GM Encounters New Ignition Switch Problem, Recalls 3,300 Trucks And SUVs

General Motors Co. has discovered a new ignition switch problem that has forced the company to recall thousands of its vehicles. The problem, which can cause engines to stall, was identified before anyone was hurt, a report said Friday.

The Detroit-based automotive company is recalling 3,300 big pickup trucks and SUVs, mostly in North America, to fix the issue that causes engines to turn off. The anomaly can also disable power steering, power brakes and possibly the air bags, the Associated Press (AP) reported.

The latest problem was discovered by an employee who owned one of the affected trucks, and informed senior officials of the company. GM, which quickly decided to recall the trucks, keeping the number relatively small, had five reports of engine shutdowns, but no crashes or injuries, company spokesman Alan Adler told the AP.

The recall reportedly involves some 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra light-duty pickup trucks, 2015 heavy-duty pickup trucks and 2015 Chevy Suburban and Tahoe SUVs. Dealers will replace the ignition lock housing, GM said in a statement issued Friday, according to the AP.

The new ignition switch problem is similar to one discovered recently in older GM small cars that cost the company billions of dollars last year. The carmaker reportedly recalled 2.6 million cars worldwide to repair the defective switches that caused 169 deaths and hundreds of injuries.

GM also said earlier this month that it would recall 31,685 SUVs in North America to patch up a manufacturing defect in the windshield wiper motor that may overheat, Reuters reported.

Friday’s revelation came only a day after the company announced that it sold 7.2 million vehicles globally in the first nine months of 2015. GM also said it is preparing to launch more new trucks and crossovers in the coming months in North America and China.