GM recalls more than 17,000 Buicks over a part that could cause drivers to lose control

Drive an older Buick Regal? You may need to drive it to your nearest dealer.

General Motors is recalling certain 2012 and 2013 Buick Regal models because of an issue with the rear suspension toe links that could increase the likelihood of a crash. The recall affects 17,050 Buick passenger cars that were sold or registered in 22 “high corrosion” states and Washington, D.C., according to the recall notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The recall, submitted on Tuesday, expands on two others the Detroit-based automaker has filed since late February that are related to the same issue. Only about 1% of the 17,000-plus vehicles identified may have a defect, which was caused by the Chinese supplier’s failure to properly apply corrosion protection. This could eventually cause the toe link to thin and ultimately fracture. 

GM noted in the latest recall notice that it’s not aware of any accidents or injuries that have been associated with its investigation. Notification letters are expected to be mailed to affected car owners in mid-April.

The Buick Regal marked the end of an era for the automaker: In 2020, GM discontinued making this model of passenger car amid slumping sales, leaving the brand to focus exclusively on SUVs.

RECALL DETAILS

As indicated, GM’s recall is very limited in scope and only affects 2012 and 2013 model year Buick Regal vehicles. The automaker identified 4,751 affected 2012 Buick Regals and 12,299 affected 2013 Buick Regals, encompassing both the Turbo and GS trim-level vehicles for both model years.

Because of the risk of corrosion, GM has identified vehicles that were ever registered in the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C.

If you drive one of the affected Buick Regal models, you can take your car to a dealer, which will replace the rear suspension toe link and adjuster fasteners free of charge.