Thousands of GM Vehicles Recalled Because of Power Steering Loss Risk

 Posted on July 07, 2021 in Car Accidents

Car accidents occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the more common causes of crashes include distracting driving behavior (i.e., texting and driving), driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, or speeding or disobeying some other traffic law. In the majority of car accidents, fault lies with a driver who acted in a negligent or reckless manner.

However, not all car accidents are caused by another driver. Some crashes occur because of a defective or malfunctioning part or component in the vehicle. Over the past several years, car accidents that resulted in the death or severe injuries of victims have been caused by defective airbags, ignition switches, and fuel tanks. A recent recall for power steering issues on some General Motors (GM) vehicles could put the vehicle’s occupants and other commuters in danger of serious accidents.

GM Issues Recall

GM has issued a recall notice for almost 27,000 SUVs because of a software issue that could cause the vehicle’s power steering system to suddenly stop. According to the company’s announcement, if the system stops working, a driver should still be able to steer the vehicle but will likely need to use more effort to turn the steering wheel.

Although the company is confident that a driver would still be able to operate the steering, it is important to note that a vehicle wheel without power steering is heavier and much more difficult to turn. Since the loss of steering occurs without warning, a driver could very well be at risk of crashing if it occurs.

A second issue that a driver may encounter is that the power steering may not work immediately when a driver starts the vehicle. If this occurs, GM says the driver may see a malfunction indicator light on the instrument panel and hear a warning chime. The company suggests that if the driver shuts off the vehicle and then turns it back, the power steering may come back on.

The make and model of the vehicles being recalled are:

• 2021 Cadillac Escalade

• 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV

• 2021 Chevrolet Suburban

• 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

• 2021 GMC Yukon

• 2021 GMC Yukon XL

Vehicle owners are advised to contact a local GM dealer to obtain a new software upload for their vehicle. They also have the option of getting an over-the-air software update instead.

Let a Chicago South Side Personal Injury Attorney Help

Although vehicle manufacturers are required to contact owners to let them know of any recalls and repair remedies, it is a good idea to periodically check to see if your vehicle is under any type of recall. This can be done on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a defective vehicle part, contact a skilled Hyde Park car accident attorney to find out what legal options you may have. Call Kadzai Law Group, LLC at 312-229-0050 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/cadillac-chevrolet-gmc-suv-recall-power-steering-problem-a1811078052/