2003 GMC Sierra
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › GMC › Sierra › 2003
These records cover every 2003 GMC Sierra. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
9 recalls name the 2003 GMC Sierra. Newest first.
Dope, inc. IS recalling 42,540 combination corner and bumper lamp assemblies of various part numbers sold for use as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles. these headlamps fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these lamps do not contain…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dope, inc. Will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. the safety recall began on july 28, 2009. owners may contact dope, inc. At 1-626-272-1798.
Certain cequent 90 degree 7-WAY right angle adaptors sold by distributors in tow packages for aftermarket sales to tow 5TH wheel rv travel trailers. due to incorrect wiring of the harness, the trailer lights may not operate properly.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the trailer lights are not working properly, a vehicle crash can occur.
Remedy
All of the defective tow packages are still at the distributor level and have not been sold to any consumers.
On certain pickup trucks equipped with manual transmissions and built with either pbr parking brake systems or trw parking brake systems, the parking brake friction linings may wear to an extent where the parking brake can become ineffective in immobilizing a parked vehicle.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the parking brake does not hold, unintended vehicle movement could occur, which could result in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install a low-force spring clip retainer for vehicles equipped with a pbr parking brake system. on vehicles equipped with the trw parking brake system, dealers will install a redesigned parking brake cable assembly. the recall began on july 29, 2005. owners may contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
On certain crew cab pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the 2ND row center occupant seat belt routing may make it difficult to position the lap portion of the safety belt low around the hips of occupants, especially smaller occupants, seated in this position. appropriate use of a child seat or booster seat, as recommended for small children, does…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A lap portion of the seat belt routing that IS not low and snug on the hips can allow the lap belt to ride up on an occupant's abdomen instead of fitting low around their hipbones, and therefore, can expose them to more risk of abdominal and internal organ injury.
Remedy
Dealers will cut open the guide loop, remove a portion of the loop, and then the remaining two sides should be folded over and secured with a retainer free of charge. the recall began on july 21, 2005. owners may contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, GMC at 1-866-996-9463, or hummer at 1-800-732-5493.
Certain extended and regular cab pickup trucks and cargo vans converted to compressed natural gas (CNG) fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 225, 'child restraint anchorage systems.' these vehicles have one seating position, the center rear seat, equipped with child restraint lower anchorages.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The standard requires child seat lower anchorages in two seating positions for vehicles with three rear seating positions. the standard cab and cargo van vehicles, which only have front seating positions, have an air bag off switch to disable the front passenger air bag and do not have child restraint lower anchorages in the passenger seat. the standard requires passenger seat child seat lower anchorages in vehicles with an air bag off switch. However, the standard does not require vehicles with only front seating positions to have lower anchorage provisions if the vehicle IS not equipped with an air bag off switch.
Remedy
To bring the standard cab and cargo van vehicles into compliance, dealers will inject epoxy into the air bag off switch to prevent air bag activation, relocate the switch behind the instrument panel and then install a cover over the resulting opening. the sun visor label and owner's manual will also be changed. the correction for the extended cab vehicle will consist of changing the front passenger seat to a seat that has child restraint lower anchorages. the recall began on september 9, 2004. owners should contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
Aftermarket pickup truck over-the-rail bedliners manufactured for installation on 1999-2004 chevrolet silverado and GMC sierra pickup trucks. the toggle wing assembly used to attach the bedliner to the truck bed IS not engaging fully in the stake pocket of the pickup truck.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The bedliner can become detached from the pickup while it IS motion, possibly endangering following motorists or pedestrians.
Remedy
Durakon will issue a press release in attempt to notify customers that could have purchased the defective bedliner. if you purchased either a durakon allstar of patriot overrail bedliner since august 1, 2003, for 1999 to 2004 chevrolet silverado or GMC sierra trucks, or purchased one of these pickup trucks with either brand bedliner already installed, you should return to an authorized durakon dealer so that the bedliner can be inspected and, if necessary, repaired with a newly designed toggle wing fastening system, or if required, replaced with a new bedliner free of charge. please call the durakon hotline at 1-800-933-4200 to find the nearest authorized durakon dealer.
On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the galvanized steel tailgate support cables that retain the tailgate in the full open (horizontal) position may corrode, weaken, and eventually fracture. if both cables fractured, the tailgate would suddenly drop and strike the top surface of the rear bumper.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Anyone sitting or standing on the horizontal surface of the tailgate when both cables fractured could be injured by falling from the tailgate. on vehicles that have had the bumper removed, the tailgate may drop even lower. additionally, if there IS cargo on the tailgate the cargo may fall off if the support cables fracture.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the cables. interim owner notification began on april 7, 20004. the recall began on september 24, 2004, when replacement parts were available, and will continue through october 29, 2004. owners should contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC at 1-866-996-9463, or visit www.mygmlink.com, and enter your vehicle identification number.
Certain sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks, and passenger vans fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 135, ?passenger car brake systems.? some of these vehicles were produced with an out-of-specification brake hydro-boost housing relief valve bore.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Consequently, the valve o-ring seal may fracture. steering efforts may be slightly increased while braking or parking. under certain driving conditions, a fractured seal may require a slight increase in the applied brake pedal effort to achieve the same vehicle deceleration rate as prior to the seat fracture.
Remedy
Dealers are to replace the hydro-boost relief valve. the recall began on june 18, 2004. owners should contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339; chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438; GMC at 1-866-996-9463; or hummer at 1-866-486-6376.
Certain pickup trucks fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 212, "windshield mounting." some of these vehicles lack a continuous urethane bonding bead between the body surface and the windshield.
Risk and remedy
Risk
In vehicles with this condition, the windshield may not be retained in accordance with the safety standard during a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dealers will remove, reseal, and reinstall the windshield. owner notification began on january 28, 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.
Owner complaints
206 complaints8 involved a crash1 involved a fire5 injuries2 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Seats
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. When inserting the key into the ignition, the seat moved forward and pinned the contact to the dashboard. The failure recurred numerous times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the motor drive software needed to be updated. The…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. When inserting the key into the ignition, the seat moved forward and pinned the contact to the dashboard. The failure recurred numerous times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the motor drive software needed to be updated. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 96,000. updated 04/06/16*lj *tr
- Service brakes
Exiting off freeway ramp in indianapolis brake pedal went to the floor without notice and no brake fluid loss, nearly crashed crossing 5 lanes of cross traffic just lucky I wasn't broadsided by cross traffic. I received no notice of hazard from gm, no recall and only learned of this problem once researching on web. I am lucky to be alive.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While accelerating from a stop sign,the contact's vehicle collided with another vehicle head on. As a result, the contact crashed into another vehicle. The front end was completely damaged and the air bags failed to deploy. Due to the failure of the air bags…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While accelerating from a stop sign,the contact's vehicle collided with another vehicle head on. As a result, the contact crashed into another vehicle. The front end was completely damaged and the air bags failed to deploy. Due to the failure of the air bags not deploying, the contact sustained a broken neck and head fractures that required medical attention. The injuries ultimately led to the contact's death. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the entire front end needed to be repaired. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000. updated 11/09/15*lj updated 4/4/18*jb *tr
- Service brakes
I was approaching a stop light driving on a 4 lane 55 mph speed zone. As I was approaching the stop light I starting pressing on the brake pedal. The pedal had no resistance it kept going to the floor. I started pumping the pedal trying to slow my truck down, no use. I pushed pedal all the way to…
I was approaching a stop light driving on a 4 lane 55 mph speed zone. As I was approaching the stop light I starting pressing on the brake pedal. The pedal had no resistance it kept going to the floor. I started pumping the pedal trying to slow my truck down, no use. I pushed pedal all the way to the floor. This slowed a little. But not enough. I down shifted the automatic lever and starting guiding the truck off the road to avoid the stopped vehicles. I missed the vehicles. Luckily I was only 3 miles from home. I managed to limp home by driving very, very slow and using the gear shifter to slow me down. when investigating the cause at home I found the brake line on the right front had rusted through and there was a leak. All the brake lines on this truck are rusted and in bad shape. I called the dealer glenn buick GMC where I purchased the truck new in 2003. I spoke to the service personal "corey" about repairing the rusted lines. He said GMC was not standing behind this "failure" ! I was on my own ! Seems GMC knows of these failures and so do you and you have agreed not to make them stand behind it and you have chosen to allow more accidents to happen ! you = national highway safety what a shame ! Shame on you and GMC ! had I not been "lucky" this could have been a terrible accident! any help in resolving this issue would be appreciated! this issue will only get worse ! As I am sure there are other trucks with this potential problem waiting to happen!
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While driving at 60 mph, the brake pedal was depressed but took a longer distance to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic multiple times who diagnosed that the brake lines needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While driving at 60 mph, the brake pedal was depressed but took a longer distance to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic multiple times who diagnosed that the brake lines needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 46,000. The vin was unavailable.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While driving approximately 45 mph, the rpms increased to 3,500 without warning. The dealer diagnosed that the fuel lines were rusted, fractured, and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 157,000.
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While driving approximately 60 mph, the brakes were depressed and traveled abruptly to the floor. The vehicle failed to come to a stop until the emergency brake was engaged as the brake pedal was applied. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While driving approximately 60 mph, the brakes were depressed and traveled abruptly to the floor. The vehicle failed to come to a stop until the emergency brake was engaged as the brake pedal was applied. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact discovered that the entire brake lines fractured due to corrosion. The vehicle not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the problem. The approximate failure mileage was 73,000.
- Service brakes
While traveling in my 2003 GMC sierra truck at approximately 45 mph I stepped on the brake pedal to stop at a stop sign and the pedal went 3/4 of the way down to the floor, then the brake light came on and the truck did not stop as quickly as it usually does ( glad I was not going any faster) .…
While traveling in my 2003 GMC sierra truck at approximately 45 mph I stepped on the brake pedal to stop at a stop sign and the pedal went 3/4 of the way down to the floor, then the brake light came on and the truck did not stop as quickly as it usually does ( glad I was not going any faster) . Upon checking the truck it was discovered that the front drivers side steel brake line had a hole in it due to corrosion and there was no brake fluid in the master cylinder . *tr
- Service brakes
On 11/11/2014, truck suddenly veered to left, crossed middle of road and went halfway into ditch, road did have a small amount of snow[1/2 inch], this happened just as I topped a small hill. On 11/16/2014 again as I topped a hill on a curve the truck suddenly veered to the left, crossed the middle…
On 11/11/2014, truck suddenly veered to left, crossed middle of road and went halfway into ditch, road did have a small amount of snow[1/2 inch], this happened just as I topped a small hill. On 11/16/2014 again as I topped a hill on a curve the truck suddenly veered to the left, crossed the middle of the road and did go completely in the ditch. on 11/30/2014 as I backed out of the garage, the brake pedal went to the floor and had a horrible noise when I applied the brake. I made an appointment with my mechanic and he found the brake caliper was froze up and sheared off the brakepad and this ruined the brake rotor, this of course caused the loss of brakes on the right rear side, which must have been pulling me off the road. Luckily we suffered no serious injuries and no other vehicles were on the road. *tr
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. The contact stated that all the gauges on the instrumental panel failed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer who diagnosed that the panel cluster failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000 updated 1/28/15*cn
- Service brakes
I was traveling in rule area of mich. After dark,a deer jump out in front of me! I hit the brakes,a brief brake surge, then the pedal went to the floor! No brakes! The brake lines under the drivers seat area were rusted through! I stop at a gas station. I found brake fluid all over and a man asked…
I was traveling in rule area of mich. After dark,a deer jump out in front of me! I hit the brakes,a brief brake surge, then the pedal went to the floor! No brakes! The brake lines under the drivers seat area were rusted through! I stop at a gas station. I found brake fluid all over and a man asked me what had happened,i told him what I found , he and I couldn't believe they were so rusted out ! My truck IS in very good shape! Except for the brake lines! It's got a stainless steel exhaust system but they scrimp on one of the most critical systems for safety ! Unbelievable! By the grace of god I didn't hit the deer! But what if it had happened in town or if the deer was a child! Thank god it happened the way it did and no one got hurt! *tr
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While driving approximately 25 mph, the brake lines fractured when the brake pedal was depressed. The contact used the parking brake to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While attempting to reverse out of the driveway, the brake pedal depressed to the floor and the brakes failed to engage. The brake system malfunction indicator illuminated on the instrument panel. After stopping the vehicle, the contact noticed that there was…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While attempting to reverse out of the driveway, the brake pedal depressed to the floor and the brakes failed to engage. The brake system malfunction indicator illuminated on the instrument panel. After stopping the vehicle, the contact noticed that there was a trail of brake fluid leaking from underneath the vehicle. The contact determined that the rear brake lines were excessively corroded and needed to be replaced. The contact repaired the vehicle himself. However, the failure recurred. The dealer and manufacturer were not made aware of failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 160,000.
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
2003 GMC sierra. Consumer writes in regards to a speedometer failure. *Tgw the consumer stated she was driving 55 mph. However, the speedometer showed 100 mph. It went on for a couple of days and then went back to normal. The next day, the speedometer was acting erratic again. the consumer took the vehicle to the dealer, hoping it would be something small, but it turned out to be a $700 expense. *Jb
- Service brakes
As I stated pulling out of my parking space. I pressed down on the brake pedal and it went to the floor. I quickly put it in park. Then checked under the truck to find brake fluid leaking all over. The line had rusted apart. *tr
- Air bags · Engine · Power train · Service brakes · Structure › Body
I was parked on a sloped driveway (about 10 - 15 degrees). I started the engine, stepped on the brake pedal and took the car out of park into drive. Brake pedal was normal. I started to roll forward and when I pushed the brake pedal the car did not slow. I slammed the brake pedal and it went all…
I was parked on a sloped driveway (about 10 - 15 degrees). I started the engine, stepped on the brake pedal and took the car out of park into drive. Brake pedal was normal. I started to roll forward and when I pushed the brake pedal the car did not slow. I slammed the brake pedal and it went all the way to the floor. At this point I went off the end of the driveway onto a 45 degree downward sloped lawn; then into a wooded area at the top of a ravine. I slammed into a tree. The car was judged a total loss by my insurance company. I did not get a brake warning light. The airbags did not deploy. The car was serviced at a union park GMC (wilmington, de) two days prior. Including brake inspection. Cause of brake failure was determined to be ruptured brake line. Both front and rear brakes were failed. *tr
- Service brakes
I was approaching an intersection where traffic was stopped for a red light. I applied the brakes and was decreasing speed from approx 35 mph. At approx.10-15 mph the brake pedal went to the floor without any warning or sensor detection and the brakes failed. I held the pedal to the floor…
I was approaching an intersection where traffic was stopped for a red light. I applied the brakes and was decreasing speed from approx 35 mph. At approx.10-15 mph the brake pedal went to the floor without any warning or sensor detection and the brakes failed. I held the pedal to the floor, immediately shifted to low gear and drifted to the right shoulder to avoid the stopped traffic. I slowly moved the vehicle to a safe place. In a short distance the service brake system warning activated but there was no warning prior to failure. The truck was taken to my mechanic where it was found that the brake line on the left frame rail had failed under pressure due to extreme rust. It was also determined that all the brake lines, emergency brake cable and brake plates were rusted far in advance of expectations for my model year and mileage. All brake lines have to be replaced because another failure IS certain if only the blown line IS replaced. I contacted the dealership that sold and has serviced my vehicle and they stated that there was no assistance or recall for rusted brake lines even though there are numerous complaints. *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While driving approximately 30 mph, the brake pedal sank to the floorboard when it was depressed. The contact had to shift to a lower gear to slow down the vehicle and the brake service warning indicator illuminated. The contact discovered that the brake…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC sierra. While driving approximately 30 mph, the brake pedal sank to the floorboard when it was depressed. The contact had to shift to a lower gear to slow down the vehicle and the brake service warning indicator illuminated. The contact discovered that the brake fluid lines were ruptured and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,000.
- Service brakes
Pulling out of driveway, no brakes. Broken corroded brake line, appears that all lines look in the same shape .luckily there was no oncoming traffic. The hole in the line IS directly under the driver seat. *tr
- Engine · Fuel system, diesel
I wrote gm on october 26, 2013 about my 2003 GMC sierra duramax diesel 6.6L 6L that just recently started billowing bluish black smoke constantly from the exhaust and costing an exorbitant amount of money in gas. I took it to the dealer (quality by dilorenzo in albuquerque, new mexico) and they…
I wrote gm on october 26, 2013 about my 2003 GMC sierra duramax diesel 6.6L 6L that just recently started billowing bluish black smoke constantly from the exhaust and costing an exorbitant amount of money in gas. I took it to the dealer (quality by dilorenzo in albuquerque, new mexico) and they informed me that there was a bulletin issued in october 2006 for leaking fuel injectors. they diagnosed my truck with the exact fuel injector problem. the truck only has 83,502 miles on it and I've been informed that the next time I take it for an emissions test (a requirement in new mexico) it will fail. I finally saved up enough money to go an outside repair shop on july 15, 2014 to get my fuel injectors replaced and the total came to $4763.78. I found out that there were two stripped bolts indicating that the fuel injectors were previously repaired (additional cost OF$12 each to replace the 8 bolts). I called the original owner and he told me that the injectors were repaired under the original bulletin (04039) in june 2005 at tillery motors in belen nm. therefore, the fuel injectors were never really repaired properly in the first place. I have spoke to another women ([xxx]) at the gm customer service center. she IS again elevating this issue to a specialist under gm ID [xxx] for reimbursement of the total cost (standard 24-48 hour call back). information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr
- Service brakes
While parking the brake pedal went completely to the floor and sprayed break line fluid all on the manifold. There were zero brakes and discovered the brake lines were corroded. The vehicle had to be towed to a shop for repair to the leak. This did not fix the problem because all of the lines are…
While parking the brake pedal went completely to the floor and sprayed break line fluid all on the manifold. There were zero brakes and discovered the brake lines were corroded. The vehicle had to be towed to a shop for repair to the leak. This did not fix the problem because all of the lines are corroded. I would not consider our state a "salt state" being that we live in the south. Due to these cheap break lines we will have to have them all replaced. We are very, very dissatisfied and will probably never buy a GMC product if this problem IS not resolved by gm. *tr
- Service brakes
Driving aprox. 40 mph applied brakes, brakes were soft. reapplied brakes and brake pedal went to floor. Lucky to get off the road prior to stopped traffic. pulled into parking lot & discovered brake fluid dripping and all over the underneath of vehicle both front & rear area. Inspected the brake…
Driving aprox. 40 mph applied brakes, brakes were soft. reapplied brakes and brake pedal went to floor. Lucky to get off the road prior to stopped traffic. pulled into parking lot & discovered brake fluid dripping and all over the underneath of vehicle both front & rear area. Inspected the brake fluid reservoir to find it empty. inspection by my repair shop discovered several lines had rusted thru and leaked the fluid out. I was fortunate that I did not rear end any vehicles in front of me and lucky that I was not on a fast moving express way & needed to stop. *tr
- Service brakes
Approximately july 12,2013, I was traveling down the road doing about 50, when a car cut me off,i had to apply the brakes quickly,as I did, I lost my brakes. As I examined why, I found out that my drivers side rear brake line was rusted threw. Now in 2014, may 13 , I was traveling down the road…
Approximately july 12,2013, I was traveling down the road doing about 50, when a car cut me off,i had to apply the brakes quickly,as I did, I lost my brakes. As I examined why, I found out that my drivers side rear brake line was rusted threw. Now in 2014, may 13 , I was traveling down the road coming to a traffic light when it changed to yellow, I applied my brakes and found out once again I have no brakes! This time the brake line for the front drivers side has rusted away causing brake fluid loss. *tr
- Service brakes
2003 GMC sierra 1500, brake line failure. purchased truck new in 2003 while stationed in the south, transferred to new england in 2008. 50/50 north-south truck, can't blame it all on road salt. event: while in parking lot the brake pedal went right to the floor while shifting into reverse.…
2003 GMC sierra 1500, brake line failure. purchased truck new in 2003 while stationed in the south, transferred to new england in 2008. 50/50 north-south truck, can't blame it all on road salt. event: while in parking lot the brake pedal went right to the floor while shifting into reverse. brake lines completely rotted out, fluid on the ground left front side and under drivers seat area. drums and rotors were replaced two years prior. truck was towed to the shop and I'm still awaiting the estimate. after quickly reading the amount of issues in the past 24 hours gm needs to recall and fix these issue before loss of life numbers increase. *tr
- Service brakes
ABS activates (noticed by pulsing brake peddle) when moving slowly to a stop on dry clean pavement. occurs randomly when slowly coming to a stop. *tt
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Brake line corrosion failure
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received Defect Petition DP10-003 on March 2, 2010, requesting the investigation of model year (MY) 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4WD pickup trucks for corrosion failures of the vehicle brake lines.DP10-003 was granted and on March 30, 2010, Preliminary Evaluation PE10-010…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received Defect Petition DP10-003 on March 2, 2010, requesting the investigation of model year (MY) 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4WD pickup trucks for corrosion failures of the vehicle brake lines.DP10-003 was granted and on March 30, 2010, Preliminary Evaluation PE10-010 was opened on more than six million model year 1999 through 2003 light trucks and sport utility vehicles manufactured and sold by General Motors Corporation (GM).On July 2, 2010, ODI received GM's response to an information request, which included GM's assessment of the frequency and safety consequences of the alleged defect. GM stated that:(1) the brake system of the subject vehicles is split front/rear and should a brake pipe suddenly fail for any reason, the affected vehicle would be capable of stopping with the pressure supplied by the remaining circuit; (2) the subject vehicles were designed to meet the hydraulic circuit partial failure requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 105 and 135, Light Vehicle Brake Systems; and (3) should a brake fluid leak occur for any reason, the brake system malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) would illuminate and warn the driver before the brake fluid level was low enough to cause a loss of line pressure.ODI's and GM's analysis indicates that 85 percent of the complaints occurred on vehicles used primarily in States that use salt on the roads during Winter months (Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin).Overall the complaint rates per 100,000 vehicles for Salt Belt States is 43.0 and Non-Salt Belt is 3.0.In approximately 25 percent of the complaints the brake pipe failure occurred suddenly, with no warning (i.e., no MIL, Brake Fluid Loss Warning), and resulted in extended stopping distances.In 30 of these the increase in stopping distance that resulted was a factor in the crash and in 10 others the vehicle was intentionally steered off the road or into another lane of travel in order to avoid a crash.This investigation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA11-001) for subject vehicles sold or currently registered in Salt Belt States to further assess the scope, frequency and safety risks associated with sudden failures of corroded brake pipes that can result in decreased brake effectiveness. ODI will continue to gather information on subject vehicles outside the Salt Belt as well.
- Parking brake failure
Odi's review of complaint data received since the close of ea04-011 revealed no indication that the investigation should be re-opened.more details can be found in the federal register notice enclosed in the dp05-009 public file.odi reserves the right to reopen the investigation in the future should conditions warrant.
- Parking brake failure
In a letter dated april 20, 2005, gm notified nhtsa that it had decided that defects that relate to motor vehicle safety exist in certain model year (my) 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series (pbr parking brake system) and my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series (trw parking brake system) pickups with manual transmissions.according…
In a letter dated april 20, 2005, gm notified nhtsa that it had decided that defects that relate to motor vehicle safety exist in certain model year (my) 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series (pbr parking brake system) and my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series (trw parking brake system) pickups with manual transmissions.according to gm, some of these vehicles may have conditions that cause the friction linings to wear to an extent where the parking brake can become ineffective in immobilizing a parked vehicle.gm's action covers an estimated total of 142,585 vehicles.dealers will install a low-force spring clip retainer for vehicles equipped with the pbr parking brake system and install a redesigned parking brake cable assembly on vehicles equipped with the trw parking brake system. A total of 58 non-duplicative complaints were received by odi and gm concerning the approximately 59,000 my 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series pickup trucks with the pbr parking brake system.these included 22 alleged rollaway incidents, resulting in a rate of 38.5 rollaway incidents per 100,000 vehicles.odi IS aware of 24 complaints regarding the my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series manual transmission trucks recalled by gm, including 5 alleging rollaway incidents.though the conditions described in gm's letter are also present in the c/k trucks with automatic transmissions, the rollaway rate in those vehicles was similar to those observed in peer vehicles studied by odi in this investigation.this engineering analysis IS closed. For additional information, see the attached closing report.
- Tailgate cable breakage
General motors filed a defect notice 04v-129 on march 17, 2004, which outlines a program to replace the tailgate cables installed in affected model year 2000-2004 vehicles.refer to odi's closing report for ea04-005 for additional information.odi IS aware of reports of tailgate cable breakage occurring in model year…
General motors filed a defect notice 04v-129 on march 17, 2004, which outlines a program to replace the tailgate cables installed in affected model year 2000-2004 vehicles.refer to odi's closing report for ea04-005 for additional information.odi IS aware of reports of tailgate cable breakage occurring in model year 1999 and earlier vehicles.these vehicles were equipped with similar tailgate cables as addressed by 04v-129, but are not being addressed by campaign o4v-129.odi IS initiating a separate investigation to address these vehicles.the complaint-injury-fatality statistics summarized above pertain to model year 2000-2004 vehicles. The complaint-injury statistics for model year 1999 and earlier vehicles are summarized on the opening resume for that investigation.
- Parking brake failure
Odi opened pe03-057 to assess parking brake ineffectiveness in the subject vehicles.these vehicles are equipped with four wheel disc brakes that incorporate a single-shoe drum-in-hat parking brake independent of the service brakes.complaint and warranty data indicate that the parking brake linings tend to wear out…
Odi opened pe03-057 to assess parking brake ineffectiveness in the subject vehicles.these vehicles are equipped with four wheel disc brakes that incorporate a single-shoe drum-in-hat parking brake independent of the service brakes.complaint and warranty data indicate that the parking brake linings tend to wear out early in the life of the vehicle (at an average of 24 months in service), reducing the parking brake system's torque below that needed to immobilize the vehicle.gm has attributed this accelerated wear to foreign material intrusion and a failure of the brake shoe to properly self-center within its brake drum.effective with the start of my 2003 production, a newer reduced force hold-down clip was introduced to facilitate brake shoe disengagement from the drum surface.this part IS also available at the service level for the my 1999-2002 vehicles.gm has indicated that the paking brake IS intended to operate in conjunction with the transmission to immobilze parked vehicles, and that in many cases, accelerated parking brake lining wear IS caused by rough use, vehicle modifications, and driving with the parking engaged. Odi has upgraded the preliminary evaluation to an engineering analysis to gather further information concerning parking brake usage factors and the circumstances surrounding the seventeen reported vehicle crashes.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10114470This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicle that may have an OnStar system that has progression tones when pressing the blue or red button. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center with the scan tool data from the OnStar system.
- 10114431This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that may have an issue when using Bluetooth voice recognition with an iPhone. Technician should work with the customer to insure the phone contacts to not have any Emojis loaded to any contact.
- 10114408This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that are travelling from Canada to the United States. While in the United States they are unable to receive Turn-by-Turn directions. Due to the existing cellular provider not having roaming agreements in areas outside of Canada to support transmitting of the packet data required for Turn-By-Turn feature to operate. The customer has 3 options while traveling through the United Sates. First if the vehicle is equipped with a navigation radio they can request a "Destination Download" to the vehicle. Second if the customer uses the OnStar RemoteLink app they can send the directions to the vehicle. The third option would be to have the vehicle loaded with a "500 phone number" The customer will no longer be able to use their Hands Free Calling minutes when the new 500 phone number is loaded. If a customer chooses to restore Hands Free Calling in the future a new phone number will be assigned to the vehicle; previous phone numbers are not available.
- 10114352This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 10114343This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician the steps needed to diagnose and repair the vehicles that may have unwanted or phantom phone calls. Technician will need to determine what type of call the customer is having that is unwanted. The vehicle may receive an incoming call just like any other phone. Typically the customer will hear the phone ringing in the vehicle. This scenario also includes incoming Bluetooth calls. One type of unwanted call can be made if the key pad is faulty the OnStar system will try to make a blue button call for shorted voltage in the circuits. The OnStar module could have an internal fault and produce a "Phone Unavailable" audio message also it may have a Diagnostic Trouble Code U1500 or B1000. Refer to diagnostics for the Diagnostic Trouble Code making sure to follow any applicable Bulletins or Preliminary Information sheets. A "Ready" or "OnStar ready" audio message heard while driving. In some cases it has been found that the customer is inadvertently pressing the ?push to talk? button on the steering wheel controls. On rare occasions, other issues in the steering column or Steering Wheel Control system may induce this concern.
- 10114342This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicle that may have an OnStar system that has progression tones when pressing the blue or red button. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center with the scan tool data from the OnStar system.
- 10114299This informational bulletin provides a quick guide to updating which model vehicle after replacing the IPC.
- 10113843This warranty administration bulletin provides information on the Clarification of Use for Dealer Empowerment Labor Operations and Customer Enthusiasm
- 10113837This informational bulletin provides a list off all the issues revolving around new vehicles for a one stop place to find growing concerns around them.
- 10113722This informational bulletin provides information on communication with OnStar module after Canadian cellular upgrade.
- 10113720This informational bulletin provides information on a GM of Canada OnStar cellular communication upgrade.
- 10113664This informational bulletin provides technicians with information regarding automatic transmission oil cooler flow test essential tool J-45096 TransFlow.
- 10113662This informational bulletin provides dealership personnel with information on flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs) and the usage of E85 fuel in GM vehicles.
- 10113654This informational bulletin provides information on a GM of Canada OnStar cellular communication upgrade.
- 10113483This warranty administration bulletin provide policy information new tire warranty program and global warranty management submission information.
- 10113406This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that may have slack in one of the tailgate cables. Technician should not replace any parts for this concern. Please communicate to the customer this condition is a normal operating characteristic of their vehicle.
- 10113364This Preliminary Information communication advises the technician that the Hydro-Boost is not serviceable and will need to be replaced if the brake pedal moves or applies on its own at a full turn.
- 10112900This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that will not move in forward or reverse. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Code P0877 or P2723 set. Technician will need to inspect the valve body separator plate orifices for debris.
- 10112737This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the speedometer needle appears to be inaccurate. Dealer should advise the customer the specification for speedometer needle accuracy is +/- 2 miles per hour at any given speed when looking straight at the needle.
- 10112697This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Service Engine Soon Malfunction Indicator Lamp on, engine misfire, and/or engine noise. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes P0300-P0308. If published Service Information diagnostics does not isolate the cause of this concern technician should check for a worn camshaft lobe and/or lifter roller, a sticking valve, valve leakage, a broken valve spring, and a collapsed active fuel management lifter.
- 10112681This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that may have a planetary gear whine noise in first and second gear. Technician should compare the noise to a like vehicle. Technician will need to check the build date of the transmission, if it was built after 09/01/2003 and it is determined that a vehicle has an abnormal amount of noise, perform the rear unit end play check. Technician will replace the output planetary gear set if end play is out of specification. The transmission assembly will need to be replaced if the end play is with in specification.
- 10112655This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 10112614This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about customers may inquire about the availability of the passenger compartment air filter. Dealer should advise the customer starting in 2003 the passenger compartment air filter is no longer available as a factory option.
- 10112546This Preliminary Information communication advises the technician that the Hydro-Boost is not serviceable and will need to be replaced if the brake pedal moves or applies on its own at a full turn.
- 10112523This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have slip in forward ranges immediately after replacing the input housing. Technician will inspect the 3-4 clutches and the forward clutch oil feed passages for leakage between circuits. Technician should apply regulated compressed air to the 3-4 clutch feed hole and the forward clutch feed hole one at a time with the input housing. Technician will need to replace the input housing if there is an air leak 3-4 clutches.
- 10112401This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have not engagement into drive, delayed, no engagement into reverse, and or a range inhibit. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes P0701, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0736, P0751, P0756, P0761, P0776, P0843, P0848, P0873, P0877, P0894 or P2723. Technician should follow published Service Information diagnostics for Diagnostic Trouble Code P0701 first. Technician will also ensure the fluid level is at the top of the hot band when the transmission fluid temperature is 175 Fahrenheit. Diagnostic Trouble Codes P0701, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0736, P0751, P0756, P0761, P0776, P0843, P0848, P0873, P0877, P0894 or P2723 can set by the following fluid service/filter change, transmission service involving removing the pan, low fluid level caused by leaks, or after long periods of storage. If the fluid level has been properly checked using the HOT check procedure listed in Service Information document 2408059 and any of the Diagnostic Trouble Codes reset during a cold start inspect the internal suction filter for possible cracks. If no other concerns are found inspect for a stuck lube regulator valve in the pump cover due to debris.
- 10112382This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the percentage of UV protection or tint offered by the windshield or side glass. Technician should be advised Windshield reduces UV rays down to 4% or less. Front side door glass reduces UV rays down to 35% or less. Windshields are SOLAR glass with a light transmittance of >/=70%. Front door glass are Solar glass with a light transmission of >/=70%. Rear door glass, quarter windows and back windows can use either Solar glass (>/=70%) or Privacy glass, which has a light transmittance of 20%.
- 10112299This informational bulletin provides information on Part Restriction and Ordering Process Information for OnStar Vehicle Communication Interface Modules (VCIM) (GMNA Only)
- 10112009This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the speedometer needle appears to be inaccurate. Dealer should advise the customer the specification for speedometer needle accuracy is +/- 2 MPH at any given speed when looking straight at the needle.
- 10108599This technical bulletin provides a procedure to lube the rear leaf springs on vehicles with the condition of a squeak noise originating from the rear of the vehicle.
- 10058259General motors: an optional engine block heater plug in for onboard ac power and with continuous usage will result in shorting of wires, over heating system, electrical failure and compartment engine fires. Model 2003-15 express cut away vans, silverado chassis cab, savana cut away vans, sierra chassis cab.
- 10056354Gmc/chevrolet: engines, with egr system, has leakage from egr cooler engine coolant into the combustion chamber. Model 2002-15 silverado, sierra, 2004-09 kodiak c4500-c5500, topkick c4500-c5500, 2006-15 express, savana.
- 10054261Chevrolet/gmc/cadillac: anytime hydraulic brake pipes assembly need replacing, pre-formed and pre-flared brake pipes are available, except rear axle crossover pipe. Model 1999-2007 silverado, sierra, 2000-2006 escalade models, avalanche, suburban, tahoe, yukon models. Updated 7/18/14. Updated 12/9/14.
- 10042986General motors: information provided by bulletin for all 2012 and prior general motor trucks and passenger vehicles regarding the adjustable comfort and custom upholstery of the driver and the passenger head restraint.
- 10038760General motors service campaign: see document search button for owner letter. The hvac blower may not work at certain functions or may become inoperable. There could be a burning smell or smoke. Updated 4/6/12.
- 10038759Gm: onstar IS making incomplete calls without the driver knowing. When have a data connection.
- 10038344Gm: the front or rear door may not open from the inside or outside handle, the door will not unlock with any method. The probably cause an incorrect installation of a handle component. Updated on 7/26/2013. All 2014 and prior gm passenger cars and trucks.
- 10038295Gm: information on fixing multiple situations right the first time.
- 10038294Gm: there are seat belt problems: difficulty latching and unlatching buckle. Buckle release button IS sticking. Seat belt warning light illuminated. Likely caused by sticky beverages that are spilled into the buckle assembly. Updated 4/3/12.
- 10037933Gm: the service engine soon light IS on, there IS also a misfire or engine noise. There are multiple possible causes.
Every GMC Sierra model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.