Exclusive: GM replacing some 9,500 Chevrolet Volt chargers after overheating complaints

Four months ago, Yahoo! Autos reported about complaints from Chevrolet Volt owners whose 120-volt charging cords overheated and in a few cases melted, raising questions about the cords' durability. At the time, General Motors told us it was confident the cords were safe, saying the heating was likely due to wiring problems in the outlets.

This week, GM reversed course. It will now replace the 120-volt chargers in all Volts sold so far -- roughly 9,500 vehicles -- with a new unit featuring a more heat-resistant cord and plug.

GM spokesman Randal Fox says the move, which GM does not consider a recall or a safety issue, was meant to "offer a more consistent charging experience." Volt owners will be notified of the swap by letter in the next few weeks.