The Cadillac ATS burst onto the scene with much fan fare, but like just about every single automobile produced these days, a recall has happened. This is to be expected with so many components in autos these days.
This one is a bit of a Duesey though.
According to General Motors (GM) as well as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2013-2016 model year ATS sedans may be at risk due to fire. This is due to a defect in a component related to the rear window defogger. As it may overheat, it can develop into a fire should the conditions be right.
Nearly 120,000 units have been recalled so if you're an owner, please do yourself a favor, read the details below and get on the line with your local Cadillac dealer to schedule a repair as soon as possible.
Be safe out there, Spies!
General Motors' statement:
General Motors is recalling approximately 96,145 2013-16 model year ATS sedans in the U.S. Some of these vehicles may have been manufactured with critically weak terminal connectivity in the coil antenna module, which powers the rear defogger system. If the module has the condition and is subjected to excessive cycling or continuous operation, it may overheat and a fire may develop inside the rear pillar on the driver's side of the vehicle. Less than 1 percent of the recalled vehicles are expected to have the condition. GM is aware of four fires but no injuries, fatalities or crashes. Including Canada, Mexico and exports, the total population of the recall is approximately 119,339.
NHTSA's press release follows:
RECALL Subject : Rear Defogger Coil Antenna Module may Overheat
Report Receipt Date: SEP 03, 2015
NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V558000
Component(s): VISIBILITY
Potential Number of Units Affected: 96,145
All Products Associated with this Recall
Vehicle Make Model Model Year(s)
CADILLAC ATS 2013-2016
Details
Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
SUMMARY:
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Cadillac ATS sedan vehicles manufactured April 23, 2012, to September 2, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the coil antenna module that powers the rear defogger system may generate excessive heat due to excessive cycling or continuous operation.
CONSEQUENCE:
If the coil antenna generates excessive heat, there is an increased risk of a fire.
REMEDY:
GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the Electronic Climate Control module to remove the automatic rear defogger "on" function, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 15299.
NOTES:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.