GM recalls SUVs, tells owners not to use windshield wipers

An electrical short could cause the windshield wiper motor to catch fire in about 32,000 SUVs, recalled by General Motors.

General Motors recalls Chevy Traverse, Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia for flaming wiper motors.

GM sent those owners recall notices by overnight letter and urged them not to use the front windshield wipers until they have been repaired.

GM says if weather stops owners from taking their SUVs to dealers, it will pick up the vehicles for service. The fix involves replacing the cover on the windshield wiper motor, because the faulty cover can allow a few electrical terminals to come into contact with each other.

It will also arrange for rental cars if parts aren’t available.

Of the 32,000 vehicles though to have been affected, only around 6,400 have so far been sold, the rest are still sitting in showrooms.

About all GM is saying is the defect occurred during manufacturing of the new SUVs and using the wipers can cause the motor to overheat.

The plant’s quality manager reported the problem on Sept 21, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the recall began nine days later.

The windshield wiper motor may overheat when used, increasing the risk of a fire.