General Motors is recalling faulty Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) in nearly 34,000 SUVs. The recall affects certain 2012 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain models.
The Problem: Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 138 requires the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to alert drivers when tire pressure is 25 percent below the recommended cold tire pressure. On Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs, the system doesn't alert the driver until tire pressure is more than 25 percent below cold tire pressure. Underinflated tires pose a potential safety hazard; overloading and overheating the tire could blowout potentially leading to a crash. Other problems due to underinflated tires include: poor fuel economy and/or handling, and premature or irregular tread wear.
The Fix: GM will begin contacting owners this month. GM dealers will update affected vehicles' Body Control Module (BCM) at no cost. Owners can call Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC at 1-866-996-9463 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at 1-888-327-4236 or http://safecar.gov for more details.
Number of Vehicles Affected: GM is recalling 33,964 2012 Chevrolet Equinox and 2012 GMC Terrain SUVs manufactured from July 18, 2011, through September 6, 2011.