GM recalls 83,000 SUVs and trucks for faulty ignitions

Nanci Hellmich | USA TODAY

General Motors closed the year with one final recall on an issue that has dogged the company all year: faulty ignitions.

GM is recalling 83,572 SUVs and trucks because a faulty ignition may move out of the "start" position causing the vehicle to stall and the airbags not to deploy in the event of a crash.

The models involved are 2011-12 Chevrolet Silverado HDs, Silverado LDs, Suburbans, Tahoes, Avalanches; GMC Sierra LDs, Sierra HDs, Yukons, Yukon XLs; and Cadillac Escalades, along with ESV and EXT versions. Also possibly affected are 2007-14 vehicles repaired with defective parts. GM says fewer than 500 vehicles are expected to have the condition.

The Detroit automaker said in a statement to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: "The ignition lock actuator may bind, making turning the key difficult or causing the ignition to get stuck in the 'start' position. If stuck in the 'start' position, the ignition may suddenly snap back into the 'accessory' position, causing a loss of engine, steering, and braking power, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash. If the vehicle is in a crash, the air bags may not deploy, increasing the risk of occupant injury."

GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the ignition lock housing, as necessary, free of charge.

As of Dec. 10, the company knew of no crashes, injuries or fatalities associated with this issue, which was discovered through an internal review following warranty parts returns.

GM, which has recalled millions of vehicles due to faulty ignition switches, has agreed so far to pay out compensation for more than 40 deaths from a victims fund it set up, and still faces numerous lawsuits. It also took a $2.5 billion charge against earnings for recall costs in the first half of the year.

The company said it is also recalling 152 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500s, and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles manufactured Nov. 24-25, 2014. "Due to an improper heat-treatment, the rear axle shaft may crack while the vehicle is being driven," GM said. "If the rear axle shaft fractures, the rear wheel may separate from the axle shaft, increasing the risk of a crash."

And it is recalling 56 2015 Chevrolet Silverado HD diesel vehicles and GMC Sierra HD diesel vehicles built in a three-week period ending Oct. 21 because the hose clamp that secures the fuel tank vent line may not have been properly tightened during assembly. GM said a loose hose clamp could allow the fuel tank vent line to detach, which may result in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.