GM Recalls 1.5 Million Cars Due To Steering Defect

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General Motors Co. said Monday it is recalling 1.5 million vehicles worldwide because the electronic power-steering assist can suddenly cease working making them harder to steer.

The new recall brings to 6.3 million the number of vehicles GM has recalled since February. The original recall – now at 2.6 million small cars for an ignition switch defect – prompted the automaker to call a new safety chief and speed up the review of cases that might result in recalls.

GM said it expects recall-related costs to total $750 million from the first quarter, including $300 million for the ignition switch recall.

Included in the new recall are:

– Chevrolet Malibu through the 2004-2005 model years, plus some 2006, 2008 and 2009 model-year cars.

– Chevrolet Malibu Maxx from the 2004-2005 model years, plus some 2006 model-year cars.

– Chevrolet HHR from the 2009-2010 model years (non-turbocharged only).

– Some Chevrolet Cobalts from the 2010 model year.

– Some Saturn Auras from the 2008-2009 model years.

– Saturn Ion in the 2004-2007 model years.

– Pontiac G6 from the 2005 model year, plus some cars in the 2006, 2008 and 2009 model years.

Under a previous recal, – Service parts installed into certain vehicles before May31 and 2010l

GM says no deaths related to the defect have already been reported. It is still investigating whether we have seen any accidents or injuries related to the issue.

GM dealers will replace the power steering motor as well as other parts totally free. Spokesman Alan Adler said owners will likely be notified of the recall the week of April 28 and will also be told when parts can be found after that.

The Cobalt as well as the Ion, which are also working in the ignition switch recall, share many common parts.GM recalled Cobalts from the 2005-2010 model years for the power steering defect in 2010, but it’s unclear why the business didn’t recall the Ion at the same time.