64,000 Volts recalled for carbon monoxide risk

Approximately 64,000 Chevrolet Volts are being recalled by General Motors for a software update limiting the time the car can be left idling to prevent carbon monoxide buildup if the driver fails to turn off the car. GM stated “If the gas engine runs for a long period of time within an enclosed space, such as a garage, carbon monoxide could build up”. GM is aware of at least two injuries resulting from carbon monoxide exposure.

The Volts does have a warning sound that alerts the driver when exiting the car that the engine is still running. The new software upgrade will reduce the time that an idle Volt can be in the on position. The recall is for model years 2011-2013.