The Ignition Switch Recall: This is the primary reason the Cobalt's safety record is tarnished. The faulty ignition switch could unexpectedly shift out of the "run" position, turning off the engine, power steering, and airbags. This defect was linked to numerous accidents and fatalities, leading to a massive recall and significant legal action against General Motors.
Beyond the Recall: Independent of the ignition switch issue, the Cobalt's overall safety rating, based on crash tests from the time of its production, wasn't exceptionally high compared to its competitors. It's important to remember that safety standards and testing methodologies have evolved significantly over time.
In Conclusion: The Chevy Cobalt's reputation is heavily influenced by the ignition switch defect. While other factors contributed to its overall safety record, the scale and severity of the problems caused by this defect make it a car that's been associated with danger. If you are considering buying a used Cobalt, ensuring it has had the ignition switch recall addressed is absolutely critical. Even then, it's a car with a less-than-stellar safety legacy.
