Owners of 2022 and 2023 Chevrolet Malibu models should be particularly careful as to not get into an accident following the revelation that the front impact bar may have been improperly welded.
A recall notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that certain Chevrolet Malibu models may have a front impact bar that was improperly welded to the front frame rail. If the front impact bar is improperly welded, front crash sensors may not perform as designed, undermining occupant protection performance and increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
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General Motors says the sheet metal blank for the front frame rail outer panel was improperly loaded into the die by a supplier, meaning the front frame rail was cut 10 mm short, preventing it from being correctly welded.
The issue first became apparent on August 3, 2022 when a production operator discovered that a section of the motor rail was missing while installing parts on a Malibu. A report was subsequently submitted to GM’s Speak Up For Safety program and the automaker quickly worked with the supplier to determine the cause of the issue.
A total of 2,108 Chevrolet Malibu models are being recalled, all of which were manufactured between July 27, 2022 and August 3, 2022.
Dealerships were made aware of the recall on December 14 and owners will be notified from February 6, 2023. Dealers will inspect the right-hand and left-hand side of the vehicle’s motor rail for an incomplete weld. Interestingly, subject vehicles will not be repaired and GM will instead repurchase them from owners.
