General Motors (GM) has announced a recall affecting 22,914 units of its Chevy Equinox EV and Cadillac Optiq models from 2025 and 2026, citing a potential safety risk where tire treads could detach during use. The issue was identified in 21-inch all-season tires supplied by Continental Tire, which were fitted on certain trims of both electric SUVs.
According to GM’s filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Continental discovered that the affected tires were manufactured with a noncompliant tread base rubber compound during the production week of October 6, 2024. This defect could lead to the partial or full separation of the tire tread, increasing the risk of vibration, abnormal wear, or loss of control while driving.
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While GM has not received any reports of accidents or injuries related to the defect, the automaker opted to initiate the recall as a precautionary measure. The 21-inch tires come standard on RS trims and are optional on LT1 and LT2 variants of the Equinox EV.
The recall covers:
2026 Cadillac Optiq – 214 units
2026 Chevy Equinox EV – 1,832 units
2025 Cadillac Optiq – 3,468 units
2025 Chevy Equinox EV – 17,400 units
GM estimates that only about 1% of the recalled vehicles may contain the defective tires. Dealers were informed on October 16, and owner notifications will begin December 1, 2025. Affected owners will be able to have all four tires inspected and replaced at no cost by authorized GM service centers.
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Customers seeking assistance can contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac at 1-800-333-4223, referencing recall number N252525030. They can also reach the NHTSA Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit nhtsa.gov for details.
Despite the recall, GM’s electric lineup continues to gain traction. The Chevy Equinox EV has become the third best-selling electric vehicle in the U.S., trailing only the Tesla Model Y and Model 3, while the Cadillac Optiq ranks among the top five luxury EVs. The company emphasized that the issue affects a limited number of vehicles and is not expected to impact overall production or deliveries.
Recall Document:
