Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Manufacturer
General Motors LLC
What Happened
The Body Control Module in your vehicle is like the brain of your car's electrical system, controlling various functions. In some 2004-2012 Malibu, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx, 2005-2010 G6, and 2007-2010 Aura models, the connection to the Body Control Module might be loose, causing problems with the brake lights, cruise control, and other safety features.
Risk if Unfixed
If the connection fails, your brake lights could turn on without pressing the brake pedal, or they might not come on at all. This could lead to a crash if you're not aware of your surroundings or if other drivers don't see you slowing down.
Free Fix
Your GM dealer will tighten the wiring harness connection to the Body Control Module, apply a special coating to prevent future problems, and reset the brake pedal position. This repair is free of charge, and you should schedule it as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured May 16, 2003, through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured June 25, 2003, through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured May 26, 2004, through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura vehicles manufactured April 24, 2006, through May 26, 2009. In the affected vehicles, increased resistance in the Body Control Module (BCM) connection may result in voltage fluctuations in the Brake Apply Sensor (BAS) circuit. These fluctuations can cause one or more of these conditions: the brake lights to illuminate without the brake pedal being pushed; the brake lights to not illuminate when the pedal is pushed; difficulty disengaging the cruise control; moving the gear shifter out of the 'PARK' position without pushing the brake; and disablement of crash avoidance features such as traction control, electronic stability control, and panic braking assist features.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
Any of the above failure conditions increases the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will attach the wiring harness to the BCM with a spacer, apply dielectric lubricant to both the BCM and harness connector and the BAS and harness connector, and will relearn the brake pedal home position, free of charge. The manufacturer distributed an Interim letter to customers on July 14, 2014. The recall began on August 18, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors customer service at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn). GM's number for this recall is 13036.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →