GM Issues Stop Delivery Order for Safety Recall: Momentary Rear Wheel Lock-Up Affects Multiple Models (2020-2022)
Date of Recall: October 24, 2024
Recall Number: N242454440
Subject: Momentary Rear Wheel Lock-Up
General Motors (GM) has issued a stop delivery order in response to a safety recall affecting multiple vehicle models. The recall centers around a defect in a transmission control valve, which could result in momentary rear-wheel lock-up, increasing the risk of a crash. The control valve may be susceptible to excess wear over time, resulting in a gradual loss of pressure within the valve that can cause harsh shifting.This recall affects several popular GM models, including Cadillac Escalades, Chevrolet Silverados, and GMC Sierras, among others.
Models Affected
The recall applies to the following models:
2021 Cadillac Escalade
2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV
2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500
2021 Chevrolet Suburban
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
2020-2022 GMC Sierra 1500
2020-2021 GMC Sierra 2500/3500
2021 GMC Yukon
2021 GMC Yukon XL
Reason for the Recall
The recall addresses a defect in the transmission control valve that, over time, could experience excess wear. This wear results in a gradual loss of pressure, leading to harsh shifting. In rare cases, it can cause the rear wheels to momentarily lock up, creating a heightened risk of losing vehicle control and potentially causing an accident.
The issue occurs primarily during a downshift from eighth gear, with the most dangerous consequence being a rear-wheel lock-up while driving. Though the risk is considered rare, GM has taken this action to prevent any incidents from occurring.
Dealer Instructions: Stop Delivery and De-Certify Vehicles
Effective immediately, all affected vehicles in dealers’ inventories, including new, used, certified pre-owned (CPO), and courtesy transportation vehicles, must not be sold or delivered until the defect is remedied. GM has made it clear that this applies to all forms of dealer operations, including:
Dealer trades
Auction releases
Demonstration vehicles
Shuttle vehicles
Dealers are instructed to hold these vehicles until further notice. GM has also de-certified all Certified Pre-Owned vehicles that are currently in dealer inventories. Federal law prohibits dealers from delivering any vehicle under this recall until the issue is resolved.
Remedy and Customer Impact
At this time, parts to fix the defect are not yet available. However, once the parts arrive, GM dealers will install updated transmission control module (TCM) software. This software will monitor the transmission valve’s performance, detecting any excess wear up to 10,000 miles before a potential wheel lock-up could occur.
When excessive wear is detected, the vehicle’s transmission will be limited to fifth gear to avoid the downshift that could cause a wheel lock-up. A “Service Engine” light and a “Reduced Propulsion” message will also be displayed on the vehicle’s instrument panel, alerting the driver to the issue.
While no transmission is specifically called out, it is to be noted that the only transmission available for the 2021 Escalade was the 10 speed. As for the 2500/3500 trucks, we will speculate until further information is provide, but it most likely will be the 10 speed "Allison" involved.
What Should Customers Do?
For Current Owners: While there is no immediate fix for the issue, current owners should remain aware of their vehicle’s behavior, especially if they experience harsh shifting. Once the updated software and parts are available, owners should schedule an appointment with their GM dealer for a free repair.
For Potential Buyers: Anyone considering purchasing a used or new vehicle that falls within the affected model years should inquire with the dealership about the recall status. Dealerships should be able to provide information on when repairs will be completed.
Dealer Action Steps
Dealers are expected to follow these procedures:
Hold All Affected Vehicles: Dealers must not deliver any new or used affected vehicles.
Monitor Global Warranty System: The Investigate Vehicle History (IVH) screen in GM’s Global Warranty Management (GWM) system has been updated to help identify affected vehicles.
Run Open VIN Reports: Dealers should run Open VIN Reports or Field Action Initiation Reports through the Maxis Dealer Application in GlobalConnect to identify vehicles in their inventory.
What Happens Next?
As GM works to resolve this issue, affected vehicles will remain off the sales floor. Once parts become available, GM will implement the necessary software updates and repairs to ensure these vehicles can be sold safely. Dealers will be notified when it is safe to resume deliveries.
This stop delivery order reflects GM’s commitment to safety, as they take proactive steps to prevent accidents caused by the transmission valve defect. While the recall impacts a broad range of GM’s top-selling vehicles, including the Cadillac Escalade and Chevrolet Silverado, the recall provides a remedy that aims to prevent serious accidents. If you own one of the affected models, stay tuned for further updates from GM on when you can expect the repairs to be available.
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