General Motors is recalling nearly 1.5 million Buick, Chevrolet, Oldsmobile and Pontiac mid-sized cars due to a potential engine oil leak that could cause a fire. A total of 1,497,516 vehicles equipped with 3.8 liter engines are involved in the recall.

Recalled were the 1997-2003 Buick Regal; 1998-2003 Chevrolet Lumina, Monte Carlo and Impala; 1998-99 Oldsmobile Intrigue; and 1997-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The recall notice states that: "If the manifold is hot enough and the oil runs below the heath shield, it may ignite into a small flame and spread to the plastic spark plug wire channel and beyond, increasing the risk of an engine compartment fire."

Car owners are advised to contact a dealer who will remove the spark plug wire retention channel at the front of the engine and install two new spark plug wire retainers at no charge. The recall is expected to begin in May. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, Oldsmobile at 1-800-630-6537, and Pontiac at 1-800-620-7668 or visit the Pontiac or GM Web sites.