2011-'12 Porsches Recalled for Defective Seat Belts

WASHINGTON — Porsche is recalling a wide range of 2011-'12 vehicles, including the 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS and 2012 Porsche Boxster, for defective seat belts, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Even though the recall covers just 235 cars, it involves such models as the 2012 Porsche Cayman R, the 2012 Porsche Boxster Spyder and the 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera.

Other vehicles included in the recall are the 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera 4, 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS,2012 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S, 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS, 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S, 2011 Porsche 911 Speedster, 2012 Porsche 911 Targa 4, 2012 Porsche 911 Targa 4S, 2012 Porsche 911 Turbo, 2012 Porsche 911 Turbo S, 2012 Porsche Boxster S, 2012 Porsche Cayman, 2012 Porsche Cayman R and 2012 Porsche Cayman S.

"There is a possibility that the mounting holes in the seat belt anchor plates fitted to the vehicle are too small," said the NHTSA in its recalls summary of the problem. "If the hole diameter is too small, the anchor plate may not be able to rotate about the fastening bolt as designed. Should this occur, the seat belt may not be routed optimally around the occupant or may potentially loosen at some point in the future, increasing the risk of injury during a crash."

In other documentation filed with the federal government, Porsche said it has not identified any reports or allegations of "actual injury" resulting from the defective seat belts. Porsche attributed the defect to a "manufacturing issue" at German supplier Autoliv.

Porsche dealers will inspect the anchor plate and fastening screw and replace the seat belt, if necessary. The recall began on August 15. Porsche owners are advised to call NHTSA's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 for more information.

Inside Line says: If you own one of the aforementioned Porsches, have it checked out with your dealer ASAP.