The problem
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Buick Encore all-wheel-drive vehicles manufactured August 23, 2012, to September 9, 2013; Verano vehicles manufactured August 8, 2012, to June 20, 2013; Chevrolet Cruze vehicles manufactured August 7, 2012, to August 16, 2013, and 2012-2014 Chevrolet Sonic vehicles manufactured May 10, 2011, to August 16, 2012 equipped with a Calix oil pan/block heater. In cold temperatures, the insulation on the engine block heater cord can become damaged, allowing the wires to be exposed.
The risk
Exposed wires increase the risk of electrical shock and personal injury if the cord is handled while it is plugged in.
The fix
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine oil pan/block heater cord with a new cord that is rated for temperatures of minus 40 degree Celsius. The recall began in August 2014. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 14257.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 14V-417 (14V417000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 14257 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Equipment › Electrical |
| Report date | July 2, 2014 |
| Owners notified | August 29, 2014 |
| Vehicles affected | 2,990 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the equipment & accessories
- 2013 Buick Encore equipment problems 1
- 2014 Buick Encore equipment problems 1
- 2013 Buick Verano equipment problems 1
- 2014 Buick Verano equipment problems 2
- 2013 Chevrolet Cruze equipment problems 1
- 2014 Chevrolet Cruze equipment problems 1
- 2012 Chevrolet Sonic equipment problems 2
- 2014 Chevrolet Sonic equipment problems 1
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 14V-417 repair free?
Yes. Buick dealers will fix the problem at no cost: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine oil pan/block heater cord with a new cord that is rated for temperatures of minus 40 degree Celsius. The recall began in August 2014.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 2,990 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.