motor is removed from the electrical circuit. This condition will be accompanied by smoke and odor. Dealers are to ensure adequate clearance between the battery cable B+ terminal and the starter solenoid.

Owners of these vehicles have filed 60 complaints in the engine category.