Last October, General Motors LLC announced the recall of approximately 2,949 vehicles because of a manufacturing defect with the shorting bar in the front driver’s side airbag. Basically, the recall report stated that the shorting bar could accidentally touch the airbag terminals, which would stop the airbag from deploying in the event of an accident.
Obviously, this could lead to serious injuries to drivers, and that prompted GM to recall the 2012 Buick Verano, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze and 2012 Chevrolet Sonic models on Oct. 30. While the recall seemed relatively minor – albeit dangerous and necessary – GM has revealed this week that it was more expansive than initially believed.
In a recall acknowledgement to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, GM has reported that approximately 3,896 additional vehicles are being added to the aforementioned recall. As indicated in the original announcement, the majority of the recalled vehicles were Cruze models, as 1,944 were recalled, as opposed to just 697 Sonics and 308 Veranos. This expanded recall also focuses mostly on the Cruze, as 1,981 additional units are being recalled, compared to 1,077 Sonics and 409 Veranos. Also added to the recall is the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro, as 429 vehicles are being recalled. In all, 6,845 GM automobiles are involved.
As with the original recall, GM representatives will contact owners in order to schedule appropriate maintenance and repairs on the automobiles’ airbags. Owners of the Verano, Cruze, Sonic and Camaro models will be able to schedule appointments with their authorized GM, Buick and Chevrolet dealerships, where they can have the airbag shorting bars and coils replaced free of charge. In the meantime, consumers can direct their questions and concerns to General Motors representatives at (800) 521-7300 or they can contact the NHTSA for information at (888) 327-4236. The recall will officially begin on February 13.