US ends GM SUV seat belt probe after warranty extension

U.S. auto safety regulators have concluded a five-year investigation into seat belt failures in certain General Motors SUVs. This investigation was initiated in 2019 after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration received multiple complaints regarding seat belt failures even after recall repairs had been performed. The original recall, which took place in 2014, involved over 1.3 million midsize SUVs, including models like the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave, due to a potential failure of a flexible steel cable connecting the seat belts to the front seats. In response to the investigation, GM extended the warranty coverage for the seat belt cables to 12 years or 180,000 miles from the initial sale date. This warranty extension was a significant factor in the decision to close the probe, as it provided consumers with additional protection against potential failures. Technicians were instructed to inspect the driver’s seat belt cable for any damage and replace it if necessary, ensuring that safety measures were in place. The agency noted that the combination of a high ability to detect the issue and a low rate of occurrence contributed to the closure of the investigation. Importantly, no injuries were reported in connection with the seat belt failures, which further influenced the regulators' decision. The extended warranty and proactive measures taken by GM were seen as sufficient to address the concerns raised during the investigation. Ultimately, the closure of this investigation reflects the effectiveness of the measures implemented by GM and the regulatory body's confidence in the company's commitment to consumer safety. This case underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance in automotive safety and the role of warranty extensions in addressing potential defects.