2006-'07 Chevrolet Malibu, Malibu Maxx Recalled for Loss of Power Steering Assist

WASHINGTON — General Motors is recalling 69,633 2006-'07 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx vehicles in the U.S. for possible loss of electric power steering assist, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The 2006-'07 Pontiac G6 is also included in the recall.

This is part of a global GM recall of 81,123 vehicles and is an expansion of a 2014 recall covering 1.3 million vehicles.

"In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power steering assist that could occur at any time while driving," said NHTSA in its recall summary. "If power steering assist is lost, greater driving effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash."

GM spokesman Alan Adler told Edmunds the automaker is aware of one crash but no injuries or fatalities linked to the recall.

If power steering assist is lost, a message will be displayed on the Driver Information Center and a chime will sound.

The affected Malibu and Malibu Maxx cars were built from April 1, 2006 to June 30, 2006. The affected Pontiac G6 cars were built from April 18, 2006 to June 30, 2006.

Chevrolet dealers will replace the steering shaft torque sensor. A date has not been set for the recall.

Owners can contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737.

Edmunds says: Owners of these vehicles need to wait for their official recall notice before scheduling a service appointment. But if you have an immediate concern, it's best to contact your dealer now.