GM Recalls 38,000 Chevy Police Cars

General Motors is recalling 38,000 police cruisers because of a suspension problem that could cause fractures and the sudden loss of control – a potentially serious problem, especially during a high-speed pursuit.

The recall affects the specially modified police version of the Chevrolet Impala sedan produced from mid-2008 to 2012. The recall specifically affects the pursuit package and does not involve civilian models, a GM spokesman emphasized.

The maker says it knows of no accidents or injuries connected to the problem but is warning police agencies to make repairs quickly because of the potential severity of the defect.

Reports from several police departments led GM to begin investigating the problem last February and the maker eventually traced the problem to a new lower suspension control arm it began using in mid-2008. The component can fracture unexpectedly and cause significant and sudden changes in handling that could lead the vehicle to lose control.

"We tested for durability on the civilian Impala, and we believe there are no issues," said GM Spokesman Alan Adler.

The maker says it already has parts in stock and will make repairs at no charge to police departments operating the Chevrolet Impala cruiser.

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