The massive 2022 GMC Hummer EV pickup, weighing 9,000 pounds, is almost unstoppable on the road. However, it turns out that water poses a significant challenge to its performance.
General Motors recently disclosed a recall for hundreds of Hummer EV pickups and Brightdrop EV600 vans due to a defective battery seal that allows water seepage, rendering the vehicles inoperable. GM has identified three faulty Hummer EV pickups, two of which would not start, and the third experienced a loss of power while driving.
As a precautionary measure, GM has placed a stop-sale on the Hummer EV pickups while investigating potential solutions to the issue. This delays deliveries for customers who were eagerly anticipating their Hummer EV, and any units at dealerships—although rare due to high demand and limited supply—will remain unsold for a prolonged period.
This incident is the latest in a series of water-related problems the Hummer EV has faced. Earlier this year, GM issued a technical service bulletin for inadequately sealed A-pillars that could allow water ingress, potentially causing malfunctions in the window switches and driver’s side mirror. Owners have also raised concerns about water seepage through the Hummer EV’s removable roof panels.
According to paperwork submitted to federal regulators regarding the battery seal issue, GM indicated that 89 Brightdrop units and 735 GMC Hummers might be impacted by the flaw. The affected Hummers were manufactured between Nov. 9, 2021, and Sept. 28, 2022, potentially encompassing all vehicles in that period.
No accidents or injuries resulting from the defect have been reported. GM identified under-cured urethane seals from the battery pack supplier as the likely cause of the suspected leaks.
Despite GM not yet having a definitive solution, addressing the issue is expected to be a complex task due to the challenging accessibility of the GMC Hummer EV’s battery packs.
This marks the second recall this year for the Hummer EV related to its electric powertrain. GM previously initiated a customer service initiative concerning high-voltage connectors susceptible to water intrusion, stopping just short of a complete recall.
Owners of Hummer EV vehicles can verify if their unit is subject to the recall by visiting NHTSA.gov.
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