The windshield defrost system is inoperative/ineffective on the right side. I have acquaintances that have the same problem. This is a problem that has been admitted to by GM. Their statements, that the system is normal because the other vehicles we checked were the same way, says it all. We have been placing a book over the left hand side of the defrost exit to help clear the windshield. The Avalanche is a vehicle fraught with blind spots, so being able to clear the right half of the winshield is most important. The instruction I have received through GM, is that, if I have an accident due to this problem, they have a department to handle it. I feel I have been more that patient regarding this matter. I have not asked for anthing more than what I should expect from a $50K, or a $5K vehicle, safety! [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

- Burlington, WI, USA

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche. While driving approximately 20 mph during rainy weather, the rain sensitive wipers responded at a slow rate. The windshield had a lot of water on it because of the slow response of the wipers; the wipers did not function with snow. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was told that there was nothing wrong. The vehicle had not been repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 1,500 and the current mileage was approximately 30,000.

- Crunna, MI, USA