2017 Chevrolet Cruze remembers what you should know
It’s not entirely uncommon for a car to have a dozen recalls in its first few years on the road. Since the automaker will pay for repairs and these recalls make our roads safer, we generally accept that it’s just part of the deal.
Despite this general acceptance of several recalls, it’s good when a model like the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze arrives. How many recalls have been issued for the Chevrolet Cruze? Only two in four years since its debut.
What were these two reminders issued for?
- Incorrect welding for seat back frame
- A possible fuel leak after a rollover
Other than those two issues, NHTSA has not investigated the car and there were no more complaints than you would expect with a four-year-old vehicle. If you drive a 2017 Cruze or are buying one, here’s what you need to know:
Incorrect welding for seat back frame
NHTSA Callback ID: 17V057000
Affecting 17,197 2016 and possibly 2017 Cruzes, this recall involved a bracket in the front passenger seat reclining mechanism. The problem was that this bracket may have been incorrectly welded to the frame.
If the welding of the reclining mechanism does not hold, the seat will not keep the passenger stable in the event of an accident, especially in regard to the headrest. If left untreated, this defect could cause, at the very least, serious whiplash.
General Motors notified owners on February 28, 2017, with recall number 17035, and began replacing the seatback frames.
A rollover accident can cause a fuel leak
NHTSA Callback ID: 18V304000
Affecting 111,966 2016-2018 Cruze LS models equipped with a tire inflation kit instead of a spare tire, this recall involved a potential fuel leak that could occur in the event of a rear impact and rollover accident.
A fuel leak resulting from an accident is a major fire risk. It is not uncommon for an accident to result in open flames or sparks, at the very least, so a fuel leak will only make the situation worse.
General Motors issued notices and began making repairs on June 7, 2018, installing a lock ring on the fuel tank to protect the fuel tank vapor pressure sensor from rear impact damage.
How to Check and Take Action on Recalls
If you drive a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze, you may or may not be included in the recalls we have listed above. Even if it is included, the callback may or may not be pending.
Fortunately for you, it’s very easy to find: Check your VIN number (probably stamped on your dashboard), take it to the NHTSA VIN Lookup page, and then call General Motors at 1-800-222-1020.
That’s almost all. GM will tell you where to take your car for repairs and will cover the cost of upgrading your Cruze. Repairs will typically be performed at participating dealers and partner body shops.
