Months after General Motors announced a major recall affecting nearly 462,000 diesel-powered trucks and SUVs, new footage has emerged that puts this issue into stark focus. A recent video posted by an owner of a 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD Diesel demonstrates exactly what happens when the 10-speed automatic transmission fails due to the defect tied to the GM rear wheel lock-up recall.
This recall, previously detailed here at GM-Trucks.com, involves a flaw in the transmission control valve that can lead to excessive wear, causing momentary rear-wheel lock-up when downshifting from eighth gear. While GM estimated that only 1% of affected vehicles might experience this issue, seeing the failure captured on video is a chilling reminder of its potential consequences.
Dashcam Video Highlights the Dangers of Rear Wheel Lock-Up
Joe Constantine, the owner of the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD, shared a video to our GM-Trucks.com Facebook group showing the harrowing moment his truck experienced a violent shift while towing a Grand Design Solitude fifth-wheel trailer. As seen in the video, the sudden transmission failure caused the vehicle to jerk several feet to the right, narrowly avoiding what could have been a catastrophic incident.
Here’s the video- make sure to watch it for yourself:
In his post, Constantine described the event:
“We were very fortunate that there was not heavier traffic as this violent shift moved us several feet to the right. It could have ended very badly. The transmission is destroyed, and there’s no replacement available right now.”
This footage brings into focus what has, until now, been an abstract concern for many owners of 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500, GMC Sierra 1500, GMC Sierra 2500/3500, 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade models covered under the recall.
GM Truck Owners React
The video sparked a flood of reactions, with many members expressing shock at the violent nature of the failure and concern for the safety of those involved.
One commenter, Brandon Croft, shared, “My 2024 gas did that, and my kids in the back seat slammed into the back of the seats when it happened. Seat belts didn’t activate; it happened so fast.”
Others, like Kyle Busch, worried about the mechanical toll such incidents could take, writing, “Hopefully that didn’t damage your rear differential or axles… yikes.”
Several commenters, including Remy Quentin Gunn, recounted similar experiences, calling the defect “scary” and sharing how long it took to get repairs.
While some were relieved to see Joe Constantine and his passengers safe, others expressed frustration at GM, like Gene Ramos, who said, “That could have been very dangerous for you and your passengers and is unacceptable from Chevrolet.”
What This Video Tells Us About the Recall
The failure captured in Constantine’s video aligns with GM’s original findings about the 10-speed lock-up issue. As previously reported, the problem stems from wear in the transmission control valve that can reduce fluid pressure, leading to harsh shifting or, in rare cases, momentary rear wheel lock-up. While the lock-up typically lasts less than 150 milliseconds, the disruption to vehicle stability can cause sudden lane shifts, loss of control, or worse—especially when towing heavy loads like Constantine’s fifth wheel.
In GM’s recall documentation, it was noted that fewer than 5,000 vehicles were expected to exhibit this failure. However, Constantine’s experience, combined with the lack of replacement parts for his GMC Sierra, raises questions about the recall process and how quickly GM can resolve these issues for affected owners.
What Should Owners Do?
If you own a 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra, or any of the 2021 diesel-powered SUVs listed in the recall, here are steps you should take:
- Check Your VIN: Use GM’s recall lookup tool or the NHTSA website to determine if your vehicle is affected.
- Schedule the Software Update: GM is offering a free software update for affected models. This update monitors transmission control valve wear and takes preventive action before a failure occurs.
- Limit Usage If Necessary: Owners who frequently tow heavy loads should monitor for signs of harsh shifting or instability and consult with their dealer if issues arise.
For more detailed information on the recall, read our original coverage: GM-Trucks.com: Everything You Need to Know About the GM Rear Wheel Lock-Up Recall.
Why This Video is a Wake-Up Call
Constantine’s experience underscores the importance of addressing this recall promptly. While the issue is statistically rare, the stakes are high for owners of 2020-2022 diesel-powered GM trucks and SUVs, especially those who use these vehicles for towing or heavy-duty work. The dashcam footage serves as a stark warning of what could happen if the defect isn’t remedied.
If you’ve experienced similar issues with your Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, or other GM vehicles under this recall, share your story in the GM-Trucks.com forums.
The emergence of this video shines a spotlight on the real-world impact of the GM rear wheel lock-up defect. For owners still awaiting repairs or replacements, this situation may feel increasingly urgent. We’ll continue to monitor developments and provide updates as GM works to resolve the recall.
Stay tuned to GM-Trucks.com for the latest news and information on this and other recalls impacting GM vehicles.