General Motors recalls several models for power steering problems
General Motors is recalling several models – 2008 Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6, and Saturn Aura – for power steering problems. Affected vehicles may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist, which could occur at any time while driving.
The General Motors logo is seen on display at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. General Motors is recalling several models – 2008 Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6, and Saturn Aura – for power steering problems.
Paul Sancya/AP/File
General Motors [NYSE:GM] is recalling 2008 Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6, and Saturn Aura for electric power steering (EPS) problems.
Affected vehicles may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist, which could occur at any time while driving. If this occurs, a message is displayed in the Driver Information Center and a chime to inform the driver. The system will revert to manual steering mode, which will allow vehicle control but will require greater effort to steer the vehicle at low speeds, which would increase the risk of a crash.
This brings the total number of GM vehicles recalled this year to close to 40 million, and in just six and a half months so far this year covers over 40 separate safety-related actions. By comparison, the entire auto industry recalled 27.96 million vehicles last year. In one fell swoop, GM has set the record for the most recalls for one automaker in a single year, and there's still lots more time to go for 2014, so it'll be interesting to see where the final number lands.
On affected Malibu, G6, and Aura models, dealers will replace the torque sensor assembly and/or the power steering motor controlled unit.
Courtesy transportation will be made available for customers who need it. If you previously paid for repairs to be done on this condition, it may be eligible for GM's reimbursement program. Ask your dealer or GM customer service for needed documentation, which must be submitted along with supporting info to GM by no later than July 31, 2015.
The best way to determine if a vehicle is involved in this recall is to call local dealers with the vehicle in question's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and ask them to run a database search to see if the vehicle is involved. For more info or answers to questions call GM customer service at 800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 800-762-2737 (Pontiac), or 800-553-6000 (Saturn). Or call NHTSA at 888-327-4236.