— In today's "you gotta be kidding me" section, General Motors announced another recall involving an ignition switch that can move out of the "run" position. However, GM says this ignition switch problem is unrelated to the switch in Chevy Cobalts and other cars connected to numerous deaths and accidents.
Additionally, GM announced three recalls for three models because of defects related to transmissions, seat belts, and wiring problems.
By GM's reckoning, the total number of recalls so far this year is 38, totaling over 14.4 million cars in the U.S. alone.
Chevy Camaro
Over 511,000 model year 2010-2014 Chevy Camaro sports cars each have an ignition system that can move out of the "run" position with a simple bump of the knee. The problem is caused by the key FOB which has the key concealed in the FOB and is opened by pushing a button. One bump of the knee to the FOB can cause the FOB and key to turn the ignition switch.
GM says they are aware of three crashes and four injuries caused by the defect. However, the automaker hasn't indicated when it learned of the accidents and injuries.
GM dealers will change the Camaro key to a standard design where the ignition key and FOB are separate, not one combined unit. All 511,528 cars will need new keys.
This is the second time in a week the Chevy Camaro has been on the recall block. The 2012 Camaro was recently recalled for air bag problems.
Saab 9-3
GM says almost 28,000 model year 2004-2011 Saab 9-3 convertibles are recalled because of problems with the driver-side front seat belt retractor. The defect is caused by an automatic tensioning system cable that can break and cause failure of the seat belt to retract.
The 9-3 convertibles need the driver-side retractor replaced, however, GM will also extend lifetime coverage to the passenger retractor if it causes problems.
Furthermore, although the 2004 Saab 9-3 sedan has a different retractor system than the convertible, GM extended coverage for the passenger side seat belt retractor on the sedans.
Chevy Sonic
Expect a recall letter if you own one of the 21,567 model year 2012 Chevy Sonic compact cars recalled for transmission problems. GM says the cars come equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions and 1.8-liter four-cylinder engines that have turbine shafts that can break. The car cannot be shifted any higher if the turbine shaft breaks when in first or second gear.
If the turbine shaft fractures while in a higher gear, the car will coast until it is moving slow enough to downshift into first or second gear.
In both instances, a malfunction indicator light might be visible. Although the engine will keep running and all power accessories will work, continuing to drive the car can cause all forward gears to fail.
GM says they are unaware of any crashes or injuries related to the defect, but dealers will still need to replace the transmission turbine shaft.
As with the Camaro, this is the second time in a week the Chevy Sonic has been recalled. The 2012 Sonic was recently recalled for air bag problems.
Buick LaCrosse
GM is recalling almost 15,000 model year 2014 Buick LaCrosse sedans because a wiring splice in the driver’s door may corrode and break. A broken wire means the passenger windows, rear windows and sunroof could continue to function even when the car is turned off. Where it really gets fun is all those devices could open and close without anyone near the car.
In addition, a chime will not sound when the driver’s door is opened if the key is in the ignition.
Dealers will inspect the driver door window motor harness and, if needed, replace an electrical splice.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not released a recall schedule, and all GM says for now is to watch for recall notices in the mail. GM will provide courtesy transportation if you need it.
Do you own one of the cars listed in these recalls? Read what others say about these models or tell us what you think about your car.
