Blog

GM is now recalling hundreds of thousands of its HD pickup trucks to due what has been described as an issue with the optional block heater feature. In fact, the automaker says that it can short-circuit and cause a fire in certain circumstances. Between December 3, 2019, and May 28, 2021, General Motors has received 122 complaints along with 24 reports of potential fires. There are affecting vehicles that number 331,274 and include the below trucks that are equipping with the 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine. Plus the engine block heating cord. These include the 2017-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500 and the 2017-2019 GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500.

GM Trucks had Issues Before

In fact, these trucks have already been recalling for a similar issue. There is a General Motors’ internal investigation which revealed the vehicles that were affecting involving in recall number 19V328. In fact, the automaker does note that vehicles involving in that recall will close and then addresses under this new recall campaign.

Trucks Affected

If you, in fact, own one of those trucks, the condition will carry certain indicators that you need to be, in fact, be aware of. From the NHTSA recall document, your vehicle may be affected if you notice “smoke or a burning smell. Also poor block-heater performance. In addition to tripped circuit breakers or blown vehicle fuses. Plus, damage to the block heater, the heater cable, or engine components; and block-heater coolant pooling under the vehicle.”

Short-Circuit Condition

Moreover, the recall does state that the cause of the problem does relate to a short-circuit condition. It can occur if the block heater does develop a coolant leak. Then the coolant contacts the heater’s cable terminal while it is plugging into an energy source. However, the short-circuit condition can, in fact, damage engine components and then start a fire.

Dealer notifications under the recall have already begun. Then on August 16, 2021, owner notification is scheduling. Then there is a potential solution that is developing. It may include disabling the feature.