Recall 79V-161: 1977–1979 Buick Estate, 1977–1979 Buick Estate Wagon and 5 more
GENERAL MOTORS CORP. recall for latches/locks/linkages, reported to NHTSA on Jul 2, 1979, covering about 476,245 vehicles.
The problem
A child could open the rear side compartment door and enter this compartment. The child could become entrapped if the door were to close, as it cannot be unlatched from the inside.
The fix
Dealer will replace the original compartment door latch, which can be latched without a key, with a new assembly that requires a key to latch as well as lock the door.
Notes
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles.system: structure; storage compartment.consequences of defect: in the absence of outside help, the child wouldsuffocate.note: the owner is advised to keep this compartment locked except while eitherloading or unloading it.
Recall details
| Manufacturer | GENERAL MOTORS CORP. |
|---|---|
| Component | Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch |
| Recall started by | the manufacturer |
| NHTSA campaign number | 79V161000 |
Vehicles in this recall
| Vehicle | Model years | |
|---|---|---|
| Buick Estate | 1977, 1978, 1979 | All years |
| Buick Estate Wagon | 1977, 1978, 1979 | All years |
| Chevrolet Caprice | 1977, 1978, 1979 | All years |
| Chevrolet Impala | 1977, 1978, 1979 | All years |
| Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser | 1977, 1978, 1979 | All years |
| Pontiac Grand Safari | 1977, 1978, 1979 | All years |
| Pontiac Safari | 1977, 1978, 1979 | All years |
Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 79V-161?
A child could open the rear side compartment door and enter this compartment. The child could become entrapped if the door were to close, as it cannot be unlatched from the inside.
How is recall 79V-161 fixed?
Dealer will replace the original compartment door latch, which can be latched without a key, with a new assembly that requires a key to latch as well as lock the door.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.