Another ignition-switch defect prompts GM pickup, SUV recall

General Motors has launched a recall campaign focused on a newly discovered problem with ignition switches in trucks and SUVs from the 2014-2015 model years.

Some vehicles may have been manufactured with an ignition lock actuator gear that is too large, exceeding the diameter specifications and consequently making it difficult to turn the ignition key. Thermal expansion appears to play a role, causing the key to get stuck in the ‘start’ position at higher interior ambient temperatures.

If the key sticks in the ‘start’ position and the vehicle hits a bump or the interior temperature cools, it can flip back past the ‘run’ and into the ‘accessory’ position. Such behavior is similar to the problems GM had with ignition-switches in millions of older vehicles.

“This would result in a loss of motive power and affect power steering and power brake system function, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property,” according to a Transport Canada recall notice spotted by Autoblog. “The timing of the key movement out of the “run” position, relative to the activation of the sensing algorithm in a crash event, may also result in the airbags not deploying in a subsequent collision, increasing the risk of injury.”

The problem affects a relatively small batch of just a few thousand vehicles including the 2014 light-duty Chevrolet Silverado GMC Sierra, along with the 2015 Silverado HD, Suburban, Tahoe and GMC Sierra HD.