Approximately 324,000 model-year 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 4500, 5500 and 6500 chassis cab trucks; model-year 2017-19 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pickups; and model-year 2017-19 GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 pickups, all equipped with Duramax diesel 6.6-liter engines and an optional engine-block heater are being recalled due to issues with the engine-block heater cord. The heater cord or the terminals that connect the heater cord to the block heater may short-circuit and fail, which could damage the engine components, increasing the risk of a fire. Warning signs of the issue include smoking or a burning smell, coolant drippage under the car, tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses.

Chevrolet and GMC manufacturer GM did not immediately announce an owner notification schedule. Owners can call the automaker at 586-596-1733 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 to learn more.

The remedy to fix the problem is still under development. Owners of the recalled vehicles are asked not to use them.

Vehicle manufacturers are legally required to repair any recalled issues or replace the defective part for free under the Highway Safety Act of 1970. If the dealership refuses to fix the problem or attempts to charge you for the repair, contact the manufacturer immediately.

Lemon Law Group Partners can assist car owners if they encounter any problems during the recall process with the manufacturer. Our attorneys deal directly with the manufacturer on the client’s behalf to quickly resolve the problem. In many cases, the attorneys get paid directly from the manufacturer so the client does not have to pay any attorneys’ fees to obtain legal counsel. For more information and a free consultation call 888-668-8581.