Chevy Impala Vehicles Recalled for Defective Airbags
Chevy Impala Vehicles Recalled for Defective Airbags
General Motors is recalling more than 289,000 of its 2009-2010 Impala vehicles to address the issue of defective airbags, which stems from a wiring flaw. According to a report in The Car Connection, nearly a year ago, GM recalled the 2014-2015 Chevy Impala for a problem affecting the car’s passenger detection system that activates and disables the passenger-side airbags, depending on whether an adult is riding shotgun.
No Protection for Occupants in Crash
This most recent Impala recall shows that these vehicles may also be experiencing a similar problem with their passenger detection systems increasing the risk of injury to all occupants during a car crash. GM is saying that the wires of its passenger presence sensor module may come in contact with the front passenger seat frame. Over time, the repeated contact could damage the wiring.
In some cases, this damage might prevent the system from recognizing when the passenger seat is occupied, meaning that the airbag might become disabled and not work during a crash. Depending on the nature and extent of the damage, the problem could cause the airbag fuse to short out, disabling all airbags and seatbelt pretensioners in the vehicle, not just those on the passenger site. This could significantly increase the risk of serious or fatal injuries to both drivers and passengers in the event of a crash.
How the Recall Will Work
The recall includes vehicles manufactured between April 25, 2008 and February 16, 2010. GM estimates that 289,254 vehicles registered in the U.S. are affected. When the recall begins, GM will mail recall notices to owners asking them to take their vehicles to dealerships for service. Dealers will double wrap the sires with anti-abrasion tape and replace damaged wires as necessary, at no cost to consumers. Anyone with more questions is asked to contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-521-7300.
Auto Product Liability Issues
These are auto defects that have the potential to cause catastrophic injuries or even fatalities. If you have been affected by these or other auto defects an experienced auto product liability attorney can help you seek and obtain fair and full compensation for your injuries, damages and losses. If you have been in a crash where your seatbelts or airbags failed, it is critical to preserve the vehicle in its current state, unaltered, so an expert can thoroughly examine it for evidence of defects, malfunctions and design flaws.
