GM Recall Lawyers: Power Steering Issue Linked to Over a Million Unsafe Vehicles

On September 13, 2018, automobile manufacturer General Motors announced a recall of more than 1 million vehicles in the U.S.  The vehicles, both pickup trucks and sports utility vehicles, are being recalled because of a power steering defect that has been shown to increase the risk of crash.  According to the Associated Press, 30 crashes related to the defect have been reported, including 2 injuries. 

A GM recall issued previously addressed a similar power steering problem in other GM vehicles, suggesting that GM may have known about the defect at issue in the current recall.  Why the manufacturer delayed addressing this dangerous issue for over a year remains unanswered.  Unfortunately, accidents and injuries can likely be attributed to the delay.

GM Recall: Power Steering Defect Explained

According to the recall report made to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, GM indicates that the power steering in certain models of its trucks and SUVs can fail suddenly while the vehicle is in use.  This failure is most likely to occur during turns, according to GM.

Power steering assistance in a vehicle is used to assist the driver, making it easier to turn and control the direction of a vehicle.  This is important, particularly in large vehicles like trucks and SUVs, the steering of which becomes difficult due to their size if no power steering assistance is available.

GM has acknowledged here that failure of the power steering, here caused by a sudden unsafe voltage drop, can increase the risk of accidents.

Models Affected

The models subject to the current recall include certain of the following GMC, Chevrolet, and Cadillac vehicles:

• 2015 GMC Sierra 1500
• 2015 GMC Yukon
• 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
• 2015 Chevrolet Suburban
• 2015 Chevrolet Silverado
• 2015 Cadillac Escalade

Not every vehicle of the recalled makes/models identified has been identified to have the power steering defect, but owners should take their vehicle to a local dealership to determine whether the defect is present.

Those involved in accidents in which defective power steering may be to blame should contact a product liability as soon as possible.

Repeated Power Steering Recalls

Over the past several years, GM has recalled several million vehicles because of defective power steering systems.  These recalls all involve the hazard of power steering assistance failing while the vehicle is in operation.  Despite prior issues, however, GM continues to release dangerous and defective vehicles onto the roads.

When large manufacturers cut corners to save costs, innocent consumers are the ones who pay the price.  Physical injury, property damage, and wrongful death happen every day because of defective motor vehicles and automotive components.

Fortunately, those injured by greedy and negligent manufacturers have the right to take legal action.  An experienced product liability lawyer can help you and your family pursue justice and get the compensation you deserve.

GM Recall Lawyers are Available Now for a Free Consultation

Lowe Scott Fisher Co., LPA’s dedicated product liability lawyers want to hear from you if you have been injured by a defective motor vehicle.  Call or email for your free consultation and find out how we can fight for you.