GM expands recall; announces new one

DETROIT (AP) — General Motors is adding 824,000 small cars to its ongoing recall tied to defective ignition switches.

The company will add vehicles from the 2008-2011 model years to a recall that initially covered cars only through the 2007 model year.

The Chevrolet Cobalt, Chevrolet HHR, Pontiac G5, Pontiac Solstice, Saturn Ion and Saturn Sky are all involved in the recall.

The ignition switches can move out of the "run" position and cause the engine to stall. The defect is linked to several deaths.

Meanwhile, another issue has GM recalling 172,000 Chevrolet Cruze compact cars because the right front axle shaft can fracture and separate while being driven.

The recall affects cars from the 2013 and 2014 model years equipped with 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engines.

If a shaft fractures, the wheels would lose power without warning and the cars would coast to a stop.

GM says it has warranty reports of several dozen shaft fractures but is not aware of any crashes or injuries