General Motors has recalled 77,824 full-size vans because of a transmission problem that can cause harsh shifting and can make the rear wheels lock up in extreme cases.
The recall affects Chevrolet Express vans and GMC Savana vans from model years 2022 and 2023, but only those equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and either a 4.3-liter V6 engine or a 4-cylinder diesel engine.
GM tells the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “The transmission control module software in these vehicles is incorrectly calibrated to respond to certain electrical failures within the transmission.” That can “cause harsh shifting or reduced power or may result in unintended deceleration or rear wheel lockup. In rare circumstances at low speeds, the vehicle may move in an unintended direction.”
The company knows of no accidents or injuries related to the problem but has received at least 24 warranty claims.
Dealers will update the transmission control software to fix the problem. These vans are often critical to businesses; having them out of commission is costly. But software updates are often quick service appointments.
By law, dealers never charge for recall repairs.
Automakers recall many cars, sometimes more than once. Manufacturers try to reach every owner to warn them. However, some may fall through the system’s cracks, leaving some of us unknowingly driving recalled cars. Check our easy recall tool to determine if your car has any outstanding recalls.
