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.
