Is My GM a Lemon?

GM Common Recalls

If you own a GM vehicle and are experiencing issues, you might wonder if it’s a lemon. GM has faced several recalls recently involving tech problems and defective parts. These issues can range from faulty ignition switches to software glitches that affect safety features. If your GM car has been in and out of the shop for the same problem, you’re likely frustrated and worried about your safety.

Under California’s lemon law, you have rights as a consumer. When a car manufacturer repeatedly fails to fix defects in your vehicle, you may be entitled to a replacement or refund. Recalls don’t automatically cover the injuries and damages you’ve suffered due to a defective GM car. That’s why contacting a lawyer who can help you navigate this process is crucial. They can assist you in getting the compensation you deserve, ensuring your rights are protected and your case is handled correctly.

Common Problems with GM Vehicles 

Common problems with GM vehicles often lead to recalls, impacting thousands of drivers. Here are some recent recalls you should be aware of to ensure your safety on the road.

2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon Tech Glitch Recall: Certain 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles have a defect where the front camera module (FCM) system may falsely detect an obstacle, causing the automatic emergency braking (AEB) to engage unexpectedly. This issue can cause the vehicle to abruptly stop or slow, increasing the crash risk. If you drive a 2023 Chevrolet Colorado or GMC Canyon, be aware of this potential problem and seek a recall repair immediately.

Tailgate Recalls: The 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500, and 3500 models equipped with power-unlatching tailgates have a defect in the electronic gate-release switch. Water intrusion may cause this switch to short circuit, resulting in the tailgate inadvertently unlatching while the vehicle is in park. An unlatched tailgate may open while driving, leading to a loss of unsecured cargo and creating a road hazard that increases the risk of a crash. If you own one of these models, addressing this recall is crucial to prevent potential accidents.

GM Roof Rail Air Bag Recall: The owners of 2014 Buick Verano and Chevrolet Cruze vehicles should be aware that the left or right-side roof-rail airbag (RRAB) inflators may rupture at the weld joint. This recall expands upon Recall 23V-674. An inflator that ruptures may partially inflate the airbag and cause sharp metal fragments to enter or exit the vehicle, increasing the risk of an injury. If you drive one of these, check if your vehicle is affected and make the necessary repairs to ensure your safety.

Air Bags Recall: 2014-2017 Models: In some 2014-2017 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles, the driver’s airbag inflator may explode during deployment due to a manufacturing defect. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in a serious injury or sometimes a tragic death.

Air Bags Recall: 2007-2011 Models: The 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles have non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilizing ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity. An explosion can cause sharp metal fragments to strike vehicle occupants, leading to severe injuries or death. If your vehicle is among these models, it’s critical to have the recall addressed to ensure your safety.

Instrument Panel Defect: The 2024 Buick Encore GX, Envista, and Chevrolet Trax vehicles have a software issue in the Virtual Cockpit Unit Module (VCU) that may cause the instrument panel display to intermittently go blank at vehicle startup or while driving. A blank instrument panel will not show critical information, such as vehicle speed and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash. If you own one of these vehicles, it’s essential to get this issue fixed to maintain safe driving conditions.

Daytime Running Lights Recall: Certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles have a defect where the daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.” DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. Owners of these models should address this recall to avoid potential visibility issues and ensure safer driving conditions.

Staying informed about these recalls is crucial for your safety and peace of mind. Make sure to check if your GM vehicle is affected and take appropriate action as soon as possible.

How Can a California Lemon Lawyer Help with My GM Recall?

A California lemon lawyer can be a vital ally when dealing with a GM recall. While recalls address defects, they don’t compensate you for the inconvenience, injuries, or financial losses caused by the faulty vehicle. A lemon lawyer can help you navigate California’s lemon law, ensuring you receive the full benefits you are entitled to, such as a replacement vehicle or a refund. They can also assist you in proving that your vehicle’s defects meet the criteria under the law. 

Additionally, a lawyer can represent you in negotiations with GM, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive fair treatment. If GM refuses to comply with the law, your lawyer can take your case to court. Legal assistance is crucial because it levels the playing field, giving you a better chance to get the compensation and justice you deserve.

Staying informed about these recalls is crucial for your safety and peace of mind. Make sure to check if your GM vehicle is affected and take appropriate action as soon as possible.

Do You Own a GM Lemon?

If you recently purchased a new or used GM vehicle, and it’s spent more time in the shop than you’d expect for a new car, chances are that you were sold a Lemon. If so, GM may be legally obligated to provide you with a replacement vehicle or buy back your defective car, truck or SUV. At Wirtz Law APC, we are experts in handling Lemon Law cases on behalf of vehicle owners across the California. Over the years, we’ve handled countless cases, connecting our clients with $76 Million in damages. We take a comprehensive approach to handling every case, which is why we’ve been able to successfully obtain compensation for our clients in over 98 percent of our Lemon Law cases. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation with a California Lemon Law attorney today, give us a call at 858-259-5009. You can also connect with us through our online contact form.