A serious power steering defect is affecting 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks, distinct from previous recalls and issues that plagued earlier generations of these popular pickup trucks. Owners across the country are reporting several alarming symptoms:
- Sudden loss of power steering assist, particularly during low-speed maneuvers and parking
- Steering wheel becoming extremely difficult to turn without warning
- Dashboard messages including “Service Power Steering,” “Steering Assist Is Reduced,” or “Service ESC”
- Grinding or squeaking noises from the steering column
- Steering problems that temporarily resolve by turning the vehicle off and on
These issues, which often occur unpredictably, have sparked a class action lawsuit investigation. The problems typically manifest most severely during parking lot maneuvers or other low-speed situations when drivers particularly need power steering assistance. These failures not only make driving more challenging but also pose serious safety concerns, especially when steering fails while the vehicle is in motion.
If you own or lease a 2020-2024 Silverado or Sierra and are experiencing these problems, you may have legal options available, including potential lemon law claims or participation in class action litigation.
Common Power Steering Failure Signs
The power steering issues affecting these trucks are more complex than initially understood. While early reports focused primarily on complete steering failures, ongoing investigations have revealed a pattern of intermittent problems that typically manifest during low-speed maneuvers, such as parking or navigating tight spaces. Drivers frequently report that their power steering assist suddenly cuts out, making the steering wheel extremely difficult to turn.
Many owners first notice the problem when warning messages appear on their dashboard. Common alerts include “Service Power Steering,” “Steering Assist Is Reduced,” or “Service ESC.” These warnings often appear and disappear intermittently, making the problem particularly frustrating to diagnose and repair.
Power Steering Defect Technical Details
Recent investigations have identified several potential causes for these steering failures. Unlike older trucks that used hydraulic power steering systems, these newer models employ electronic power steering (EPS) systems that rely heavily on software and electrical components. This complexity has led to multiple potential points of failure.
Software and electrical issues appear to be primary culprits, with voltage drops below 8.8 volts sometimes disabling the power steering assist. Some cases involve corroded data lines or wiring harness problems, while others point to faulty power steering pumps or steering gear shaft defects. In 2024 models specifically, some trucks have experienced power steering fluid leaks due to sealant cracks.
The problem’s intermittent nature has made it particularly challenging for dealerships to diagnose and repair effectively. Many owners report that simply turning the vehicle off and on temporarily resolves the issue, only to have it return later, often at unpredictable times.
Affected Vehicles and Class Action Investigation
The power steering problems affect the current generation of GM’s full-size trucks, specifically those manufactured between 2020 and 2024. This includes all variants of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra lineup, from the light-duty 1500 models to the heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 versions.
It’s important to note that while GM has previously faced power steering issues and recalls with earlier generations of these trucks, the current problems appear to be different and specific to the electronic power steering systems used in these newer models.
A class action lawsuit investigation is currently underway, focusing specifically on these 2020-2024 models. The investigation aims to determine whether GM was aware of these defects and failed to adequately address them, potentially leaving hundreds of thousands of truck owners with unsafe vehicles. This legal action is separate from previous lawsuits and settlements related to older model years of these trucks.
Safety Implications
The safety implications of these power steering failures cannot be overstated. When the system fails, drivers suddenly find themselves wrestling with an extremely heavy steering wheel, particularly dangerous during low-speed maneuvers or emergency situations. The unpredictable nature of the failure means it could occur at any time, including during highway driving or while navigating busy urban streets.
Manufacturer Response
According to GM, their Executive Resolutions Team has been contacting affected customers to discuss potential “goodwill” offerings, though the extent and nature of this outreach remains unclear. While many dealerships have attempted to address these issues through various repairs, including replacement of power steering pumps, reservoirs, and timing belts, success rates have varied significantly. Some dealers have also implemented software updates and recalibrations, but these interventions appear to have had mixed results. Despite these efforts, many owners continue to report persistent problems with their vehicles’ power steering systems.
California Lemon Law
California’s lemon law provides some of the strongest consumer protections in the nation for vehicle defects. Under California law, if GM is unable to repair your Silverado or Sierra’s power steering issues after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a full refund. The law generally considers four repair attempts for the same issue to be reasonable, though fewer attempts may suffice if the defect is particularly dangerous or a safety issue. Additionally, if your truck has been out of service for repairs for a total of 30 days or more, it may qualify as a lemon under California law.
California’s lemon law is particularly powerful because it requires the manufacturer to pay for your attorney’s fees if your claim is successful. This means you can pursue your rights without worrying about legal costs. The law also provides for civil penalties of up to two times your actual damages if it can be shown that the manufacturer willfully violated the law.
Importantly, for California owners experiencing these power steering issues, the law applies to both purchased and leased vehicles. The defect must occur within the warranty period, but the legal claim can be filed even after the warranty has expired, as long as the problem was first reported to the dealer during the warranty period.
Power Steering Defect
If you own a 2020-2024 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra, watch for these warning signs that may indicate you’re experiencing the power steering defect:
- Sudden loss of power steering assist, particularly during low-speed maneuvers like parking
- Dashboard warnings including “Service Power Steering,” “Steering Assist Is Reduced,” or “Service ESC”
- Steering wheel becoming extremely difficult to turn without warning
- Grinding or squeaking noises from the steering column
- “Notchy” or “catching” feeling in the steering wheel
- System problems that temporarily resolve by turning the vehicle off and on
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is wrong with these trucks’ power steering systems?
The problems appear to stem from multiple potential causes including software glitches, electrical system faults, and possible mechanical issues. Many owners report that the electronic power steering system fails intermittently, making the steering extremely difficult, particularly during low-speed maneuvers.
Which model years are affected?
The power steering issues are being reported in 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks, including 1500, 2500, and 3500 models. These problems appear distinct from previous power steering issues that affected older generations of these trucks.
Has GM issued a recall?
While GM has issued some limited recalls for specific issues like steering gear shaft problems in certain 2024 heavy-duty models, there has not been a comprehensive recall addressing all the power steering problems being reported by owners.
What should I do if I’m experiencing these issues?
If you’re experiencing power steering problems, document all incidents including dates, circumstances, and any warning messages received. Take your vehicle to a GM dealership and insist they document all issues and repair attempts. Keep copies of all repair orders and communication with the dealership. File a complaint with NHTSA to create an official record. Consider consulting with a lemon law attorney, particularly if you’ve had multiple unsuccessful repair attempts.
How do I know if I qualify for a lemon law claim?
In California, your vehicle may qualify as a lemon if it has undergone multiple repair attempts for the same issue without success, or if it has been out of service for repairs for 30 days or more. Specific qualification criteria can vary, but generally, if you’ve taken your truck to the dealership multiple times for power steering issues and the problems persist, you should consult with a lemon law attorney to evaluate your case.
When You May Qualify for a Lemon Law Claim
Your vehicle may qualify for a lemon law claim if you’ve experienced any of these situations:
- Multiple failed repair attempts for the same power steering issue, especially if the problem persists
- Extended periods where your vehicle has been out of service due to repairs
- Continuing problems despite software updates or component replacements
- Safety concerns that substantially impair your vehicle’s use, value, or safety
Each state has specific requirements regarding the number of repair attempts or days out of service needed to qualify for lemon law protection. In California, for instance, presumption may be established after four repair attempts for the same issue, or if your vehicle has been out of service for 30 days or more.
Documenting Your Case
If you’re experiencing power steering issues, taking these steps can strengthen your potential legal claim:
- Keep detailed records of all incidents, including:
- Dates and circumstances of each failure
- Warning messages received
- All communication with dealerships and GM
- Repair orders and invoices
- Photos or videos of warning messages
- Notes about any near-accidents or safety incidents
- Report the issue to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) through their website or hotline. This creates an official record and helps establish patterns that could lead to broader investigations or recalls.
Lemon Law Rights
If you’ve experienced persistent power steering problems with your Silverado or Sierra, you may be entitled to significant compensation under California’s lemon law, through the pending class action, or through other legal remedies. An experienced lemon law attorney can evaluate your situation and help determine the best course of action. While class action lawsuits can provide some relief, individual lemon law claims often result in more substantial compensation for owners of defective vehicles.
For a free consultation to discuss your specific situation and understand your legal options, please complete the form below or call us at 1-855-678-6881. Our team specializes in helping owners of affected vehicles secure the compensation they deserve, whether through lemon law claims or other legal channels.
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