The problem
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.
The risk
If the switch is damaged, a fire could occur in the steering column, even with the engine off and the key removed.
The fix
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.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 02V-070 (02V070000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 02008 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Electrical system › Ignition › Switch |
| Report date | March 6, 2002 |
| Owners notified | March 27, 2002 |
| Vehicles affected | 1,589,948 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
- 1996 Buick Skylark electrical problems 15
- 1997 Buick Skylark electrical problems 13
- 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier electrical problems 59
- 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier electrical problems 100
- 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier electrical problems 107
- 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva electrical problems 25
- 1997 Oldsmobile Achieva electrical problems 18
- 1996 Pontiac Grand AM electrical problems 122
- 1997 Pontiac Grand AM electrical problems 105
- 1995 Pontiac Sunfire electrical problems 27
- 1996 Pontiac Sunfire electrical problems 38
- 1997 Pontiac Sunfire electrical problems 30
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 02V-070 repair free?
Yes. Buick dealers will fix the problem at no cost: 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.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 1,589,948 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.