Chevrolet Silverado Power Steering Defect Could Cause Steering Failure

According to a new GM recall, a Chevrolet Silverado power steering defect could result in temporary power failure when turning at low speeds.

Just last month, General Motors announced the recall of more than one million model year 2015 large pickup trucks and SUVs because of a defect that can cause the power steering to suddenly shut down, even if only for a few moments. GM blames the power steering problem for 30 accidents that the company is aware of, but no fatalities have been reported as a result. Two people reportedly have been injured in accidents due to the defect.

In addition to the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado, other affected models include the following:

• 2015 GMC Sierra 1500
• 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
• 2015 Chevrolet Suburban
• 2015 GMC Yukon
• 2015 Cadillac Escalade

Chevrolet Silverado Power Steering Defect Details

A problem with the software and electrical systems seems to cause the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system to fail and then return as quickly as within one second, said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The issue tends to happen at low speeds, added the NHTSA.

A similar electrical problem was found in the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks, which were recalled in August 2017.

GM spokesman Tom Wilkinson said in an email to Consumer Reports, “If you have a weak connection and one or more high amperage systems put too much load on it, you can get a voltage drop. The high load on the steering gear can contribute to the voltage drop, but a number of things also can contribute to a voltage drop and affect steering assist.”

According to the NHTSA, the power steering configuration creates a high demand for energy during low-speed turns, which causes the overall voltage to drop.

When a driver experiences the Chevrolet Silverado power steering issue, the driver might see a dashboard light indicating there is a problem with the power steering, or all of the dashboard lights may go out suddenly and temporarily. The loss of power steering makes it harder for the driver to turn the steering wheel.

Other electrical systems that might be affected by this voltage drop include the traction control, air conditioning, warning noises, power door locks and cruise control.

GM dealerships purportedly are equipped to repair the Chevrolet Silverado power steering defect by performing a software update that will “greatly reduce” the energy required for the power steering system to sustain at all speeds.

GM operates out of headquarters in Detroit, Mich. According to the company’s website, GM employs more than 180,000 people and serves five continents. GM reported revenue of $36.8 billion for the second quarter of 2018. Mary Barra is currently GM Chairperson and CEO.

If you own or lease a 2015 vehicle affected by the Chevrolet Silverado power steering defect, you could be eligible to participate in this class action lawsuit investigation.

Join a Free GM Power Steering Class Action Lawsuit Investigation

The vehicles affected by the GM power steering recall include:

• 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
• 2015 GMC Sierra 1500
• 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe
• 2015 Chevrolet Suburban
• 2015 GMC Yukon
• 2015 Cadillac Escalade

If you own or lease one of the vehicles listed above, you may be able to participate in this GM power steering defect class action lawsuit investigation.

Learn More