General Motors announced on Thursday that it will recall nearly 780,000 compact cars in North America due to a faulty ignition switch shutting off engines without warning.
A GM spokesperson reported a total of six people have died in 22 total accidents linked to the faulty ignition switch in Chevrolet Cobalts from model years 2005 to 2007, and Pontiac G5s from 2007.
The issue may occur when a heavy key ring, along with adverse roads, move the ignition switch from the run position turning off the engine and all electrical power, including the airbags.
The company is aware of six people being killed in five front-end accidents, which all occurred off-road and at increased speeds where the probability of an airbag saving a life was decreased. In some cases, the occupants were not wearing seat belts and alcohol was involved.
GM auto dealers will replace the ignition switch free of charge, however the timing of the recall is not final. General Motors recommends removing all non-essential items from your key chain until the defective product has been replaced.
In total, there will be 619,000 cars recalled in the United States, 153,000 in Canada, and over 6,000 in Mexico.
If you or someone you love has been injured as a result of this defective ignition switch, our auto accident attorneys would like to speak with you. Our injury attorneys can be reached by calling (865) 247-0080 or by completing the free case evaluation form on this page.
