GM EV Brake Problems Draw Heightened Federal Safety Scrutiny

General Motors electric vehicles are facing increased scrutiny from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration after hundreds of reported incidents, more than 20 crashes or fires, and at least six injuries. The agency’s Office of Defects Investigation upgraded its probe to an engineering analysis, described in the source article as the highest level of ODI investigation. That step often comes before the office tells a company to issue a recall, though no recall order is stated in the provided material.

The reported brake problems involve GM EVs and also extend to some non-EV models, including the Chevy Colorado, GMC Canyon, Buick Enclave, and Buick Envision. More than 1 million vehicles may be affected, according to the TechCrunch report. The probe centers on GM’s eBoost brake-by-wire system, which replaces a traditional mechanical link between the brake pedal and braking system with an electronic one.

NHTSA first opened its investigation in April 2024 after reports from owners of 2023 model year Cadillac Lyriq vehicles. Early complaints described a “Brake System Failure” message at startup or after the vehicle came to a complete stop. ODI later said it continued receiving reports of an immediate loss of brake assist while braking, a condition the regulator said could extend braking distance and increase crash or injury risk.

GM said customer safety is its highest priority and that it takes the reports seriously. The company said it conducted a thorough investigation and determined the alleged condition does not present an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety, while adding that it will continue cooperating with NHTSA. For owners, the key takeaway is to pay close attention to brake warnings, unexpected changes in brake assist, and any future communications from GM or federal safety regulators.