GM recalls large pickups for problems with block heater cords

GM plans to pull 368,000 of its large pickup trucks off the road over concerns of potential short circuits that could lead to fire.

So far, there have been 19 reports of fires caused by engine block heater cords, none with injuries.

The recall covers certain 2017 to 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, all of which are powered by GM’s 6.6 liter diesel engines and an optional engine block heater that keeps the block warm in extreme cold temperatures.

GM hasn’t begun notifying owners of the recall but have been asking heavy-duty pickup truck customers not to use engine block heaters.

The problem is potentially caused when block-heater coolant leaks and comes in contact with cable terminals or if the cable itself is damaged.

They began notifying dealers on April 26 to stop selling the trucks until they have found the cause and developed a fix to the problem.