1992 CHEVROLET BERETTA User Comment / Complaint

While driving a column of smoke developed from the top of the steering column, directly in front of the driver. this occurred approximately one mile after noticing that the turn signal did not seem to operate properly during a turn. the smoke was also accompanied by the smell of an electrical fire. immediately stopping the car and turning off the ignition stopped the smoke. the car was then driven approximately 5-10 miles to the dealer with no further smoke. the chevrolet dealer stated that the problem was caused by the turn signal switch shorting out. the switch was then replaced. the service advisor reported that there was no recall regarding this failure even though the turn signal failed in such as way that there could have been danger to occupants of the car. obviously, the manufacturer did not use a fail-safe design when this car was built.