The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched several investigations and issued recalls recently.

The 2013 Ford Escape is being recalled for a problem with the carpet that could reduce the clearance to the pedals, causing the driver's foot to contact the side of the brake pedal instead of the top of the pedal, resulting in longer stopping distances and an increased risk of a crash. 8,266 cars are affected.

Nissan has issued a recall for some models of its 2012 Nissan Juke (shown here) due to a possible welding problem in the rear seat back that may cause it to partially separate in a crash, increasing the injury risk to rear seat occupants. 11,076 vehicles are affected.

Some models of the 2012 Porsche Cayenne Turboand the 2011-2012 Porsche Panamera Turbo and Turbo Sare being recalled. About 270 units could be affected by a problem in the turbine wheel of the turbocharger that could result in a fracture, which could in turn cause a fire.

Volvo has issued a recall for some of the 2011-2013 Volvo S80 sedans due to a software problem that could prevent the transmission from downshifting, which could result in decreased engine rpms and possible engine stalling. 1,469 cars are affected.

Owners of all cars affected by recalls will be notified by mail by the manufacturer. Consumers who are concerned that their car is affected can find more information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration by searching for their car here or by calling the toll-free number in their owner's manual.

In addition, the Center for Auto Safety has formally requested that NHTSA investigate the 2002-2004 Ford Escape and the 2002-2004 Mazda Tribute for possible unexpected acceleration due to faulty recall repairs on the cruise control cable. Both companies issued a recall in 2005 for the twin SUVs and the safety group believes that the cables may have been damaged during the recall repairs. About 320,000 Ford Escapes and 85,000 Mazda Tributes could be affected.

A recall will be issued on these vehicles only if the NHTSA investigation finds one is warranted. Consumers who believe they experience a safety issue with their vehicles, tires or a child safety seat can report it to NHTSA by filing a complaint.