In 2021, General Motors (GM) issued a safety recall of over 135,000 SUVs after identifying a potential hazard with their tire jacks. The issue stemmed from the fact that these emergency jacks could fracture while in use, particularly if not positioned as directed in the owner’s manual.
This defect could cause the vehicle to collapse, potentially resulting in serious injury or death to anyone standing close by or underneath the car.
The safety issue was discovered in March 2021, when a GM engineer reported a broken jack during a durability test on a 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. GM investigated the issue and found that the jack had not been positioned correctly. Following this incident, GM received 21 more complaints of jacks collapsing during use, prompting the company to issue a recall of the affected vehicles.
GM maintains that the affected jacks are robust enough when positioned correctly, but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) noted that the plastic design may not be resistant enough to fractures when positioned incorrectly, stating, “although the jack is sufficiently robust when used appropriately and per the included instructions, failures can still occur due to customer usage.”
Drivers were advised to stop using plastic jacks immediately and to use another option until they can get a replacement from the manufacturer.
GM Plastic Jack Recall Overview
GM recalled over 135,000 Buick Encore GX and Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles due to a defect in their emergency spare tire jacks that may cause them to break while in use. If the jack breaks while the vehicle is lifted, it could result in the collapse of the vehicle, causing severe injuries to anyone nearby or underneath. GM has reported one injury related to this issue.
If you own one of the affected vehicles, GM advises against using the emergency jack to change a tire and instead to contact the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Center at 800-243-8872 or the Buick Roadside Assistance Center at 800-252-1112 until the jack can be replaced.
Which vehicles are affected by the GM plastic jack recall?
The following vehicles are included in the 2021 plastic jack recall:
- 2020-2022 Buick Encore GX
- 2021-2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Affected Buick Encore GX crossover SUVs were manufactured between March 23, 2020, and June 3, 2021. Chevrolet Trailblazer SUV vehicles included in the recall were manufactured between March 16, 2020, and May 8, 2021.
For any questions regarding the recall, Buick owners can reach out to Buick customer service at 800-521-7300, while Chevrolet customers can contact Chevrolet customer service at 800-222-1020. Alternatively, vehicle owners can access GM’s recall site and enter their SUVs’ Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) to check for any open recalls on their vehicles.
The 2021 recall specifically pertains to Buick Encore GX and Chevrolet Trailblazer SUVs. Other, similarly named models such as the non-GX Buick Encore and Chevrolet Blazer are not included. If you notice any issues with your emergency spare tire jack, such as cracking or bending, even if your vehicle is not part of the recall, we recommend having it inspected by an authorized service provider.
Does General Motors have a fix?
General Motors does offer a fix in the form of a replacement in this recall. The manufacturer promised to replace plastic jacks with metal components for all affected vehicles included in the 2021 plastic jack recall.
Note that some Chevrolet and Buick vehicles affected by the recall may have been sold without spare tire jacks. GM has offered to replace the spare tire jack for drivers who were sold vehicles without one. In the meantime, drivers should call roadside assistance or use other options instead of the emergency plastic jack.
Can a defective GM plastic jack cause other problems in my vehicle?
While a defective GM plastic jack is unlikely to cause any other problems in your vehicle, its failure during use can lead to potentially serious consequences. If the jack fractures while the vehicle is lifted, the car may collapse and cause injury or even death to anyone nearby or underneath the car.
If you have not experienced any issues with your GM plastic jack, then it is unlikely to cause any other problems in your vehicle. Nonetheless, it is recommended that you obtain a replacement jack from GM as soon as possible to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
What should I do?
If you own a GM vehicle that is included in the recall, you should stop using the current plastic jack immediately. Contact General Motors to obtain a free replacement jack made of metal that is not susceptible to fractures when used properly. You can contact GM by visiting their website or calling their customer service hotline to arrange for a replacement jack to be sent to you.
In the meantime, it is recommended that you use an alternative jack or have your vehicle serviced at a professional repair shop until you receive your replacement jack. Remember, safety should always be your top priority, so do not take any chances when it comes to the safety of yourself and others around you.
If you have experienced any problems with your General Motors vehicle because of a defective plastic jack, you should contact your dealership and inform them of the issue. They may be able to assist you in obtaining a replacement jack or provide additional guidance on how to proceed.
Other GM Problems? Call the Lemon Law Experts!
If you encounter any other issues that affect the safety, use, or value of your GM vehicle, you may need advice from a qualified lemon law attorney. At the Lemon Law Experts, we can provide you with the necessary guidance and support to navigate through the legal process of seeking compensation for your defective GM vehicle.
Our team specializes in lemon law cases, and we are available to help answer any questions or concerns you may have. Do not hesitate to contact us if you need any further assistance or guidance regarding your situation today.
