DETROIT — General Motors is recalling more than 243,000 large crossovers because of potential damage to the second-row seat belts that can cause the belt to feel properly latched when it isn’t.
The voluntary recall covers the 2009 and 2010 Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook.

GM said Tuesday that it decided to recall the vehicles after finding damaged seat belt buckles during warranty work. When customers fold the crossovers’ second row of seats and then return it to its upright position, a faulty piece of interior trim can push the buckles’ cover too far down the strap. This can hamper the seat-belt release button and possibly cause it to jam.

In some cases, passengers could think the buckle is latched when it isn’t.

GM’s recall comes as automakers face heightened safety scrutiny in the aftermath of Toyota’s worldwide recall of about 9.5 million vehicles because of Prius brake problems and floor mats and accelerator pedals linked to unintended acceleration in other Toyota and Lexus vehicles.

To repair the crossovers, GM dealerships will modify a plastic piece on the interiors that can damage the belt buckles, spokesman Alan Adler said. They will also repair any damaged seat belts.

GM will start sending customers letters this month to inform them of the recall so they can schedule the free repairs. Most of the affected vehicles are in the U.S., but some are also in countries such as Canada, Mexico, China and Saudi Arabia.

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