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Chevrolet Malibu Recall 16V151: Side air bags may detach during deployment, raising injury risk

NHTSA campaign 16V151, reported March 11, 2016, 3,137 vehicles potentially affected.

What this recall means for you

Certain vehicles built between February 16, 2016 and March 5, 2016 have a defect in which the two weld studs that mount the front and rear side impact air bags may fracture and separate from the air bag during deployment. This means the side air bag can move out of its intended position when it inflates, and the vehicle does not meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 214 for side impact protection.

Because a fractured weld stud can allow the side air bag to shift out of position during deployment, the risk of injury in a crash is increased. Owners should not ignore this recall.

General Motors will notify affected owners, and authorized Chevrolet dealers will replace the side air bag modules free of charge. To find out whether your vehicle is included, check your VIN for open recalls and contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, referencing GM recall number 31820.

Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle

The repair is normally free at an authorized dealer.

Official recall notice

Safety recall 16V151General Motors LLC
Component
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Problem
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016 Malibu vehicles manufactured February 16, 2016, to March 5, 2016. The two weld studs that mount the front and rear side impact air bags may fracture and separate from the air bag during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 214, "Side Impact Protection."
Risk
Fractured weld studs may allow the side air bag to move out of position during deployment, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began on April 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 31820.
Notes
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.

Affected vehicles

Chevrolet Malibu2016