GM recalling more than 300K Impalas for seat belt problem

General Motors has initiated a recall of 322,409 units of the Impala model of vehicles from 2009 and 2010 due to a potential defect in seatbelt construction.

In a statement, GM explains the reasons behind the recall:

(GM initiated the recall) to inspect for a small number of vehicles whose front seat belt webbing may not have been properly secured to the lap belt anchor pretensioner 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 U.S. and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard that covers seat belt assembly anchorages.

Dealers will inspect both front seat belts for proper installation of anchors to pretensioners and, if necessary, reinstall the anchors.

GM said owners can expect contact from the company in late October (approximately the 25th) to schedule free inspections at GM dealerships. Any repairs required due to the defect will be performed free of charge.

[GM]