GM Recalls 220,000 Cadillacs And Impalas Over Potential Brake Fires
According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notice [PDF], GM recalled 221,558 model year 2013-2015 Cadillac XTS and model year 2014-2015 Chevrolet Impalas over a defect in the parking brake that could cause a fire.
The electronic brake piston actuation arm may not fully retract causing the brake pads to stay partially engaged. If that occurs excessive heat from the brakes may result in fire. And in some instances the parking brake indicator may not illuminate even though the parking brake is engaged.
“If the brake drag is significant or if the vehicle is operated for an extended period of time in this condition, there is a potential for the rear brakes to generate significant heat, smoke, and sparks,” NHTSA reported in the notice.
Drivers may also experience poor acceleration, undesired deceleration and premature wear to some brake components.
GM reports there have been no injuries or accidents related to the defect. Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by GM and dealers will update the electronic parking brake software.
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