Recall Alert: 2013-2014 Chevrolet Malibu
CARS.COM
Chevrolet Vehicles Affected: In two separate actions, GM is recalling 57,605 model-year 2013 and 2014 Chevrolet Malibu sedans. The cars recalled include 42,696 model-year 2014 vehicles manufactured between June 12, 2013, and Nov. 5, 2013, and 14,909 model-year 2013 vehicles manufactured between Oct. 25, 2011, and June 12, 2012. In the latter recall, the affected Chevrolet Malibus are equipped with an eight-way power adjustable front seat.
The Problem: In the larger Malibu recall, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning control may intermittently become inoperable when the vehicle is started, preventing the windshield defroster from working; this problem could decrease the driver’s visibility and cause a car crash. GM said it is unaware of any car accidents, injuries or complaints resulting from the problem. In the smaller recall, the wiring harness for the power adjustable front seat may contact the seat frame. This issue may cause chafing to the harness; this could expose wires, resulting in unintended movement of the seat, inoperability, sparking under the seat, flickering lights, melted wiring, smoke or a fire. GM said it is aware of two unattended fires that extinguished on their own resulting from the problem, but no crashes or injuries have been reported.
The Fix: In the larger recall, GM will begin notifying affected Chevrolet Malibu owners Dec. 6 and Chevrolet dealers will update the electronic climate-control module software to solve the issue for free. In the smaller recall, GM will begin notifying Malibu owners in early December and Chevrolet dealers will inspect the wire harness, and repair and secure it as necessary for free.
What Owners Should Do: Owners of affected vehicles can call GM at 800-521-7300, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 or go to www.safercar.gov for more info.
