GM recalls 38,197 Chevys and Buicks

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DETROIT, May 6 (UPI) -- Automaker General Motors said Monday it would recall 38,197 Chevrolet Malibu Eco and Buick hybrid sedans due to a potential fire risk.

The recall involves Buick LaCrosse eAssist hybrids and Regal sedans and Malibu Ecos from the 2012 and 2013 model years that were made from cars built before December 2012 when the company discovered the problem and changed the production line, The Chicago Tribune reported Monday.

The majority of problems have occurred within the first 1,000 miles of use, the newspaper said.

GM said the problem is not associated with the lithium-ion batteries that are part of the eAssist's hybrid system.

GM said a circuit board in the trunk of the car can overheat, which would turn on warning lights on the dashboard. However, if the warning lights are ignored, the engines could stall and a fire could occur in the trunk of the car.

The recall is effective immediately. GM said vehicle owners who notice warning lights should bring their cars to a dealership for immediate repairs.