2004 Chevrolet Malibu

On certain vehicles, a defect in the ignition switch could allow the switch to move out of the "run" position if the key ring is carrying added weight or the vehicle goes off-road or is subjected to some other jarring event.  If this were to occur, engine power, power steering and power braking would be affected, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property.  The timing of the key movement out of the “run” position, relative to the activation of the sensing algorithm of the crash event, may also result in the airbags not deploying in a subsequent collision, increasing the risk of injury. Correction: For each key, dealers will install two key rings and modify the key ring opening shape. Note: Until the correction is performed, all items should be removed from the key ring.

On certain vehicles, intermittent electrical connection faults may cause the brake lamps to illuminate without the brake pedal being depressed, or not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed. This could also interfere with cruise control, ABS and/or vehicle stability control function. Failure of the brake lights to illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or erratic brake lamp function could increase the risk of a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury.  Correction: Dealers will affect repairs.

On certain vehicles equipped with 4 speed automatic transmissions, the shift cable could fracture without warning. If this occurs, the driver may not be able to select a different gear position, remove the key from the ignition, or place the transmission in the PARK position. If the driver cannot place the vehicle in the PARK position and exits the vehicle without applying the parking brake, the vehicle could roll away, which could result in a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will install a revised shift cable and mounting bracket.

Certain vehicles equipped with electric power steering may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist that could occur at any time while driving.  If the power steering assist is lost, a message is displayed on the Driver Information Centre and a chime sounds to inform the driver.  Steering control can be maintained, as the vehicle will revert to a manual steering mode, but will require greater driver effort.  The sudden change in steering may increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage.  Correction: Dealers will affect repairs as necessary. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 2010447 and 2012331. Vehicles having already been repaired under the previous campaigns do not require re-inspection.

On certain vehicles, analysis of a side impact test indicated the outboard anchorage of the driver's seat belt could disconnect because of contact between the seat trim and the anchorage connector when the seat was adjusted to its lowest position.  If this occurred in a crash, the driver could receive greater injuries.  Correction:  Dealer will install a retainer between the latch spring and the latch spring guard on the anchorage - driver and passenger side.