Recall 04V036000: Ignition Switch Fire Hazard

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:

Buick / Skylark 1998

Chevrolet / Cavalier 1998-2001

Oldsmobile / Achieva 1998

Pontiac / Grand AM 1998

Pontiac / Sunfire 1998-2001

MANUFACTURER : General Motors Corp.

NHTSA Campaign ID Number : 04V036000

Recall Date : JAN 27, 2004

COMPONENT: Electrical System: Ignition Switch

Potential Number Of Units Affected : 1415231

SUMMARY:
On certain passenger vehicles, if the engine fails to start and the driver holds the key in the "START" position for an extended period, high current flows through the ignition switch, and sometimes produces enough heat to melt internal switch parts.

CONSEQUENCE:
If the switch is damaged, a fire could occur in the steering column, even with the engine off and the key removed. The fire could spread to the interior of the car, which could injure occupants or cause damage to adjoining structures.

REMEDY:
Dealers will install a relay kit in these vehicles to prevent high current from flowing through the ignition switch, and check that your car will start with a properly charged battery and, if necessary, replace the ignition switch. Owner notification will begin on march 1, 2004. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, Pontiac at 1-800-620-7668, Buick at 1-866-608-8080, or Oldsmobile at 1-800-630-6537. Customers can also check their vehicle online by going to www.mygmlink.com and entering the vehicle's identification number.

NOTES:
GM Recall NO. 04002. Customers can also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).