GM Power Liftgate Recall 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 trucks

Carcomplaints.com reports a GM recall. ” A General Motors truck power tailgate recall affects nearly 546,000 model year 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 trucks equipped with power-unlatching tailgates.

GM says the electronic tailgate release switch may short circuit due to water intrusion and cause the tailgate to inadvertently unlatch while the truck is in PARK. GM advises owners to verify the tailgates are closed and latched before driving, at least until they are repaired. GM opened an investigation in November 2023 after receiving complaints of unwanted tailgate openings on trucks equipped with the same unsealed tailgate-release switches.

Engineers determined the design of the tailgate allowed water to enter in the location of the switch. By January 2024, General Motors had received 136 complaints that alleged the tailgates opened while driving. But GM knew the body control module would prevent release of the tailgate latch when the truck was in gear, even if the module receives a release signal from the exterior touchpad switch. This led engineers to determine the tailgates unlatched while the trucks were parked and drivers didn’t know until the trucks were in motion.

In addition to the 136 tailgate complaints, truck owners allege three minor property damage incidents and one allegation of a minor injury. Chevrolet truck owners may call 800-222-1020 and GMC truck owners may call 800-462-8782. GM’s power-unlatching tailgate recall number is N232426400.”

Owners of Chevrolet Silverados experiencing liftgate problems may have several legal remedies available to them, depending on the specifics of their situation and applicable laws. Here are some potential legal remedies:

1. Warranty Claims: If the liftgate issue falls within the scope of the vehicle’s warranty, owners may be entitled to repairs or replacements at no cost, depending on the terms of the warranty.
2. Lemon Law: Lemon laws vary by jurisdiction but generally provide recourse for consumers who have purchased defective vehicles. If the liftgate issue substantially impairs the vehicle’s use, value, or safety, and the problem persists after a reasonable number of repair attempts, owners may be eligible for a refund or replacement vehicle under lemon law provisions.
3. Breach of Warranty Lawsuits: If the liftgate problem is not covered by the warranty or if the manufacturer fails to honor its warranty obligations, owners may file a lawsuit for breach of warranty. This could result in compensation for repair costs, diminished value, or other damages related to the defective liftgate.
4. Consumer Protection Laws: Consumer protection laws prohibit deceptive or unfair practices by manufacturers or dealerships. If the liftgate issue was known to the manufacturer or dealership and not disclosed to the consumer prior to purchase, owners may have grounds for legal action under consumer protection statutes.
5. Class Action Lawsuits: If numerous Silverado owners are experiencing similar liftgate issues, they may have the option to join or initiate a class-action lawsuit against the manufacturer. Class actions allow individuals with similar claims to consolidate their efforts and seek compensation collectively.
6. Negligence Claims: In some cases, if the liftgate problem resulted from negligence on the part of the manufacturer or dealership, owners may pursue legal action for negligence, seeking compensation for any damages caused by the defect.
7. State Lemon Buyback Programs: Some states have lemon buyback programs that provide additional remedies for consumers who have purchased defective vehicles. These programs may offer a refund or replacement vehicle if the liftgate issue meets certain criteria.

Owners experiencing liftgate problems with their Chevrolet Silverados should consult with an attorney who specializes in consumer rights or automotive defects to evaluate their legal options and determine the best course of action based on their individual circumstances and applicable laws.

Call (973) 598-1980 or (973) 479-5515 to discuss your right to compensation.