GM Faces Increased Scrutiny Over Brake Problems Affecting

General Motors is facing increased scrutiny from the US auto safety regulator over brake problems affecting hundreds of electric vehicles, including some models built in partnership with Honda. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there have been more than 1 million vehicles potentially affected

The NHTSA first started its investigation into the brake problems in April 2024, after receiving reports from owners of 2023 model year Cadillac Lyriq vehicles. The agency’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has upgraded this probe to an ‘engineering analysis,’ which is the highest level of investigation that ODI performs.

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Key Analysis and Detailed Timeline

The initial complaints received However, additional reports described an immediate loss of brake assist while the customer was in the process of braking to slow down, which could result in extended braking distance and increased risk of a crash or injury.

The brake problems are related to the eBoost system, which was introduced in 2019 and gradually rolled out to more models over the years. The system ditches a traditional mechanical link between the brake pedal and the braking system, opting for an electronic one instead.

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This allows GM to change the brake ‘feel’ in different driving modes.

In one crash reported to NHTSA, the driver of a 2025 Lyriq stated they lost their brakes while trying to pull into a parking space in front of the store. The vehicle drove over the curb and crashed through the store front, coming to rest ‘mid-way in the store, amidst the furniture and store structure,’ according to the driver.

Broader Impact and Sector Outlook

The brake problems affecting GM’s electric vehicles have significant implications for the industry as a whole. With more than 1 million vehicles potentially affected, it highlights the need for increased scrutiny and oversight of vehicle safety standards.

The NHTSA will continue to investigate the issue and determine the next steps to ensure public safety. GM has been informed of the investigation and is working with ODI to address the issues.

General Motors electric vehicles, including ones built in partnership with Honda, are now facing increased scrutiny from the top U.S. auto safety regulator after hundreds of incidents, more than 20 crashes or fires, and at least six injuries.