The problem
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016 Malibu vehicles manufactured February 16, 2016, to March 5, 2016. The two weld studs that mount the front and rear side impact air bags may fracture and separate from the air bag during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 214, "Side Impact Protection."
The risk
Fractured weld studs may allow the side air bag to move out of position during deployment, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began on April 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 31820.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 16V-151 (16V151000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 31820 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Air bags › Side/window |
| Report date | March 11, 2016 |
| Owners notified | April 14, 2016 |
| Vehicles affected | 3,137 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 16V-151 repair free?
Yes. Chevrolet dealers will fix the problem at no cost: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began on April 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 31820.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 3,137 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.