The Recall Desk
HighNHTSA·14V417000·Announced 2014-07-02

GM Recalls 2012-2014 Vehicles for Damaged Block Heater Cords

General Motors is recalling specific 2012-2014 Buick and Chevrolet vehicles because insulation on the engine block heater cord can damage in cold weather, exposing wires.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product (electrical shock) where injury has not yet been reported, fitting the High severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

General Motors LLC is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Buick Encore all-wheel-drive vehicles, 2013-2014 Buick Verano vehicles, 2013-2014 Chevrolet Cruze vehicles, and 2012-2014 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured between May 10, 2011, and September 9, 2013, and are equipped with a Calix oil pan/block heater.

In cold temperatures, the insulation on the engine block heater cord can become damaged, allowing the wires to be exposed. Exposed wires increase the risk of electrical shock and personal injury if the cord is handled while it is plugged in.

GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine oil pan/block heater cord with a new cord rated for temperatures of minus 40 degrees Celsius. The recall began in August 2014. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 14257.

The recalled product

Product
CHEVROLET, BUICK SONIC, VERANO, CRUZE, ENCORE
Brand
CHEVROLET
Manufacturer
General Motors LLC
Category
Vehicle — Passenger Vehicle
Hazard
Affected units
2,990

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Model numbers (4)

  • SONIC
  • VERANO
  • CRUZE
  • ENCORE

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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