General Motors has issued a recall affecting 43,732 full-size SUVs due to a transmission defect that can cause the rear wheels to lock. The problem centers on certain 2022 model-year vehicles equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission in gasoline-powered configurations.
According to recall number 26V085, some vehicles may contain a transmission control valve prone to excessive wear. This wear can lead to a loss of hydraulic pressure inside the valve body, potentially resulting in harsh shifting and, in more severe cases, rear-wheel lock-up during operation. A sudden lock-up event increases the likelihood of a crash.
The affected vehicles include 17,178 units of the Chevrolet Tahoe, 7,616 units of the Chevrolet Suburban, 3,609 units of the Cadillac Escalade, 2,239 units of the Cadillac Escalade ESV, 7,820 units of the GMC Yukon, and 5,270 units of the GMC Yukon XL. All impacted models are from the 2022 model year.
GM initiated an investigation on November 21, 2025, following a report in which a driver experienced a transmission lock-up and subsequently struck a guardrail.
The automaker later determined that the affected vehicles were not equipped with updated diagnostic software capable of detecting early signs of excessive wear in the transmission control valve.
As a corrective measure, GM will install revised transmission control module (TCM) software. The updated programming is designed to identify abnormal valve wear up to approximately 10,000 miles before a potential lock-up could occur.
If excessive wear is detected, the system will limit the transmission to fifth gear, reducing the risk of a lock-up event, which typically happens during a downshift from eighth gear. Owner notifications are scheduled to begin on March 30, 2026.
Separately, GM is also addressing a larger recall involving approximately 600,000 vehicles equipped with the 6.2-liter L87 V8 engine due to concerns about potential engine failure. The remedy for that issue includes switching to an updated oil specification, Mobil 1 FS 0W-40. That matter has also prompted litigation, with plaintiffs alleging that GM was aware of the engine-related risks prior to sale.
