GM Reminds Full-Size Pickup Owners To Respond To Safety Recall On Tailgate Cables

DETROIT December 4, 2004; General Motors reminds owners of certain 2000-2004 full-size pickup trucks to have their tailgate cables replaced at their dealers as soon as possible.

GM is conducting a safety recall of 4.1 million trucks because on some of these vehicles, the galvanized steel tailgate support cables that retain the tailgate in the full open horizontal position may corrode, weaken, and eventually fracture. Owners of the trucks were mailed letters about this recall in March and October and will receive reminder post cards every two months until repairs are completed.

If both cables fractured, the tailgate would suddenly drop and strike the top surface of the rear bumper. Anyone sitting or standing on the tailgate could be injured in a fall.

Regardless of the condition of the tailgate cables, the GM owner's manual cautions against standing or sitting on the tailgate when the truck is moving.

Involved in the recall are certain 2000 Chevrolet CK, 2000-2004 model year Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks, and 2002-2004 model year Cadillac Escalade EXT and Chevrolet Avalanche trucks.

GM dealers have stainless steel cables available as free replacements, and owners are urged to contact their dealer to make a repair appointment.