General Motors recalls over 323,000 faulty trucks

The news: General Motors is recalling more than 323,000 heavy-duty pickup trucks in the US because the electronic tailgate release switches can short circuit and open the gates while the vehicles are in park.

The numbers: The recall covers Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 trucks produced between 2020 and 2024. GM said it has received 136 complaints about the tailgates on the models opening unexpectedly, with one complaint of a minor injury and three complaints of minor property damage.

The context: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released documents explaining that water can get into the switches and cause the tailgates to open when in park gear. GM is advising owners to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before they drive the trucks, and will notify owners by letter from 18 March. GM dealers have been told to stop selling vehicles until repairs are made.

Honda is also recalling 750,000 vehicles in the US over a defect which could cause airbags to deploy unintentionally during a crash.