GM recalling nearly 22,000 pickup trucks over seat issue

PanARMENIAN.Net - General Motors said Wednesday, Oct 9, it is recalling nearly 22,000 of its 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickup trucks because of a problem with their seats, according to Reuters.

GM said that in the event of the trucks being struck from behind, the reclining seat backs might move more than allowed by safety regulators and not provide as much protection from injury as designed.

GM said it has gotten no reports of accidents or injury related to this possible defect.

Owners of the new trucks can have the seats inspected and if necessary repaired at GM dealers.

Of the total of 21,721 pickup trucks recalled, 18,972 are in the United States, 2,575 in Canada, 103 in Mexico and 71 outside North America, GM said.

According to NBC News, in June, General Motors recalled 230,000 midsize SUVs due to a potential fire risk serious enough that the maker also is advising owners to park outside until repairs can be made.

The recall expanded upon an action GM took in August 2012– that time covering about 250,000 vehicles, including the Chevrolet Trailblazer and GMC Envoy – sold in 20 Snowbelt states. Similar recalls have impacted several other manufacturers, including Toyota, and have so far involved more than 1 million vehicles sold in North America alone.

The problem involved a master power door and window module located in the driver’s door. Over time, moisture can leak in and corrode electrical connections. If that happens, the module can short circuit and overheat. In turn, that can lead to the smell of smoke or, in some instances, a fire.

A number of other manufacturers have experienced similar problems with defective window switch control modules – largely due to the common practice of sharing parts suppliers.

The biggest recall related to the problem so far involves Toyota. After ordering a more modest service action, the Japanese maker ordered the recall of 7.5 million vehicles last October – the biggest recall in its history. A total of 2.5 million vehicles sold in the U.S. were covered by that announcement.