To be fair to GM, some of the recalls in question affect cars that are either out of production models, or cars due to be updated shortly.
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| GM does have a strong point, being that all 2.4 million recalled vehicles affect either out of production models, or vehicles due to be updated shortly. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
"We're attempting to do our best to improve quality," stated GM spokesman Jim Schell. "Some of these recalls are being conducted on vehicles that are over five years old, sometimes seven years old."
Case in point, this latest recall affects 1997 through 2004 model year Corvettes, a model that is due to be replaced this summer with a completely revised 2005 model expected to be an improvement in every way.
The latest recall is the result of electronic column lock steering columns which can lock into place while the car is in motion. To GM's credit it isn't reacting from owner complaints about the problem, but is proactively fixing the steering column before an accident happens - none have been reported.
GM created a failsafe system that shuts off fuel to the engine if the lock fails to release when the engine is turned on, but the fuel shut-off might not work if an electronic control malfunctions, making it possible to drive the car while the steering wheel is locked.
If you own an affected car you will be notified in the second quarter of 2004, with instructions to bring your car to your GM dealer to have the problem fixed.
Only time will tell if this last week of recalls is a mere coincidence of coinciding problems or a sign of continued quality glitches. Oh, how perceptions can turn in a single week.