GM Brake Failure Lawsuit: Hard Brake Pedal and Engine Damage Reported in Equinox, Terrain, and Envision Models Featured
Drivers Report Loss of Brake Assist and Costly Engine Damage Reported
Drivers across the country are reporting sudden brake failures in certain General Motors vehicles — and lawsuits now allege the problem stems from a defective brake vacuum pump system that can cause loss of power brake assist without warning.
If your brake pedal has suddenly become stiff, difficult to press, or your vehicle required expensive engine repairs after a brake issue, you are not alone — and you may have legal rights.
Vehicles Under Investigation
The reported defect affects:
- 2016–2020 Buick Envision
- 2018–2022 Chevrolet Equinox
- 2018–2022 GMC Terrain
These vehicles use a camshaft-driven mechanical vacuum pump to generate pressure for the brake booster. When functioning properly, this system allows drivers to stop safely with normal pedal effort. However, lawsuits allege the pump can fail prematurely — sometimes catastrophically.
What Happens When the Pump Fails?
According to court filings and consumer complaints, the vacuum pump may lose pressure during normal driving, overwork itself, and eventually seize or shatter internally.
When that happens, drivers may experience:
- A brake pedal that becomes “hard as a rock”
- Sudden loss of brake assist
- Dramatically increased stopping distance
- “Service Brake Assist” warning messages
- “Engine Power Reduced” alerts
- Hissing, grinding, or unusual engine noise
In some reported cases, internal pump components fractured and sent metal debris into the engine. That debris allegedly damaged camshafts, timing systems, and other internal engine parts — resulting in repair bills totaling thousands of dollars.
Several drivers report the failure occurring at freeway speeds. Some describe having to apply extreme force to stop or steer off the roadway to avoid a collision.
No Comprehensive Recall Covering All Affected Vehicles
Although millions of other GM vehicles were recalled in past years for brake booster issues, the models listed above are not currently covered by a nationwide recall specifically addressing this vacuum pump defect.
Vehicle owners allege they were left paying for:
- Replacement vacuum pumps
- Engine teardown and debris removal
- Camshaft and timing system repairs
- Oil flushing and contaminated part replacement
Some drivers report multiple failures.
Why This Matters
Loss of brake assist is not a minor inconvenience — it is a serious safety risk. A stiff brake pedal can significantly increase stopping distance in emergency situations. In addition, engine damage caused by a failed pump may permanently reduce the vehicle’s value.
Lawsuits allege the defect existed for years and that affected consumers were not adequately warned.
Have You Experienced These Symptoms?
If you own or lease one of the vehicles listed above and experienced:
- A sudden hard brake pedal
- Brake assist warnings
- Reduced engine power after a brake issue
- Vacuum pump replacement
- Engine damage related to the brake system
You may qualify to participate in a nationwide class action investigation.
Complete the form on this page today. A product liability attorney will review your information and contact you to discuss your potential claim — at no cost and no obligation.
You should not have to pay out of pocket for a braking system defect that may compromise your safety.