GM Issues Major Recall For Fire Concerns

On its face, a windshield wiper recall sounds like about the least serious recall you could have, but in the case of GM’s recall on a variety of vehicles ranging from the Cadillac CTS to the Hummer H2, the problem can actually lead to fire. 1.5 million vehicles worldwide, including 1.365 million U.S. vehicles, are covered under the recall and include models from across the GM family. The problem pertains to the heated windshield washer module, which can cause electrical problems that can lead to fire. GM reports that five fires have been caused by the issue but no injuries or crashes can be attributed to it. The heated windshield wiper fluid system had been the cause of a previous recall in 2008.

GM will begin fixing vehicles in the coming weeks and will disable the module, giving owners $100 for the deactivated function.

Models affected:  2006-2009 Buick Lucerne, Cadillac DTS, Hummer H2; 2008-2009 Buick Enclave and Cadillac CTS;  2007-2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL, Saturn Outlook and the 2009  Chevrolet Traverse. [via Freep and Reuters]