Massive Recall Over Power Steering Problems Impacts 1M Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Suburban, Escalade and Yukons

More than 1 million General Motors (GM) pickup trucks and SUV’s are being recalled, due to a risk that the power steering may fail momentarily while the vehicle is in motion, posing an increased risk of an accident and injury. 

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the GM power steering recall on September 12, after recognizing the potential for the electric power steering assist to suddenly drop out while the vehicle is in motion. To date, no injuries or crashes have been reported in relation to the recall.

The recalled vehicles are equipped with electric power steering (EPS) systems that make turning the wheel easier for drivers. According to investigators, the power steering assist may fail due to a software programming error that could cause the voltage to drop when the vehicle is traveling at low speeds.

In the event the voltage level drops, drivers will experience a loss of power steering for several seconds that will make turning the wheel significantly more difficult and could increase the risk of a crash.

Drivers may notice a dashboard light warning them of a power steering fault, and other functions such as traction control, air conditioning, power door locks and cruise control may also stop working simultaneously.

The recall affects model year 2015 Cadillac Escalades, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup trucks, Chevrolet Suburban’s, GMC Sierra 1500 trucks, and GMC Yukon vehicles.

An estimated 1,015,918 vehicles that were manufactured and distributed throughout the U.S. to licensed dealers.

General Motors will begin notifying registered owners of the recall and will provide instructions on how to schedule a free repair at their local dealer, where dealers will be instructed to update the EPS module software. Customers with additional questions regarding the recall may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782 and reference the recall campaign number 18289.