Software Update Aims to Fix GM's Inaccurate Fuel Gauges
Ahh, the gas gauge -- dependable travel companion and broadcaster of low fuel warnings. A device so simple that not even General Motors could mess it up ... or so we thought. GM is recalling over 50,000 SUVs because the gas gauge could provide little to no warning that the vehicle is about to run out of gas.
How bad is it? In a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), GM said a defective engine control module (ECM) "may result in inaccurate fuel gauge readings at both the high and low end of the fuel range by as much as one quarter of a tank."
Do I smell a new marketing slogan opportunity? GM: our gas gauges are only off by 25%!
The gauge can be fixed by adjusting the vehicles' software and the fix won't cost owners anything once the recall starts. Keep an eye out for an official notice in the mail. The affected vehicles include:
Perhaps a bit sensitive following multiple critiques of how they handled power steering and ignition switch recalls that resulted in injuries, GM was quick to point out that:
"The company doesn't know of any crashes or injuries related to the problem"
Nope, just some families left stranded by the side of the road, left to make the long walk of shame to the nearest gas station. If you find yourself making that walk and want to pass the time, give GM a ring and reference recall 14007 -- you can reach Buick at 800-521-7300, Chevy at 800-222-1020, and GMC at 800-462-8782.
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