General Motors announced today that for the second time in two years it will recall vehicles because of a manufacturing defect that could potentially cause fires in a variety of popular model vehicles. More than 1.5 million automobiles are involved in this recall, including pickup trucks, sedans, crossovers, and sport utility vehicles manufactured between 2006 and 2009.
A problem with the fluid system heaters in the window wiper fluid system has forced GM to disable the units in every vehicle, as well as issuing payments to owners and leasers of the affected models $100 each for the inconvenience. The Detroit automaker similarly recalled more than 900,000 vehicles in 2008 because of a circuit board issue in the heated fluid system that could have potentially led to fires, and this time the recall involves 1.4 million models in the U.S. and approximately 100,000 across the globe. Despite the large number, GM is confident that the problem is small and contained.
The 2008 recall was prompted by an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and was closed when GM conducted the proper repairs on the involved vehicles. However, GM recently discovered additional vehicles that were not included in the 2008 recall and launched this secondary effort.
GM representatives will begin contacting owners and leasers over the next two weeks, but dealerships will begin servicing the vehicles immediately. The process of removing the heated fluid systems will not disturb the wiper fluid option, as dealership mechanics will simply remove the defective units and reconnect the hoses directly between the washer fluid and the wiper system.
The following makes and models are included in the current GM recall: 2006-2009 Buick Lucerne, 2008-09 Buick Enclave; 2006-09 Cadillac DTS, 2008-09 Cadillac CTS, 2007-09 Cadillac Escalade (ESV and EXT models included); 2006-09 Hummer H2; 2007-09 Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, and 2009 Chevrolet Traverse; 2007-09 Saturn Outlook; and the 2007-09 GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL.
Owners and leasers can contact their respective manufacturers at the following toll free numbers:
Buick – (866) 608-8080
Cadillac – (866) 982-2339
Chevrolet – (800) 630-2438
Saturn – (800) 972-8876
GMC – (866) 996-9463
Hummer – (800) 732-5493
If you or a loved one owns one of the aforementioned GM models and have experienced problems with or injuries because of a fire hazard or other safety issues, contact Newsome Law Firm and fill out a case evaluation form today. Our team of attorneys has experience specific to complications associated with automobile recalls. Not only can they give you the legal guidance you need, they can help you get the compensation you deserve.