A fault with GM’s electronic brake control module software fails to display a warning when brake fluid is low.
General Motors just issued a new recall covering nearly half a million trucks and SUVs over an issue that may prevent drivers from learning of a loss of brake fluid before it degrades braking performance, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. The recall campaign covers 449,671 vehicles according to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report. It includes 2023-2024 examples of the Chevy Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, as well as the full-size Chevrolet Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade and their long-wheelbase variants, like the Suburban, Yukon XL and Escalade ESV.
Specifically, the recall report says that “in the event of a brake fluid leak, the vehicle’s brake pedal performance may degrade before the BRAKE telltale [light] timely illuminates [in accordance with federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards], increasing the risk of a crash.” GM says the problem is caused by a version mismatch between the electronic brake control module software and the calibrations released to vehicle assembly plants.
A GM engineer noticed the issue during a forced brake fluid leak test, and submitted the concern through GM’s internal safety program in April, after noticing the existing calibrations did not cause the low brake fluid light to illuminate, even under controlled conditions like forcing a loss of fluid.
What’s the fix?
Since we are just talking about a software issue rather than a mechanical fault, the fix is pretty straightforward. GM will roll out updated electronic brake control module software to correct the conflict with the old calibration. For vehicles that can receive over-the-air updates and have accepted the terms to get those updates, owners shouldn’t have to visit the dealer at all. Otherwise, you’ll be able to sort the issue out at your dealership.
Most if not all 2023 and 2024 models impacted by this recall should still be under warranty, so GM is not offering reimbursement for repairs.
GM informed its dealers of the problem on September 12, and will notify owners by mail on October 28, 2024. Owners can check the NHTSA recall website (or their vehicle’s brand recall site) for more information. The reference number you’re looking for is either 24-V74 (NHTSA recall number) or GM’s recall number, N242447990.
