Recall Overview: Window Safety Concern
General Motors has announced a significant safety recall affecting approximately 1,100 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans from model years 2016 through 2019. The recall addresses a critical safety issue involving the vehicles' rear-quarter windows, which were incorrectly manufactured with tempered glass instead of the required laminated glass.
Why This Recall Matters
Laminated glass, which consists of two layers of glass bonded with a plastic interlayer, provides crucial safety benefits that tempered glass cannot match:
- Enhanced crash protection: Laminated glass remains intact upon impact, reducing ejection risk
- Superior occupant retention: Helps keep passengers inside the vehicle during collisions
- Improved structural integrity: Maintains window frame strength during rollover events
- Reduced injury risk: Minimizes sharp glass fragments in crash scenarios
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Affected Vehicles
The recall specifically targets:
- Model Years: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
- Models: Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans
- Production Dates: Vehicles manufactured between [specific date range to be inserted]
- Total Vehicles: Approximately 1,100 units in the United States
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How to Identify If Your Vehicle Is Affected
Owners can determine if their vehicle is included in this recall by:
- Checking their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA recall website
- Contacting their local Chevrolet or GMC dealership
- Using MotorVero's free VIN lookup tool
Repair Process and Dealer Instructions
GM has authorized the following corrective action:
- Repair Procedure: Replacement of tempered glass rear-quarter windows with proper laminated glass units
- Cost: Complimentary to vehicle owners (no charge)
- Time Estimate: Approximately 2-3 hours per vehicle
- Parts Availability: GM has confirmed sufficient replacement glass is available
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Owner Notification Timeline
While GM has not yet released the official notification schedule, recall processes typically follow this pattern:
- Initial dealer notification: Completed
- Owner notification letters: Expected to mail within [timeframe]
- Repair availability: Immediate at all authorized dealerships
What Owners Should Do Immediately
Vehicle owners should take these proactive steps:
- Check VIN status: Verify recall involvement using official channels
- Contact authorized dealers: Schedule repair appointment promptly
- Understand risks: While the risk is present in crashes, no immediate driving restrictions apply
- Document everything: Keep records of all recall-related communications
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Extended Safety Considerations
Beyond this specific recall, van owners should be aware of these additional safety factors:
- Regularly inspect all vehicle glass for cracks or damage
- Ensure proper window tinting that doesn't compromise glass integrity
- Review child safety seat placement relative to windows
- Consider aftermarket window safety film as supplemental protection
Contact Information and Resources
For immediate assistance with this recall:
- Chevrolet Customer Service: 800-222-1020
- GMC Customer Service: 800-462-8782
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236
- MotorVero Recall Center: Comprehensive recall information
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Understanding Glass Safety Standards
This recall highlights the importance of automotive glass standards:
| Glass Type | Safety Characteristics | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Tempered Glass | Breaks into small blunt pieces; less expensive | Side windows (when permitted), rear windows |
| Laminated Glass | Holds together when broken; reduces ejection | Windshields, required safety windows |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive my van before the repair?
GM has not issued a "do not drive" warning, but recommends scheduling the repair as soon as possible. The risk primarily manifests during crashes.
How long will the repair take?
Most dealerships can complete the window replacement in 2-3 hours, though you may need to leave your vehicle for a full day depending on scheduling.
Will this repair affect my window tint?
Yes, any existing window tint on the affected glass will need to be reapplied after the replacement. Check with your dealer about possible tint reimbursement.
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Recall Impact and Industry Context
This recall reflects broader automotive safety trends:
- Increasing focus on occupant retention in crash testing standards
- Evolving glass technology requirements across vehicle classes
- Greater attention to secondary safety systems beyond seatbelts and airbags
- Manufacturer responsiveness to potential safety concerns
Additional Resources
For more information about vehicle safety and recalls:
