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A new class action lawsuit has been filed against General Motors (GM), claiming the automaker sold several 2025 vehicle models with defective master brake cylinder assemblies that could cause partial or total brake failure.
Key Highlights
- Plaintiffs: Eric Barron and Chelsey Thompson filed the lawsuit in Pennsylvania federal court.
- Affected Models: 2025 Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Colorado, and GMC Canyon.
- Allegations: Defective brake assemblies lead to loss of braking soon after delivery.
- Claims: GM allegedly knew of the defect, failed to issue a recall, and violated consumer protection and warranty laws.
According to the complaint, the master brake cylinder assemblies fail abruptly and without warning, leaving drivers unable to safely control their vehicles. When the defect appears, drivers reportedly see multiple warning lights, including the red Brake and ABS indicators, along with a “Service Brake System” message.
Some drivers, including one of the plaintiffs, allegedly experienced complete braking loss, describing the brake pedal as either stiff and unresponsive or sinking completely to the floor. Owners reportedly attempted improvised fixes — such as restarting the vehicle or pumping the brakes — to regain control.
The plaintiffs claim GM knew about the defect prior to selling the vehicles, citing similar issues in earlier model years and evidence from pre-sale testing, consumer complaints, and dealership reports. Despite this, GM allegedly failed to issue a recall or perform timely repairs under its New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
The lawsuit seeks to represent consumers in Pennsylvania and New York who purchased or leased affected 2025 models. The plaintiffs are pursuing claims of fraudulent concealment, breach of warranty, violations of state lemon and consumer protection laws, and unjust enrichment. They are asking for damages, legal fees, and a jury trial.
GM is also defending itself in a separate case involving alleged engine defects, where plaintiffs claim the automaker failed to provide an adequate remedy under its warranty obligations.
The current case is Barron, et al. v. General Motors LLC, Case No. 2:25-cv-05696, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
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