One of the largest automotive manufacturers in the world is being forced to make a huge recall of more than 461,000 vehicles over fears accidents could be more likely.

In total, 461,839 General Motors vehicles are included in the United States-based recall, as listed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The NHTSA reported that these diesel vehicles could encounter an issue where the transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock up.

The recall warns that the rear wheel locking up could increase the risk of a crash. Dealers will install new transmission control module software, free of charge.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade was included in the recall

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

The recall also states that vehicles equipped with "gas engines" use different transmissions and are not affected by the recall.

It adds: "Excessive wear within the transmission control valve body can cause a fluid leak leading to a pressure drop that causes certain valves to move unexpectedly."

It noted that in this instance of excessive wear, motorists may notice "harsh shifting" when driving.

GM said it would provide a special coverage program to cover the repair of transmissions that are identified by the remedy software as containing a defective control valve.

The 2022 GMC Sierra AT4X and Sierra Denali Ultimate

The remedy includes: "Dealers will install new transmission control module software that will monitor valve performance and detect excess wear approximately 10,000 miles before a wheel lock-up condition could occur.

"Once detected, the transmission will be limited to fifth gear, preventing the possibility of a wheel lock-up condition, which occurs in a downshift from eighth gear.

"A service engine light and reduced propulsion message will also be displayed in the instrument panel."

According to Reuters, General Motors has asked its dealers across the United States to immediately stop the delivery of the affected vehicles.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali

Documents from the NHTSA stated that owner notification letters are expected to be mailed out by December 9, 2024.