GMC Sierra, Chevy Silverado Recall Issued Due to Electric Power Steering Problems

Nearly 800,000 GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado trucks are being recalled after the manufacturer learned the vehicles may unexpectedly lose electronic power steering assist, which may cause a driver to lose control and have an accident. 

The GM truck recall (PDF) was announced by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on August 3, following several reports of the vehicles losing power steering assist under low speed conditions, increasing the risk of a crash. To date, no injuries or accidents have been reported in relation to the recall.

According to the NHTSA recall, the vehicles’ electronic power steering assist (EPS) system may fail during low speed turns due to the system voltage dropping below 8.8 volts for more than one second. The EPS is disabled under the minimum nine volts required to maintain the electronic assist function, and may cause drivers to struggle turning the wheel at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.

In the event the driver loses EPS functions, the vehicle will revert to manual steering and the driver information center may illuminate a warning on the dashboard. GMC has announced that other electrical sub-systems may experience failures during low-voltage events which could cause the radio, door-lock cycling, chimes, stabilitrack, air condition and cruise control to fail also.

The recall involves model year 2014 Chevrolet Silverado vehicles that were manufactured from January 30, 2013 to September 4, 2014 and model year 2014 GMC Sierra light duty vehicles manufactured from January 29, 2013 through September 4, 2014.

The NHTSA has reported an estimated 690,685 GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado models impacted by the recall were distributed for sale throughout the United States, roughly 80,000 were sold in Canada and 2,500 more were distributed in other markets.

General Motors LLC announce they will begin notifying owners and dealers of the issue and plan to instruct customers to schedule a repair appointment at their local dealer, who will be instructed to update the EPS module software free of charge.

Customers with additional questions regarding the recall may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-414-9153. Customer may also check the NHTSA website to verify if their vehicle is included in the recall by visiting www.safecar.gov and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).