In a recent announcement, General Motors (GM) has issued a recall for more than 323,000 heavy-duty pickup trucks in the United States. The recall comes after the discovery of a potential issue with the electronic tailgate release switches, which can short circuit and inadvertently open the tailgate while the vehicles are in park.

The affected vehicles include certain models of Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 trucks from the 2020 through 2024 model years. According to documents posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Tuesday, water infiltration into the switches can cause the tailgates to open even when the truck is not in motion, leading to unsecured cargo falling out of the beds.

This malfunction poses not only a road hazard but also increases the risk of accidents. In light of these concerns, GM is advising owners to ensure that the tailgate is firmly closed and latched before operating their trucks. To address the issue, GM dealerships will replace the exterior touchpad switch, and affected owners will receive notifications via letter starting from March 18.

Furthermore, GM has instructed its dealerships to refrain from selling the affected vehicles until the necessary repairs have been made. This step aims to ensure that no additional trucks are sold with the potentially faulty tailgate release switches.

The safety of their customers remains a top priority for GM, and the company is committed to resolving this issue promptly. Owners who have any questions or require further assistance are encouraged to contact their local dealership or GM customer service.

This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of vehicle safety checks and manufacturer recalls. Regularly inspecting and maintaining vehicles can help identify potential issues and prevent accidents on the roads.

It is vital for truck owners to stay updated on recalls and promptly address any safety concerns. By taking these precautionary measures, drivers can contribute to safer road conditions for themselves and others.