The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. If the engine starter fails to engage and the driver hold the key in the "start" position for an extended period, high current flows through the ignition switch, producing heat that can melt switch parts.
The risk
A fire could occur in the steering column and spread to the interior of the car.
The fix
Dealers will install a relay kit and verify that the vehicle will start with a properly charged battery in good operating condition (adequate reserve capacity, or cold cranking amps). This campaign does not cover battery replacement or unrelated starting system or electrical system repairs.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 00V-287 (00V287000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 00079 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Electrical system › Starter assembly |
| Report date | October 2, 2000 |
| Owners notified | December 19, 2000 |
| Vehicles affected | 699,617 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 00V-287 repair free?
Yes. Buick dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a relay kit and verify that the vehicle will start with a properly charged battery in good operating condition (adequate reserve capacity, or cold cranking amps).
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 699,617 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.