Recall 16V151000: Air Bags:side/window
Official campaign-level recall information with affected vehicle links and a VIN-first buyer check.
Reviewed June 2026 from NHTSA recall campaign records. Carchieve is independent and not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer or government agency.
Recall summary
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016 Malibu vehicles manufactured February 16, 2016, to March 5, 2016. The two weld studs that mount the front and rear side impact air bags may fracture and separate from the air bag during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 214, "Side Impact Protection."
Safety risk
Fractured weld studs may allow the side air bag to move out of position during deployment, increasing the risk of injury.
Recall remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began on April 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 31820.
What to compare next
After checking this safety campaign, compare the same vehicle against manufacturer service bulletins, model-level owner complaint patterns and the used-car recall checklist.
Frequently asked questions
What is recall campaign 16V151000?
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016 Malibu vehicles manufactured February 16, 2016, to March 5, 2016. The two weld studs that mount the front and rear side impact air bags may fracture and separate from the air bag during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 214, "Side Impact Protection."
How do I know if this recall applies to my car?
Use the exact 17-character VIN. A campaign can affect only certain production ranges, trims or equipment configurations.
Are recall repairs free?
Safety recall remedies are generally performed by franchised dealers at no charge when the exact VIN is affected and the remedy is available.
Check the exact VIN before you buy
Model-level pages show public safety patterns. A full VIN report helps confirm the exact vehicle, decoded specs, recall applicability and buyer checks.
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