2010-'11 Buick Lucerne, Cadillac DTS Recalled for Power Steering Fluid Leak

WASHINGTON — General Motors is recalling 13,780 2010-'11 Buick Lucerne and Cadillac DTS cars equipped with V8 engines because of a power steering fluid leak, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The starter or alternator cable is in contact with the power steering return line," said NHTSA in its recalls summary of the problem. "If either the starter or alternator cable is contacting the power steering return line, the cable could wear through the line, causing a power steering fluid leak. A power steering leak could result in a loss of power steering, increasing the risk of a crash and/or the leak onto hot engine parts could cause an engine compartment fire."

In other documentation filed with the federal government, GM explained that the problem may also "wear the cable protective wrap, conduit and wire insulation so there is metal-to-metal contact. This could result in battery drain. If arcing occurs due to engine vibration and roll, it may burn a hole in the return line and allow power steering fluid to leak and potentially ignite, resulting in a possible engine compartment fire." The documentation was signed by M. Carmen Benavides, GM director of product investigations and safety regulations.

GM said it has received two reports of fires linked to the defect.

GM dealers will secure and, if necessary, reroute the lines to prevent contact. The recall is expected to begin on November 19. Owners may contact Cadillac at (866) 982-2339 or Buick at (866) 608-8080.

Inside Line says: If you own either of the aforementioned Buick Lucerne or Cadillac DTS vehicles, have it checked out with your dealer ASAP. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent