The 21 Urbos 3s, made by Spanish manufacturer CAF, vehicles were introduced in 2014, and most date back to then.
Kevin Smith, editor of International Railway Journal, a global trade magazine for the industry, said there had also been issues with the same trams in France, where 19 vehicles were withdrawn, and also in Serbia.
Also, during 2021 Sydney's inner west light rail service, using trams made by CAF, was decommissioned for up to 18 months due to "design flaws" found in wheel arches.
There are some indications the faults might involve cracking in the wheel arch but the manufacturer has not confirmed that.
West Midlands Metro has said that it was aware of the issues in Sydney and was in contact with colleagues there.
Following the identification of new bodywork cracks, the investigations here are "ongoing" and the operator said it was continuing to work alongside the manufacturer and carry out the repairs as quickly as possible.
CAF said that it was currently not commenting on the issues in the West Midlands.
West Midlands Metro has has said that it was working to restore services as soon as possible and is inspecting all trams which does take some time.
It said updates would be posted its website and social media channels. here
Tickets are being accepted on some National Express bus services and on West Midlands Railway and Avanti West Coast trains between Birmingham and Wolverhampton.
Also, during 2021 Sydney's inner west light rail service, using trams made by CAF, was decommissioned for up to 18 months due to "design flaws" found in wheel arches.
There are some indications the faults might involve cracking in the wheel arch but the manufacturer has not confirmed that.
West Midlands Metro has said that it was aware of the issues in Sydney and was in contact with colleagues there.
Following the identification of new bodywork cracks, the investigations here are "ongoing" and the operator said it was continuing to work alongside the manufacturer and carry out the repairs as quickly as possible.
CAF said that it was currently not commenting on the issues in the West Midlands.
West Midlands Metro has has said that it was working to restore services as soon as possible and is inspecting all trams which does take some time.
It said updates would be posted its website and social media channels. here
Tickets are being accepted on some National Express bus services and on West Midlands Railway and Avanti West Coast trains between Birmingham and Wolverhampton.
