GM recalling 400,000+ Chevy Cruzes

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NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- General Motors is recalling 413,418 Chevrolet Cruze small cars to modify an engine shield that could create a fire hazard.

The engine shield, a large plastic piece that is installed under the front of the car to protect the engine, could trap oil that is accidentally spilled or dripped during oil changes.

Also, in cars with manual transmissions, driving with a worn clutch can cause burning hydraulic fluid to squirt from the clutch housing. The flaming fluid can ignite the engine shield leading to an engine compartment fire.

In a separate action involving some of the same cars, GM dealers will also inspect welds in the rear compartment to ensure they were properly applied. As many of the 249 of the cars may have incomplete welds.

The recalls follow a preliminary investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration into two engine compartment fires in 2011 Chevrolet Cruzes.

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