Chevrolet – California Lemon Law blog

If you own a newer Chevrolet Corvette, there’s an important safety defect you should be aware of. General Motors has issued a recall affecting nearly 33,000 vehicles over a software issue that could prevent drivers from being alerted when a rear turn signal fails.

What’s the Problem?

The issue centers around a software defect in the exterior lighting control module. In affected vehicles, a failed rear turn signal may not trigger a warning to the driver. This creates a compliance issue with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, which requires that drivers be notified when exterior lighting, like turn signals, fail. Turn signals are critical for communication on the road. If a rear signal fails and the driver isn’t alerted, it increases the risk of miscommunication with other drivers, lane-change or turning accidents, and reduced overall safety.

Vehicles Affected

This recall applies to select 2025 and 2026 Corvette models, including:

2026 Corvette ZR1X Coupe and Convertible
2026 Corvette E-Ray Coupe and Convertible
2026 Corvette Coupe and Convertible
2025 Corvette E-Ray Coupe and Convertible
2025 Corvette Coupe and Convertible

What Caused the Issue?

The root cause traces back to a software change made in October 2024 by a supplier working on the rear lamp assembly. The update was intended to help technicians during a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) learning process, but it had an unintended side effect. It interfered with the system responsible for detecting rear turn signal failures, meaning that under certain conditions the system does not recognize when a signal is out. The issue was discovered during internal testing for the upcoming 2027 Corvette model.

Timeline of Events

The issue traces back to a software change introduced by a supplier in October 2024. It was not identified until December 9, 2025, when a GM employee reported the problem through the company’s internal safety system following validation testing. GM officially opened an investigation on January 27, 2026, which ultimately led to the recall being approved on March 26, 2026. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed beginning May 18, 2026. GM has stated that there have been no known accidents or injuries related to this issue.

How the Problem Will Be Fixed

The solution is a software update to the exterior lighting control module. Owners have two options. Vehicles equipped with over-the-air capability can receive the update remotely if the owner has accepted GM’s update terms. Alternatively, all owners can have the update performed at an authorized GM dealership at no cost.

Recall Details

NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-213
GM Recall Number: N252541250
Component: Exterior Lighting
Affected Units: 32,988

What Corvette Owners Should Do

If you own a 2025 or 2026 Corvette, watch for your official recall notice starting May 18, 2026. Check whether your vehicle supports over-the-air updates, and if not, schedule a visit with your dealer. Even if you have not noticed any issue, it is important to have the update completed.

Final Thoughts

This recall highlights how modern vehicles rely heavily on software systems. Even a small change can have unintended consequences for safety features.

NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-085

Owners of certain 2022 Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC full-size SUVs should be aware of an important new safety recall involving a potentially dangerous transmission defect. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a problem with the transmission control valve in affected vehicles may cause the rear wheels to lock while driving, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.

This recall affects several of General Motors’ most popular SUV models equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Electronic Transmission Range Select (ETRS) system.

Vehicles Affected by Recall 26V-085

The recall applies to the following 2022 model year vehicles:

Chevrolet Tahoe
Chevrolet Suburban
GMC Yukon
GMC Yukon XL
Cadillac Escalade
Cadillac Escalade ESV

Only vehicles equipped with the 10-speed transmission with ETRS and built within a specific production window are included.

What Is the Transmission Control Valve Problem?

General Motors determined that a defect related to motor vehicle safety may exist in certain vehicles due to excessive wear inside the transmission control valve body.

Over time, internal components of the valve may wear prematurely, which can lead to:

Loss of hydraulic pressure inside the transmission
Unexpected valve movement
Harsh or abnormal shifting behavior

In rare situations, this condition may cause the rear wheels to momentarily lock — or remain locked until the vehicle stops.

Why This Defect Is Dangerous

Rear wheel lockup while driving can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle, particularly at highway speeds or during turns.

According to the NHTSA:

If the rear wheels lock up while driving, there is an increased risk of a crash.

GM is aware of at least one reported crash potentially linked to this issue, though no injuries have been reported.

Warning Signs Drivers May Notice

Drivers may experience warning symptoms before a serious failure occurs. These include:

Harsh or rough shifting
Sudden or aggressive downshifts
Unusual transmission behavior

However, because the defect involves internal wear, symptoms may develop gradually and may not always provide sufficient warning before a lockup event.

What Caused the Problem?

GM’s investigation found that transmissions manufactured between April 2022 and September 2022 contained unique internal hardware that may accelerate wear inside the transmission control valve. Additionally, affected vehicles were not equipped with diagnostic software capable of detecting early valve wear.

Excessive wear can create a fluid leak inside the valve body, causing a pressure drop that allows internal transmission valves to move unexpectedly — leading to wheel lockup in extreme cases.

How the Recall Was Discovered

The issue came to light after a customer reported a transmission lockup through GM’s internal Speak Up for Safety (SUFS) reporting system on November 5, 2025. The incident allegedly caused a loss of vehicle control and a collision with a guardrail. GM opened a formal investigation later that month and reviewed field data spanning nearly two years. Investigators identified 13 field reports potentially related to the condition between November 2023 and October 2025, with 12 involving the affected 2022 SUV models.

On February 5, 2026, GM officially authorized a safety recall.

Recall Remedy: What Dealers Will Do

To correct the problem, GM dealers will:

Install updated Transmission Control Module (TCM) software
Improve monitoring of valve performance and wear
Perform repairs

Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed beginning March 30, 2026. GM Recall Number: N252536750 ; NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-085.

What Owners Should Do Now

If you own one of the affected vehicles:

Watch for recall notification letters in the mail.
Contact your local GM dealership to confirm recall eligibility.
Schedule the software update as soon as possible.
Pay attention to harsh shifting or unusual transmission behavior and seek service immediately if symptoms appear.

Final Thoughts

Full-size SUVs like the Tahoe, Yukon, and Escalade are often used for family transportation and long-distance travel, making drivetrain reliability especially important. While GM reports that rear wheel lockup events are rare, the potential safety risk is significant enough to warrant immediate attention. If your vehicle is included in Recall 26V-085, scheduling the repair promptly is the safest course of action.

If you drive a Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, Silverado 1500, GMC Yukon, or Sierra 1500, you may have already seen a Check Engine Light related to a coolant control valve problem.
Many 2021–2023 GM vehicles—especially those equipped with the 3.0L Duramax diesel (LM2 or LZ0)—have been affected by failures of the engine coolant control valve, sometimes called the engine coolant flow control valve.

This part plays a crucial role in regulating coolant flow to help the engine maintain proper operating temperature. When it fails or sticks, it can cause check-engine lights, overheating, and even high-speed radiator fan operation after the engine is turned off.

What the Issue Is

The engine coolant control valve manages how coolant circulates through the radiator and engine. When it fails, owners often report one or more of these diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs):

P1098 – Coolant Control Valve Performance (common on 3.0L Duramax models; fans may run at high speed even after the key is off)
P26BB / P2B60 – Coolant Flow Control Valve Position/Learn Faults

These codes can trigger the Check Engine Light (MIL) and may cause excessive fan noise or poor temperature regulation.

Vehicles Involved

GM lists the following vehicles as potentially affected:

2021–2023: Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Tahoe / Suburban, GMC Yukon / Yukon XL
2021–2022: Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500

The issue is most prevalent in vehicles with the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine (LM2 or LZ0), but can appear in some gasoline variants as well.

What GM Told Dealers to Do

General Motors has released several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and Preliminary Information (PI) documents to guide technicians:

22-NA-082 (April 2022) – Software programming update for vehicles displaying P1098 / P26BB / P2B60 codes.
PIP5791A (January 2022) – Directs technicians to command the valve open and closed multiple times to verify function before replacement.
Earlier PI (2019 → carried forward) – Replace the valve and perform a relearn if previous codes were logged and diagnostics confirm failure.
21-NA-271 (August 2023) – Advises checking for kinked cooling hoses that can cause similar fault codes before replacing the valve.

Special Coverage Program for 3.0L Duramax Models

In September 2025, GM announced a Special Coverage Program for the coolant control valve affecting certain 3.0L Duramax models.

Coverage up to 15 years / 150,000 miles (240,000 km) from the vehicle’s in-service date
Applies to Silverado 1500, Sierra 1500, and full-size SUVs equipped with 3.0L Duramax engines
Covers replacement of the coolant control valve and related programming if diagnostics confirm failure.
Program IDs: N252508340 and N252508341

What Owners Should Do

Get the codes read – Look specifically for P1098, P26BB, or P2B60.
Visit your GM dealer – Mention TSB 22-NA-082 and Special Coverage N252508340/N252508341.
Ask for a diagnostic and repair under warranty coverage if applicable.

California Lemon Law: Repeated Coolant Valve Problems Could Mean Your Vehicle Is a Lemon

If your GM SUV or truck has been in the shop multiple times for the repeated issues—or has been out of service for an extended period due to repeated repairs—you may have additional protection under the California Lemon Law (formally the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act).

When Lemon Law Might Apply

You may qualify if:

The vehicle is still under the manufacturer’s warranty (including extended “special coverage” programs).
The dealer has attempted several repairs for the same problem without success.
The issue substantially impairs the vehicle’s use, value, or safety (for example, repeated overheating or engine cooling failure).
The vehicle has spent a significant number of days in the shop for warranty-related repairs.

If those conditions apply, California law may require GM to repurchase or replace your vehicle.

How to Take Action

Keep records of all service visits, repair orders, and communication with your dealer.
Request a copy of your vehicle’s repair history and diagnostic codes.
Consult a California Lemon Law attorney or consumer-protection advocate if your issue persists after repeated repairs.

(Tip: Lemon Law claims can often be handled at no cost to the consumer—attorney fees are typically paid by the manufacturer if you prevail.)

General Motors (GM) has announced a serious safety defect that may affect certain 2023–2026 Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The issue is linked to models equipped with a left-side radiator and fan combination, which are found in Corvette Z06 and ZR1 models.

According to GM, excess fuel spilled into the fuel-filler pocket during refueling could leak onto hot radiator surfaces and potentially ignite. This dangerous condition raises the risk of a vehicle fire, even while the car is turned off.

What Is the Chevrolet Corvette Fire Risk Defect?

In the affected vehicles, the fuel-filler pipe and recessed pocket sit directly above the left-side radiator and cooling fan. If a refueling spill occurs—especially if a gas pump fails to shut off properly—the spilled fuel may leak onto the radiator.

When the fan is running, it can draw spilled fuel through the radiator, vaporize it into the engine compartment, and expose it to ignition sources. If ignited, this can result in a sudden vehicle fire.

GM’s investigation confirmed that at least four Corvette fire incidents were connected to this defect, two of which involved malfunctioning gas station pumps that failed to shut off properly.

Timeline of GM’s Safety Investigation

June 10, 2025 – GM received a report through its “Speak Up for Safety” system after a social media post claimed three Corvettes caught fire during fueling within 30 days.
June 12, 2025 – A GM-owned Corvette test vehicle caught fire while refueling.
June 17, 2025 – GM officially opened a product investigation.
June 20, 2025 – Engineers identified distinct burn patterns on the left-side radiator of the test vehicle.
July–August 2025 – Controlled fuel-spill simulations showed that fuel leaks in vehicles with a left-side radiator could ignite under specific conditions, replicating the burn damage seen in real-world fires. Vehicles without this radiator design did not ignite.
August 14, 2025 – GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) decided to launch a safety recall.

Models Affected by the Safety Recall

While the issue involves Corvettes from model years 2023 through 2026, GM confirmed the left-side radiator/fan combination is only used in:

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (2023–2026)
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (2023–2026)

All confirmed fire incidents involved Corvettes equipped with this radiator design.

Risks to Drivers and Passengers

If fuel leaks during refueling and reaches an ignition source, the risks include:

Vehicle fire while stationary
Potential injuries or fatalities (two incidents reported minor injuries)
Damage to property and fueling stations

GM’s Recommended Precautions for Corvette Owners

Until repairs are completed, Corvette owners should take the following precautions:

Always ensure the fuel nozzle is fully inserted into the filler pipe.
Do not overfill the gas tank; stop after the pump clicks off once.
Always turn off the engine before refueling.
Be cautious at gas stations with malfunctioning or leaking pumps.

The Official Fix

GM has announced that dealers will:

Install a protective shield to divert spilled fuel away from hot components.
Begin mailing owner notification letters on October 6, 2025.
Send a second letter once permanent parts and remedies are available.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned this defect campaign number 25V-536.

Can Lemon Law Help Corvette Owners?

If your 2023–2026 Chevrolet Corvette has experienced repeated problems, you may have rights under the California Lemon Law and other state lemon laws.

The law may entitle you to:

A repurchase (buyback) of your Corvette
A replacement vehicle
Or cash compensation if your car qualifies as a lemon

Since the defect involves a serious safety risk, owners should act quickly. Consulting with an experienced Lemon Law attorney can help determine if your Corvette qualifies for relief. If repeated safety issues, downtime, or repair delays affect your Corvette, you may qualify for protection under Lemon Law.

General Motors (GM) has confirmed a serious safety defect affecting certain 2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado Medium Duty trucks. This issue involves the brake pressure sensor assembly, which may allow brake fluid to leak into the electrical components of the brake pressure switch. Over time, the defect can lead to short circuits, loss of brake system function, and even under hood fires, creating a significant risk of property damage and personal injury.

What Models Are Affected?

The following Chevrolet Silverado Medium Duty trucks are included in this safety defect:

2019 Chevrolet 6500
2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 4500
2019–2021, 2023–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 5500
2019, 2021–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 6500

Trucks produced before 2019 use a different brake sensor design and are not affected. Certain 2024 Silverado Medium Duty models built with a brake switch wire harness that includes silicone sealant are also excluded.

Why This Is a Safety Concern

If brake fluid leaks past the diaphragm seal into the electrical portion of the brake pressure sensor:

The switch and fuse can short circuit.
The circuit may generate excessive heat, leading to a fire risk.
A fire can occur even when the vehicle is parked and unattended.

This is not only a performance issue but a direct safety hazard for owners and the public.

Chronology of Events Leading to the Defect Finding

The journey to identifying this defect spans several years, beginning with earlier issues and continuing into 2025:

April 13, 2023 – GM issued NHTSA Recall 23V-266 addressing zinc sealant fragmentation in brake pressure sensors that could cause brake fluid leaks and under hood fires.
October 11, 2024 – GM’s quality team received a report of unintended brake pump activation in a 2023 Silverado Medium Duty truck that was not part of the earlier recall. The issue was escalated through the Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program.
November 24, 2024 – GM opened a formal investigation after discovering brake fluid in the wiring harness of the newer sensor design.
December 18, 2024 – Another field report surfaced involving a 2021 Silverado truck already repaired under the 23V-266 campaign. GM’s analysis confirmed fluid intrusion.
January 2025 – Additional warranty-returned parts tested positive for brake fluid contamination in the harness.
March 3, 2025 – GM and International Motors partnered with Akron Rubber Development Lab (ARDL) for material analysis.
April 24, 2025 – Testing revealed that the rubber diaphragm was degrading due to the supplier’s use of an unauthorized chemical that reacted with brake fluid.
April 30, 2025 – GM identified one confirmed fire among 160 reports and began deeper field analysis.
May 28, 2025 – GM inspected the affected vehicle and concluded the fire was linked to the defect.
June 5, 2025 – GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) determined a safety defect existed in 2019–2024 Silverado Medium Duty trucks.

The Cause of the Safety Defect

Investigations revealed that a supplier used an unauthorized chemical in the rubber diaphragm of the brake pressure sensor assembly. This material degraded when exposed to brake fluid, allowing leaks into the sensor’s electrical system and creating the potential for fires.

Warning Signs Owners May See

Drivers may notice a “Service Brake System” warning light on the dashboard as the defect develops. GM advises that vehicles should be parked outdoors and away from buildings until the problem is corrected.

The Fix for Silverado Owners

GM’s remedy involves replacing the brake pressure switch wire harness with an improved design.

Interim owner notifications were mailed on July 29, 2025.
A second notification will be sent once parts are fully available.
Vehicles that were previously repaired under Recall 23V-266 will also require the updated repair.

GM has assigned this campaign number N242482680, and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-390.

If you drive a Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Yukon, or Cadillac Escalade equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine (RPO L87), your vehicle may be at risk of sudden engine failure due to defective engine components. (Safety Recall N252494001 and NHTSA campaign number 25V-274)

Vehicles Affected by the Recall

Chevrolet: Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe (2021–2024)
GMC: Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL (2021–2024)
Cadillac: Escalade, Escalade ESV (2021–2024)

Over 600,000 GM vehicles are included in this recall.

The Engine Defect Explained

The recall stems from manufacturing defects in the connecting rods and crankshaft, which may include:

Sediment in connecting rods and crankshaft-oil galleries
Crankshaft dimension issues
Improper surface finishing

These defects can lead to engine failure, posing a serious safety risk.

Potential Dangers and Symptoms

According to GM, drivers may notice warning signs before total engine failure, including:

Unusual Engine Noises – Knocking, banging, or metallic sounds
Check Engine Light – Illumination of the dashboard warning light
Performance Problems:
- Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
- High or unusual RPMs
- Abnormal or rough shifting
- Reduced propulsion or loss of power
- No-start condition (engine fails to start)

If the engine fails while driving, drivers may lose propulsion, significantly increasing the risk of a crash. GM has already linked the defect to 12 potential crashes and 12 reported injuries in the U.S.

The Official GM Remedy

General Motors dealers will inspect affected vehicles. Depending on results, remedies include:

Higher Viscosity Oil – Offers added protection against component wear
New Oil Fill Cap & Oil Filter Replacement
Owner’s Manual Insert – Updated guidance for owners

Is My Vehicle Safe to Drive?

While GM notes that the condition does not affect braking or cause an abrupt stop, an engine failure during operation will cause a loss of propulsion, requiring drivers to coast and maneuver to the side of the road. This can create a serious safety hazard.

Until recall repairs are complete, GM advises owners to stay alert for unusual engine noises, warning lights, and changes in performance.

California Lemon Law: Your Rights as a Consumer

If you’re a California resident and your Chevrolet, GMC, or Cadillac has been in the shop multiple times for the same issue, or if you’ve lost significant time without your vehicle, you may qualify for relief under the California Lemon Law.

Lemon law protections may entitle you to a:

Buyback (refund)
Vehicle replacement
Cash compensation

Our experienced California Lemon Law attorneys can guide you through the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What to Do If Your Vehicle is Affected

Schedule a Dealer Inspection – Don’t wait until your engine fails; get ahead of the issue.
Document All Repairs and Symptoms – Keep records for potential lemon law claims.
Call for a Free Case Review – If you’ve had repeated problems, call 1-866-785-4477 for a free California Lemon Law consultation.

Final Thoughts

The 6.2L V8 engine defect in GM vehicles is a serious safety concern affecting hundreds of thousands of drivers. If you own a 2021–2024 Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra, Yukon, or Cadillac Escalade, don’t wait for the engine to fail — take action now to protect your safety and your rights.

✅ Free Case Review: Contact our California Lemon Law attorneys today at 1-866-785-4477 or fill out our online form at the top of the page to learn if your GM vehicle qualifies for a buyback, replacement, or compensation.

If you drive a Chevy Silverado or Tahoe, a GMC Yukon, or a Cadillac Escalade, you may have already heard some rumblings about a major recall involving General Motors’ 6.2L V8 engine. The problem is serious — and if you’re in California, it could also mean you have rights under the California Lemon Law.

What’s the issue?

GM is recalling over 600,000 vehicles from model years 2021 through 2024 because of a defect in the connecting rods and crankshafts. These parts can fail suddenly and without warning, leading to complete engine failure. It’s not the kind of thing you want to find out about when you’re halfway to Los Angeles in the summer heat.

Who’s affected?

The recall covers:

2021–2024 Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban
2021–2024 GMC Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL
2021–2024 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV

Dealerships are expected to begin sending out notification letters starting June 9, 2025. GM has stated they’ll either repair or replace the engine — no cost to you.

Why it matters under California Lemon Law

California has one of the strongest Lemon Laws in the country. If your vehicle has had ongoing problems or has spent a significant amount of time in the shop, you may qualify for a buyback, replacement, or compensation — especially when the issue is related to a serious safety defect like engine failure.

Even if your engine hasn’t failed yet, if you’ve had multiple repairs or long service delays related to drivability or performance, it’s worth exploring your options.

What to do now:

Keep an eye out for a recall notice.
If your vehicle has already experienced engine trouble, gather your repair records.
Don’t wait to talk to a Lemon Law professional if you’ve been back and forth to the dealer or you’ve lost confidence in your vehicle.

You don’t have to fight a manufacturer on your own. California’s laws are there to protect you — and in most cases, the manufacturer covers your legal costs.

If you’re concerned about your vehicle’s engine defect or have questions about your rights under the California Lemon Law, Call Now for a FREE Case Review 888-395-3666 or fill in the contact form at the top of the page. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – take action today to protect your rights as a California consumer!

General Motors LLC (GM) has determined that certain 2021-2024 GM vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engines could experience engine failure problems. The issue is caused by manufacturing defects in the connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components, which can lead to engine damage and failure.

Affected Vehicles

The following GM vehicles are affected by this recall:

Cadillac Escalade (2021-2024)
Cadillac Escalade ESV (2021-2024)
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2021-2024)
Chevrolet Suburban (2021-2024)
Chevrolet Tahoe (2021-2024)
GMC Sierra 1500 (2021-2024)
GMC Yukon (2021-2024)
GMC Yukon XL (2021-2024)

The Problem

GM’s investigation found that the connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components in these vehicles may have manufacturing defects, including:

Rod-bearing damage from sediment on connecting rods and crankshaft-oil galleries
Out of specification crankshaft dimensions and surface finish

These issues can cause or contribute to bearing damage, leading to loss of propulsion and engine failure.

Warning Signs

Drivers may be alerted to the condition prior to failure by:

Unusual engine noises (knocking, banging, etc.)
Illumination of the check engine light
Engine-performance issues, including:
- Hesitation
- High RPMs
- Abnormal shifting
- Reduced propulsion
- No-start condition

Consequences of Engine Failure

If the engine fails during vehicle operation, the vehicle will lose propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. In fact, GM has identified 12 potentially related alleged crashes and 12 potentially related alleged injuries in the U.S.

Recall Repair

Dealers will inspect the engine and, as necessary, repair or replace it. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will:

Add higher viscosity oil
Install a new oil fill cap
Replace the oil filter
Update the owner’s manual

Recall Details

GM’s recall number: N252494000
NHTSA campaign number: 25V-274
Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on June 9, 2025

If you receive a notice saying your vehicle is affected, it is essential to take immediate action and contact your local dealer to schedule a repair. Remember to always monitor your vehicle’s performance and watch for any warning signs of engine failure.