While operating my 2024 GMC Hummer EV at a low speed in a school zone, I came to a complete stop at a stop sign and began making a left turn. As I initiated the turn, the steering wheel suddenly locked and became unresponsive. I was unable to turn the wheel back to the right or regain control of the vehicle’s direction. At the same time, the vehicle did not respond as expected when attempting to stop. Because I could not steer or properly control the vehicle, I collided with another vehicle. The impact with the other vehicle is what ultimately brought my vehicle to a stop. During the incident, multiple warning messages appeared on the dashboard, including a message indicating: “Service Steering System.” My vehicle sustained minimal damage due to its height (a bent side step), however the other vehicle sustained damage. Police responded to the scene and a report was filed. I was NOT issued a citation. (see report attached) The vehicle has since been towed to Northwest Hills Chevy/GMC in Torrington CT for inspection by the GMC manufacturer. This incident raises serious safety concerns, as the sudden loss of steering control at low speed could have resulted in significantly more severe consequences under different circumstances. I was in a school zone at dismissal time going to pick up my son. This appears to be a potential mechanical or electronic steering system failure. I believe this represents a serious safety defect that should be investigated to prevent similar incidents.
NHTSA ODI 11725052