Warren, MI – August 3, 2021 – General Motors (NYSE:GM) has issued a recall for 26,847 SUVs over a potential loss in power steering assist, which could increase steering effort and result in a crash. This GM recall includes:
- 2021 Cadillac Escalade
- 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV
- 2021 Chevrolet Suburban
- 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
- 2021 GMC Yukon
- 2021 GMC Yukon XL
The affected part is the power steering motor control module with multiple part numbers – 84893520, 84876238, 84846488.
Recall summary
The power steering assist makes it easier to steer a vehicle. A software issue in the power steering control module may result in the loss of the feature, increasing the effort needed to steer and the risk of a crash.
An affected vehicle will still have manual steering control.
Warning signs
Drivers will be warned of a loss in power steering functionality by a malfunction indicator light (MIL) on the dashboard and with a chime sound. More effort will also be required to steer but the issue may be remedied if the car is restarted.
Risks
Losing the power steering can make maneuvering quite difficult, particularly with larger vehicles, like the ones that are a part of this recall. The effort required is greater at slower speeds and increases the risk of the driver losing control and crashing.
Related complaints
Back in May, a 2021 GMC Yukon owner experienced a similar loss in power steering functionality.
Other GM recalls
Another recent Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac recall was for a failing airbag malfunction warning light.
The repair
The software issue can be resolved with an over-the-air (OTA) update without having to bring the vehicle to a dealership. The owner can also schedule to have the dealer perform the update. Some vehicles will require a new steering gear motor kit in order to download the software update, in which case the car will have to visit the dealer. In all cases the repair will be free of charge. Affected customers were set to be notified on August 2, 2021.
Is your vehicle part of the recall?
To find out if your vehicle is a part of this GM recall, use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.
