DETROIT (AP) — General Motors is issuing a recall for approximately 462,000 pickup trucks and large SUVs equipped with diesel engines due to a safety concern where the rear wheels could lock up. This issue poses an increased risk of accidents.
The recall affects specific models of Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups—specifically the 1500, 2500, and 3500 series—from model years 2020 to 2022. It also includes the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon, and Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban vehicles.
According to documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the problem arises from a transmission control valve that may wear out over time. In rare instances, this component can fail, leading to the rear wheels locking up. Drivers might experience harsh shifting as an early warning sign before any wheel issues occur.
To address this issue, GM plans to have dealers install updated transmission control software. This software will monitor the valve’s condition and can detect excessive wear up to 10,000 miles before the wheels lock. If wear is detected, the transmission system will be limited to fifth gear to prevent the potential locking of the wheels, which could occur when shifting down from eighth gear.
GM has committed to offering warranty coverage for necessary repairs to transmissions that are found to have a faulty control valve. Owners of affected vehicles will be informed about the recall via mail starting December 9.
In January, GM engaged with U.S. safety regulators regarding an owner’s complaint related to this issue, leading to an investigation that commenced in July. By September, GM discovered 1,888 reports indicating potential wheel lock-up incidents linked to this fault. The investigation uncovered 11 incidents where vehicles veered off the road, resulting in minor property damage, and three reported minor injuries, although GM confirmed that these injuries were not connected to any crashes.
