GM is recalling 3.5 million SUVs and pickups for a brake issue

General Motors has issued a recall for 3.5 million trucks and SUVs because of a brakes problem.

The company is “voluntarily recalling certain 2014-2018 model year Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Sierra, and GMC Yukon vehicles for a condition related to increased brake pedal effort,” GM said in a statement. “In rare circumstances, these vehicles may have a condition in which the engine-mounted mechanical vacuum pump output may decrease over time, decreasing the amount of vacuum/power brake assist.”

There have been no deaths because of the brakes issue — but a GM representative says that the issue has led to 113 accidents and 13 injuries. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been investigating the problem for 10 months based on the accident reports.

If you don’t know if your vehicle is involved in the recall, you may visit the GM recall website and enter your automobile’s VIN number.

GM is asking owners of affected vehicles to take them to the dealer to get the needed repairs.

“Dealers will reprogram the electronic brake control module in these vehicles with a new calibration that will improve how the system utilizes the hydraulic brake boost assist function when vacuum assist is depleted,” GM said.

The NHTSA told Consumer Reports that the problem with the brakes in the affected vehicles is more likely to happen at low speeds. Consumer Reports surveyed some of the owners of the vehicles and they reported the brakes feeling differently when they pulled into parking spots or slowed down for pedestrians.

There are other irregularities drivers my notice, including vibrating brake pedals and a change in the amount of pressure needed to depress the brake pedal. Drivers may also notice a ticking noise in the engine compartment.

Drivers should also watch for the “Service Brake Assist” message on the dashboard.

Check the list to make sure your vehicle doesn’t need servicing!