Automotive
Federal regulators escalate investigation into GM brake-by-wire system
The NHTSA upgraded its probe into General Motors eBoost braking systems to an engineering analysis, affecting over 1 million vehicles after reported crashes and injuries.
The short version
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration upgraded its probe into General Motors braking systems to an engineering analysis, the final step before potential recalls.
- The investigation affects over 1 million vehicles, including GM electric vehicles, joint-venture Honda models, and select internal combustion models.
- Regulators acted following hundreds of reported incidents, over 20 crashes or fires, and at least six injuries linked to a loss of braking assistance.
- NHTSA is assessing whether eBoost brake-by-wire failures extend beyond a previously identified spindle fracture mechanism.
Key facts
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration upgraded its investigation into GM brake systems to an engineering analysis, affecting more than 1 million vehicles.[TechCrunch]
- The probe covers multiple GM electric models, joint-venture vehicles such as the Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX, and gas-powered models including the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon.[TechCrunch]
- Regulators reported receiving hundreds of complaints involving the eBoost brake-by-wire system, including over 20 crashes or fires and at least six injuries.[TechCrunch]
- GM previously attributed early issues to spindle fractures in the eBoost system, but NHTSA noted recent reports of sudden loss of brake assist while slowing down that did not match GM's explanation.[TechCrunch]
What remains uncertain
- It remains uncertain whether NHTSA will formally demand a safety recall following its engineering analysis.[TechCrunch]
- The full scope of mechanical or software defects causing the sudden loss of braking power while driving is still under evaluation.[TechCrunch]