Fire Risk Prompts Massive 40,000 Chevy Truck Recall
If you own a 2019-2023 Chevy 4500HD, 5500HD, or 6500HD, Chevy is recalling 40,000 units for fire risks
According to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), up to 40,000 Chevy 4500HD, 5500HD and 6500HD medium-duty trucks could be at high risk for catching fire. Caused by a leak from the brake lines, the risk comes from the fluid leaking onto the pressure sensor assembly. From there, the unit can short circuit and cause a fire to start.
To make matters even more frightening, the report indicates that a fire could start at any point. Regardless of mileage or age of the vehicle. The report reads, “These vehicles may have a brake pressure sensor assembly that allows brake fluid to leak beyond the diaphragm seal into the pressure switch. The brake fluid may seep into the sensor’s electrical components and short the brake pressure switch and the associated fuse.”
Due to the seriousness of the threat, Chevy urges owners to park the vehicle a fair distance from any structure — especially ones that may make it hard for first responders to reach the vehicle until the issue can be fixed. GM says that some drivers may get a warning light for the brake system when the anti-corrosion zinc-nickel plating for the pressure sensor assembly is dissolved from the leaking brake fluid. Though, some drivers don’t get a warning light at all — hence the urgent call for a recall.
As of right now, there are only 11 reports of a fire stemming from the faulty system occurring, though, no associated injuries were sustained. To solve the issue, Chevrolet will replace the master cylinder pressure sensor assembly at no cost to the owner if an inspection proves the part to be faulty. Beginning late May, owners of suspected trucks will receive a letter urging them to make an appointment. Once a repair is available to them, they will receive a second letter.
