GMC Sierra Pickups Recalled Over Crash Risks

General Motors is recalling Sierra pickup trucks over a new safety hazard, the company recently told U.S. auto safety regulators.

Some 71,000 Sierra pickup trucks’ chrome front grille deflectors could break and detach, according to General Motors. That poses the risk of accidents involving the trucks and anyone on the road with them.

“One or more of the attachments that hold the front upper grille deflector in place may fracture over time,” GM said in a notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “If all eight attachment points break, the deflector may detach from the vehicle while driving.”

“If a front grille deflector detaches unexpectedly while driving, there is increased risk of a crash,” GM added.

The recall covers certain 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles, which were built between November 2021 and September 2022. 

GM blamed a supplier for the problem, which it became aware of through customer complaints. The automaker has received more than 1,200 complaints, including four reports of related accidents, it said.

GM wants owners to bring their pickups to authorized service providers for inspection and repair. “Your GM dealer will reinforce or repair all attachment points on the chrome front grille deflector, free of charge,” the company told owners.

GM Owners: Know Your California Lemon Law Rights

This is not the only safety issue for people who drive GM cars.

GM announced in May that it was recalling some 600,000 vehicles, including some Sierra pickups, because of a defect that could cause engine failure. The automaker warned at the time that the vehicles could stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.

Recalls like these are often announced long after defective cars have left factory floors and hit the road. Even when automakers call back vehicles, they often struggle to properly fix the issues.

Fortunately, GM and other car owners in California have some important rights and protections when it comes to malfunctioning and defective cars. You do not need to wait around for a recall to get your car fixed, with the vehicle manufacturer picking up the tab.

The California lemon law generally requires carmakers to perform various repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also forces the companies to buy back covered vehicles that they are unable or refuse to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the car’s purchase price, as well as financing fees, rental car costs, and other related expenses.

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

Talk with a San Diego Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a San Diego 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 San Diego lemon law attorney.