If you follow any reliable media outlet, you already know that millions of GM vehicles are fitted with defective parts that can cause airbags not to deploy in a crash. In addition to some of its vehicles being part of a massive Takata airbag recall, many GM vehicles have airbag problems specific to them. The latest is a recall issued in December for the brand new 2017 Chevy Malibu.
The problem affects Malibus that were manufactured on November 10, 2016. The potential defect is that a weld in the rear airbag manifold may be inadequate.
Although this recall does not affect nearly as many vehicles as the Takata and switch recalls, it can have disastrous consequences: the airbag can fail to inflate in a crash or the airbag can inflate unexpectedly, sending debris into the vehicle’s passenger cabin.
GM should notify owners of the affected car in short order. However, if you own a 2017 model Chevy Malibu, you can find out whether your car is affected without waiting for the automotive giant. Locate your VIN and visit recalls.gm.com and safercar.gov. At these websites, you can find information about not only this recall, but others that may affect your car and your family’s safety.
And if you’re considering buying a slightly-used Malibu, you’ll want to run this same check. With GM’s track record of not notifying car owners of recalls in a timely manner, don’t leave it to chance. The fix is simple and is free at your local dealership.
If you need expert advice after crash involving a GM product, contact the experienced, compassionate San Jose product liability lawyers at Alexander Law Group, LLP. Call us today at 888.777.1776 for a free case consultation. We have decades of experience representing those injured in car crashes and their families, and we’ll put our experience to work for you.
