GM Says Some Trucks, SUVs Could Catch Fire

General Motors is recalling a small number of vehicles over a problem that could cause fires, the carmaker recently told federal regulators. 

The recall covers just 10 cars from the 2026 model year, a mix of Cadillac Escalade IQ and IQL electric SUVs, as well as a Chevrolet Silverado and a GMC Sierra. GM said an internal component inside their high-voltage batteries may not be properly secured, ratcheting up the risk of fires.

“Battery module components that are not properly secured may move and cause internal damage to the battery,” GM said in a recall report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “High-voltage batteries with this type of internal damage have increased risk of a fire.”

A problem with a press machine at GM's Factory Zero plant is to blame for the recall, according to the automaker. The machine was misadjusted during a period of scheduled downtime, a snafu that factory workers caught quickly, the company said.  The misadjustment affected only modules built during the specific window before the problem was spotted.

GM plans to notify owners of the recalled cars via mail by mid-September, the company said. In the meantime, GM drivers can check the NHTSA website to see if their cars are part of the recall. 

Dealers will replace the high-voltage batteries using modules sourced from outside the suspect production window. The repairs are covered by the vehicles’ warranties, the automaker said. 

General Motors Safety Issues and The California Lemon Law

These kinds of recalls are far too common for GM and other major auto manufacturers. They recall millions of vehicles every year, citing a wide range of defects that put everyone on the road at risk.

GM, for instance, could soon be forced to recall nearly 1 million vehicles due to engine failures. NHTSA recently announced it launched an investigation into reports of problems with the vehicles, including from Escalade and Sierra drivers.

There is some good news for GM drivers in California. The state’s lemon law requires auto manufacturers to perform certain repairs on vehicles under warranty. It also requires the companies to buy back cars that they cannot or will not fix.

The buyback requirement includes compensating the owner for any down payment on the car, as well as monthly loan payments and the outstanding balance on any vehicle loan. The manufacturer is also responsible for towing, rental car, and other related expenses. 

An auto manufacturer can instead offer to replace the vehicle. However, it is up to the owner to decide whether to accept or reject this alternative arrangement. 

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts that must occur before the buyback or replacement requirement kicks in. An experienced California lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights and explore your options.

Talk with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a California lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.