Recall 81V-022: 1979–1980 Buick Century, 1979–1980 Chevrolet Malibu and 2 more
GENERAL MOTORS CORP. recall for visibility, reported to NHTSA on Feb 11, 1981, covering about 67,350 vehicles.
The problem
The electro-clear rear window defoggers contain a defect which causes the glass to shatter without impact during or some time after use of the defogger. Vertical electrical strips may deteriorate and cause hot spots that can result in breakage of the rear glass.
The fix
Vehicles will be inspected for presence of a particular weatherstrip. If present, a layer of a special conductive epoxy will be added to the vertical bar on the rear window glass. This epoxy is a new conductive material which will not react with the weatherstrip.
Notes
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with electro-clear rear windowdefoggers.system: defogger; rear window.consequences of defect: driver distraction from the explosion could result in avehicle accident. Broken or hot glass could cause personal injury to vehiclepassengers, other drivers, and nearby pedestrians.note: owners are advised not to use rear window defogger until vehicle isinspected.
Recall details
| Manufacturer | GENERAL MOTORS CORP. |
|---|---|
| Component | Visibility › Glass, Side/Rear |
| Recall started by | NHTSA (Office of Defects Investigation) |
| NHTSA campaign number | 81V022000 |
Vehicles in this recall
| Vehicle | Model years | |
|---|---|---|
| Buick Century | 1979, 1980 | All years |
| Chevrolet Malibu | 1979, 1980 | All years |
| Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1979, 1980 | All years |
| Pontiac Lemans | 1979, 1980 | 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 81V-022?
The electro-clear rear window defoggers contain a defect which causes the glass to shatter without impact during or some time after use of the defogger. Vertical electrical strips may deteriorate and cause hot spots that can result in breakage of the rear glass.
How is recall 81V-022 fixed?
Vehicles will be inspected for presence of a particular weatherstrip. If present, a layer of a special conductive epoxy will be added to the vertical bar on the rear window glass. This epoxy is a new conductive material which will not react with the weatherstrip.
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.