GM Recalls 90,000 Trucks Over Transmission Defect

If you drive a late-model Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra, there's something you should know. General Motors has issued a recall affecting more than 90,000 trucks and SUVs equipped with 10-speed automatic transmissions—a defect that can cause your rear wheels to lock up at highway speed without warning.

The problem centers on the valve body, the component that controls gear changes. When it fails, the transmission can attempt to engage two gears simultaneously. The result: instant wheel lock-up, potential loss of vehicle control, and a crash risk that has prompted federal regulators to act.

First disclosed in November 2024, the recall has since expanded to cover both light-duty 1500-series trucks and heavy-duty 2500/3500 models built between 2019 and 2024.

The Technical Failure

The 10-speed automatic in these vehicles—co-developed with Ford and carrying Allison branding—uses a valve body to direct hydraulic pressure and control gear engagement. Think of it as the transmission's traffic controller: it decides which clutch packs engage and when.

During highway driving, when the vehicle downshifts for passing or hill climbing, the defective valve body can malfunction. Instead of cleanly releasing one gear before engaging another, both activate. The driveline binds. The wheels lock.

GMC Sierra models from 2019-2024 are included in the recall.

Diesel-powered trucks face elevated risk. The Duramax engines produce significantly more torque, and these trucks are frequently used for towing—conditions that stress the transmission most severely.

The recall covers Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500HD, and 3500HD models, GMC Sierra 1500, 2500HD, and 3500HD, plus full-size SUVs: Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade variants. Model years range from 2019 through 2024, though not every vehicle with the 10-speed is affected. VIN-specific lookup is available at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Warning Signs

The failure doesn't always occur without precursors. Many owners report experiencing symptoms days or weeks before complete failure: harsh or delayed shifts at highway speed, transmission slipping in the mid-gear range, sudden “limp mode” activation, or a check engine light with codes like P0700 (transmission malfunction) or P0730 (incorrect gear ratio).

Shuddering or vibration during highway cruising, particularly when the transmission is hunting between gears, can indicate the valve body is beginning to fail. If you notice any of these, get the transmission inspected before the problem escalates.

Transmission inspection can identify early warning signs before catastrophic failure occurs.

The Repair

GM's solution is a “Gen 3” valve body replacement that includes a redesigned separator plate, new clutch regulating valve, and higher-tension spring. The repair is covered at no cost and takes 4-8 hours. The problem: parts availability. Some owners report months-long waits.

The repair must be performed at a GM dealership. If your vehicle has already entered limp mode, you may qualify for rental car coverage or a loaner. Ask when scheduling.

Some independent transmission specialists have questioned whether the three-component fix truly addresses the root cause. For now, it's the only option—and getting your VIN on the list sooner means getting the repair sooner.

What To Do Now

Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or GM's recall portal. Don't assume you're safe because symptoms haven't appeared—the failure can occur without warning.

Consider an independent inspection. Even if the dealer says you're fine, a transmission specialist may catch early signs the dealer's checklist misses. We offer free transmission inspections for affected GM vehicles at our Rohnert Park shop.

If you're waiting for parts, drive cautiously. Avoid towing, aggressive acceleration, and extended highway runs. If symptoms appear while driving, signal, move to the shoulder safely, activate hazards, and call for a tow. Do not continue driving.

Questions

Is the recall mandatory? It's a federal safety recall, so GM is required to repair affected vehicles at no cost. You're not legally obligated to get it done, but given the risk, you should.

Can I drive while waiting for parts? Yes, but carefully. Avoid heavy loads and aggressive driving. If symptoms appear, stop immediately and have the vehicle towed.

Are Ford trucks with the same transmission affected? No. While the 10-speed was co-developed with Ford, this valve body defect is specific to GM's implementation.

What if the fix doesn't work? If you experience repeat failure after the recall repair, document everything. Persistent issues may support a lemon law claim.