If the switch is damaged, a fire could occur in the steering column, even with the engine off and the key removed.

Electrical System — Ignition — Switch

Date Announced
MAR 06, 2002
Vehicles Affected
1,589,948
Chevrolet Recall #
02008
NHTSA Campaign #
02V070000
Summary
On certain passenger vehicles. If the engine fails to start and the driver holds the key in the "start" position for an extended period, high current flows through the ignition switch, and sometimes produces enough heat to melt internal switch parts.
Actions
Dealers will install a relay kit in these vehicles to prevent high current from flowing through the ignition switch. Owner notification began March 27, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac at 1-800-762-2737, Buick at 1-800-521-7300, or Oldsmobile at 1-800-442-6537.
Documents (6)