GM Recalls Over 21,000 Cadillac LYRIQ Vehicles for Brake Defect

If you drive a 2023 or 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ with all-wheel drive, there is a potential serious safety issue you should know about.

General Motors has announced a Cadillac LYRIQ recall for 21,469 vehicles due to a serious anti-lock brake system defect. The problem can trigger a dramatic drop in braking performance, especially at lower speeds. In some cases, the brakes may stop working altogether, raising the risk of a crash.

It’s an alarming situation, and if you own a LYRIQ, you’re probably wondering what this means for you, what steps to take next, and whether your vehicle may qualify for protection under California’s lemon law.

Here’s what’s going on and what you should do.

What the Cadillac LYRIQ Recall is About

Reportedly, the defect lies in the electronic brake control module. According to GM, the system may release brake pressure too early when braking at speeds below 25 mph on dry roads. This can lead to reduced stopping power or even total brake failure.

In short: your Cadillac LYRIQ may not stop when you need it to.

GM describes the defect in its official recall statement:

“A release of braking pressure can cause the service brakes to have reduced stopping performance or become inoperative.”

Who is Affected by the Recall?

The GM car recall applies to 21,469 Cadillac LYRIQ SUVs from the 2023 and 2024 model years, all of which have all-wheel drive configurations. It’s classified as a nationwide safety concern, affecting drivers in California and across the country.

To check if your vehicle is included, you can enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) into the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall lookup tool or contact your nearest GM dealership.

How GM Plans to Fix the Problem

GM has stated it will issue a software update to correct the anti-lock brake system defect.

If your vehicle is set up for over-the-air updates, you may receive the fix remotely, similar to how your phone gets software updates.

If you haven’t opted into over-the-air updates, you’ll need to schedule a service appointment at a GM dealership to get it installed manually.

GM began sending notices to affected owners on September 23, 2024. If you haven’t received one but suspect your vehicle is affected, contact Cadillac Customer Service at 1-905-644-4112 or the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236.

What to Do If You Own an Affected LYRIQ

If your 2023 or 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ has been included in this GM car recall, it’s important to act quickly and stay organized throughout the process.

1) Check Your VIN Using the NHTSA Recall Lookup Tool

Use the NHTSA recall lookup tool to see if your vehicle is affected. You’ll need your 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN), which is usually listed on your registration or the dashboard near the windshield.

2) Make Sure You’re Set Up for Over-the-Air Updates

If you’ve opted into GM’s over-the-air update system, the repair may be sent to your vehicle remotely. If not, you’ll need to bring your car to a GM service center or dealership.

3) Schedule Your Visit

Call your dealership and set up a time to get the software update installed manually. It should be free of charge. Be sure to bring your vehicle registration, license, owner notification letters, and any prior repair records.

4) Track All Repairs and Communications

Keep detailed records of every visit, repair, and conversation with the dealership or GM. If problems continue, this documentation can support your lemon law claim.

5) Pay Attention After the Update

Even after the repair, test your brakes carefully. If braking still feels weak or inconsistent, take it back to the dealership. Repeated repairs for the same issue may be the tipping point for California lemon law protections.

When Can You File a Lemon Law Claim for a Recalled Vehicle

A recall may qualify your car under California’s lemon law. Additionally, if the attempted repair doesn’t work - or if your vehicle continues to have serious issues after the recall - you may have a valid claim.

In California, the lemon law applies when a manufacturer fails to repair a warranty-covered defect within a reasonable number of attempts. That includes defects tied to a recall, particularly when the issue affects use, value, or safety.

Generally, you may be eligible to file a lemon law claim if:

• The vehicle was recalled for a substantial issue, such as brake failure, engine problems, steering defects, or electrical malfunctions.
• You received the recall repair, but the problem continues - or a similar issue keeps returning.
• You’ve made two or more repair attempts for a dangerous safety defect (like failed brakes).
• You’ve made four or more attempts to fix a less urgent, but still unresolved, issue.
• Your vehicle has spent a cumulative total of 30 or more days in the repair shop for warranty-covered issues.
• The defect first appeared and was officially reported during the original manufacturer’s warranty period - even if repairs continued after that coverage ended.
• The issue was not caused by aftermarket modifications, misuse, or lack of maintenance.

In the case of the Cadillac LYRIQ recall, the anti-lock brake system defect can present a clear safety concern. If GM already attempted to repair your LYRIQ - or you received the software update - but the problem persists, it may be time to speak with a GM lemon law lawyer. An attorney can review your repair history, assess whether the issue meets the legal standards under the California lemon law, and help you move further if your vehicle qualifies.

Depending on your circumstances, you may be entitled to the following forms of compensation:

• A full refund of your purchase or lease price pursuant to the lemon law
• A replacement car
• Cash compensation if you prefer to keep the vehicle but want to recover your losses
• In some cases, up to twice the vehicle’s purchase price in additional damages if the manufacturer willfully violated the law

You don’t need to worry about legal fees, either. The manufacturer is required to pay your attorney’s fees, costs, and expenses when you win. You can speak with a lawyer at no charge to find out where you stand.

This Isn’t the Only GM Complaint in the News

The Cadillac LYRIQ recall is just one of several issues GM faced recently. In July, four vehicle owners filed a class action lawsuit alleging that the company used defective paint on certain models. The complaint claims the paint is prone to cracking, clouding, and peeling, leading to early wear and visible damage.

While cosmetic issues don’t carry the same safety risks as brake failure, the lawsuit can highlight the possibility of growing concerns with GM’s quality control. Recalls like this have the potential of shaking consumer confidence and can lead many to explore their legal rights.

Talk to a GM Lemon Law Lawyer

You bought a luxury vehicle. You shouldn’t have to worry about the brakes failing, period, end of story.

GM has issued several recalls this year. As an owner, you need to take full advantage of the repairs and support being offered: but also be ready to act if those fixes don’t work.

At CLINE, APC, we help California drivers get the compensation they’re entitled to when manufacturers do not deliver on their promises. Your first consultation is completely free, and there’s no pressure to move forward. We’ll review your situation, explain your rights, and walk you through what you should do next.

Schedule your free case review today and find out whether your LYRIQ qualifies under California lemon law.