GM Recalls Medium-Duty Trucks for Brake System-Related Fire Risk
General Motors is going through it with engine issues right now, but a more recent recall for its medium-duty trucks is thankfully less of a disaster. The automaker is recalling around 62,000 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD trucks from the 2019 through 2024 model years for an issue with the brake pressure sensors that could cause a fire.
While rare, the issue relates to a seal that could separate the brake pressure switch from the sensor controlling it. A damaged seal can allow brake fluid to leak onto the sensor’s wiring harness, short-circuiting it and increasing the fire risk.
The problem comes from the chemical used to secure the seal, which can degrade over time. Models with the problem contain a zinc sealant for the switch that can fragment and allow leaking. GM is advising owners to park their trucks outside and said they may notice a warning with a “service brake system” message if the problem is present.
GM said it had identified one alleged fire out of the 160 potentially related customer reports, but it also noted that no injuries or accidents have been reported. Dealers will inspect potentially impacted trucks and replace the defective brake pressure switch wire harness if the improper seals are found.
[Images: General Motors/Chevrolet]
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Chris grew up in, under, and around cars, but took the long way around to becoming an automotive writer. After a career in technology consulting and a trip through business school, Chris began writing about the automotive industry as a way to reconnect with his passion and get behind the wheel of a new car every week. He focuses on taking complex industry stories and making them digestible by any reader. Just don’t expect him to stay away from high-mileage Porsches.
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Add brakes to the list of things automakers seem to have forgotten how to do
A fine example of GM trying to save thirty-seven cents per vehicle. The lack of headliner glue is spreading.