GM Recalls Chevrolet Captiva Over Fire Risks

General Motors said on December 21 it is recalling more than 15,000 Chevrolet Captiva crossovers sold worldwide for a power steering overheating issue that could lead to an engine compartment fire.

The recall covers 2011-2012 models — including 3,150 vehicles sold in the United States to rental car fleets. GM spokesman Alan Adler said if the vehicle is inadvertently driven with the transmission in manual mode, and left in first gear for a prolonged period of time, the vehicle may experience the power steering fluid overheating condition. The overheating issue may cause the fluid reservoir to leak. Leaking fluid in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire, GM said.

GM said it had reports of three fires in Colombia. In late September, GM Mexico and engineers at Milford Proving Grounds began an investigation into the issue. There are no reports of fires in the United States. Dealers will replace at no cost the power steering fluid loop cooler with a more-efficient cooler to improve cooling capability. GM will send letters to customers with instructions on how to use manual mode during January, since replacement parts won't be available until March.

The recall covers a total of 15,627 Captivas for the 2011-2012 model years built in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico, between October 2009 and April 2011.

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