What is the recall on the 2008 Cobalt fuel leak?

GM issued a recall for the 2008 Cobalt and related models to address a potential fuel-line leak that could pose a fire risk. The remedy involved replacing sections of the fuel line and related clamps at no cost to owners.

What triggered the recall

The recall was prompted by findings that under-hood fuel lines in affected vehicles could develop leaks, increasing the risk of a gasoline leak and possible fire if an ignition source is present. Regulators and GM coordinated a remedy to prevent fires and protect drivers and passengers.

Which vehicles were affected

The campaign targeted specific GM compact cars built on the Cobalt platform. The recall commonly includes:

• Chevrolet Cobalt (model years 2005–2009)


• Pontiac G5 (model years 2007–2009)

Owners of these vehicles were advised to verify whether their specific car qualified for the recall by checking the VIN with GM or the NHTSA recall portal.

Remedy and recall process

The fix involved inspecting the fuel-line routing and clamps and, where necessary, replacing the affected fuel-line segments and clamps. In many cases, technicians would re-route the line or add protective measures to prevent chafing. All repairs were performed at no charge to the vehicle owner.

What owners should do

To determine if a specific vehicle is affected and to arrange a repair, owners should follow these steps:

• Check the vehicle identification number (VIN) in the NHTSA recall database or GM’s owner portal to see if a recall applies to your car.


• Contact a GM dealership or GM Customer Care to verify recall status and schedule the free repair.


• Prepare your vehicle information (VIN, mileage, and any current symptoms such as a fuel smell or visible leaks) before your visit.


• If a recall is active, do not delay the repair to minimize any fire risk.

Verifying recall status and completing the repair helps ensure safety and compliance. Keep the repair documentation for future reference.

Summary

The 2008 Cobalt recall was part of a broader GM campaign addressing potential fuel-line leaks in the Cobalt and related models. The approved remedy involved replacing fuel-line segments and clamps and ensuring proper routing, all at no cost to owners. For the most accurate and current information, check the official NHTSA recall site or GM’s owner portal using your VIN, as coverage can vary by manufacturing date and vehicle configuration.

How much does it cost to fix a fuel line leak?

Fixing a car fuel line leak can cost anywhere from $150 to $2,000 or more, with the final price depending on the complexity of the repair, the location of the leak, and local labor rates. A simple, minor repair might cost as little as $150, while a major replacement or extensive work can push the price over $1,000. 
Cost factors

• Type of repair: A small fix, like tightening a fitting or replacing a small section of hose, is much cheaper than replacing a long, corroded metal line. 
• Severity of the damage: If the leak is caused by simple age or a small hole, it's a less expensive fix. If the fuel line is badly rusted, multiple sections may need replacement, which can significantly increase the cost. 
• Location of the leak: Some fuel lines are easier to access than others. Lines in hard-to-reach places require more labor to get to, increasing the price. 
• Labor costs: The hourly rate for mechanics varies by location and shop. 
• Parts needed: The cost of replacement parts can vary. A flexible rubber hose is often inexpensive, but rigid metal lines or specialized fuel injection lines can cost more. 

What to expect

• Simple repair (around $150): This might involve replacing a small, accessible section of rubber fuel hose or repairing a fitting. 
• Average repair (around $300-$500): This can include replacing a longer section of the fuel line or addressing a more complex leak. 
• Major repair (up to $2,000+): This price range typically involves a complete fuel line replacement, especially if rust has affected multiple parts of the system. It can also include replacing other components, like the fuel pump or sending unit. 

What is the lawsuit on the Chevy Cobalt?

If you or your family were hurt while driving a Chevrolet Cobalt produced between 2005-2010 because the ignition switch failed to hold its position properly, then you may be eligible for substantial compensation. GM has set aside $400 million to settle claims arising from its faulty ignition switches.

Is there a recall on 2009 Chevy Cobalt gas leaks?

In 2012, GM recalled nearly 50,000 models, including 2008-2009 Cobalts, for a faulty fuel pump that could crack, especially in warm weather states.

Are there any recalls on a 2008 Chevy Cobalt?

The 2008 Chevy Cobalt has several recalls, including issues with the electric power steering (sudden loss of assist at low speeds), a problem with the ignition key potentially being removed while not in the "Off" position, and an electrical system issue related to the 2014 recall (NHTSA recall 14V171000). Other recalls are also available, but the specific recalls that apply to a particular vehicle can be confirmed by checking with the VIN.
 
This video discusses GM recalls for the 2005-2007 Cobalt and Pontiac G5 due to airbag issues: 34sWCPO 9YouTube · Feb 13, 2014
Recalls by issue

• Electric Power Steering: Recall number 10V073000 addressed a condition where drivers could experience a sudden loss of power steering assist. 
• Ignition Key: A recall (NHTSA 12V459000) was issued for vehicles where the key can be removed from the ignition when the vehicle is not in the "Off" position. 
• Electrical System (2014): Recall 14V171000 deals with the electrical system and is related to the ignition key issue mentioned above. 

How to check for your specific vehicle

• Use the VIN: Visit the NHTSA website and enter your vehicle's 17-character VIN to get a list of all open recalls for your specific car. 
• Check with a dealer: Contact a Chevy dealer and provide them with your VIN to see if any recalls apply to your vehicle. 
• Consult recall resources: Websites like Kelley Blue Book and Cars.com provide recall information based on year, make, and model. 

This video explains how the ignition switches failed in the Chevy Cobalt and why this is dangerous: 1mCBC NewsYouTube · Oct 20, 2014