GM Recalls Over 90,000 Vehicles After Transmission Defect Raises Crash Risk

General Motors (GM) is recalling more than 90,000 vehicles due to a defect in the transmission control valve, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The issue affects vehicles equipped with 10-speed transmissions and can lead to a loss of pressure in the valve, causing rough gear shifts. In certain cases, this defect can result in the wheels momentarily locking up, increasing the risk of a crash.

Initial Reports and Affected Models Lead to Renewed Action Despite Low Defect Rate

The recall impacts four GM models: the 2020-2021 Cadillac CT4 and CT5, the 2019-2020 Cadillac CT6, and the 2020-2022 Chevrolet Camaro. The NHTSA estimates that around 1% of the 90,081 affected vehicles actually have the defect. Despite this low percentage, the potential consequences of wheel lock-up prompted the agency and GM to take further action.

The issue first came to light in September when a 2021 Cadillac CT5 driver reported that the front tires suddenly locked. GM had previously investigated similar reports but closed the case after concluding that the brief duration of the lock-ups—typically under 150 milliseconds—was insufficient to cause a loss of control or accidents. At that time, there were no known crashes or injuries tied to the issue.

Renewed Investigation Uncovers 115 Lock-Up Reports, Prompting GM to Issue Recall

In November, the NHTSA reopened the investigation after receiving more information. GM found 115 reports of wheel lock-ups, with one incident resulting in a crash. These findings led to renewed scrutiny and eventually prompted GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority to authorize a formal recall on February 27.

GM will begin notifying affected vehicle owners starting next month. Those impacted will be offered an update to the transmission control software, which is designed to detect abnormal wear in the valve and prevent the wheels from locking up. This corrective measure aims to enhance driver safety and address the underlying mechanical risk.