If you own a vehicle that’s been recalled by the manufacturer due to a safety issue, you don’t want to see that the recommended remedy is to “park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete.” However, that’s what over 40,000 Chevrolet Silverado owners are dealing with right now.
General Motors is recalling three models (4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD) of these trucks with model years 2019 and later. The issue is the potential for brake fluid to leak from the brake pressure sensor assembly into the switch. This could cause a short circuit that could in turn lead to a fire whether the vehicle is parked or moving.
The new part isn’t available yet
As if that wasn’t disturbing enough, the recall notice issued by General Motors via the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that the fix, which involves replacing the master cylinder pressure sensor, isn’t available yet.
That’s often the case with recalls. Auto manufacturers need to notify consumers of potential safety issues. However, the parts needed to repair them often must be manufactured since the current ones are flawed.
Many vehicle recalls these days involve issues with technology that present little if any safety risk. When a problem is so serious that owners are advised not to drive their vehicles, however, that can leave them in a bind.
A loaner vehicle is required
Neither manufacturers nor dealers are required to provide “loaner” vehicles. That means consumers who don’t have access to another vehicle need to rent one at their own expense or find other means of transportation. In some cases, like this one, it might not even be safe to park your vehicle in your garage, driveway or even on the street. The only other alternative is to continue to drive a potentially deadly vehicle and risk the safety of those inside and others on the road.
In the Silverado case, GM says it has received no reports of any injuries caused by the faulty pressure sensor thus far. In all too many cases, recalls of all types of products, from toys to food, are issued only after a safety issue has harmed or even killed someone.
If you or a loved one has been injured or sickened by a defective product, it’s important to seek legal guidance. This can help you better determine your options and can also help others avoid the same fate.