Recall Alert: 2014 Chevrolet Malibu, Buick LaCrosse
By Matt Schmitz
March 5, 2015
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Vehicles Affected: About 8,208 model-year 2014 Chevrolet Malibu and Buick LaCrosse sedans manufactured between Jan. 29 and March 31, 2014, the majority of which GM says remain in dealer stock. It estimates that about 1,694 are owned by customers.
The Problem: According to a letter sent Wednesday by GM to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear brake rotors may have been assembled into the front brake assembly. GM said the mix-up could significantly shorten front brake pad life and reduce brake system performance, increasing the risk of a crash. Brake performance is unaffected when the vehicle is new, but over time, higher heat generated by the thinner rotors will cause premature wearing, and the outer brake pad could disengage from the caliper bracket, causing the system to lose hydraulic integrity. This would cause the brake warning light to illuminate and additional brake application could result in a loss of braking power. GM said it is unaware of any crashes or injuries related to the problem.
The Fix: Owners will be notified via letter, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and, if necessary, replace the front rotors and front brake pads for free. Customers who have taken delivery of a potentially affected vehicle may request a courtesy vehicle until the inspection and repair are completed.
What Owners Should Do: Chevrolet owners can call 800-222-1020 and Buick owners can call 800-521-7300 for more info.
Former Assistant Managing Editor-News Matt Schmitz is a veteran Chicago journalist indulging his curiosity for all things auto while helping to inform car shoppers.