General Motors had a rocky 2014, leading a to decline in reputation and the angst of lawsuits from their numerous vehicle recalls. To close out the year, another recall was issued by the manufacturer regarding faulty ignitions. The issue was a prevalent one throughout 2014, and it is with high hopes this will be a final chapter for the recalls issued by GM. The company recalled nearly 31 million vehicles in 2014 - a majority stemming from faulty ignitions, which lead to 42 deaths.
The newest recall affects the following vehicles:
2011-2012 models faulty ignition
- Chevy Silverado HD
- Silverado LD
- Suburban
- Tahoe
- Avalanche GMC Sierra LD
- Sierra HD
- Yukon
- Yukon XL
- Cadillac Escalade, ESV, EXT
2014 improper heat treatment
- GMC Sierra 1500 manufactured between Nov. 24-25
2015 improper heat treatment
- Chevy Silverado 1500
2015 hose clamp defected - built in late September/October 2014.
- 2015 Chevy Silverado HD diesel models
- GMC Sierra HD diesel models
GM released a statement to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advising the lock “actuator may bind, making turning the key difficult.” Additionally, the ignition could get stuck in the “start” position, causing “a loss of engine, steering and braking power” leading to a higher chance of the vehicle crashing. To make matters worse, the air bags may not properly deploy if this happened.
The company performed an internal review, and discovered the faulty ignition switches. They will notify all affected owners, and replace the part, free of charge.
For the improper heat treatment issue affecting selected models, it can create a crack in the rear axle shaft while the vehicle is in motion. If it does, the risk of a crash increases.
The hose clamp defect noted in selected models may have not beeen properly tightened during the assembly process. Not all models are affected, but if the vehicle does suffer from a loose hose clamp, that can lead to a fuel leak and possibly a fire.
GM informed government officials on December 23rd, but did not publicly release the information until Thursday. Concerned vehicle owners can contact their local dealership for more information or visit the GM recall site to enter their VIN to see if their vehicle is affected. For additional questions, the site has a listing of toll free numbers.