Chevy recalling 1,600 Sonic subcompacts over fire risk
Mon, 07 Oct 2013
General Motors is voluntarily recalling more than 1,600 model-year 2013-2014 Chevrolet Sonic sedans and hatchbacks due to potentially faulty fuel tank strap welds, the The Detroit News reports. According to GM, "If the strap bracket separates, the fuel tank would rest on the exhaust pipe or plastic fuel tank shield, and owners may hear a rattling or scraping noise. If the fuel tank shield and fuel filler neck do not support the tank, it could separate from the car. If the tank is punctured and there is a source of ignition, a fire may occur."
GM reportedly discovered the issue at its assembly plant and does not know of any complaints, injuries or incidents resulting from the issue. Since many of the cars are still at dealerships, dealers will proactively make necessary repairs. We have yet to see an official recall notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, presumably since the agency has temporarily stopped issuing notices because of Washington's government shutdown.
By Lauren DeAngelis Puckett