Smoke is coming from steering column due to parts of ignition switch and dash wiring harness melting. Mileage 123000. The dealer informed consumer that the ignition switch shorted the brake warning light ground wire. The wire is located between the ignition switch and the instrument cluster. The smoke emitted once the key was turned in the ignition. There was an investigation concerning steering column fires PE97-007, but the defect was in the malfuction switch and not the ignition. The switch was set in the intermediate position instead of the run position. Consumer thinks this may have been related.

- Lexington, KY, USA

When turning on the ignition switch none of the panel lights will come on, causing the consumer to have problems with the instrument panel wiring harness. Dealer notified. The wires in the dash had burnt and the mechanic said that if they repair it, that there is a possibility that the problem may re-occur. Damage had come up to $1500.

- Holly, MI, USA

While driving 40mph started to smell smoke. Then, noticed smoke was coming from steering column near ignition area. Pulled over & stopped vehicle. Got out of vehicle after turning it off. Vehicle did not catch on fire. After awhile smoke disappeared.

- Brighton, MI, USA

After turning ignition switch to the off position, steering column started smoking and caught on fire, consumer had to disconnect battery for fire to go out. Consumer took vehicle to the dealer, dealer told that short crcuit was caused by something other than recalled part (coupler) but they do not know.

- Nayer, MA, USA

Ignition switch replaced.

- Arnold, MO, USA