Buick is Part of the GM Ignition Switch Recall Expansion

Hey, it's the weekend and you know what that means! Another massive recall from GM for ignition switch problems. Cue the sad trombone. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know.

• GM is recalling 3.2 million vehicles that have ignitions that can be turned off by a heavy key chain
• GM is advising owners of the recalled cars to remove all unnecessary weight from their key chains
• There is no word on when the recall will start

Focusing on the Key ∞

Extra weight on your key can inadvertently knock the ignition out of the 'run' position and, as GM puts it, "have an effect on" certain safety systems like power steering, braking and airbags. That effect? Completely disabling them. Guess it's time to retire that Mickey Mouse key chain.

There have already been 8 crashes and 6 injuries related to this specific problem, in addition to the 13 deaths and multiple injuries associated with previous recalls.

Who is Affected and What Will Be Done ∞

This action brings the number of recalled GM vehicles for ignition switch issues to about 5.4 million. The cars affected are the 2005-2009 Lacrosse 2006-2011 Lucerne.

Unlike other recalls where the ignition switch is replaced, this one seems pretty easy -- GM will rework the key by adding an insert to prevent you from attaching large items to it. There is no word on when the recall will begin but until then you can remove all unnecessary weight from your key chain and only drive with the ignition key.