General Motors (GM) has been at the center of controversy in the automobile market for the past several years, which has resulted in several recalls and alleged reports of consumer injuries.

Most recently, General Motors has announced that it will be recalling approximately 3.64 million 2014 to 2017 vehicles for a front airbag defect.

These late model vehicles were reportedly affected by a serious front airbag defect, which may prevent the airbag from deploying during an accident. According to GM, there may be problems with the frontal airbag software that senses when there may be an impact in the event of a collision.

The company further explained that there is an issue with the pinching in the wiring harness for the side airbags mounted on the seats. This alleged wiring malfunction causes problems with the airbags deploying when they are needed, resulting in GM announcing the front airbag recall defect in September 2016.

The GM front airbag recall defect has been reportedly linked to three injuries and one death. General Motors warned consumers that this defect may significantly decrease the consumer’s safety, and that vehicle models 2014 to 2017 are most affected, including:

• 2014-2016 model Buick LaCrosse and Chevrolet SS and Spark EV
• 2014-2017 model Chevrolet Corvette, Trax, Caprice PPV and Silverado 1500; Buick Encore; and GMC Sierra 1500
• 2015-2017 year Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban and Silverado HD; GMC Yukon, Yukon XL and Sierra HD; and Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV

It is important to note that vehicles manufactured after Aug. 24, 2016 have the newer version of the software, and are not subject to the GM front airbag recall defect.

Overview of GM Front Airbag Recall Defect

General Motors estimated the front airbag recall defect may cost the company $550 million, as the recall would affect new model trucks, SUVs, and sedans.

Another company possibly in hot water for the GM front airbag recall defect is Takata, one of the world’s largest automobile safety equipment supply companies. Since 2008, Takata has been connected to a number of safety problems.

General Motors will notify all consumers whose cars may be subject to the GM front airbag recall defect, that their the cars will be updated with the proper software free of charge. Consumers who own GM vehicles can determine if they are affected by the GM front airbag recall defect, by looking up the vehicle’s VIN number on the company’s website.

Consumers who own a GM vehicle listed on the recall list may be able to file legal action against General Motors. Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer, to determine eligibility for a GM recall lawsuit.