The 2011 Cadillac SRX recalled for airbag risks

General Motors has issued a recall of 2011 Cadillac SRX models because the explanation of how the airbag system works in the owner’s manual differs from how it actually functions – putting the popular SRX in violation of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

The problem with the 2011 Cadillac SRX is that the passenger sensing system is programmed to disable the passenger’s side roof-rail airbag when there is no one seated in the front passenger seat. However, the owner’s manual for these models claims that the airbags will open whether or not there is someone seated in the front passenger’s seat. The safety portion is that in the event of certain types of side of frontal impacts, someone seated in the rear passenger’s side area might not be protected by the roof-rail airbag – increasing the risk of injury.

This new 2011 Cadillac SRX recall affects 47,401 SUVs in the United States with another 3,099 in Canada and Mexico. This recall does not affect models outside of North America as those 2011 SRX units are equipped with a key control system to disable to passenger’s side airbags rather than the automatic sensing system.

The 2011 Cadillac SRX airbag recall is expected to begin on or around June 17th with owners of the affected vehicles being contacted by General Motors. If you own a 2011 SRX and want to learn more, you can contact Cadillac at 1-866-982-2339 or you can visit the GM Owner’s Center by clicking here. The recall campaign number is 11162.

The recall repairs for the 2011 Cadillac SRX should be quick and easy, as a dealership technician will simply have to reprogram the Airbag Sensing and Diagnostic Module. Of course, this work will be free of charge to the owners.

Source: NHTSA, Automotive News

Other GM News:
The 2012 ZR1 smashes the Viper ACR’s ‘Ring record – with video
American muscle cars outsell hybrids in May 2011
Camaro leads in May 2011 as segment sales slow
GM struggles in May 2011 but still leads the industry in sales
The Nissan Leaf easily outsells the Chevy Volt in May 2011