Category Archives: General Motors

News about General Motors automobile manufacturer. News about General Motors recalls, technical service bulletins (TSB), and problems regarding General Motors vehicles.

GM Roof Rail Air Bag Inflator Defect

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General Motors (GM) have identified a safety issue affecting certain Chevrolet and GMC vehicles. This issue involves a defect in the roof-rail airbag (RRAB) inflator, which could pose a serious risk to the safety of drivers and passengers. The defect may cause the inflator to malfunction, potentially resulting in the separation of the inflator’s end cap or a split in its sidewall. If this happens, the airbag system may not deploy as intended, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash or other incident.

Affected Vehicle Models

The following models are impacted by this recall due to the potential defect in the RRAB inflators:
2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
2018-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
2018-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500
2018 GMC Sierra 1500
2018-2019 GMC Sierra 2500
2018-2019 GMC Sierra 3500

How the Issue Was Discovered

GM became aware of this problem in August 2024, after receiving reports of four incidents where RRAB inflators ruptured in vehicles from another manufacturer. These reports raised concerns about a possible defect in the inflator system, prompting GM to initiate its own investigation. During this investigation, GM found evidence of a similar incident involving a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, which was equipped with the same type of inflators.

In this particular case, the vehicle was parked and unoccupied when the RRAB inflator on the right side ruptured. Photos confirmed the inflator malfunctioned while the truck was idle, reinforcing concerns about the integrity of the RRAB system. GM is continuing its investigation to determine the exact cause of the failure.

Steps Taken by GM

On October 3, 2024, GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) determined that a safety recall was necessary. This recall affects vehicles that were built using RRAB inflators from the same production lot as the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 involved in the initial incident. As of now, GM has not received any further reports of similar incidents involving its vehicles.

What Owners Need to Know

To address this issue, GM dealers will replace the left and right roof-rail airbag modules in the affected vehicles. This recall is part of GM’s proactive efforts to ensure vehicle safety and prevent potential accidents resulting from defective inflators.

For reference, GM has assigned this recall the number N242474500, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has labeled it as campaign number 24V-560.

Certain 2023-2024 GM Vehicles Fail to Meet FMVSS for Brake Systems

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Certain 2023-2024 Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC vehicles fail to meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) for light vehicle baking systems. The problem is, the driver may not receive an indicator of a loss of brake fluid before the level is below FMVSS 135’s requirement.

The FMVSS 135 requires that vehicles have a system in place to warn the driver when the brake fluid level drops to a certain point. This allows time for the problem to be addressed before it affects braking performance. However, in the affected vehicles, the brake fluid warning light may not illuminate in time to alert the driver before the fluid drops below the required level. This delay in the warning light could lead to reduced brake performance, increasing the risk of a crash.

The following vehicle models are affected by this problem:

2023-2024 Cadillac Escalade
2023-2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV
2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
2023-2024 Chevrolet Suburban 1500
2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe
2023 GMC Sierra 1500
2023-2024 GMC Yukon
2023-2024 GMC Yukon XL

GM became aware of this issue through its Speak Up for Safety (SUFS) program. A GM engineer noticed during a brake fluid leak test that the required warning light (referred to as the BRAKE telltale) did not illuminate as expected. This led GM to launch a full investigation. The issue was traced to a mismatch in the software and calibrations of the Electronic Brake Control Module (eBCM). This software mismatch was preventing the vehicle from detecting a brake fluid leak in time to alert the driver. Fortunately, GM has not received any reports of crashes or injuries related to this issue, but the potential for delayed notification of a brake fluid leak poses a safety concern.

In the event of a brake fluid leak, the vehicle’s brake pedal could become less responsive before the warning light appears. This degraded brake performance, combined with the delayed warning, could increase the likelihood of a crash. However, GM has confirmed that even in these circumstances, the vehicles still meet federal stopping distance requirements, meaning they should still be able to stop within the legally required distance.

Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail starting October 28, 2024. GM will provide a software update for the eBCM that will correct the issue. This update can be done remotely through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by visiting a dealership. If you own one of these vehicles, you do not need to take immediate action unless you notice any issues with your brakes. The recall is precautionary, and the software update will ensure that your vehicle meets all federal safety standards moving forward.

GM’s recall number for this issue is N242447990, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number is 24V-674.

Unexpected ABS Activation In 2024 Acura ZDX All-Wheel Drive Vehicles

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In a concerning development for Acura ZDX All-Wheel Drive owners, a potentially dangerous issue has been identified within certain 2024 models. The problem, rooted in the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system (ABS), could lead to unexpected activation of the ABS, causing a release of brake pressure that significantly diminishes braking performance. This defect poses an increased risk of accidents, particularly during specific low-speed braking events.

The problem first came to light in July 2024 when Honda, Acura’s parent company, was notified by General Motors (GM) about the issue. GM had received reports of two minor accidents, both allegedly linked to a sudden loss of braking, which were suspected to be caused by a software glitch in the ABS. In addition to these accidents, GM also reported a field complaint regarding the issue, though no accident had occurred in that instance.

Honda quickly launched an investigation into the matter. Upon closer examination, it was discovered that the issue was indeed related to a defect in the anti-lock brake system. Specifically, during certain braking events at speeds below 25 mph on dry surfaces, the ABS may activate with undue sensitivity. If this occurs and a specific sequence of wheel movements follows, the ABS will continue to release brake pressure in the service brake system. The result is a dramatic reduction in stopping performance, or in some cases, a complete failure of the brakes, greatly increasing the risk of a crash.

After confirming the defect, Honda determined that it posed a significant safety risk and initiated a safety recall. The company has emphasized that, as of now, no warranty claims, field reports, or incidents involving injuries or crashes related to this defect have been reported in Acura vehicles.

Affected vehicle owners will be notified of the recall and instructed to perform an iN VIN status inquiry to verify if their vehicle is eligible for the update. This notification is crucial for ensuring that all potentially affected vehicles, including those in new or used vehicle inventories, are addressed promptly.

To resolve this issue, Acura will be updating the electronic brake control module software. This update will be delivered either through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by visiting an Acura dealership. The update is designed to correct the sensitivity of the ABS, preventing the unexpected release of brake pressure and restoring normal braking function.

Acura has designated this recall with the internal number UJE, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned it the campaign number 24VC-614.

Owners of the 2024 Acura ZDX All-Wheel Drive are urged to check whether their vehicle is affected by this recall. If you own one of these vehicles, it’s important to respond to the recall notice and ensure that the necessary software update is performed as soon as possible. This proactive step will help avoid the risks associated with the ABS defect and ensure your vehicle operates safely.

Cadillac Lyriq Defective Brake Performance

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A potential safety issue has been identified in certain 2023-2024 Cadillac Lyriq all-wheel-drive vehicles. This defect could affect the vehicle’s braking performance, posing a risk to drivers and passengers.

The investigation into this issue began in May 2024, when General Motors (GM) received reports of two minor accidents allegedly caused by a sudden loss of braking. Both incidents were suspected to be linked to a software problem within the vehicles’ Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). In addition to these accidents, GM was also alerted to a separate field complaint that, while not resulting in an accident, seemed potentially related to the same problem.

To get to the bottom of the issue, GM’s investigation team gathered and analyzed field data from various sources. Despite the initial reports, they found no additional cases that could be connected to this defect. However, through careful analysis, they determined that the problem could indeed occur, but only in extremely rare situations. Specifically, the issue arises when a false ABS event occurs on a dry road at speeds under 25 mph. During this event, if a particular series of wheel movements takes place, the ABS system might continue to release brake pressure in the vehicle’s service brake system, even when it shouldn’t.

Fortunately, GM has confirmed that no injuries or fatalities have been associated with this condition. However, given the potential risk, GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) decided in August 2024 to issue a safety recall for the affected vehicles.

The defect report explains that under certain rare braking conditions on dry surfaces at speeds below 25 mph, the ABS may become overly sensitive. If the ABS falsely activates and a specific sequence of wheel movements occurs, the system might continue to release brake pressure, which can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the service brakes. This could lead to a reduction in stopping performance or even cause the brakes to become inoperative, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.

To address this issue, GM has made an update to the electronic brake control module software. This update can be installed either through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by visiting a GM dealership. If you own one of the affected vehicles, GM urges you to take action as soon as possible. The recall number for this issue is N242453471, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number is 24V-598.

2024 Cadillac XT5 Air Bag Could Tear

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General Motors (GM) has announced a safety recall affecting a small number of its 2024 Cadillac XT5 vehicles. This recall addresses a potential defect with the driver front airbag. This defect may pose a risk to vehicle safety.

The issue was identified when GM’s airbag module supplier observed a tear in the airbag cushion during a routine lot-acceptance test. This incident, which occurred in February 2024, prompted a thorough investigation by GM. The supplier was able to isolate the affected batch and performed additional tests on these airbags across various temperature settings to assess their reliability and safety.

The tests revealed that the airbag cushions could tear during deployment due to a recent design change in the airbag modules. Following these findings, GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) made the decision to issue a recall for all vehicles equipped with airbag modules from the affected production lot, manufactured the day before the problematic batch.

It is important for consumers to understand that a tear in the airbag cushion during deployment can significantly impair the airbag’s performance in the event of a crash, thereby increasing the risk of injury to the occupants.

To address this safety concern, GM is taking proactive steps. The company will replace the driver’s front airbag module at no cost to vehicle owners. GM plans to begin notifying affected Cadillac XT5 owners through formal letters, which are scheduled to be sent out on June 17, 2024. The recall has been officially recorded under GM’s number N232439241 and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number 24V-311. GM has confirmed that there have been no field incidents or injuries reported in relation to this defect.

Phantom Braking Issue In Certain 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon Trucks

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2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC CanyonIn the realm of automotive safety, the emergence of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) has promised to revolutionize the driving experience, offering heightened levels of safety and convenience. However, as with any technological advancement, occasional glitches and malfunctions can arise, potentially jeopardizing the safety of drivers and passengers alike. Such is the case with the “phantom braking” issue that has plagued certain 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks.

The issue came to light in September 2023, when reports of unexpected automatic emergency braking (AEB) incidents surfaced in General Motors (GM) vehicles in China. GM initiated an investigation through its Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program, aiming to identify the root cause of the problem and implement appropriate corrective measures.

Upon investigation, it was discovered that the faulty behavior stemmed from the Front Camera Module (FCM) system, a crucial component responsible for detecting obstacles and triggering AEB when necessary. Under certain conditions, the FCM’s software exhibited erroneous detection of obstacles, resulting in unwarranted activation of the AEB system. This phenomenon, referred to as “phantom braking,” poses a significant safety risk, potentially leading to accidents and injuries.

GM, in collaboration with its supplier, conducted rigorous testing and analysis to pinpoint the underlying cause of the malfunction. This involved examination of field data from various sources, including different versions of the FCM software, vehicles produced in different periods, and reports from both the U.S. and China.

A total of 234 field complaints in the U.S. were potentially linked to the phantom braking issue. Among these incidents, four resulted in accidents, with three causing minor injuries to occupants. GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) made the decision to initiate a safety recall in February 2024.

The recall, identified by GM as A232424660 and by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as campaign number 24V-133, involves a corrective measure aimed at rectifying the software glitch in the FCM. Authorized dealerships will apply updates to the FCM software, effectively addressing the root cause of the phantom braking issue and restoring the intended functionality of the AEB system.

In conclusion, while the emergence of advanced driver assistance systems has undoubtedly enhanced automotive safety, incidents such as the phantom braking issue serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and proactive intervention. Through swift action and collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers, and regulatory agencies, the automotive industry can continue to push the boundaries of safety innovation, ensuring that drivers can enjoy the benefits of technology without compromising their well-being on the road.

GM “Stop Delivery” On Certain Chevy Blazer, Chevy Equinox And GMC Terrain Vehicles

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Chevy Blazer EV Stop Delivery

General Motors (GM) has announced an immediate stop delivery order for certain 2024 model vehicles, including the Chevrolet Blazer, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. This decision, taken as a precautionary measure to ensure customer satisfaction and vehicle reliability.

The specific issue prompting this stop delivery order has not been publicly disclosed by General Motors. The order is categorized under “Global Safety Field Investigations,” suggesting that GM is actively working to identify and rectify the underlying problem. The lack of detailed information at this stage highlights the company’s cautious approach in handling potential vehicle issues.

Affected vehicles have been identified through their Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), with a clear directive that these vehicles should not be sold or delivered by dealers until further details and solutions are provided. This restriction also prohibits dealer trades, auction releases, demonstration uses, or any other dealership activities involving these models. To facilitate this process, GM has updated the Investigate Vehicle History (IVH) screen in the Global Warranty Management (GWM) system, which now tags the affected vehicles with a “Stop Delivery” status and labels the VIN as “Incomplete Remedy Not Available.”

One significant concern that has emerged is related to software issues in the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, which uses GM’s advanced Ultium battery system. A small number of Blazer EV owners have reported issues with the software quality, prompting Chevrolet to temporarily halt sales and deliveries of this model. This pause is intended to ensure that the vehicles delivered meet GM’s high standards for quality and reliability. Notably, the software problems cannot be resolved through an over-the-air (OTA) update, necessitating a visit to the dealership for service.

GM has assured customers and stakeholders that these software issues are not safety-related and do not pertain to the Ultium battery system or the Google Built-in features. The engineering teams at GM are actively working on a solution. Affected vehicle owners will be contacted by GM with instructions on scheduling their software updates.

This stop delivery order, labeled under GM number N232429910, is a measure by GM to preemptively address potential issues before they impact customers. As the situation evolves, GM is expected to provide further updates and guidance to both dealerships and vehicle owners.

Chevy Bolt Electrical Shock Chevrolet Bolt Potential Electrical Shock From Charging Chord

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General Motors (GM) will be contacting the owners of certain 2022-2023 model year Chevrolet Bolt EUVs about a defect that pertains to motor vehicle safety, specifically concerning the Webasto high-voltage portable charging cords that come with these vehicles. The issue revolves around incorrect software within these charging cords, which may fail to discontinue charging if the ground connection is lost.

Discovery of the Defect

The discovery of this safety concern began with a supplier plant audit conducted on March 8, 2023, by GM’s quality engineer. During this audit, it was uncovered that an incorrect hardware/software combination was being used in the production of portable charging cords for the Chevrolet Bolt EUV. GM initiated a review of the situation on April 18, 2023, and subsequently reported it to GM’s Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program. This led to the official commencement of a product investigation on May 9, 2023.

The Safety Risk

GM’s investigation revealed a crucial mismatch between the software and hardware in the affected charging cords. Under specific circumstances, this mismatch could hinder the software’s ability to properly interpret information from monitored circuitry. Consequently, the cord assembly’s internal processor might fail to detect a ground loss promptly, leading to a delay in halting further charging. Particularly at high ambient temperatures and under limited conditions, users might experience a brief electric shock lasting just 1/40th of a second.

Affected Vehicles and Recall Decision

GM’s investigators managed to identify 374 specific serial numbers for the parts affected by this defect, tracing them back to the production period when these potentially flawed components were used. During this period, GM produced 10,825 vehicles, out of which 9,423 are located in the United States. Importantly, as of now, GM is not aware of any field incidents related to this condition.

Recognizing the potential safety risks associated with this issue, on August 24, 2023, GM’s Safety and Field Action Decision Authority made the crucial decision to conduct an equipment safety recall.

How the Recall Affects Users

For individuals who have been using the portable charging cord with their Chevrolet Bolt EUV, there is a potential risk of being exposed to unprotected high voltage if the cord set loses its ground connection during use. This increases the risk of a very brief electrical shock.

To address this safety concern, GM dealerships will inspect and replace the portable charging cord as necessary. Users are encouraged to contact their local GM dealership or visit GM’s official website to check if their vehicle is affected by this recall. The recall is identified by GM as N2324073000, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned it the campaign number 23E-065.

Is your Chevrolet Bolt EV a Lemon?

For Chevrolet Bolt owners who believe they may have been sold a “lemon” vehicle or are experiencing repeated issues with their Bolt, the California Lemon Law can provide a potential solution. The California Lemon Law is a legal framework that offers protection to consumers who have purchased or leased defective vehicles, including those with safety concerns like the Chevrolet Bolt recall.
Under the California Lemon Law, if a vehicle experiences recurring issues that substantially impair its use, safety, or value, and the manufacturer fails to repair it after a reasonable number of attempts, the vehicle may be eligible for a buyback or replacement. If you suspect that your Chevrolet Bolt is a lemon due to issues beyond the recent recall, it is advisable to consult with a qualified attorney experienced in lemon law cases to explore your options and seek a resolution.

In conclusion, the Chevrolet Bolt recall underscores the importance of prompt action by manufacturers to address safety concerns. If you own a Chevrolet Bolt and are concerned about its safety or repeated issues, understanding your rights under the California Lemon Law can provide a potential avenue for relief and resolution. Always prioritize your safety and the safety of others on the road when it comes to vehicle recalls and defects.