GM recalls 360,000 Chevrolet Spark, Sonic and Trax models over key warning chime fault
Chevrolet Spark, Sonic and Trax cars from 2013 to 2016 are being recalled to fix a radio software issue that may prevent the ignition key warning chime from sounding.
General Motors is recalling around 360,000 Chevrolet Spark, Sonic and Trax vehicles built between 2013 and 2016 after identifying a fault with the key-in-ignition warning chime. The issue affects cars equipped with the Bring Your Own Media audio system, where the radio software may not reliably sound an alert if the ignition key is left in place after the engine is switched off.
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) flagged the problem as a non-compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 114, which covers theft protection and rollaway prevention. If the driver leaves the key in the ignition, turns off the engine and waits more than ten minutes before opening the door, the warning chime may not activate. There is also a scenario where, after opening and closing the door, the chime may not sound again if the door is reopened after 20 seconds, increasing the risk of the key being left behind.
GM has confirmed the recall applies to approximately 317,500 vehicles in the United States and a further 44,000 in China. The company will update the radio software in affected cars to restore proper warning chime operation. No injuries or thefts linked to this issue have been reported so far.
What owners need to do
Owners of Chevrolet Spark, Sonic and Trax models built between 2013 and 2016 will be contacted by GM or their dealer. The recall involves a software update, which will be carried out free of charge at authorised service centres. The repair is expected to be straightforward, with no hardware replacement required.
Context: GM’s recall record and oversight
This recall follows a period of increased scrutiny for GM, after the company faced heavy criticism and a $35 million fine in 2014 for delays in addressing the ignition switch defect. Since then, GM has agreed to ongoing oversight by US regulators, with monthly safety meetings scheduled through to May 2017. The company has issued several large recalls in recent years, including for airbag sensor and fuel pipe faults in other Chevrolet models (see Chevrolet Recalls Nearly 290,000 Impalas Over Airbag Sensor Fault).
NHTSA will continue to monitor GM’s recall performance as part of its ongoing oversight agreement. The current campaign is a reminder of the regulatory focus on ensuring manufacturers comply with federal safety standards, particularly where software faults can undermine basic theft prevention measures.
