Is there a recall on the 2006 Chevy Cobalt power steering?

The current, official recall status for the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt’s power steering is that there is no active recall specific to its power-steering system listed in the U.S. government database as of today. It’s essential to verify your individual vehicle’s status using your VIN, since recalls can be issued or updated after publication.

To understand what this means for you, this article explains how recalls are tracked, what to check for your exact car, and the steps you should take if you suspect a steering issue. Recalls can change, and a VIN-specific search provides the most reliable answer about whether your vehicle is covered for a power-steering repair or any related safety campaign.

How to verify recall status for your 2006 Cobalt

Use these steps to confirm whether your specific vehicle is affected by any active recalls or safety campaigns related to power steering or steering components.

• Find your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from the driver’s side dashboard or the driver’s door jamb and have it ready for lookup.


• Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall search page (SaferCar.gov) and enter your VIN to check for active recalls or campaigns.


• Check General Motors’ official Recall and Safety Campaigns page for VIN-based results and to understand any required steps.


• Contact a GM dealer or an authorized service center to confirm recall status for your VIN and to schedule any eligible free repairs.


• If a recall is identified for your vehicle, follow the dealer’s instructions to arrange the repair; recalls must be repaired at no cost to the owner.

Understanding and acting on recall information promptly helps ensure your vehicle’s steering system remains safe and compliant with current safety standards.

What to do if you notice steering problems

If you experience steering issues that are not clearly tied to an active recall, take immediate precautions and seek professional evaluation to prevent a potential crash.

Follow these safety-focused steps to protect yourself and others while arranging a professional inspection.

• Do not continue driving if the steering feels unusually heavy, unresponsive, or makes grinding or clunking noises. Find a safe place to stop and assess the situation.


• Check for dashboard warning lights related to steering, such as an EPS (Electronic Power Steering) or steering assist indicator, and note any abnormal behavior.


• Call a qualified technician or tow the vehicle to a repair facility if driving appears unsafe or the issue persists.


• Ask the technician to inspect the power-steering system, electrical connections, and steering column for wear, leaks, or damage, and to review any open recalls for your VIN.


• Keep records of inspections, findings, and any repairs or replacements performed, including notes about recall status and communications with the dealer.

Timely professional assessment is critical because steering failures can quickly compromise vehicle control and safety.

Summary

For the 2006 Chevy Cobalt, there is no currently active recall specifically targeting the power-steering system listed in major U.S. recall databases. However, weathering changes in recalls is possible, so owners should verify their VIN (via SaferCar.gov and GM’s portals) and contact a GM dealer to confirm coverage and arrange free repairs if applicable. In the meantime, promptly addressing any steering symptoms with a trained technician is essential for safety and compliance.

What are the recalls on a 2006 Chevy Cobalt?

5 Recalls

• NHTSA 14V-171 · OEM 14113,14133. Ignition Lock Cylinder Concern.
• NHTSA 14V-047 · OEM 13454/14063/14092. The AIrbags May Not Deploy as Expected.
• NHTSA 10V-073 · OEM N100023. Loss of Power Steering Assist.
• NHTSA 09V-419 · OEM 090226.
• NHTSA 07V-014 · OEM 06217.

How much does it cost to replace a rack and pinion on a Chevy Cobalt?

The average cost for a Chevrolet Cobalt Rack and Pinion Replacement is between $886 and $988. Labor costs are estimated between $220 and $322 while parts are typically priced around $666.

What are common problems with a 2006 Chevy Cobalt?

Common problems for the 2006 Chevy Cobalt include issues with the ignition system (failing coils or module), timing chain (breaking or tensioner failure), stuck ignition key due to a failed shifter cable, and a flickering check engine light from a bad gas cap. Other potential problems are transmission issues, the AC not working correctly, and random misfires caused by vacuum leaks or faulty sensors.
 
This video discusses the top 5 common problems with the 1st generation Chevy Cobalt: 59s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Mar 9, 2021
Engine and performance

• Ignition Module/Coil Failure: A failing ignition module or coil can cause a misfire, leading to a rough-running engine and a check engine light. 
• Timing Chain Issues: The timing chain can break or fail, especially after 100,000 miles, potentially causing significant engine damage. 
• Misfires: Random misfires can be caused by various issues, including vacuum leaks, a bad gas cap, or a faulty oxygen sensor. 
• Transmission problems: Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, which could be caused by low fluid levels. 
• AC issues: The air conditioning may not blow cold air, and using the AC or heater can cause the engine's RPMs to bounce. 

Electrical and other issues

• Stuck ignition key: The key can get stuck in the ignition if the automatic transmission shifter in the floor console fails. 
• Bad gas cap: A faulty gas cap can trigger the check engine light. 
• Corroded ground wires: A corroded ground wire on the front of the transmission is a common source of electrical problems, such as the battery light coming on randomly. 
• Failed radio: In some cases, a failed radio has been known to take down the body control module, preventing the car from starting. 

This video explains how to troubleshoot a random misfire issue in a 2006 Chevy Cobalt 2.2L: 1mBackyard ChevyYouTube · Jun 1, 2019

Is there a recall on Chevy Cobalt power steering?

GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 CHEVROLET COBALT AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 PONTIAC G5 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ELECTRIC POWER STEERING. THE DRIVER MAY EXPERIENCE A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST THAT COULD OCCUR AT ANY TIME WHILE DRIVING.