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Important GM Canada Ignition Switch Recall Information
General Motors recalled 2.6 million vehicles for a defect in the ignition switch. GM found that the ignition switch can move out of the “run” position, which can cause the car to lose power and the engine to shut off. Read out to learn more about the ignition switch recall and if your car is subject to it.
GM Ignition Switch Defects
GM explains that the risk of part failure increases when extra weight is on the key ring, including extra keys, key rings, or the key fob. Riding on rough road conditions that cause a jarring motion can also increase the likelihood of ignition switch failure.
When the ignition switch moves out the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the car is involved in an accident, which greatly increases the risk of injury or fatality. In fact, this defect is responsible for numerous injuries and at least 13 fatalities to date.
Cars Affected by the Ignition Switch Recall
If you own one of the recalled GM vehicles, you are advised to contact your GM service center to schedule an appointment for repairs. The repairs will be made free of charge.
The affected cars include the following.
- 2003-2007 Saturn ION.
- 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt.
- 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR.
- 2007-2010 Pontiac G5.
- 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice.
- 2007-2010 Saturn Sky.
You should also receive a notification letter from GM in the mail if your vehicle is subject to the ignition switch recall, which explains the issue and the recommended remedy. If you paid for the repairs out of pocket, you can contact GM at 1-800-263-3777 for instructions on requesting reimbursement.
Steps to Take If Your Vehicle is Subject to the Ignition Switch Recall
If your car has been recalled and you’re waiting to take your car to your scheduled repair, the GM website advises you to do the following.
- remove all items from your key ring, including the key fob.
- for automatic cars, ensure your car is in park before exiting the vehicle.
- for cars with a manual transmission, put your car in reverse gear before exiting.
- and, use the parking brake when exiting the vehicle.
“Depending on the added weight to the key ring, if you do NOT take these steps, rough road conditions or other jarring or impact related events could cause the key to unintentionally rotate from the “run” to “accessory” position. If the ignition switch is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury or fatality,” explains GM.
Reimbursement for Injuries and Fatalities
GM has adopted a voluntary compensation plan that pays automobile accident victims (or their families) who were physically injured or killed as a result of defective GM ignition switches. “[The compensation plan] was established to process and pay claims in a timely fashion, and to treat victims and their families with compassion, decency and fairness,” explains GM.
However, accident victims and their families should be aware that they may be eligible for additional financial restitution through a personal injury or wrongful death claim. If you or your loved one were seriously injured as a result of the manufacturer’s defect such as that leading to the ignition switch recall, you may have a right to be compensated for your losses. To discuss your options, consult with a lawyer in your area.
Preszler Injury Lawyers in Ontario Can Help GM Accident Victims
For legal counsel about an accident involving a vehicle in Ontario subject to the ignition switch recall, contact Preszler Injury Lawyers for assistance. Contact a lawyer today at 1-800-JUSTICE® for a free legal consultation.
