General Motors (NYSE:GM) is recalling nearly four million pickup trucks and SUVs in the U.S and Canada to fix a serious brake problem.
The recall covers the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups from the 2014 through 2018 model years. Also included are the Cadillac Escalade from 2015 to 2017, the GMC Yukon and Chevy Suburban and Tahoe from 2015 through 2018.
GM says that, as it ages, the pump in the power-assist brakes can put out less vacuum power than needed, increasing stopping distance and the risk of a crash. The company is recalling 3.46 million vehicles in the U.S. and another 310,000 in Canada. GM said global numbers for the recall aren't available yet.
Dealers will re-calibrate the electronic brake control module at no cost to customers. Owners were to be notified starting September 6. The company says it has 113 reports of crashes and 13 injuries related to the brake problem.
The vacuum pump that is attached to the brake system is lubricated with engine oil that flows through a filter screen. In some of the trucks, oil sludge or other debris can clog the screen, reducing oil flow and causing the pump's vacuum output to drop, said GM in a written statement.
