General Motors (GM) has made a significant recall on about 461,839 of its diesel-powered full-size SUVs and trucks due to a transmission problem that could result in a lock-up of the rear wheels. The implications of this fault are quite serious, as abrupt halts in a vehicle’s motion could potentially lead to accidents.
Recall Details
The recall principally affects every trim of the GMC Sierra and the Chevrolet Silverado, from the 2020 to the 2022 models, incorporating the 1500, 2500, and 3500 versions. 2021 versions of the Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade are also part of the recall.
The Issue Explained
A key problem identified is the excessive wear endured by a control valve in the transmission of these vehicles. This could lead to harsh shifting and might, in extreme cases, lead to circumstances where a severe downshift could provoke a lock-up of the rear wheels. It was a General Motors engineer who initially reported the problem in June 2024 after learning about an incident with a GMC Sierra 2021, which was pulling a trailer.
Investigation Findings
An initial examination by GM found that the probable lock-up would not last long enough to lead to a loss of control. However, further analysis showed that the problem was indeed severe. As of mid-September, GM registered 1,888 reports of possible lock-ups that could be associated with this issue. On many occasions, there were reports of property damage from vehicles skidding off the road. Additionally, there were three minor injury reports tied to the transmission lock-up.
Solution Proposed
The remedy proposed by GM does not involve an outright replacement of the malfunctioning control valves. Instead, they plan to implement a software update that would monitor transmission for signs of valve wear and hard shifting. In theory, this solution will trigger a check engine light roughly 10,000 miles in advance of a potential lock-up condition and limit the transmission to the fifth gear. Dealers are already being notified about the recall, and the owners of the affected vehicles will be informed starting from early December.
Recall Stats
As one would expect, a majority of the 461,839 affected vehicles are pickup trucks. Only 1,502 Escalades are part of the recall, alongside 5,182 Yukons and 6,383 Suburbans or Tahoes.
Key Takeaways:
– A significant recall has been issued by GM for about 461,839 full-size diesel SUVs and trucks.
– The recall mostly concerns the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, from the 2020 to 2022 models.
– A transmission issue that could lock-up the rear wheels prompted the recall.
– GM proposes a software update to inform the driver of possible lock-ups 10,000 miles in advance.
– The recall affects mostly pickup trucks, with only a limited number of Escalades, Yukons, and Suburbans/Tahoes involved.