Hummer is recalling all Hummer H3s produced since the 2006 model year. The recall, which affects 198,404 Hummer H3s and H3Ts worldwide and 164,190 units in the U.S., looks to fix a portion of the hood that can detach during driving.

According to Hummer spokesperson Nick Richards, the problem lies with a component of the hood called the hood louver. The louver was used to cool the engine on older Hummer models by allowing air to enter the engine compartment, thereby cooling the engine and preventing overheating. On the H3, however, the louver is non-functional and is used for decorational purposes only.

In recall documents filed with the NHTSA, General Motors describes a scenario whereby tabs holding the louver in place could fracture, causing them to rattle against the hood. This could result in the hood louvre detaching from the hood and hitting either the H3 and/or surrounding vehicles, all of which could result in an accident.

The fix comes in the form of applying an adhesive to refasten the louver to the hood. GM has already sent a bulletin to dealers outlining the fix, with owners of affected H3 models receiving letters notifying them of the recall this week.

The recall is a result of two complaints originating from the United States and three from Japan. It’s been reported that Japanese transportation officials notified GM of the problem in January.

This news comes to us as the Hummer brand is close to being wound down as part of GM’s post-bankruptcy brand strategy.

[Source: The Detroit News]