Electrical systemRecall 13V-173 · Buick and Chevrolet vehicles
General Motors LLC recall 13V-173 covers 42,904 Buick and Chevrolet vehicles for a electrical system problem, reported to NHTSA on May 6, 2013. The manufacturer's latest report (2015 Q1) shows 94% of affected vehicles repaired.
Source: NHTSA recall 13V173000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2012 and 2013 Buick LaCrosse and Regal, and model year 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco vehicles equipped with eAssist. These vehicles may have a condition in which the Generator Control Module (GCM) may not function properly. This could cause a gradual loss of battery charge and the illumination of the malfunction indicator light.
The risk
If the vehicle is continued to be driven, the engine may stall and/or the vehicle may not start. In addition, there may be a burning or melting odor, smoke, and possibly a fire in the trunk.
The fix
GM will notify owners and dealers will test the GCM and replace it, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on June 11, 2013. Owners may contact GM at 1-800-521-7300. GM's recall campaign number is 13136.
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Vehicles in this recall
Built from November 16, 2010 to December 4, 2012. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.