“All of these crashes occurred off-road and at high speeds, where the probability of serious or fatal injuries was high regardless of airbag deployment. In addition, failure to wear seat belts and alcohol use were factors in some of these cases,” GM said in a statement.
The recall involves 619,122 Cobalts and G5 cars sold in the U.S. from the 2005-2007 model years. The remainder sold in Canada and Mexico.
The problem involves in an incorrectly manufactured key ignition switch.
GM said an unusually heavy key ring or key chain can pull the key into the “accessory” or “off” position on the switch if the car hits a big bump. That turns off the engine and most of the electrical components on the vehicle, including features such as power steering, power-assisted brakes and the airbags.