Safety Concerns Over Third-Row Functionality

Cadillac has issued a stop-sale order for its 2026 and 2027 Vistiq three-row electric crossovers, initiating a formal recall campaign. The issue centers on the vehicle's power-folding third-row seat, which poses a entrapment risk to passengers.

According to the official recall documentation, the mechanism used to fold the seatbacks can be activated via a single touch of a button located either in the cargo area or on the pillar near the seats. A critical safety flaw exists in the design:

«The seatback stops and does not automatically reverse if it encounters an obstruction in the seat.»

This failure to reverse direction upon contact could lead to smaller individuals being trapped beneath the seat, resulting in potential injuries.


Proactive Measures and Industry Awareness

General Motors (GM) identified the problem internally following a similar recall issued by another automaker regarding a tragic incident involving a power-seat malfunction. A GM engineer reported the concern through the company’s internal safety program after evaluating the Vistiq’s seat system in the wake of the industry-wide reports concerning power seats failing to detect obstructions.


Instructions for Owners and Dealers

To mitigate the risk, GM has provided specific guidance for both dealerships and existing owners:

  • Immediate Action: Dealers are instructed to disable the power-folding feature on all unsold Vistiq models before they can be delivered to customers.
  • Vehicle Configuration: Because disabling this feature "freezes" the seats in a fixed position, owners will be consulted to choose their preferred seating configuration until a permanent repair is available.
  • Repair Timeline: Cadillac expects to receive the necessary components to fix the issue by early August 2026.

Once the updated parts are installed, the Vistiq will be equipped with a sensor system that causes the third-row seat to automatically reverse if it detects an obstacle during operation. Current owners will be notified by the manufacturer to schedule a service visit to have the temporary fix applied until the final remedy is ready.