Fire hazard prompts Chevy to recall more than 400,000 Cruzes
More than 413,000 2011 and 2012 Chevrolet Cruzes are being recalled due to a potential fire hazard. These vehicles were manufactured between October 2, 2009 and May 31, 2012. This voluntary recall has been issued in a cooperative effort between General Motors LLC and the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration due to concerns that these passenger vehicles may have an engine cooling defect causing spilled or dripping oil (such as after an oil change) could collect in the engine bellypan near the hot engine or exhaust systems. As a result, the oil could catch fire, igniting the engine. General Motors will contact affected owners. An engine compartment fire can cause serious injury or death to vehicle occupants and others nearby. The recall is expected to begin early to mid-July, when General Motors begins notifying owners of affected vehicles of the potential fire hazard. Owners with Chevrolet Cruzes included in this recall have been instructed to return them to authorized Chevrolet dealerships where, if needed, the vehicle’s engine shield will be modified to prevent fluid from coming into contact with it. Vehicles with manual transmissions will also be fitted with a protective tape for the power steering wire harness. More information regarding this recall can be obtained by contacting the Chevrolet Owner Center and referencing General Motors recall campaign number 12081, or calling the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s toll free vehicle safety hotline in reference to NHTSA action number PE12010 and campaign identification number 12V288000.
