General Motors, the largest automaker of the Detroit Big Three, has issued a safety recall affecting 449,671 full-size trucks and SUVs due to a faulty electronic brake control module. The module’s incorrect calibration can cause the low brake fluid warning light to remain inoperative.
An engineer first reported the issue through GM’s Speak Up For Safety program in April 2024. This program was established in 2014 following the ignition switch scandal, which resulted in 124 deaths. Despite numerous claims, GM’s lawyers rejected the majority of them.
An investigation into the engineer’s report revealed that the electronic brake control module software and calibrations for vehicles built on the T1XX architecture were incompatible. T1XX is GM’s internal code for full-size trucks and SUVs produced since 2018 and 2020, respectively.
Affected vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 135, which requires a warning to the driver when brake fluid levels drop below a certain point. While a red light will illuminate before complete brake fluid loss, the recall addresses the lack of a timely warning.
General Motors has issued a recall for certain 2023-2024 model year SUVs and pickups due to a potential software issue with their electronic brake control modules. The recall affects models like the Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, Escalade, Silverado 1500, and Sierra 1500.
The affected vehicles were produced between October 2022 and April 2024. GM will update the software through over the air updates or at dealerships. Owners will receive notification letters starting October 28.
The Silverado 1500 is the most affordable model in the lineup, offering a base price of $36,800 without destination charges. In contrast, the Tahoe starts at $56,200, reflecting its more premium features and capabilities.
One significant difference between these two vehicles is their rear suspension: the Silverado 1500 uses a live axle with semi elliptic multileaf springs or composite second-stage leaf springs, while the Tahoe features an independent rear suspension.
For those seeking a balance of daily driving comfort and off-road capability, the ZR2 trim of the Silverado 1500 is a strong contender. It comes equipped with Multimatic-supplied dampers and blocks under the leaf springs, providing superior handling and performance both on and off the road.