General Motors is recalling 20 Chevrolet Blazer EVs due to a parking brake wiring harness issue caused by an earlier parts catalog error during prior recall repairs. The defect could either stop the brake from working entirely or cause it to engage when it shouldn’t, posing potential safety risks in both cases. The problem stems from repairs linked to a previous recall to fix the same issue in the summer of last year, where some vehicles received the wrong replacement part due to an issue in the company’s electronic parts catalog.
This led to the incorrect harness being installed, which follows a different routing path and doesn't adequately protect the wires from flexing under normal use. As a result, there is an increased risk of shorting or breakage during everyday driving. If the parking brake engages while the vehicle is moving, it could heighten the chance of an accident.
Conversely, if the brake fails when the car is parked and unattended, it might roll away. In some instances, drivers may also find themselves unable to shift out of park. The good news for Chevrolet is that this isn’t a sweeping recall, with only 20 Blazer EVs affected.
Affected units include 15 from the 2024 model year and five from the 2025 model year, built within specific time frames. The issue came to GM’s attention in mid-October when a brand quality manager submitted a report after discovering the electronic parts catalog had allowed dealers to order an incorrect wiring harness. While the brand isn’t aware of any accidents related to the fault, it has rightly decided to issue a recall.
Affected owners will receive notifications starting March 9, and dealerships have been instructed to replace the harness with a corrected one.
This recall highlights the importance of thorough quality control measures in the automotive industry, particularly when it comes to complex electronic systems like those found in electric vehicles. It's reassuring that GM has taken swift action to address this issue and prevent potential safety risks.
