GM massively expands ignition switch recall

GM is adding more than 83,000 vehicles to their initial ignition switch recall that was announced early in 2014, bringing the total number of vehicles named in this recall to 40 million, according to reports by Motor Trend on January 2.

GM’s expansion affects 2011-2012 SUVs and pickups, including the Escalade, Silverado, Yukon, Avalanche, Tahoe, and Sierra. The faulty switch may cause a series of events resulting in the ignition moving to the ‘accessory position;’ if the vehicle enters the accessory position while driving, power is cut to the engine, brakes, steering, and airbags. In addition to the affected models listed above, vehicles repaired with defective parts between 2007 and 2014 may also be affected.

GM has established a compensation program for those who have experienced serious injury or the death of a loved one as a result of the defect. The current deadline to file a claim is January 31, 2015, but this deadline will likely be extended in light of the recent expansion.