Owners of certain 2025-2026 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans should be aware of a newly announced safety defect involving a potentially dangerous steering problem that could result in a loss of vehicle control.
What Is the Problem?
General Motors has recalled approximately 26,541 vehicles after discovering that some steering gear assemblies may contain a critical fastening nut that was not properly tightened during manufacturing. According to the manufacturer, a malfunctioning parts sensor at a supplier’s facility allowed certain steering gear assemblies to pass inspection even though the retaining nut had only been hand-tightened instead of being properly torqued to specification. If that nut loosens or separates from the steering gear while the vehicle is being driven, the driver could experience a sudden loss of steering control, significantly increasing the risk of a serious collision.
Warning Signs Drivers May Notice
Before a complete failure occurs, some drivers may notice changes in how the vehicle steers, including:
- Reduced steering precision
- A steering wheel that is noticeably off-center while driving straight
- Steering that feels abnormal or inconsistent
Drivers experiencing any of these symptoms should have their vehicle inspected immediately and avoid delaying repairs.
How the Defect Was Discovered
The investigation began after a dealership reported finding a loose steering gear nut on a 2025 Chevrolet Express. On May 28, 2026, a GM quality manager submitted the concern through the company’s internal Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) reporting program.
GM formally opened an investigation on June 2, 2026. The supplier later determined that a malfunctioning inspection sensor had allowed improperly assembled steering gear units to leave the production line. By reviewing manufacturing torque records, the supplier was able to identify the potentially affected steering gear assemblies.
In addition to the original report, GM identified nine field incidents that may have been related to the defect. Fortunately, the company reported that none of those incidents resulted in injuries or crashes.
On June 18, 2026, GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority approved a formal safety recall.
What Is the Remedy?
GM dealerships will inspect the steering gear assembly and replace it if necessary. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed beginning August 10, 2026.
The recall information is:
- GM Recall Number: N262563570
- NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-399
What Should Owners Do?
If you own a 2025 or 2026 Chevrolet Express or GMC Savana, watch for your recall notice to see whether your vehicle is included. Even if your vehicle appears to be operating normally, steering system defects can become dangerous with little warning. Prompt inspection and repair are the best way to reduce the risk of a steering-related accident.
If you have already experienced steering problems, or if you were involved in a collision that may have been caused by this defect, it is important to preserve any repair records and seek legal advice regarding your rights. A manufacturer’s safety recall does not automatically compensate drivers for injuries or property damage that may have occurred before the recall was issued.
