General Motors is recalling more than 1.5 million vehicles because they may unexpectedly lose power steering.

The company says "If power steering assist is lost, a message displays on the Driver Information Centre and a chime sounds to inform the driver. Steering control can be maintained because the vehicle will revert to manual steering, but greater driver effort would be required at low vehicle speeds, which could increase the risk of a crash".

Three of the six models are also involved in a massive recall over problems with the ignition switch. That defect is linked to 13 deaths.

GM says it expects to take a charge of up to approximately US$750 (€543) million in the first quarter, primarily for the cost of recall-related repairs. This amount includes a previously disclosed US$300 (€217) million charge for three safety actions announced on March 17th and the ignition switch recall announced February 25th.

General Motors and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries including Chevrolet, Cadillac, Opel and Vauxhall brands. However it is not known if any Irish cars are affected by the recall.

GM boss Mary Barra has issued a public apology in a video recorded by the company.