General Motors recalls more than 67,000 electric vehicles whose brakes could unexpectedly stop working
General Motors has launched a recall of 67,380 electric vehicles in the US because a software fault in the braking system could cause a temporary loss of braking force in certain situations. The problem affects four Cadillac and Chevrolet models and can occur even during low-speed manoeuvres. The repair requires no mechanical parts to be replaced, only a software update.
Braking could be interrupted on bends or uneven roads
According to recall notice 26V717000, filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on 29 October, the problem concerns the brake system control module (BSCM) software.
The fault can occur when the driver brakes at low speed while turning the steering wheel and driving over a bump. The software may misinterpret wheel movement and temporarily release braking force.
According to GM, normal braking returns when the pedal is pressed again. However, the unexpected loss of braking force could cause a collision, particularly when parking or manoeuvring in tight spaces.
Four electric models affected
The recall covers the following vehicles:
Cadillac Lyriq: model years 2023-2027. Cadillac Celestiq: model years 2025-2026. Cadillac Vistiq: model years 2026-2027. Chevrolet Blazer EV: model years 2024-2027.
However, not every version of these models is affected. The fault concerns specific high-performance all-wheel-drive configurations.
GM will remedy the fault with a free software update, which owners can install over the air or have installed at a dealership, depending on the vehicle. The manufacturer will begin sending official notifications to US customers on 14 December.
GM's braking problems extend further
The new recall is not General Motors' first encounter with reliability problems involving electronic braking systems.
NHTSA is separately investigating potential failures of GM's eBoost braking system that could affect approximately 1.16 million vehicles. During the investigation, authorities have received hundreds of reports of braking problems, including crashes and injuries.
These are, however, two separate problems. The latest recall stems from a software fault, while the broader investigation focuses on potential mechanical failures in eBoost.
Software-dependent brakes demand flawless reliability
In modern electric vehicles, electronics often combine regenerative braking with conventional friction braking. The control system must ensure smooth deceleration regardless of how much of the braking force is generated by the electric motors.
This approach improves energy efficiency but makes brake operation increasingly dependent on software.
The case also has broader relevance for Europe. Although the recall concerns vehicles on the US market, European carmakers use similar electronic brake control systems.
GM's case shows that while a software update can remedy a brake failure, one of a car's most important safety systems should not need a second press of the pedal to start working properly again.
