Following a federal probe into a potentially faulty power steering motor, General Motors has announced it will recall 1.3 million cars in North America. The recall would cover 2005- through 2010-model year Chevrolet Cobalts and 2007-2010 Pontiac G5s, along with similar models in Canada and Mexico.
Complaints had been filed about power steering failures that could make the vehicles difficult to control.
"After our in-depth investigation, we found that this is a condition that takes time to develop. It tends to occur in older models out of warranty," GM vice president of quality Jamie Hresko said.
"Recalling these vehicles is the right thing to do for our customers' peace of mind," he added.
GM's Hresko insisted the vehicles under recall were still safe to drive. "While greater steering effort under 15 miles per hour may be required, these vehicles are safe to drive because the customer can still steer the vehicle," he said. "When the condition occurs, both a chime will sound and a 'Power Steering' message will be displayed" in the vehicle, he said.
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched a probe of 905,000 Chevrolet Cobalts earlier this year after receiving more than 1,100 consumer complaints, which included reports of 14 crashes and one injury.
Of the two brands affected by the GM recall, the company is phasing out its iconic Pontiac brand by the end of this year.
Copyright Agence France-Presse, 2010
