GM recalls 460k cars for rear wheel lock-up: these are the affected models and dates for Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac

General Motors is back in the headlines, and if you’re driving a Chevy, GMC, or Cadillac, you might want to check if your car is part of the recent recall.

Following closely on the heels of a September recall of around 450,000 pickups and SUVs in the US – which was due to a faulty low brake fluid warning light, the same has happened to nearly 462,000 vehicles due to a rear-wheel lock-up risk. In its latest recall notice, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that a troublesome transmission valve in certain GM models has been causing the issue. The recall affects popular diesel-engine models from Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac across a span of model years, with GM targeting a software fix to address the issue.

More specifically, the recall targets specific Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks from 2020 to 2022, along with 2021 Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon, and Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban SUVs. The transmission valve’s tendency to wear down over time can reportedly lead to rough shifting and, eventually, rear-wheel lock-up.

Which models are affected and when will I be contacted?

Here’s the list of the impacted vehicles:

If your vehicle is among these models, pay attention. GM will notify owners starting December 9, but you can also check your recall status by entering your VIN on the NHTSA website or by contacting customer service at GM (1-888-988-7267), Cadillac (1-800-458-8006), GMC (1-800-462-8782), or Chevrolet (1-800-222-1020).

The recall number to reference is N242454440.

How will GM fix the problem? Will I have to pay for it?

GM plans to install new transmission control module software that will keep an eye on the valve’s wear level. The software is designed to detect wear approximately 10,000 miles before any potential lock-up.

If wear is flagged, the transmission will limit itself to fifth gear, preventing wheel lock-up and triggering a “service engine” light along with a reduced power message. The dealer will install this update for free, and GM has created a specific program for transmissions identified by the software as having a faulty valve.

It’s definitely worth checking your own recall status if you drive any of the models listed above, and don’t hesitate to get in touch with your dealer.

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