GM Recalls 303,100 2009-'10 Chevrolet Impalas for Defective Seatbelts

WASHINGTON — General Motors is recalling 303,100 2009-'10 Chevrolet Impalas because of improperly anchored front seatbelts that may separate, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

"The front safety belt webbing may not have been properly secured to the lap belt anchor pretensioner mounted to the side of the seat nearest the door," said NHTSA in its recalls summary of the problem. "The safety belt may not restrain the occupant as intended during a crash, which could result in injury to the occupant."

In other documentation filed with the federal government, GM said it investigated nine reports of seatbelt warranty repairs that noted separation as of June 2009. "As of August 13, 2010, there were 32 warranty reports of seatbelt anchors that were either partially twisted or partially installed and reported to have separated during vehicle use," said GM in a document signed by M. Carmen Benavides, the company's director of product investigations and safety regulations. "There are no reports of injuries or fatalities where the belts were reported to have the condition."

Chevrolet dealers will inspect the front safety belts for proper installation of the anchors to the pretensioners and, if necessary, reinstall the anchors. The recall is expected to begin on October 26. Owners can contact Chevrolet at 800-630-2438.

Inside Line says: If you own the aforementioned Impala, have it checked out with your dealer ASAP. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent