Unfortunately, another vehicle recall has been announced, impacting over 484,000 vehicles in the U.S. A potential seatbelt issue first came to light in 2021 when a customer voiced concern to a local dealership propelling notice to GM’s safety program and ultimately prompting a recall by General Motors. The recall affects Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV (Escalade Stretch Vehicle) 2021, Chevrolet (Chevy) Suburban, Chevy Tahoe, GMC (General Motors Truck Company) Yukon, and the GMC Yukon XL models manufactured in 2021 and 2022.

What is the underlying safety matter of this recall?

The recall is over a rivet in the hardware of a third-row seatbelt. According to documents filed on behalf of GM submitted to the NHTSA, a rivet securing the buckle to the mounting bracket may be malformed on either side of the third-row assembly for the seatbelt buckles. In an investigation launched by GM on May 31, 2022, it was determined that operators at a seatbelt buckle assembly supplier’s facility may not have followed manufacturing processes properly and may have unintentionally skipped or missed the rivet-forming operation. At this time, GM reports no accidents or injuries have been reported. Notification will commence on September 26 for all affected customers.

What triggers a recall, and what does it mean for me as a vehicle owner?

Recalls happen whenever a vehicle’s function, performance, components, or construction prove unsafe or are discovered not to meet safety standards at a satisfactory level. Manufacturers or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can recall defective parts and equipment if they pose a safety risk. The initial news that your vehicle is under recall can be frightening and overwhelming. As an owner, you likely want the problem addressed swiftly, correctly, and entirely to avoid putting yourself, your family, other loved ones, and passengers in harm’s way and at risk of an injury or a potentially tragic accident.

What to do after learning of a recall of your vehicle

An essential first step is establishing whether the concerning recall impacts your vehicle. You have a few options to determine if a recall has been issued for your vehicle, by first visiting the vehicle manufacturer’s website, in this instance, General Motors, and entering your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Alternatively, you may visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website and input your vehicle’s VIN. Additionally, remain alert for communication from General Motors informing you of the recall and what steps GM will take to rectify the defective seatbelt component. You will likely coordinate with your local authorized dealership regarding recall-related repairs or part replacement options.

If you or a loved one have been injured or otherwise impacted by a recall or defective vehicle, identifying and navigating appropriate action can be challenging. The best way to ensure that your case is handled correctly is to seek the assistance of an experienced San Francisco Bay area consumer law attorney. To better assist you and discuss any concerns or questions you have regarding a recall, related injury, damages, or consumer rights violation, we invite you to schedule a free consultation with our skilled attorney.