2020 Chevrolet Corvette Recall Overview
UPDATE: Chevrolet believes it has fixed the frunk issue with an over-the-air update that will roll out very soon. According to Corvette chief engineer Tadge Juechter, the issue stems from inadvertent fob presses causing the frunk to open. For instance, a fob in the driver’s pocket being pressed can lead to this issue. It previously took just two quick presses of the frunk release button to open it. However, the behavior of the fob has now been changed: it now requires a short press followed by a longer press-and-hold to open the trunk. Vehicle speed is also restricted if the car detects the frunk is open. If the customer has opted out of over-the-air updates, the dealership can install the fix. As a result, the stop-sale order will be lifted.
The Recall Details
The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette has been recalled for the first time due to a malfunctioning front trunk that may not open beyond the 10 minutes after the vehicle has been turned off. According to a release by Chevrolet, the new Corvette does not comply with S4.1 of the Federal/Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 401, thereon relating to “Interior Trunk Release.” Essentially, the C8 enters a “sleep” mode after 10 minutes, in which the electronic front trunk release may become non-functional.
Fixing the Problem
General Motors plans to rectify this issue through a wireless, over-the-air software update. This update will effectively lower the voltage required to wake the vehicle from its low-power “sleep” mode. Consequently, this means that the C8 will be able to unlatch the hood when the interior frunk release button is pressed, even if the Corvette is in its sleep mode. Customers who have opted out of wireless updates will have the opportunity to visit a dealership for this enhancement.
Additional Concerns
While this front trunk issue is significant, it’s not the only concern. There have been separate reports regarding C8 Corvettes’ front trunks flying open while vehicles are in motion, even at low speeds. Although this recall specifically addresses the trunk malfunction, Chevrolet’s engineering team is currently investigating the hood-related incidents reported by some users. Therefore, if those problems become widespread, there could be additional recalls in the future.
Conclusion
In summary, the Chevrolet Corvette’s frunk issues have raised several eyebrows. iBestTravel will continue to monitor updates on these critical aspects of automotive safety and performance that affect performance vehicles. Hopefully, Chevrolet can resolve the C8’s complications swiftly and effectively.