The 2023 Cadillac Lyriq, which had struggled initially due to manufacturing problems and a slow electric vehicle market, has now seen a significant increase in sales, outperforming its European counterparts. However, the car is now facing a setback as it is under investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for brake system malfunctions.
The investigation focuses on the Lyriq’s anti-lock brakes and the inner axle electronic brake control module, which is at risk of fracturing when the ABS is active. The NHTSA has stated that there have been no injuries or deaths related to this issue, but 3,322 2023 model vehicles are included in the investigation. If the module breaks, it could compromise the ABS functionality, and drivers may receive a “Brake System Failure” warning on their instrument cluster.
The NHTSA is currently reviewing homeowners’ claims to determine the extent of the problem. General Motors (GM) is proactively addressing the issue by issuing an over-the-air software update to alert drivers when starting the vehicle if the part breaks. This update may not fix the unreliable module but can prevent drivers from hitting the road unaware of the issue.
Fortunately, no 2024 vehicles are part of the NHTSA investigation, suggesting that the defect is specific to earlier Lyriq models that used different materials in their axles. This is welcome news for GM, considering the problems experienced with the Chevrolet Blazer EV’s software, which led to the model being out of service for several months. GM cannot afford to have another flagship electric vehicle sitting idle, especially as they aim to start generating profits from electric vehicles next year.
As the investigation continues, GM will need to address the issue swiftly to maintain customer trust and avoid further disruptions to the Lyriq’s sales momentum. Any updates or developments on this matter will be closely monitored to ensure the safety and reliability of the Cadillac Lyriq for consumers.
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