General Motors (GM) has recently issued a recall affecting 90,081 Cadillac sedans and Chevy Camaro coupes due to a concerning issue with a component in the 10-speed automatic transmission. According to a disclosure from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released on Monday, a faulty valve within this transmission could potentially lead to a drastic safety hazard: the wheels can lock up while driving.
The problem originates from a transmission control valve that is unique to the 10-speed automatic transmission. Over time, these valves can wear down significantly. When that happens, they may lose pressure, resulting in unpredictable and harsh shifting, and in “rare cases,” the wheels could lock up momentarily. This is not merely a technical hiccup; it’s a scenario that could endanger anyone on the road.
The recall specifically affects GM vehicles equipped with this problematic 10-speed automatic transmission, which includes several models of Cadillac and Chevrolet. It’s important to note that while the recalled vehicles are primarily rear-wheel drive, some Cadillacs come with all-wheel drive. This increases the risk of potential wheel locking affecting either front or rear wheels, posing a significant hazard for drivers and pedestrians alike.
One troubling incident involved a Cadillac CT5 where both front wheels unexpectedly locked up while the driver was in motion. This alarming problem led to the transmission defaulting to neutral, forcing the driver to navigate a perilous situation. In that case, the car needed an engine and front differential replacement. Fortunately, General Motors has pledged to reimburse the affected drivers, including those who have already incurred costs to address this issue.
GM has identified 115 reports regarding wheel locking incidents, including one reported crash. Addressing these incidents, the solution GM is offering is notably specific and technical. It seems the wheel lock issue is likely to happen during downshifting from eighth gear. To mitigate this risk, GM dealerships will install new software in the transmission control module. This software is designed to monitor valve performance and detect excessive wear, ideally alerting drivers around 10,000 miles before a potential wheel lock condition could occur. If excessive wear is detected, the transmission will limit itself to fifth gear until the vehicle is restarted, which may indicate potential long-term engine troubles.
When this occurs, drivers can expect to see a service engine light illuminated alongside a “reduced propulsion” message on their dashboard. These warning signs will be accompanied by sluggish acceleration, a disheartening experience for any car owner.
For those eager to resolve this issue, GM plans to notify owners by mail starting as early as April 21, although it’s worth noting that this recall will be rolled out in phases. Some vehicles may not have access to the necessary repairs right away. If you own one of these affected cars, you’ll need to bring your vehicle into a GM service center to have the transmission control module updated.
If you have any questions or need further information about the recall, you can reach out to Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. Additional information is available on GM’s dedicated recall site.
As a GM vehicle owner, navigating such recalls can be overwhelming, and it’s completely understandable if you’re feeling anxious about the potential risks involved. Remember, taking proactive steps, like seeking out the necessary repairs, not only ensures your safety but also reassures your peace of mind while driving.
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