The Recall Desk
ModerateNHTSA·16V257000·Announced 2016-04-28

GM Recalls 2013-2016 Chevrolet Vehicles for Theft Protection Software Defect

General Motors is recalling certain 2013-2016 Chevrolet Sonic, Trax, and Spark vehicles because the radio software may fail to provide an audible warning chime, increasing the risk of vehicle theft.

What this means for you

Minor labeling or packaging issue, or a voluntary precautionary recall. Risk of harm is low but real — follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Our severity reasoning: The recall addresses a software defect that increases the risk of vehicle theft but does not involve a structural defect, reported injuries, or immediate physical harm to occupants, fitting the criteria for a moderate severity issue.

Plain-English summary

General Motors LLC is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Chevrolet Sonic and Trax vehicles and 2013-2015 Chevrolet Spark vehicles equipped with a Bring Your Own Media radio. The recall affects approximately 317,572 vehicles.

The affected radios may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver turns off the ignition, leaves the key in the cylinder, and waits 10 minutes or longer to open the door. This failure means the vehicles do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection." Without the audible indicator, a driver may leave the key in the ignition, which increases the risk of vehicle theft.

GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the radio software free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 17130. Owners may also contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.safercar.gov.

The recalled product

Product
CHEVROLET TRAX, SPARK, SONIC
Brand
CHEVROLET
Manufacturer
General Motors LLC
Category
Vehicle — Software / Electrical System
Hazard
Affected units
317,572

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 (3)

  • TRAX
  • SPARK
  • SONIC

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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