Business & Tech

Deaths Lead to Massive GM Recall of 780,000 Vehicles

GM has recalled 780,000 vehicles because of a defect that has caused 22 crashes and six fatalities.

By Brian Slupski

GM is recalling 780,000 vehicles because of a defect that has caused at least 22 crashes and six fatalities, ABC News reported.

The recall of older-model compact cars is related to a faulty ignition switch that can cause engines to shut off without warning. The problem has been tied to Chevrolet Cobalts from 2005 to 2007 and from Pontiac G5s from 2007.

USA Today called the recall "extraordinary." The newspaper noted that automaker recalls rarely involve flaws that have actually resulted in fatalities. " In fact, there are many recalls in which no accidents or injuries are reported, and the recall is because the car company noticed a flaw by monitoring reports from dealers and complaints from owners," the newspaper stated. 

The Los Angeles Times reported that the recall involves 619,122 Cobalts and G5s sold in the U.S. The rest of the cars impacted by the recall were sold in Canada and Mexico.

“All of these crashes occurred off-road and at high speeds, where the probability of serious or fatal injuries was high regardless of airbag deployment. In addition, failure to wear seat belts and alcohol use were factors in some of these cases,” the newspaper quoted a statement from GM.

According to GM, a very heavy key ring or chain can pull the key into "accessory" or "off" the Times reported, shutting off the engine and some electrical components.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here