Cadillac Lyriq’s ABS system could cause brake failure

The manufacturer is not aware of any injuries or fatalities resulting from the malfunction.

Cadillac’s best-selling electric car, the striking Lyriq, has been recalled in the United States, and while some recalls are due to minor problems that carry little risk, this one is different.

Documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that certain 2023-2024 Lyriq AWD models may be equipped with overly sensitive ABS. GM says that when braking on dry roads below 25 mph, the ABS may falsely activate and may continue to release brake pressure.

Read: Cadillac Lyriq is cheaper to lease than XT5 despite costing $13,300 more

What does that mean in layman’s terms? Well, releasing brake pressure could reduce the performance of the brakes or render them inoperable altogether. GM says this poses a serious safety risk and increases the likelihood of a crash. The issue is caused by a software flaw in the electronic brake control module.

A total of 21,469 Cadillac Lyriqs delivered for the 2023-2024 model year and assembled between Dec. 14, 2022 and Aug. 5, 2024 are affected.

GM began investigating a potential issue on May 31, 2024, after receiving reports of two accidents allegedly caused by brake failure, possibly due to a software problem with the ABS. While the company was not aware of any other accidents or any injuries resulting from the malfunction, it decided to issue a safety recall on August 1.

Dealers were notified of the recall on August 8, and owners will be notified starting September 23. Those who have over-the-air updates enabled in their Lyriqs will receive new software to fix the glitch, while other owners are free to schedule an appointment at their local GM dealer to have the new software installed.

Demand for the Lyriq has been strong this year. Sales of the electric car increased 465% year-over-year, and sales in June increased 441% compared to the same period in 2023. In the second quarter of this year, Cadillac sold 7,294 Lyriqs, making it the brand’s second-best-selling model, behind the Escalade, which sold 10,069 units.