The problem
General motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Chevrolet malibu vehicles manufactured from October 24, 2011, through March 31, 2012. After an event of hard braking, the sensing and diagnostic module (sdm) May reset itself.
The risk
If this occurs during an aggressive turning maneuver, and then afterwards a potential vehicle rollover event is sensed, the roof rail airbag May unintentionally deploy. Additionally, the air bags and/or seatbelt pretensioners May not deploy during a severe crash, increasing the risk of personal injury.
The fix
GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the sdm. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on June 13, 2012.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 12V-224 (12V224000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 12102 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Electrical system › Software |
| Report date | May 18, 2012 |
| Owners notified | June 13, 2012 |
| Vehicles affected | 4,304 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 12V-224 repair free?
Yes. Chevrolet dealers will fix the problem at no cost: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the sdm. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on June 13, 2012.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 4,304 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.