General Motors Recalls: Four New Ones

These days, no automaker sits on the fence when it comes to recalls—the face of public safety requires it ever since Toyota Prius issues from a few years ago . . . and General Motors is not taking any chances after its experience with defective ignition switches. Here’s the most recent tally:

Camaro

You can read all about the Camaro recall in the GM Authority article General Motors Recalling Every Fifth-Generation Chevrolet Camaro Ever Built.

 2004-2011 Saab 9-3 Convertible

The problem: An automatic tensioning system cable in the driver’s side front seat belt retractor could break. If this happens, seat belt webbing spooled out by the driver may not retract.

Number of vehicles affected: 28,789 Saab 9-3 convertibles from 2004 to 2001 plus 2004 9-3 sedans

The fix: Dealers will replace the driver’s side retractor. In addition, General Motors has issued special coverage so that if the same repair is required to the passenger side retractor, it will be covered for the life of the vehicle. GM will also replace the passenger side belt retractors on the 2004 Saab 9-3 sedan from the original 10-year coverage to the life of the vehicle, like the convertibles. No crashes, injuries, or fatalities due to this condition is known.

2012 Chevrolet Sonic

The problem: For cars equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission and 1.8L four-cylinder engine, the transmission turbine shaft may fracture as a result of a “supplier quality issue.” If this were to occur in first or second gear, the vehicle may not upshift into third through sixth gears; if the turbine shift fractured while in one of the higher gears, the vehicle likely would coast until it was moving slow enough to downshift into first or second gear. In both instances, a malfunction indicator lamp may illuminate. If driven in this condition for a long period of time, all forward gears may become inoperable. However, the engine would continue to run and all power accessories would function.

Number of vehicles affected: 21,567 Chevrolet Sonics, but only with the six-speed automatic and 1.8L four.

The fix: Dealers will replace the transmission turbine shaft. General Motors is unaware of any crashes, injuries, or fatalities related to this condition.

2014 Buick LaCrosse Sedan 

The problem: A wiring splice in the driver’s door may corrode and break, which then may communicate incorrect information to circuits that control the door chime. This could allow passenger windows, rear windows, and the sunroof to function when the vehicle is turned off and the driver is not in the vehicle. In addition, a chime will not sound when the driver’s door is opened if the key is in the ignition.

Number of vehicles affected: 14,765 2014 Buick LaCross sedans 

The fix: Dealers will inspect the driver door window motor harness and, if necessary, replace an electrical splice. General Motors is unaware of any thefts, crashes, injuries, or fatalities related to this condition.