GM recalls 2012 Buick LaCrosse and Chevy Impala for stability control and steering faults
Over 4,000 Buick LaCrosse sedans and an undisclosed number of Chevrolet Impalas from the 2012 model year are being recalled in the US due to electronic stability control calibration and power steering hose issues.
General Motors (GM) has announced a recall affecting the 2012 Buick LaCrosse and Chevrolet Impala in the United States. The recall follows the discovery of two distinct issues: a calibration problem with the electronic stability control (ESC) system and a separate concern involving the power steering hose. The recall was made public through the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). While the number of LaCrosse sedans affected is specified as 4,077, built between 9 June and 2 July 2011, the total number of Chevrolet Impalas included in the recall was not detailed in the initial notice.
Overview of the Recall
Details of the Stability Control Issue
According to the NHTSA, the affected Buick LaCrosse models were fitted with a StabiliTrak electronic stability control system that was incorrectly calibrated during manufacturing. This calibration error means the system may not detect a malfunctioning sensor. As a result, the required warning light on the dashboard would fail to illuminate if there is a sensor failure, which is a violation of federal safety standard no. 126. Without this warning, drivers could remain unaware of a stability control fault, potentially increasing the risk during emergency handling or loss-of-control situations. The issue was identified in vehicles produced over a three-week period in the summer of 2011, soon after the 2012 LaCrosse went on sale.
The recall notice did not clarify whether vehicles built outside this specific window are affected, nor did it provide figures for the number of Chevrolet Impalas involved in the stability control calibration issue. The lack of this information may leave some owners uncertain about whether their vehicles are included in the recall.
Power Steering Hose Fault
A separate concern highlighted in the recall involves the power steering hose. Although the initial announcement did not provide detailed information, improperly routed or defective power steering hoses can result in fluid leaks. Such leaks may reduce the effectiveness of steering assistance, making the vehicle harder to control, or in some cases, increase the risk of fire if power steering fluid comes into contact with hot engine components. GM has not specified how many vehicles are affected by this particular fault or the exact nature of the hose issue.
Remedy and Owner Notification
GM dealers are expected to address both issues as part of the recall. For the stability control problem, technicians will reprogramme the StabiliTrak system so that the dashboard warning light activates if a sensor fails. Regarding the power steering hose, dealers will inspect the affected vehicles and replace hoses where necessary. All repairs will be performed at no cost to owners.
Owners of the affected vehicles will be contacted directly by General Motors, who will provide instructions on how to arrange repairs. The company urges owners to respond promptly to recall notifications to ensure their vehicles are inspected and repaired as needed.
Background on GM Recalls
This recall is part of a series of safety campaigns that have involved General Motors vehicles in recent years. The 2012 Buick LaCrosse was a significant saloon in GM’s line-up at the time, and the Chevrolet Impala is one of the longest-running models in the brand’s history. Previous recalls have addressed various safety issues, including airbag sensor faults and ignition switch defects. For example, Chevrolet previously recalled nearly 290,000 Impalas due to a fault with the airbag sensor. These actions reflect ongoing efforts by manufacturers and regulators to address safety concerns and maintain public confidence in vehicle reliability.
What Should Owners Do?
Owners who believe their vehicle may be affected by this recall should watch for official communication from GM or consult the NHTSA website for further information. Vehicle owners can also contact their local dealership to check if their car is included in the recall using their vehicle identification number (VIN). It is important for owners to arrange repairs as soon as possible to address these safety issues and reduce the risk of potential incidents related to the identified faults.
Summary Table of Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Recall Affected Models | 2012 Buick LaCrosse, Chevrolet Impala |
| Number of LaCrosse Vehicles | 4,077 (built 9 June - 2 July 2011) |
| Number of Impalas | Not specified |
| Main Issues | Stability control calibration; Power steering hose |
| Potential Risks | No warning for ESC fault; Steering assistance loss; Fire risk |
| Remedy | Reprogramme ESC system; Inspect/replace power steering hose |
| Cost to Owners | No charge |
| Notification Method | GM direct contact and NHTSA notice |
