GM Brake Failure Recall: Silverado, Sierra, 3500 model, and others

On September 11, 2019, GM issued a recall for the 2014-18 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, 2015-17 Cadillac Escalade, 2015-18 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe and 2015-18 GMC Yukon.

The automaker said the problem stems from a pump in the power-assist brakes, which could malfunction when putting out less vacuum power than necessary. It could increase stopping distance and the potential for a crash. Drivers could notice something is off from a vibration in the brake pedal or a noticeable change in applying pressure when stepping on it.

The recall is an extension of a previous one in June for the same issue. The U.S. government road safety agency started an investigation in November 2018 after 111 reports of poor brake performance that also led to nine confirmed crashes with two reported injuries.

GM said the issue primarily happens when driving at low speeds, like in a parking lot or in gridlock traffic. The affected trucks use a secondary power brake assist system that engages when the main system runs into problems. It wouldn’t engage properly at lower speeds, leading to the malfunctioning brakes.

Who’s affected by this recall?

GM reported 113 crashes and 13 injuries related to the defect.

The recall affects 3.46 million total vehicles in the United States, with another 310,000 vehicles in Canada.

GM didn’t specify whether there are any vehicles exempted from the recall, regardless of trim. It affects only those vehicles noted in the recall and does not include 2019 models.

What should you do?

GM will notify owners starting this month with instructions on taking their vehicle to a dealer for repair. Dealers will reprogram the engine control computer to correct the problem so that it activates the secondary braking system faster. There is no cost to consumers.

Enter your VIN at this link to learn more about this recall and find out if there are other Service Actions related to your vehicle.

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