GM Brake Assist Issue: What Owners of Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Need to Know

Overview of the Issue

General Motors (GM) has identified a significant safety concern affecting approximately 3.5 million vehicles, including model-year 2014-18 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup trucks, Silverado 2500/3500 heavy-duty pickups, GMC Sierra 1500 pickups, and Sierra 2500/3500 HD pickups. The problem revolves around the vacuum pump, which may lose efficiency over time, leading to reduced brake assist and increased braking effort. This issue can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, thereby elevating the risk of a crash.

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Understanding the Problem

The vacuum pump in these vehicles is designed to provide the necessary vacuum for the brake booster, which in turn assists in reducing the effort needed to apply the brakes. Over time, the vacuum pump may not generate sufficient vacuum, weakening the brake assist. This means drivers may need to exert more force on the brake pedal to achieve the same stopping power, which can be particularly dangerous in emergency braking situations.

• Affected Models: Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500; GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500
• Model Years: 2014-2018
• Primary Issue: Decreased vacuum pump efficiency leading to weakened brake assist
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The Fix: What GM is Doing

GM has announced that dealers will reprogram the electronic brake control module free of charge to address this issue. This software update is expected to mitigate the problem by optimizing the brake system's performance, ensuring that the brake assist functions as intended even if the vacuum pump's efficiency decreases.

Owners of affected vehicles are encouraged to contact their local dealership to schedule this update. While GM has not yet released a specific owner-notification schedule, proactive measures are recommended to ensure vehicle safety.

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What Owners Should Do

If you own one of the affected vehicles, it's crucial to take the following steps:

1. Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) website or contact their vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 to verify if your vehicle is included in this recall.
2. Contact Your Dealer: Reach out to your local Chevrolet or GMC dealer to schedule the necessary software update. You can call Chevrolet at 800-630-2438 or GMC at 800-462-8782 for more information.
3. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on communications from GM regarding the recall and any additional steps you may need to take.

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Finding a Dealer for Service

If you need to find a dealer for service, MotorVero can help. Our platform allows you to locate your nearest Chevrolet or GMC dealer quickly and easily. Simply visit our Service & Repair page to find a dealer in your area.

Why This Recall Matters

Brake assist is a critical safety feature that reduces the effort required to stop a vehicle, especially in emergency situations. When this system is compromised, it can significantly increase the risk of accidents. By addressing this issue promptly, GM aims to enhance the safety of its vehicles and protect its customers.

This recall underscores the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and staying informed about potential safety issues. Vehicle owners should always respond promptly to recall notices to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.

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Additional Resources

For more information on this recall and other vehicle safety issues, consider the following resources:

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
• MotorVero
• Chevrolet Official Website
• GMC Official Website
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Conclusion

The brake assist issue affecting 3.5 million GM vehicles is a serious safety concern that requires immediate attention. By reprogramming the electronic brake control module, GM aims to resolve the problem and ensure the safety of its customers. If you own an affected vehicle, it's essential to take action promptly by contacting your local dealer and scheduling the necessary update. Stay informed, stay safe, and rely on MotorVero for all your automotive needs.

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