Over 90,000 Cadillac and Chevy Camaro Vehicles Affected by GM Transmission Recall

Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz

1% or 900 vehicles are estimated to be affected by a defect that may impact motor vehicle safety. The 2025 GM Transmission Recall involves certain 2019-2020 Cadillac CT6, 2020-2021 Cadillac CT4 and CT5, and 2020-2022 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles equipped with a 10-speed transmission.

The transmission control valve in affected vehicles may experience excessive wear over time, leading to a loss of pressure within the valve.

This can cause harsh shifting and, in rare cases, a momentary wheel lock-up, which could increase the risk of a crash.

Owners of affected vehicles will be notified and can have new transmission control software installed to prevent these issues.

What Causes the GM Transmission Problem?

The transmission issue in certain GM vehicles is the result of excessive wear within the transmission control valve.

Over time, this wear can lead to a fluid leak, which causes a drop in pressure. As a result, specific valves within the transmission may move unexpectedly, leading to harsh shifting. In rare cases, this condition can cause a brief wheel lock-up.

On September 27, 2024, a GM brand quality manager submitted a report to GM’s Speak Up for Safety (SUFS) program following a complaint from the driver of a 2021 Cadillac CT5.

The driver reported that both front tires locked up while driving, causing the vehicle to shift into “neutral.” The vehicle was subsequently towed, and both the engine and front differential were replaced due to damage.

GM had previously investigated this issue and discovered that, in some cases, excessive wear in the transmission control valve was responsible for harsh downshifting and, in rare instances, a momentary wheel lock-up lasting less than 150 milliseconds.

While earlier tests indicated that the lock-up was not severe enough to result in a loss of vehicle control, there were no reports of accidents or injuries at that time.

However, as of November 21, 2024, after receiving additional field reports, GM opened a new investigation into the condition.

By December 18, 2024, GM’s analysis identified 115 field reports related to potential lock-ups linked to this issue, including one alleged accident.

These reports were submitted between February 17, 2022, and November 12, 2024. As a result, on February 27, 2025, GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) decided to initiate a safety recall to address the problem.

How Do I Know If My Cadillac or Chevy Is Affected?

Excessive wear within the transmission control valve body can lead to a fluid leak, causing a pressure drop.

This can result in certain valves moving unexpectedly, which may trigger issues such as harsh shifting. To determine if your Cadillac or Chevrolet is affected by the recall, follow these steps:

1. Check the Model and Year

The recall impacts the following models:

• Cadillac CT4 (2020-2021)
• Cadillac CT5 (2020-2021)
• Cadillac CT6 (2019-2020)
• Chevrolet Camaro (2020-2022)

Manufacturing records have been used to identify vehicles potentially affected by this issue. The recall specifically involves vehicles equipped with the 10-speed transmission. Vehicles with other transmissions are not part of this recall.

2. Locate Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The VIN is a unique 17-character code that identifies your vehicle. It can typically be found in two locations:

• On the dashboard near the windshield on the driver’s side
• On a label inside the driver’s side door frame near the door latch

3. Check Online

Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website at https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls. Enter your VIN into the search tool to check if your vehicle is impacted by any recalls. You can also visit the official Cadillac or Chevrolet websites for recall information.

4. Contact a Dealership

If you’re unsure or need assistance, reach out to your local Cadillac or Chevrolet dealership. Provide them with your VIN, and they can check if your vehicle is affected by the recall and guide you on the next steps.

5. Wait for Official Notification

If your vehicle is part of the recall, you will receive an official notice from both NHTSA and the manufacturer (Cadillac or Chevrolet) by mail, detailing the recall and providing instructions for the next steps.

By staying proactive and checking for recalls, you can ensure that any potential safety issues are addressed quickly and at no cost to you.

How Will General Motors Rectify This Issue?

General Motors (GM) says it will resolve the transmission problem by updating the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software.

This update will detect excessive wear on the transmission control valve and prevent the wheels from locking up by limiting the transmission to fifth gear once the wear reaches a critical point.

If the software identifies significant wear, a full transmission replacement may be required to restore normal functionality.

In compliance with the recall provisions under 577.11, GM will provide reimbursement to owners for related repairs.

The new software will detect the issue and prevent the wheel lock-up by placing the transmission into fifth gear until the next key cycle.

Drivers may experience reduced propulsion or sluggish acceleration as the vehicle operates in fifth gear. The service engine light and reduced propulsion message will remain active during this period.

Vehicles from the 2021 model year Cadillac CT6, the 2022 model year Cadillac CT4 and CT5, and the 2023 model year Chevrolet Camaro have already been built with the updated transmission control software, which detects excessive wear.

Dealers will be notified of the update on March 6, 2025, and this will be rolled out in phases. Owners of affected vehicles will begin receiving notifications on April 21, 2025, for vehicles with the remedy available. For vehicles still awaiting a fix, interim notifications will also be sent on April 21, 2025.

The Lemon Law and Your Repeat GM Transmission Problems

If you’re facing ongoing transmission issues with your GM vehicle, the California Lemon Law may provide you with valuable protection. Here’s how it applies:

• Manufacturer’s Responsibility: When a recall is issued, the manufacturer is legally obligated to repair the defect at no cost to the vehicle owner.
• Reasonable Repair Attempts: If your vehicle has been repaired multiple times for the same issue and the problem persists, it could qualify as a “lemon.” Typically, a vehicle is considered a lemon under these conditions:
• Four or more repair attempts for the same issue,
• Two or more repair attempts for a serious safety defect,
• Or if the vehicle has been out of service for 30 days or more within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles
• Available Remedies: If your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, minus a usage fee.
• Keep Detailed Records: Make sure to maintain comprehensive documentation of all repair attempts, communications with the dealer or manufacturer, and any related costs. This will be essential should you need to file a claim.

If your GM vehicle is affected by the ongoing transmission issues or the related recall, you may be entitled to compensation for associated problems, such as repair costs and potential damages.

Consulting with a lemon law attorney can help you better understand your rights and determine the best course of action.

Below is an approximate range of potential settlements for vehicles impacted by repeat GM problems:

*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.

Work with the Lemon Law Experts Today!

Transmission issues in GM vehicles can pose significant safety risks, and recall-related concerns may entitle consumers to compensation under lemon law protections.

If your GM vehicle continues to experience transmission problems despite repairs, you could be eligible for relief.

Since 2009, our team at the Lemon Law Experts has assisted thousands of vehicle owners in recovering millions in compensation for defective cars.

If your GM vehicle is experiencing persistent issues related to this recall or any other defect, we can evaluate your case at no cost. Don’t wait—take the first step toward resolving your lemon case today!