Cadillac CT sedans, Chevy Camaro recalled for bad transmission

GM has recalled 90,081 Cadillac sedans and the Chevy Camaro coupe for a bad valve in the 10-speed automatic transmission that could, over time, cause the wheels to lock up, according to a NHTSA disclosure on Monday. 

The issue comes from a transmission control valve exclusive to the 10-speed automatic. Over time, the valves can wear excessively, leading to an eventual loss of pressure within the valve. That can result in harsh shifting or, “in rare cases,” the wheels can momentarily lock up. 

The recall affects the following GM cars equipped with a 10-speed automatic only:

Even though the recalled cars are rear-wheel-drive based, the Cadillacs can be equipped with all-wheel drive, and the wheel lock can happen to the front or rear wheels. In one instance, a CT5 driver had both front wheels lock up while driving, and the transmission defaulted to neutral. The engine and front differential had to be replaced. 

That driver will get reimbursed, as will others who have had the work done out of pocket. GM identified 115 reports of wheel lock, and one reported crash. The recall fix is a curious and specific one. The wheel lock is believed to occur on a downshift from eighth gear. GM dealers will install a new transmission control module software “to monitor valve performance detect excess wear approximately 10,000 miles before a wheel lock up condition could occur.” Once the excess wear is detected, the transmission will be capped at fifth gear until the next time you start the car, which would seem to spell longer-term engine trouble. 

A service engine light and reduced propulsion messages will appear in the instrument cluster. The acceleration will match these warnings with sluggish performance. Subsequent model years were built with the software that detects undue wear. 

Owners can expect notification by mail as early as April 21, but it’s a phased fix so some cars might not have the remedy available by then. They’ll be requested to take their vehicle into a GM service center for the transmission module install. For questions or more info, contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or visit GM’s recall site here.