GM recalls electric trucks over spare-wheel defect

General Motors has launched a safety recall for certain 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV pickups after finding a defect in some spare steel wheels. Autoblog reported on Aug. 5 that GM’s campaign covers spare wheels that can crack around the disc vent holes, creating a steering risk if the spare is installed after a flat. GM has assigned the action safety recall number N262556920, according to Autoblog and GM Authority. As of Aug. 6, NHTSA’s public recall database pages explain that owners can search by VIN for active recalls, but the specific federal campaign entry for this issue was not yet visible in the reporting reviewed. ### Which trucks are in the recall? Autoblog and GM Authority said the campaign applies to certain 2026-model-year Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV trucks. GM Authority reported that the recall concerns vehicles equipped with the affected spare wheel, and said GM had not disclosed the total number of vehicles involved. GM Authority also reported that over-the-counter service parts are included, identifying suspect replacement wheels under part numbers 85535663 and 85162242. (autoblog.com) That means the issue is not limited to trucks that left the factory with the wheel installed; it may also affect spare wheels sold separately through service channels. ### What exactly is wrong with the spare wheel? GM Authority said GM identified a manufacturing defect that “may have a manufacturing defect that can eventually result in cracking at the disc vent holes.” Autoblog described the same condition and said worsening cracks could lead to disc separation. Autoblog reported that a separated wheel disc could reduce the driver’s ability to steer and increase the risk of a crash. (gmauthority.com) Because the problem involves the spare rather than the road wheels already on the truck, the hazard arises if an owner installs the spare after a roadside puncture or other tire failure, according to the reports. ### Why is the risk tied to the spare and not the truck’s main wheels? GM Authority said the safety concern is tied to the spare steel wheel, not the primary wheels used in normal driving. That means many owners may never encounter the defect unless they need the spare in an emergency. Autoblog said that distinction does not remove the recall obligation. (autoblog.com) The outlet reported that dealers will inspect the spare wheels and replace any from affected production lots at no cost to owners. ### What will dealers do under the remedy? GM Authority reported that dealers have been told to inspect the spare wheel for suspect disc lot dates. (gmauthority.com) Spare wheels that match the affected production lots will be replaced free of charge, while vehicles that pass inspection will need no further repair, the report said. GM Authority also said unsold vehicles that fail inspection must remain on hold until replacement parts become available. (autoblog.com) Autoblog separately reported that dealers were instructed to inspect affected inventory before delivery. ### How can owners check whether their truck is affected? NHTSA says owners can use its recall lookup tools to search by VIN, license plate, or year-make-model, and GM says owners can also check recalls through its owner center. (gmauthority.com) GM Authority reported that owners of the affected electric pickups should wait for notification letters and can reference recall number N262556920 when contacting GMC Customer Assistance at 1-800-462-8782. As of Aug. 6, the most practical next step is a VIN check through GM or NHTSA and, for owners of 2026 Silverado EV or Sierra EV trucks, watching for GM recall notices tied to campaign N262556920. (nhtsa.gov)