GM Fairfax begins two-week shutdown because of Japan earthquake

Any doubts that this is a global economy?

An earthquake earlier this month in Japan has sent tremors across the Pacific Ocean and halfway across the United States to Kansas City, Kan.

The General Motors Fairfax Assembly Plant on Monday began a two-week shutdown that gives about 3,500 workers an unplanned spring break and possibly affects eventual delivery of the popular new Chevy Malibu made there.

The Fairfax plant along with three other GM facilities — in Lordstown, Ohio; Spring Hill, Tenn., and Ontario, Canada — are being idled until necessary parts arrive.

Models affected by the temporary work stoppages include the Cadillac XT5, GMC Acadia, Chevy Impala, Buick Regal, Cadillac XTS, Chevy Cruze, Chevy Malibu and Buick LaCrosse.

The company has declined to specify exactly what parts are missing because of the supply chain disruption.

Auto industry analysts said Honda, Nissan and Toyota production also are likely to be affected in some way.

Two strong quakes on April 14 and 15 hit southern Japan, causing significant industrial, commercial and residential damage. Hundreds of thousands of people were displaced from their homes and workplaces, and about four dozen were reported killed.

GM said the delays won’t materially affect the company’s financial results for the second quarter or for the full year.

This story was originally published April 25, 2016 at 10:17 AM with the headline "GM Fairfax begins two-week shutdown because of Japan earthquake."