GM Recall 2019: 3.4 Million Trucks, SUVs Recalled After Brake Problem Causes 113 Accidents

General Motors has issued a recall of 3.4 million pickup trucks and SUVs in the U.S. to fix a problem connected with the vehicles’ brakes.

The issue has reportedly led to 113 accidents and 13 injuries, although no fatalities have been reported, according to GM spokesperson Dan Flores.

A statement issued by the company said General Motors will voluntarily recall certain 2014-2018 model Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Yukon and GMC Sierra vehicles for “a condition related to increased brake pedal effort.”

Dealers to offer recalibration free of cost

Under the recall plan, GM dealers will do the recalibration of the electronic brake control module free of charge to customers.

“Dealers will reprogram the electronic brake control module in these vehicles with a new calibration that will improve how the system utilizes the hydraulic brake boost assist function when vacuum assist is depleted,” Flores said.

Flores added that the brake issue had been more glaring during low speeds when brakes are applied gently. On such occasions, brakes exceed the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard.

The technical snag, according to GM, is caused by certain circumstances in which vehicles develop a condition where the engine-mounted mechanical vacuum pump gives out a lower output. This leads to a reduction in the amount of vacuum/power brake assistance required.

As the pump's yields get lower on vacuum power, customers experience increased brake pedal effort, the hardness of brake pedal, and rising stopping distance. These issues could expand the risk of a crash.

According to media reports, GM was prompted to take action after a surge in field reports and customer complaints.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ordered an investigation into the matter in November last year.

The CNN report said the NHTSA did not comment on the news despite requests.

General Motors stock was down 0.30 percent during after-hours trading on Sept. 11, Wednesday.

Rising expectations on new GMC Terrain SUV

Meanwhile, expectations are high on the upcoming GMC Terrain offering. According to reports, the crossover SUV will have many new safety features when the GM vehicle goes on sale later this year.

In terms of costs, the 2020 GMC Terrain may be priced $26,195. It will have a 9-speed automatic transmission backed by a 170-horsepower engine that is of 1.5-liter and turbo-4.

For the entry-level GMC Terrain, active lane control and the automatic emergency braking are being added without any extra charges to the customers.