Automotive
Cadillac is recalling more than 14,000 Vistiq electric SUVs from the 2026 and 2027 model years because of a third-row power seat issue that could trap a passenger or object. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the one-touch folding third-row seatback may stop when it meets resistance, but it may not automatically reverse direction. That creates a serious concern for smaller occupants, especially children, who could become pinned beneath the seatback unless the seat is manually reversed.
The recall has an unsettling connection to the recent Hyundai Palisade fiasco, where a two-year-old child in Ohio was killed after becoming trapped by a power-folding rear seat. Automotive Addicts previously covered Hyundai’s stop-sale and later sales restart after the automaker finalized its rear-seat safety fix for the 2026 Palisade. While Cadillac’s recall notice does not name Hyundai directly, GM’s evaluation was reportedly prompted by another manufacturer’s March 2026 recall, and the timing points clearly toward the Palisade case. It is a grim reminder that power-operated convenience features can become dangerous when obstruction detection does not work as expected.
In GM’s testing, engineers placed a 33-to-40-pound box on the Vistiq’s third-row seat and activated the power-folding function. The seat stopped after encountering the obstruction, but it did not reverse on its own, leaving the object trapped until someone manually moved the seatback. GM says it has received six complaints that may be related to the condition, but no injuries have been reported. For now, Cadillac dealers can disable the third-row folding feature until a permanent repair is ready.
The final fix will involve replacing the folding third-row seat module with an updated version that automatically returns the seatback toward its upright position if it detects enough resistance during the folding process. Owner notification letters are expected to begin on August 3, 2026. Until then, Vistiq owners should be extra cautious around the third row, especially when children or pets are nearby, and should consider having the power-folding function disabled until Cadillac completes the recall remedy.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
