GM Under NHTSA's Microscope for Recall Timing
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating GM’s timeliness regarding its expanded ignition switch recall.
General Motors is in the spotlight for faulty ignition switches that have resulted in a recall of nearly 1.4 million cars. The regulatory agency will make sure GM followed proper legal procedures and met all reporting requirements. Supposedly, the company has known about this issue since 2004. Federal regulations require manufacturers to inform NHTSA of safety problems within five business days. Failure to comply can result in a penalty; right now GM faces a maximum fine of $35 million.
Earlier this week, GM added an additional 588,000 vehicles to the ignition recall; affected vehicles include 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt and 2007 Pontiac G5; the 2003-2007 Saturn Ion is implicated as well and so are 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHRs; lastly the 2007 Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky sports cars are affected.
Problems with ignition modules can cause a vehicle’s engine to shut off, cutting power and preventing the airbags from deploying in a crash. The issue has allegedly resulted in 31 crashes and 13 fatalities.
[Source: Automotive News]
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Born and raised in metro Detroit, Craig was steeped in mechanics from childhood. He feels as much at home with a wrench or welding gun in his hand as he does behind the wheel or in front of a camera. Putting his Bachelor's Degree in Journalism to good use, he's always pumping out videos, reviews, and features for AutoGuide.com. When the workday is over, he can be found out driving his fully restored 1936 Ford V8 sedan. Craig has covered the automotive industry full time for more than 10 years and is a member of the Automotive Press Association (APA) and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA).
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Tired of GM's crappy cars. Going to buy a Toyota like everyone else.