GM Recalls 450,000 Trucks and SUVs Over Faulty Brake Fluid Warning

General Motors has issued a recall affecting nearly 450,000 trucks and SUVs due to a potential brake fluid warning system defect. The issue centers on the vehicles’ brake control module, which may fail to alert drivers when brake fluid levels are dangerously low, posing a serious risk to brake performance and overall vehicle safety.

History Behind the Recall

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified this problem after a GM engineer discovered the brake fluid warning light, known as a “telltale,” failing to activate during a forced brake fluid leak test in April 2024. 

Upon further investigation, GM found that the issue stems from a mismatch between the electronic brake control module (eBCM) software and the calibrations installed in the vehicles at the assembly plant. This mismatch prevents the system from detecting and displaying the brake fluid warning when necessary.

While no crashes or injuries related to the issue have been reported, the risk of brake fluid loss without warning could significantly reduce braking performance, putting drivers and passengers in danger.

Which Models Are Affected?

The recall affects a broad range of GM vehicles from the 2023 and 2024 model years, including:

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

In total, approximately 449,671 trucks and SUVs in the U.S. and 38,390 vehicles in Canada are impacted by the recall.

What Owners Need to Do Next

GM will begin notifying owners of affected vehicles by mail starting on October 28, 2024, instructing them on how to proceed. The solution involves a software update that corrects the mismatch between the brake control module software and the calibrations.

Owners whose vehicles are equipped with over-the-air (OTA) software update capability will be able to receive the fix remotely without needing to visit a dealership. For those without OTA-equipped vehicles, GM recommends scheduling an appointment with their local dealer to have the update installed.

Contact Information and Further Steps

Owners who are concerned about their vehicle’s brake fluid warning system can check their vehicle’s recall status by visiting the NHTSA website or calling their respective brand’s customer service:

  • Chevrolet: 800-222-1020
  • GMC: 800-462-8782
  • Cadillac: 800-458-8006

GM has assigned the recall number N242447990 for this issue. If you suspect your vehicle is affected, it’s crucial to act quickly to avoid any potential safety hazards.

How GM Owners Can Take Back Control

While recalls have been communicated to owners, many continue to be unhappy with the solutions provided by automakers. These problems have the potential to escalate into further action, just like this – underlining the importance of protecting consumer rights.

If you struggle with vehicle troubles and feel cornered against big vehicle brands, remember it is always better to have experts with you. With extensive experience and successful cases at hand, The Lemon Firm is your best bet. With the dedicated team members always at your disposal, the package becomes too good to be true. So, if your car is giving you a headache, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Call 833 Lemon Firm and speak with a case analyst today!

About the Author
Sepehr Daghighian is a partner with CCA that is well-versed in all aspects of lemon-law litigation. A 2005 graduate of Loyola Law School, Mr. Daghighian has been practicing litigation throughout the state of California for over 13-years. In this time, Mr. Daghighian has advocated on behalf of California consumers in hundreds of lemon law cases throughout our great state. Mr. Daghighian has also successfully tried numerous such cases to verdict in both Federal and State Court.