Chevy has released a recall of 413,148 Cruze models made from October 2, 2009 through May 31, 2012 billed as 2011 and 2012 models. It seems that any oil that may spill or drip as a result of an changing an oil filter or adding oil to the car can gather in the engine shield at the base of the motor. Unfortunately, that is also in very close proximity to very hot engine parts (exhaust and catalytic converters), which may cause all of that collected oil to catch fire, which would ruin most any driver's day. 

Thankfully, owners can contact Chevy for a free fix of the shield at 1-866-694-6546 or simply wait until Chevy begins contacting owners later this month.

Read on for the full report from Safercar.gov ...

Summary:

General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011 and 2012 Chevrolet Cruze vehicles manufactured from October 2, 2009, through May 31, 2012. Spilled or dripping oil (such as after an oil change) may collect in the engine shield (bellypan) near hot engine or exhaust system surfaces. As a result, the oil and the engine shield may ignite and burn.

Consequence:

Either condition could result in an engine compartment fire, possibly causing injury or death.

Remedy:

GM will notify owners, and dealers will modify the engine shield to prevent fluid from contacting the shield. Also, on vehicles with a manual transmission, dealers will apply a protective tape to the electronic power steering wire harness. Repairs will be performed free of charge to the owner. The safety recall is expected to begin on, or about, July 11, 2012. Owners may contact the Chevrolet owner center at 1-866-694-6546.

Notes:

GM’S campaign number is 12081. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.