Mitsubishi recalls electric cars for brake problem

Mitsubishi recalls i-MiEV electric cars to for brake problem, includes all 1,400 sold in US

DETROIT (AP) -- Mitsubishi is recalling 14,700 of its i-MiEV ((EYE-meev)) electric cars worldwide because a brake pump can fail.

The automaker said Tuesday that the recall affects 2012 models made from Dec. 2, 2011 through Sept. 7, 2012. It covers 1,400 sold in the U.S., including those still on dealer lots.

Mitsubishi said in documents filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that a defective vacuum pump can stop working. That can reduce braking power, increase stopping distances and raise the risk of a crash.

Mitsubishi said no crashes or injuries have been reported.

The problem was discovered when the company got a complaint from a customer in Japan.

Mitsubishi will notify owners and replace the pumps free of charge. The company has not yet announced a schedule for the notification or repairs.