Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 2009 Gem El — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
1
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
GEM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 NEIGHBORHOOD ELECTRIC VEHICLES. THE PARKING BRAKE CABLE MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY CRIMPED. THIS COULD CAUSE THE PARKING BRAKE CABLE TO SEPARATE FROM THE ACTUATOR HANDLE WHILE APPLIED.
Consequence
THE VEHICLE COULD ROLL AWAY ON A HILL CREATING A RISK OF CRASH OR INJURY.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PARKING BRAKE LEVER ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 10, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GEM AT 866-764-0616.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 2009 Gem El. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
NHTSA opened one investigation into this model year; all are now closed.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.