GM recalls 44k+ 2012 Chevy Sonic over windshield washer issues

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and General Motors have announced a recall of select 2012 Chevrolet Sonic sedans and hatchbacks over a concern that the windshield wiper washer system may not function as expected, which could decrease visibility and increase the chances of an accident.

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic windshield wiper washer system recall pertains specifically to those models built between May 5th 2011 and February 24th 2012, with 44,668 vehicles possibly affected by the problem. In these vehicles, the connection between the windshield washer fluid reservoir and the hoses that send the fluid to the “squirters” around the windshield may come loose. When the hose pulls away from the washer fluid reservoir, the windshield cleaning fluid will not be able to make it to the nozzles that spray it across the windshield. Depending on the situation, a driver who is unable to properly clean their windshield while driving is more likely to be involved in an accident and that makes this a safety issue.

The recall notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration doesn’t go into much detail as to what is causing the separation under the hood of the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic but it does mention that GM will “secure the hose to prevent separation” – which leads me to believe that this is caused by vibration working the hose loose or perhaps there is a fastener that is not holding up over time. In any case, the repairs should be very quick as the washer fluid reservoir is easily accessible and the fix is just a matter of clamping the hose down better where it meets the tank.

The good news is that the wipers of the 2012 Chevy Sonic still work just fine but if the driver finds him or herself in a situation where the windshield is very dirty – the washer system may not be able to help. Luckily, this isn’t like a wheel falling off or a vehicle accelerating on its own so the safety risk is far less significant than some other recalls. However, with a possibility of a problem, GM is making the right move and they are getting these vehicles back to dealerships for the quick and easy repairs. Honestly, this is the kind of recall that is more of an annoyance than a safety risk as the average consumer could probably locate and fix the problem on their own but since GM is willing to secure the line for free – it is worth a trip to your local Chevy dealership. If nothing else, it could save you some headache down the road.

The fresh 2012 Chevy Sonic recall is expected to formally begin on or around September 7th 2012 but owners can call the Chevrolet owner center at 1-866-694-6546 for more information. Should you make that call, the recall number is 12176.

This is the second recall for the hot selling 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. The first recall for the sporty little subcompact came late last year when it was found that a small batch of vehicles may not have one of the front brake pads. Just 4,296 units were affected by that recall.