General Motors (GM) has recalled 1,367,146  vehicles: the 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, the 2007 Pontiac G5, the 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, the 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR, the 2006-2007 Pontiac Solstice and the 2007 Saturn Sky vehicles due to a faulty ignition switch.  The defect allows the key to unintentionally slip from the “run” to “off” or “accessory” position while the vehicle is being operated. This problem can occur especially when using heavy key rings, and causes the ignition to turn off and stall while in motion.  The stalled engine can turn off power steering and power brakes, making the vehicle difficult to control and creating a hazardous emergency situation.  Additionally, with the loss of power, the air bag system is disabled and rendered useless in an ensuing crash.  There have been reported to be at least 34 collisions, resulting in 12 fatalaties, caused by this defective product.  As part of the recall, GM dealers will be replacing ignition switches and recommend taking non-essential items off key rings until the ignition switch has been replaced.

Stephen I. Leshner has been representing people injured by defective automotive products for the past 37 years.  If you or someone close to you has received serious injuries or death caused in a crash with one of the listed GM vehicles, please call Steve Leshner for a free consultation.