Not quite as dangerous as Toyotas defects, but GM is recalling 905,000 Chevy Cobalt‘s voluntarily because the vechicles power steering COULD fail. Not as life threatening as sudden acceleration or inability to brake, but still potentially dangerous for some.
The recalls target Chevy Cobalt model years 2005 through 2010. An additional 400,000 Pontiac G5′s, G4′s, and Pursuits are also affected by this recall. General Motors announced the recall after a year long investigation into the problem was finished. After all the trouble Toyota has been experiencing from not coming forward more quickly on their recalls, I think GM was smart to announce the recall as quickly as possible.
As is the case with most consumer items, the power steering fault seems to take a long time to present itself and most occur AFTER the vehicle is out of it’s warranty period. GM assured Chevy Cobalt owners that the defect is not a safety issue, as you can still steer the vehicle in a power steering failure, it just might be a little harder to steer. A chime warning and warning light also inform chevy cobalt owners that their power steering has failed.
GM initiated an investigation into 905,000 Chevy Cobalts in January 2009 after 1,100 complaints of power steering failure, including 14 crashes possibly caused by the defect, and one injury. So if you own a 2005 thru 2010 Chevy Cobalt, you should contact your local General Motors Chevy Cobalt dealer.
