General Motors will recall 18.204 imported vehicles in China because of problems with the cars’ anti-lock braking systems, China’s quality control agency said in a statement dated Wednesday.
The immediate recall applies to 16.618 Chevrolet Captiva sport utility vehicles and 1586 Opel Antara sport utility vehicles built between April 11, 2006 and Nov. 9, 2009, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine said on its website.
Brake fluid impurities could affect normal operation of the ABS systems, posing a safety hazard, the statement explained.
Recent moves by the Chinese government to support domestic auto companies–including a list of cars that government officials can purchase, which excludes foreign brands–have led to concerns that China is getting more strict on foreign auto makers.
But Jeff Chung, an analyst at Daiwa Capital Markets, notes that unlike recent recalls affecting Nissan Motor joint venture Dongfeng Motor Co. in which the recalls were prompted by the quality watchdog, in this case General Motors initiated the recall process. This suggests the recall doesn’t reflect a wider policy shift, he said.
“It’s really not a big deal,” Chung said. “Local brands are making recalls as well.”
Via: MarketWatch.