Chevy Cruz Recall: 154,000 with Possible Steering Problems

Turning and shifting. Basic functions for any vehicle, large or small.

General Motors has announced a recall of 154,112 Chevrolet Cruz automobiles to inspect for two different defects, reports the Associated Press.

The first recall involves steering. Last month, GM recalled 2,100 Cruzes to inspect for an improperly-fastened for problems steering column. Now, GM has discovered a steering column defect on all Cruz compacts manufactured from last summer until April 21st in GM's Lordstown, Ohio factory. The vehicles were sold in the U.S. and Canada.

GM decided to recall all 154,112 Cruzes to inspect for the "very few" vehicles with steering shaft issues, reports Reuters.

The second part of the recall addresses problems with automatic transmissions. Of the 154,112 vehicles recalled, about 120,000 might have problems with installation of the automatic transmission linkage, resulting in the transmission remaining engaged when in the "Park" position, reports Associated Press. Faulty linkage installation on the recalled models could allow a vehicle to move forward with the gears engaged, even though the driver has shifted to "Park."

GM reports no accidents or injuries have resulted from either of the two defects addressed in the current recall, and has reported the recall to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Reuters reports.

Not surprisingly at a time of high fuel prices, the Cruze, GM's headliner high-mileage compact, was the company's top-selling car in April. Only the Chevrolet Silverado sold more units for GM last month.

If you want to turn or shift your Cruz, please take notice.

Related Resources:

• In Sweeping Action, GM Recalls 154,000 Chevrolet Cruz Models (New York Times)
• Chevy Recalls Cruze for Steering, Shift-Lever Problems (The Wall Street Journal)
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Recalls & Defects (U.S. Government)