General Motors said today it is recalling another 1.5 million vehicles worldwide because the electronic power-steering assist can suddenly stop working, making them harder to steer. The new recall brings to 6.3 million the number of vehicles GM has recalled since February. The initial recall—now at 2.6 million small cars for an ignition switch defect—prompted the automaker to name a new safety chief and speed up the review of cases that might lead to recalls. GM said it expects recall-related costs to total $750 million in the first quarter, including $300 million for the ignition switch recall. Included in the new recall are:
- Chevrolet Malibu from 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, Saturn Auras, Saturn Ions, and Pontiac G6's will also be recalled. GM says no deaths related to the defect have been reported, and is still investigating whether accidents or injuries have occurred. GM dealers will replace the power steering motor and other parts for free. In related news, see how regulators ignored warnings
on a deadly GM glitch. (More
General Motors stories.)