GM recalls 300,000 Chevrolet Impalas over seat belt problem

The new transformed General Motors Co (GM) that is to go public this year today said that it is recalling 322,409 Chevrolet Impalas over seat belt malfunction.

The recall comes after the Detroit-based car maker had in August 2010 recalled 43,403 large crossovers vehicles over a similar problem in safety belts for damage that in rare cases could make an occupant think the belt is properly latched when it isn't. (See: GM recalls 243,403 large crossovers vehicles for safety belt malfunction)

GM is recalling 322,409 Chevrolet Impalas from the 2009 and 2010 model years to inspect for a small number of vehicles whose front seat belt webbing may not have been properly secured to the lap belt anchor pre-tensioner that is mounted to the side of the seat nearest the door.

Vehicles with this condition may have an anchor that can separate in a crash, and therefore may not meet the anchor strength requirements of the US and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard that covers seat belt assembly anchorages.

The automaker said that dealers will inspect both front seat belts for proper installation of anchors to pre-tensioners and, if necessary, reinstall the anchors.

GM said that it knows of no injuries or deaths related to this condition. Customers will be notified this month by mail to bring their vehicles in free inspection and any repairs related to this condition will be done free of charge, said the company in a statement.