GM Issues Recall on Diesel Pickups and SUVs Over Rear Wheel Lock-Up Risk

General Motors has issued a recall for close to 462,000 diesel-powered pickup trucks and SUVs in response to a defect that could cause the rear wheels to lock, leading to an increased chance of accidents. The affected models, spanning 2020 to 2022 model years, include Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks, along with Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Suburban SUVs from 2021. The issue is tied to a transmission control valve that may wear over time, potentially causing the rear wheels to lock up during a downshift.

To address the problem, GM will update the vehicles’ transmission control software to monitor the valve’s wear and detect issues 10,000 miles before wheel lock-up occurs. In cases where wear is detected, the transmission will be restricted to fifth gear to prevent further risk. This software update, along with warranty coverage for valve repairs, will help reduce the likelihood of incidents related to this issue.

GM will notify vehicle owners of the recall by letter beginning on December 9, 2024. The company initiated an investigation following an owner complaint earlier in the year and has since identified nearly 1,900 related incidents, including 11 cases with minor property damage and three minor injuries, though not linked directly to crashes.