Cadillac and its parent company, General Motors, previously issued a recall for vehicles equipped with the 10-speed automatic transmission. Now, a new recall adds the 2022 Cadillac Escalade to the list of affected models. Between this and the engine recall announced last year, Escalade owners have really been through it.
The latest recall impacts an estimated 3,600 regular-length Cadillac Escalade SUVs and 2,250 extended-length Escalade ESVs. Notably, the total number of GM vehicles included in the recall is approximately 44,000, though only about one percent are thought to exhibit the defect, which pertains to a transmission control valve.
Specifically, the transmission control valve may wear to the point of failure, causing an undetectable leak inside the valve body. The vehicle will likely exhibit rough shifts once the valve fails, though the condition is particularly hazardous as it may cause the rear wheels to lock up if left unaddressed, which drastically increases the probability of a crash.
To remedy customer concerns, Cadillac is instructing dealer technicians to perform a software update for the transmission control module (TCM). In doing so, the TCM will monitor the aforementioned transmission control valve for signs of excessive wear before a wheel lock-up condition occurs. If the system detects excessive wear, then it will trigger a reduced power mode and limit the transmission to fifth gear. Detection should occur roughly 10,000 miles prior to valve failure.
Given that the transmission control valves appear to be prone to premature failure, some may feel that this fix is more of a band-aid than an actual repair. While it does provide a safety net and should mitigate the risk of a crash, previous reports indicate that the automaker is actually set to release a special coverage program for vehicles with defective control valves, as detected by the newly installed software.
In the meantime, concerned owners can have the software performed free of charge. Official owner owner notification letters are expected to begin on March 30th, 2026, but dealer notifications have already been sent out.
Owners can also contact Cadillac Customer Service at 1-800-333-4223. For reference, the recall number is N252536750.
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