The previous-generation Chevy Malibu could be caught up if NHTSA orders a new recall.

Federal safety regulators are considering the need to expand an earlier General Motors recall due to potentially faulty brake lights and other problems, a move that could involve more than 1 million GM midsize passenger cars.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is primarily targeting models sharing similar electric systems with the Pontiac G6. That model was a recall target four years ago when it was found that some of the models produced in 2005 and 2006 had brake lights that did not operate properly.

NHTSA is now looking at even more of the G6 models, potentially covering model-years 2005 through 2008, a move that could involve as many as 550,000 vehicles. The safety agency says it has so far received 212 reports indicating brake lights don’t always come on when the brake pedal is depressed. The original recall was linked to potential corrosion of a wiring connector.

But other models may also be targeted by federal regulators.  And it appears problems with faulty electrical connections could involve other vehicle systems, including malfunctioning cruise control systems.

Among the vehicles now being studied by NHTSA are the Chevrolet Malibu, models of the sedan produced between 2004 and 2011, as well as 2007 through 2009 Saturn Aura sedans. All three models were based off the same midsize platform.

A GM spokesman indicated the maker is working with federal regulators to investigate the reported problems.

That could include yet another issue with the brake pedal, some reports indicating they need to be depressed more aggressively than normal to allow some of the vehicles to shift out of Park.

Should the three models face new recalls, owners of Pontiac and Saturn products will be able to take their vehicles to other GM brands. Those two marques shut down as part of GM’s 2009 bankruptcy.