DETROIT – General Motors plans to recall 413,418 Chevrolet Cruzes in the United States for the 2011 and 2012 model-years to modify the engine shield under the vehicle. The automaker said this change is to help prevent any liquids from being trapped in the engine compartment, where a fire could start and spread. GM said all Cruzes with manual and automatic transmissions built in the United States from September 2010 through May 2012 are included in the recall to modify the engine shield.

The automaker said spilled oil (for example during an oil change) could come into contact with hot engine or exhaust system surfaces, which could result in the engine shield igniting and causing a fire in
the engine compartment. In Cruze models with manual transmissions, driving with a completely work clutch could expel hydraulic fluid from the clutch housing vent hole. If the fluid is burning as it exits the vent hole, and contacts the engine shield, this could also result in an engine compartment fire.

In addition, GM said that in a separate recall, it will inspect certain cars included in the recall mentioned above to ensure that welds in the rear compartment were properly applied. Up to 249 cars may have omitted or partially complete welds that could affect the fuel tank strap secondary brackets’ attachment to the floor structure and a sub assembly to the rear floor pan.

The automaker said there are no known crashes, injuries or fatalities related to either recall. Vehicles affected include Chevrolet Cruze models built in Lordstown, Ohio, and sold in the United States and Canada (and several hundred exported to Israel as well).

Modifying the engine shield will take roughly 30 minutes and will be conducted at Chevrolet dealerships free of charge. Owner letters will mailed be beginning July 11, according to GM. Repairing the welds noted in the second recall will take roughly three hours.