The 2012 Chevrolet Impala recalled for power steering risks

The 2012 Chevrolet Impala has just started reaching the hands of consumers but General Motors is already recalling a group of them for an improperly routed power steering hose that could lead to a loss of power assist and in the worst case scenario – this problem could increase the chances of a fire.

General Motors and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have announced that select 2012 Chevrolet Impalas are being recalled because a power steering hose may have been improperly routed. In the 10,344 2012 Impalas affected by this new recall, the power steering hose could be precariously close to a catalytic convertor and over time – the hose could melt and leak. Once the pressurized power steering line melts and begins to leak, there will be a loss of power steering assist from the system and in the presence of power steering fluid leaking near the catalytic convertor; there is a great chance of a fire starting in the engine bay of the new Chevy sedans.

The new 2012 Chevrolet Impala power steering fluid recall specifically affects models built between April 19, 2011 and July 29, 2011 with a total of 10,344 units included in the recall. General Motors officially began this recall on August 12th, contacting owners and asking them to return to their local Chevy dealership where a technician will inspect the routing of the power steering lines – making any changes and relocations as needed. Of course, all of this work will be performed free of charge to the customer.

Neither General Motors nor the NHTSA bulletin mention any real world incidences of engine bay fires, accidents or injuries in the 2012 Impala stemming from this new power steering system recall but considering how flammable power steering fluid is – especially when pressurized and sprayed at the hottest engine component – this problem could present a significant problem so GM is making the move to fix the incorrect routing before anyone gets hurt.

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