GM (General Motors) is once again having safety problems and has had to send a recall notice to more than 62,000 Chevrolet Silverado vehicles. The problem? They could catch fire due to a brake issue.
The most worrying part is that the fire could occur even when the vehicle is parked, so GM recommends that owners leave the cars outside garages or enclosed structures until they get the repair!!
What is happening with General Motors (GM)?
It’s clear that this is not GM’s best five-year period, and this is yet another example. This problem dates back to 2023, when GM launched a previous recall, 23V-266, which had brake fluid leaks that could affect the wiring of the pressure sensor. Of course, that problem was supposed to be fixed, but later investigations found that the fault persisted even in modified vehicles.
New field reports
In October 2024, a report about a 2023 Silverado (which was not included in the original recall) raised the alarm. This one was defective too!
And of course, they kept investigating and two more cases were added between December and January. GM discovered that they had a new problem: an unauthorized substance in the rubber diaphragm was reacting with the brake fluid and deteriorating the material. Total catastrophe.
Which vehicles are affected?
The models involved are:
- Chevrolet Silverado 4500HD
- Chevrolet Silverado 5500HD
- Chevrolet Silverado 6500HD
All these vehicles were manufactured between 2019 and September 9, 2024, so if you have a vehicle made during those dates, this recall is for you.
But if your vehicle is from after September 9, don’t worry because your car already has a new wiring harness that includes silicone sealing, so there’s nothing to worry about.
But what’s wrong with the cars?
Didn’t you hear? They have a problem with a short circuit in the brake pressure switch, it overheats and emits a liquid into the brake wiring, and this can lead to fires.
What has GM done?
On March 3, GM hired Akron Rubber Development Lab (ARDL) to analyze the materials used to seal the diaphragm, but it became clear a month later that it was degrading due to the fluid leak. One vehicle fire later, GM had to issue a safety recall informing the Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA).
What should owners do?
First, make sure your vehicle is included in this recall. Using your VIN and the official NHTSA website, you can check if your vehicle is affected by this fault.
If it is, you will need to take your Silverado to the nearest dealer or official workshop, they will replace the brake pressure switch wiring harness for free!
And yes, the recall letters will start being sent on July 28, but if you’ve noticed anything strange and want to get your appointment sooner, don’t hesitate to do so, even though GM will send another communication when the replacement part is available.
Note, if your vehicle was already repaired under action 23V-266, you may still need this new visit to the dealership!!!
Where to check if your car is on the list?
Owners can contact GM at 1-866-467-9700 or visit the website of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to check if their vehicle is part of recall number N242482680
A serious problem
Although only one fire related to this fault has been confirmed, GM has received more than 160 reports of incidents that could be linked… The company says it will continue working with its suppliers to prevent these errors from happening again, but we believe the damage to its brand is already done.
GM, get ready, because 62,000 Silverados are coming to visit your workshops