General Motors has significantly expanded a previous recall concerning potentially faulty tailgates on its trucks, now encompassing an estimated 820,000 vehicles across the U.S. and Canada. This escalation follows a concerning discovery that tailgates on certain models may unintentionally unlatch, posing risks to vehicle safety. The issue has been traced back to a possible short-circuit caused by water intrusion.
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In a detailed communication with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), GM revealed that approximately 570,434 trucks in the United States might be impacted by this flaw. The models identified under this recall include a range of 2020 through 2024 Chevy Silverados and GMC Sierras. This revelation marks a significant increase from an earlier statement this month by GM, which initially estimated that around 323,000 U.S. vehicles were affected.
Adding to the domestic figures, GM has acknowledged that about 249,000 vehicles sold in Canada are also subject to this recall. This information has been corroborated by records found in Canada’s motor vehicle recall database, underscoring the widespread nature of this issue.
Despite the alarming potential for harm, GM has fortunately not received any reports of significant injuries or property damage directly attributed to the tailgate malfunction. The company estimates that only 1% of the recalled vehicles actually harbor the defect, suggesting a relatively low incidence rate among the affected models.
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To address this safety concern, GM has taken proactive steps by instructing dealers to replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies on the impacted vehicles. This corrective measure aims to eliminate the risk of unintended tailgate unlatching, thereby enhancing the safety and reliability of the affected trucks.
This recall underscores the automotive industry’s ongoing challenges with vehicle components and the critical importance of maintaining stringent quality control measures. For owners of the affected Chevy Silverados and GMC Sierras, GM’s recall initiative offers a pathway to rectify the issue, ensuring their vehicles remain safe and functional. Vehicle owners are encouraged to contact their local dealers for further information and to arrange the necessary repair services promptly.
