Bulletin No.: 14133B
Date: May 2014

Recall Bulletin

PRODUCT SAFETY RECALL
SUBJECT:

Replace Ignition Key

MODELS:

2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt
2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR
2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice
2005-2006 Pontiac Pursuit (Canada Only)
2007-2010 Pontiac G5
2003-2007 Saturn Ion
2007-2010 Saturn Sky

The part information and service procedure sections have been revised. Discard all
copies of bulletin 14133A.
Additionally, when a customer calls for a service appointment, they should be reminded
to bring all keys for their vehicle with them when they come to your dealership for this
repair. Also, on the last page of this bulletin is an important notice that must be provided
to each customer when they return for their vehicle.
Vehicles involved in this safety recall are also involved in safety recall 13454, 14063 or
14092. Check the Investigate Vehicle History (IVH) screen in the GM Global Warranty
Management (GWM) system to determine which additional field action is applicable.
Perform the service procedure provided in that bulletin in conjunction with the repair
described in this bulletin.
CONDITION
General Motors has decided that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in all 20052010 model year (MY) Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 MY Chevrolet HHR, 2007-2010 MY Pontiac
G5, 2006-2010 MY Pontiac Solstice, 2005-2006 Pontiac Pursuit, 2003-2007 MY Saturn Ion, and
2007-2010 MY Saturn Sky vehicles. Some of these vehicles may have a condition in which the
ignition key may be removed when the ignition is not in the “Off” position. If the ignition key is
removed when the ignition is not in the “Off” position, unintended vehicle motion may occur: (a)
for an automatic transmission, if the transmission is not in “Park”; or (b) for a manual
transmission, if the parking brake is not engaged and the transmission is not in reverse gear.
This could result in a vehicle crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.
General Motors has also determined that all 2005 and some 2006 MY Chevrolet Cobalt vehicles
and all 2003-2004 MY Saturn Ion vehicles may fail to conform to FMVSS 114, Theft Prevention
and Rollaway Prevention, as a result of this condition.
Copyright 2014 General Motors. All Rights Reserved.

Page 2

May 2014

Bulletin No.: 14133B

Whenever a customer contacts you about the recalls it is imperative that you remind
them of the following:
Until the recall repairs have been performed, it is very important before exiting the
vehicle to make sure the vehicle is in “Park,” or in the case of a manual transmission,
to put the transmission into reverse gear and set the parking brake. Also, until the
recall repairs have been performed customers should remove all items from their key
ring, leaving only the vehicle key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed
from the key ring.
Also, please request that they bring all keys and key fobs for their vehicle with them
when they come to your dealership for this repair.
CORRECTION
Dealers will cut and, if necessary, re-learn two new ignition/door keys and attach the provided
key ring to each key.
Note: GM records indicate that these vehicles (subject to recall 14133) were built with the
redesigned ignition cylinder or had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part;
therefore, replacement of the ignition cylinder is not required. All of these vehicles require the
ignition switch to be replaced (under recall 13454, 14063 or 14092), in conjunction with replacing
the two ignition/door keys.
Note: Vehicles which GM records indicate were built with the defective ignition cylinder and have
not previously had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part are subject to a different
recall (14113), where dealers will replace the ignition cylinder, and cut and, if necessary, re-learn
two ignition/door keys, in addition to replacing the ignition switch (under recall 13454, 14063 or
14092).
VEHICLES INVOLVED
All involved vehicles are identified by Vehicle Identification Number on the Investigate Vehicle
History screen in GM Global Warranty Management system. Dealership service personnel
should always check this site to confirm vehicle involvement prior to beginning any required
inspections and/or repairs. It is important to routinely use this tool to verify eligibility because
not all similar vehicles may be involved regardless of description or option content.
For dealers with involved vehicles, a listing with involved vehicles containing the complete
vehicle identification number, customer name, and address information has been prepared and
will be provided to US and Canadian dealers through the GM GlobalConnect Recall Reports, or
sent directly to export dealers. Dealers will not have a report available if they have no involved
vehicles currently assigned.
The listing may contain customer names and addresses obtained from Motor Vehicle
Registration Records. The use of such motor vehicle registration data for any purpose other
than follow-up necessary to complete this recall is a violation of law in several
states/provinces/countries. Accordingly, you are urged to limit the use of this report to the followup necessary to complete this recall.

Page 3

May 2014

Bulletin No.: 14133B

PART INFORMATION
Parts required to complete this recall are to be obtained from General Motors Customer Care
and Aftersales (GMCCA). Please refer to your “involved vehicles listing” before ordering parts.
Note: GMCCA will utilize the VIN number provided on the ignition switch order to place an order
on your behalf for the parts required for this recall as well as to complete safety recall 13454,
14063 or 14092, whichever is applicable. This will ensure alignment of the ignition switch
shipment with the parts needed to complete all required recalls. You will receive the parts
required for the repair as kit number 23232575 (Chevrolet branded keys) or kit number 23237270
(Saturn Ion key without electronic chip) or kit number 23232576 (unbranded keys for other
Saturn or Pontiac vehicles). Each kit will contain an ignition switch, two keys and two key rings.
Note: Individual kit parts that are damaged during installation can be replaced by calling the GM
Product Quality Center (PQC) at 866-654-7654. Dealers must provide the kit number.
Please refer to Global Connect message G _0000189595 for revised ignition switch parts
ordering process instructions.
SERVICE PROCEDURE
Note: Vehicles involved in this safety recall are also involved in safety recall 13454, 14063 or
14092. Check the Investigate Vehicle History (IVH) screen in the GM Global Warranty
Management (GWM) system to determine which additional field action is applicable. Perform
the service procedure provided in that bulletin in conjunction with the repair described in this
bulletin.
1. Cut two new ignition/door keys and attach the provided key ring to each key.
Note: Use a Tech 2 or a Tech 2 WIN scan tool to perform a key learn or programming event.
2. Program the new keys to the vehicle, if required. Refer to” Replacing Keys” in SI.
The following vehicles do NOT require any KEY programming:
2003-2007 MY Saturn Ion

2005 MY Chevrolet Cobalt

2005 MY Pontiac Pursuit

Note: Verify key function in the ignition cylinder as well as all door and trunk lock cylinders prior
to delivery to the customer. If the replacement key will not work in the doors or trunk of the
vehicle, refer to Replacement Key Modification in this bulletin.
Note: Do not return the old keys to the customer. These keys must be destroyed and not reused.
Inform the customer to destroy and not use any keys that were not brought in for this repair.

Page 4

May 2014

Bulletin No.: 14133B

Replacement Key Modification
For the Saturn Ion only, if the replacement key profile is wider near the key head than the original
equipment manufacturer (OEM) key, it may only work in the ignition lock cylinder and not in the
doors or trunk. The replacement key may require modification BEFORE it can be used to open
a vehicle door or trunk. Perform the Key Modification procedure in this bulletin if the replacement
key will not open the doors or trunk of the vehicle.

3816569

Note: GM Dealers should NOT replace door and trunk lock cylinders or provide two sets of keys
(one for the ignition and one for the doors / trunk) to the vehicle owner for this condition.
1. Using a file, remove the extra width of key near the over molded head as shown in blue (1)
in the photograph above. Removing this material makes the width of the key 8.3mm (same
as the OEM key) rather than 10mm. This will allow the key to enter fully into the door and
trunk lock cylinders.

3817005

Note: Without the modification, the key stops on the shoulder and will not fully enter the key lock
cylinder. Refer to the photograph.
2. Verify key function in the ignition cylinder as well as all door and trunk lock cylinders prior to
delivery to the customer.

Page 5

May 2014

Bulletin No.: 14133B

3. Assemble the new key(s), the key fob(s) and the ½” key ring together.
After the vehicle is repaired and returned to the customer, it is very important to review
and give them a copy of the notice provided on the last page of this bulletin. During
the review, you should emphasize the following points:


All original or previously reproduced keys should be destroyed.



Customers have received new keys with a small round hole (rather than a slot) and
a new 13mm (1/2”) key ring that are designed to further reduce any risk of
inadvertently moving the ignition key position.



Any additional keys can be obtained free of charge from a GM dealer. Customers
will receive a follow-up communication with details. Please note: Additional key
will be made available once initial recall demands are met.



If you replace a vehicle key, always use a key of the exact same design, including
shape, size and key hole.



Use only the single (1/2”) key ring that is small and light and does not make contact
with you or parts of the vehicle while driving. Keep no more than one or two
essential keys and the key fob (if equipped) on the ring. Do not attach anything
else to the key ring.

Finally, please ask customers to review the video message from Jeff Boyer, Vice
President, Global Vehicle Safety posted on www.GMIgnitionUpdate.com. It provides
additional background on the extensive testing General Motors has done, as well as
important reminders consistent with the information above.
CUSTOMER REIMBURSEMENT - For US
Customer requests for reimbursement of previously paid repairs for the recall condition are to
be submitted to the dealer by May 31, 2015, unless otherwise specified by state law. If this is
not convenient for the customer, they may mail the completed Customer Reimbursement
Request Form and all required documents to the GM Customer Assistance Center.
All reasonable and customary costs to correct the condition described in this bulletin
should be considered for reimbursement. Any questions or concerns should be reviewed
with your GM representative prior to processing the request.
When a customer requests reimbursement, they must provide the following:




A completed Customer Reimbursement Request Form. This form is mailed to the
customer or can be obtained through GM GlobalConnect.
The name and address of the person who paid for the repair.
Paid receipt confirming the amount of the repair expense, a description of the repair, and
the person or entity performing the repair.

IMPORTANT: GM requires dealers to approve or deny a reimbursement request within 30 days
of receipt. If a reimbursement request is approved, the dealer should immediately issue a check
to the customer and submit an appropriate warranty transaction for the incurred expense. If a
reimbursement request is denied, the dealer MUST provide the customer with a clear and
concise explanation, in writing, as to why the request was denied. The bottom portion of the
Customer Reimbursement Request Form may be used for this purpose. If the denial was due

Page 6

May 2014

Bulletin No.: 14133B

to missing documents, the customer can resubmit the request when the missing documents are
obtained, as long as it is still within the allowed reimbursement period.
Warranty transactions for customer reimbursement of previously paid repairs are to be submitted
as required by GM Global Warranty Management. Additional information can also be found in
Warranty Administration Bulletin 11-00-89-004.
CUSTOMER REIMBURSEMENT - For Canada and Export
Customer requests for reimbursement of previously paid repairs to correct the condition
described in this bulletin are to be submitted to the dealer prior to or by May 31, 2015.
When a customer requests reimbursement, they must provide the following:
-

Proof of ownership at time of repair.
Original paid receipt confirming the amount of unreimbursed repair expense(s) (including
Service Contract deductibles), a description of the repair, and the person or entity
performing the repair.

All reasonable and customary costs to correct the condition described in this bulletin should be
considered for reimbursement. Any questions or concerns should be reviewed with your GM
representative prior to processing the request.
COURTESY TRANSPORTATION AND VEHICLE TOWING – For US and Canada
For purposes of this recall, it is permissible to offer courtesy transportation to those customers
who express concern about the continued use of their vehicle or who require alternate
transportation while the vehicle is in for the recall repairs. The availability of courtesy
transportation to such customers is very important in maintaining customer satisfaction.
Dealers are to ensure that these customers understand that shuttle service or some other form
of courtesy transportation is available and will be provided at no charge. Dealers should refer
to the General Motors Service Policies and Procedures Manual for Courtesy Transportation
guidelines. In addition, for purposes of this recall, it is permissible to provide free towing to a
customer who may be concerned about operating their vehicle.
WARRANTY TRANSACTION INFORMATION
Submit a transaction using the table below. All transactions should be submitted as a ZFAT
transaction type, unless noted otherwise.
Labor
Code
9100491

9100492*
9100493**
9100494**

Description
Cut Two Keys and Perform Key Learn Procedure
Add: Replacement Key Modification for Saturn Ion (if
necessary)
Courtesy Transportation
Customer Reimbursement Approved
Customer Reimbursement Denied - For US dealers only

Customer reimbursement will not close this recall.
performed on the vehicle.
*

Labor
Time
0.4
0.1

Net
Item
N/A

N/A
0.2
0.1

***
****
N/A

The service procedure must also be

To avoid having to “H” route this transaction for approval, it must be submitted prior to the
repair transaction (U.S. only).

Page 7

May 2014

Bulletin No.: 14133B

**

To avoid having to “H” route this transaction for approval, it must be submitted prior to the
repair transaction (U.S. and Canada).

***

The amount identified in “Net Item” should represent the actual dollar amount for courtesy
transportation.

**** The amount identified in “Net Item” should represent the actual dollar amount reimbursed
to the customer.
CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION – For US and Canada
General Motors will notify customers of this recall on their vehicle.
CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION – For Export
Letters will be sent to known owners of record located within areas covered by the US National
Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
DEALER RECALL RESPONSIBILITY – For US and Export (US States, Territories,
and Possessions)
It is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to deliver a new motor vehicle or any new or used item
of motor vehicle equipment (including a tire) covered by this notification under a sale or lease
until the defect or noncompliance is remedied.
The US National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act provides that each vehicle that is subject
to a recall of this type must be adequately repaired within a reasonable time after the customer
has tendered it for repair. A failure to repair within sixty days after tender of a vehicle is prima
facie evidence of failure to repair within a reasonable time. If the condition is not adequately
repaired within a reasonable time, the customer may be entitled to an identical or reasonably
equivalent vehicle at no charge or to a refund of the purchase price less a reasonable allowance
for depreciation. To avoid having to provide these burdensome remedies, every effort must be
made to promptly schedule an appointment with each customer and to repair their vehicle as
soon as possible. In the recall notification letters, customers are told how to contact the US
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration if the recall is not completed within a reasonable
time.
DEALER RECALL RESPONSIBILITY – All
All unsold new vehicles in dealers' possession and subject to this recall must be held and
inspected/repaired per the service procedure of this recall bulletin before customers take
possession of these vehicles.
Dealers are to service all vehicles subject to this recall at no charge to customers, regardless of
mileage, age of vehicle, or ownership, from this time forward.
Customers who have recently purchased vehicles sold from your vehicle inventory, and for which
there is no customer information indicated on the dealer listing, are to be contacted by the dealer.
Arrangements are to be made to make the required correction according to the instructions
contained in this bulletin. Recall follow-up cards should not be used for this purpose, since the
customer may not as yet have received the notification letter.

Page 8

May 2014

Bulletin No.: 14133B

In summary, whenever a vehicle subject to this recall enters your vehicle inventory, or is in your
dealership for service in the future, you must take the steps necessary to be sure the recall
correction has been made before selling or releasing the vehicle.

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that
may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the tools,
equipment, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to
your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

We Support
Voluntary Technician
Certification

Page 9

May 2014

Bulletin No.: 14133B

When the vehicle is returned to the customer, it is very important to review and give them
a copy of the notice provided below. Please reproduce locally.
Dear General Motors Customer:
As part of the repairs to your vehicle for the ignition switch and ignition cylinder safety recalls,
you have been provided new keys with a round hole (rather than a slot) on new 13mm (1/2”) key
rings. These components are specifically designed to work together for your safety.
Only use the new keys and rings that have been provided to you by your dealer. Destroy any
old slotted keys you still have that have not been turned into your GM dealer. Your GM dealer
will provide replacement keys for your vehicle free of charge for the life of the vehicle. If you
obtain an ignition key elsewhere, always use a key of the exact same hole design as the repair
key, including shape, size and key hole.
Use only the single (1/2”) key ring provided by your GM dealer. It is small and light to help
prevent contact with you or parts of the vehicle while driving. Keep no more than one or two
essential keys and the key fob (if equipped) on the ring. Do not attach anything else to the
key ring. A heavy or large key ring or chain, or items on the ring or chain that contact vehicle
components or the driver MUST be avoided because they can affect the safe operation of the
vehicle.
Remember:


Only use keys with a small round hole (not a slot)



Use only a ½” diameter key ring (provided by your GM dealer)



Only include 1 or 2 keys plus your key fob



Don’t attach extra items to your key ring



Contact your dealer if you need new keys

Yes

No

Please share this information with any other drivers of the vehicle and keep this letter in your
glove box so that it will be always be available for reference for current or future operators.
Finally, please review the video message from Jeff Boyer, Vice President, Global Vehicle Safety
posted on www.GMIgnitionUpdate.com. It provides additional background on the extensive
testing General Motors has done, as well as important reminders consistent with the information
above.