Chevy Malibu Starting, Stalling Issues Cause Recall

General Motors is recalling nearly 180,000 Chevy Malibu vehicles because of a software problem that could raise serious safety hazards.

The software glitch could cause the cars’ computers to disable fuel injectors, according to a report from CNET. That, in turn, could prevent the engine from starting or cause it to stall, according documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

“In rare cases this condition can cause the engine to stall at speed and without warning, increasing the risk of a crash,” the company said in a safety bulletin. GM did not say whether any auto accidents have been caused as a result of the issue.

The recall covers 2018 Malibus that are equipped with a 1.5-liter turbo-4 engine. GM said it will inspect and repair those vehicles free of charge, replacing the corrupted software with a new system.

“Your GM dealer will dealer will reprogram the engine control module to correct the error,” the company said to a letter sent to Malibu owners. “This service will be performed for you at no charge.”

Owners can check whether their vehicles are covered by the recall on the NHTSA website, searching by Vehicle Identification Number.

How the California Lemon Law Protects Car Owners

Another day, another car recall involving safety defects that could put everyone on the road at risk. The good news for car owners in California is that the state’s lemon law offers some valuable protections.

The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act requires automobile manufacturers to make certain repairs to cars while they are under warranty. If the manufacturer refuses or is unable to fix the problem, it is required to buy the vehicle back. The manufacturer also has to compensate the owner for any related expenses, like financing fees and rental cars. Although a carmaker can alternatively offer to replace the vehicles, it is ultimately the owner’s decision whether to accept that offer.

There is not a specific number of repair attempts that a manufacturer must make before the law kicks in. Rather, it depends on the specific circumstances. That’s why it is important to consult an experienced California lemon law attorney. The law requires the manufacturer to pick up the tab for any legal fees that you incur in enforcing your rights.

We Can Help You Enforce Your California Lemon Law Rights

If you are a California car owner driving a lemon, it is vital that you consult a seasoned lawyer to consider your rights an options. At the Bickel Law Firm, we have represented hundreds of clients in defective vehicle cases under the California lemon law.

We understand the significant stress that can come with haggling with car dealers and manufacturers. Our lawyers work aggressively to resolve these cases for the people that we represent.

Our offices are conveniently located in San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.