The Associated Press
General Motors announced four new recalls on Friday, bringing this year’s total to 38. So far the company has recalled about 14.4 million cars, trucks and SUVs in the U.S. and 16.5 million in North America. Earlier this year GM passed its old U.S. full-year recall record of 10.75 million vehicles set in 2004.
The latest recalls include:
— Almost 512,000 Chevrolet Camaros from model years 2010 to 2014 to fix an ignition switch problem. GM says in rare cases, drivers who sit close to the steering column could bump the switchblade-style keys with their knees, causing the switches to slip out of the run position. This can cause engine stalling and loss of power steering and brakes. The problem has caused three crashes and four minor injuries, GM says. The switches are different from an earlier small-car recall, and unlike the small cars, they meet GM standards for the force needed to turn them, the company says. Dealers will replace the switchblade keys with a standard key and a new Fob that is separated from the key.
— Nearly 29,000 Saab 9-3 convertibles from the 2004-2011 model years. A cable in the driver’s seat belt tension system can break and the belt won’t retract. Convertible seat belt parts are different from sedan parts, the company said. GM took action after finding out about customer complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the statement said. Passenger belts on the 2004 models will get a lifetime warranty. GM says it knows of no crashes or injuries from the problem.
— Nearly 22,000 Chevy Sonic subcompact cars from the 2012 model year with six-speed automatic transmissions and 1.8-liter four-cylinder engines. A transmission turbine shaft can fracture, GM said. If it happens in the first two gears, the transmission won’t be able to shift into higher gears. If it occurs in a higher gear, the car would coast until it slows to the point that it can downshift into first or second. The transmissions can fail if driven for a long time with the problem, GM said. Dealers will replace the shaft. The company says it knows of no crashes or injuries from the problem.
— Almost 14,800 2014 Buick LaCrosse sedans. A wiring splice in the driver’s door can rust and break, messing up circuits that control the door chime and control the electric windows and sunroof. Dealers will inspect the wires and replace the splice if needed. No injuries have been reported from the problem.
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