Things appear to be getting worse for General Motors. After a seemingly standard recall has mushroomed into a crisis and an inquiry from the Department of Justice, the embattled automaker is issuing another recall notice. This time, there will be five separate recalls which will affect more than 2.5 million vehicles.
In past posts, we have highlighted the recalls involving faulty ignition switches. The newest recalls will focus on the following:
Brake lamps – Possible corrosion in the brake light wiring system could prevent brake lights from coming on when a driver puts on the brakes. The corrosion could also affect other systems, including the electronic stability control and panic braking assist functions. The recall for this issue affects 2004 through 2012 Chevy Malibus, 2004 through 2007 Chevy Malibu Maxx models, 2005 through 2010 Pontiac G6’s and 2007 through 2010 Saturn Auras.
Windshield wipers – When a vehicle is jump started, the windshield wiper system can be completely disabled. This issue affects 2013 and 2014 Cadillac CTS models.
Braking systems – A software problem could affect a vehicle’s hydraulic braking system, which could lead to drivers having to exert additional pressure and extending stopping distances. This issue affects 2014 Chevy Malibu models.
As we have noted before, recalls are important for manufacturers and consumers alike. A manufacturer has a continuing duty to address issues that can put consumers at an unreasonable risk of harm. If they fail to do so, and a defect is found to be the cause of an accident, the manufacturer could be held liable.
It remains to be seen how the newest recalls will affect lawsuits currently involving these vehicles.
Source: Yahoo Autos “Huge GM Recall: Chevrolet Corvette, Malibu, Silverado, Tahoe, Cadillac CTS, GMC Sierra, more,” Richard Read, May 15, 2014