Not long after the announcement of a $35 million fine to be paid by General Motors (GM) related to a dangerous ignition switch defect, the car manufacturer has announced numerous additional recalls because of potentially dangerous defects. Industry experts suspect that GM issued the recalls to be in compliance with auto safety regulations and to avoid any other potential sanctions. The following safety concerns have been identified, and GM recommends that anyone with any of these cars should stop driving immediately:
2015 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2014 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2014 GMC Sierra: These vehicles may have an improperly tightened tie rod and steering rack, which can cause the components to separate suddenly and cause steering loss. GM recommends that owners arrange towing for service rather than driving into the dealer.
2014 Chevrolet Malibu with stop/start technology and 2.5-liter engine: A software glitch can suddenly disable certain hydraulic brake functions, causing partial brake failure, and accidents.
2013-2014 Cadillac CTS: Jump-starting the battery can disable the windshield wiper system.
2005-2007 Chevrolet Corvette: Engine heat can cause wires related to the low-beam headlights to bend, which will suddenly disable the headlights. GM does not yet know how this problem will be repaired.
2007-2010 Saturn Aura, 2004-2007 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx, 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, and the 2005-2010 Pontiac G6: Over 2 million of these vehicles have a corrosive wiring harness, which can cause the following problems:
- Keep the brake light from turning on when the brakes are pressed;
- Turn on the brake lights without pressing the brakes;
- Disable cruise control;
- Disable electronic stability control;
- Disable traction control; and
- Disable panic braking assist.
This final recall has already caused at least 13 accidents, at least two of which caused injuries and some that may have cause fatalities due to brake light problems. Additionally, GM reports receiving hundreds of consumer complaints about these various problems.
If you drive any of the above vehicles, you should contact GM immediately at 800-222-1020 and avoid driving your vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will also have some information regarding at least some of the recalls and can be reached at 888-327-4236.
Contact a Product Liability Attorney for Help
If you have suffered a serious injury in an accident caused by an auto defect, you may be entitled to receive significant compensation by the auto manufacturer for your injuries. Undoubtedly, GM will face future lawsuits filed by injured motorists who crashed due to the various defects, and the attorneys at Lopez McHugh, LLP are prepared to assist in such lawsuits. Do not hesitate to contact our office for help and to schedule a free consultation.
