The automaker said some of the cars could be missing an inner or outer brake pad, which would affect the vehicle's stopping distance.
The recall involves Sonics that came from a Michigan assembly plant.
Customers affected by the recall will receive a letter beginning Jan. 14. asking them to bring their vehicle in for inspection.
Dealers will inspect the front brakes for missing inner or outer pads and, if a pad is missing, install new pads. If needed, a new brake caliper or brake rotor, or both, will also be installed.
GM said the problem "is expected to exist in very few cars," and that no crashes or injuries have resulted from this recall.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
