GM to Recall 413,400 Chevy Cruze Cars

General Motors Inc. is recalling 2011-2012 model Chevrolet Cruze sedan to fix a design flaw that can allow engine oil or hydraulic fluid to accumulate below the engine and cause a fire.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the problem can occur if the car's oil is improperly changed. Spilled oil can collect on a plastic shield under the engine and be ignited by the hot engine or exhaust system.

The engine shield in models with manual transmissions can catch fire if the car is driven after the clutch has completely worn out. NHTSA says the clutch housing could vent hydraulic fluid that is ignited by the engine.

GM says it received 30 reports of fires but is aware of no related accidents or injuries. Affected cars were assembled at GM's plant in Lordstown, Ohio.

The Cruze was GM's best-selling model last year. Demand so far this year is down 3%, according to Autodata Corp. The embarrassing recall comes only two days after GM posted its best results ever in the closely followed J.D. Power and Associates initial quality survey.