2021 GMC Sierra 1500
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Vehicles › GMC › Sierra 1500 › 2021
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
These records cover every 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
7 recalls name the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. Newest first.
General Motors, LLC is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500, 3500, and 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles that may have been repaired incorrectly under recall 24V797. The transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock up.
Rear wheel lock up increases the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect the vehicles and update the transmission control software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 6, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N252516560. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on February 12, 2026.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N252494000.
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with diesel engines. The transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock-up.
Rear wheel lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will install new transmission control module software, free of charge. GM will provide a special coverage program to cover the repair of transmissions that are identified by the remedy software as containing a defective control valve. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2024. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, GMC customer service at GMC 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N242454440.
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2021 GMC Sierra 1500 and Silverado 1500 vehicles equipped with certain accessory road tires and a 17" spare tire. The 17" spare tire provided with the vehicle is not compatible for use with the accessory wheels, which can cause the anti-lock brake system (ABS) to not function properly under certain conditions.
An ABS system that does not function properly can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will provide a new 17" spare tire and wheel assembly that is compatible with the accessory wheels, free of charge. Dealers will also apply a new spare tire information label, and provide owners with an owner's manual insert clarifying which spare tire to use with the accessory road tires and with the 17" original tires. Owner notification letters were mailed February 7, 2022. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-462-8782 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212346510.
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to…
If a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, 2021 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe and GMC Yukon XL and 2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The seat belt brackets may not be secured to the seat frame in the front-row center seating position.
If a seat-belt bracket is not secured, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the front-row center seat position, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect left-side and right-side front-row center seat-belt bracket attachments and reassemble it correctly as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202314670.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT5, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Traverse vehicles and 2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. The vehicles may have been manufactured with Continental tires that were overcured.
Overcured tires may experience a carcass break in the sidewall resulting in a sudden air loss or could develop a belt edge separation which could lead to partial or full tread/belt loss. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect vehicles and replace tires that have DOT number and production mold number combinations identified by Continental, free of charge. The recall began December 17, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202319030.
I have repeatedly experienced a noticeable exhaust odor inside the cab while operating the vehicle\. The condition is particularly pronounced during cold weather when the vehicle is idling\. Under these circumstances, the exhaust smell inside the passenger compartment is distinct and concerning\. I have taken the vehicle to two separate General Motors dealerships in an effort to identify and resolve this issue\. On both occasions, I was advised that the vehicle was fine\. Despite these visits, the problem remains unresolved, and I continue to experience exhaust fumes inside the cab under the conditions described above\. My concern is that exhaust gases may be entering the passenger compartment, potentially exposing the driver and passengers to harmful emissions, including carbon monoxide\. Because carbon monoxide cannot be detected by smell, the presence of an exhaust odor does not establish whether carbon monoxide is present or at what concentration\. However, the recurring odor warrants a thorough investigation to determine its source and whether a potentially hazardous condition exists\. I am concerned that the issue may not be adequately identified during routine dealership inspections if the vehicle is not evaluated under the specific conditions in which the symptoms occur\. The fact that two dealerships have indicated that the vehicle is operating normally does not resolve my concern, particularly because the symptoms continue to occur\. I am requesting that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration review this complaint and determine whether further investigation is warranted into the possibility of exhaust gases entering the passenger compartment of this vehicle\. I would appreciate consideration of whether this condition could represent a safety\-related defect that may affect other vehicles of the same make, model, or model year\. I have made reasonable efforts to address this matter through authorized GM service facilities.
I am experiencing hard gear shifting in the low gears. It is very noticeable and I have a 10-speed transmission.
2021 GMC 3.0 Diesel have coolant control valve issues. GM has a special coverage for them under Special Coverage N252508341. That coverage covers my year make and model. I have an open case with GM under GMC Customer Assistance opened case 116070735. GM is refusing to cover it due to this cited email. "After reviewing the vehicle information, we determined that Special Coverage N252508341 does not apply because it is not associated with the vehicle identification number (VIN) on your vehicle." I had the dealership and GMC customer service confirm this. GMC told me to request goodwill assistance at the dealership which the service provider had never heard of before. I can provide all documentation needed. I had recurring P1098, followed by a reduced engine power warning and unusually loud radiator fans. I figured it may be the coolant control valve and found Special Coverage N252508341. I created an open case with GM and took it to the dealership. The dealership was ambiguous about the issue and quoted me over 2,000 dollars just for further diagnostics citing "Coolant" and "Valve" in the documentation. They also said once they find the issue it would be "more." I took it to a 3rd party mechanic for an actual understanding of the issue. The mechanic found that the issue was the coolant control valve, which I have in documentation, and recommend a clear understanding of the repair and quote for the repair.
Engine locked up while driving down the road at highway speeds. Lost all power and had to pull to shoulder of road. Was towed to dealership and confirmed engine locked up and covered under special recall. Was looked at a few months back and passed the recall test on engine. No lights or signs of engine failure before failure.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact became aware of an abnormal sound, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The contact inspected the vehicle and connected a portable diagnostic tester to the vehicle. The contact retrieved a pressure fault code. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a torque converter shudder. Additionally, the solenoids were clogged with debris. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 106,554.
My 2021 GMC 1500 Sierra has the 6.2L motor that has significant known issues with catastrophic engine failure involving the camshaft and lifters. The engine in my truck has suffered the same failure but for some reason my VIN is not included in the recall of nearly 600,000 GMC trucks. I called GMC Customer Service and was told bluntly the recall was VIN specific and I would have to bear the 14,000 dollar repair. This is unacceptable since GMC is under federal investigation for knowingly and negligently manufacturing a flawed motor.
My vehicle fits Special Coverage N252508341in every way, except the dealership tells me that my VIN is not covered. I drive a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 with approximately 61,000 miles. This weekend a Check Engine Light illuminated with P1010 code. All the symptoms described in Special Coverage N252508341 were exhibited: the vehicle displayed 'Engine Power Reduced', and the electric cooling fans began operating at full output. I have taken the vehicle to Cronin GMC here in Perrysburg and it has been diagnosed with Coolant Control Valve failure that requires replacement. They state that my VIN is not covered by Special Coverage N252508341 and that I must pay full price for the replacement. I am writing to extend this coverage to my vehicle so I can either receive a no-charge repair or seek reimbursement after I pay for the service.
The vehicle failed to start. It started after 30 minutes and I was able to drive it home. Then it starts and stalls after multiple attempts. Receiving codes P1177 and UI8A2. Was told that a bulletin exists for this issue on GM vehicles, GM Bulletin 24-NA-139, but I found out that it don't cover my VIN number. This can cause the vehicle to stall or shut off while driving. GM should make this bulletin for all vehicles of certain years who carry this modules.
Service light came on because the brake petal would push back when I tried to start it. At times, I had to push down all the way almost to the floor and then it would start. If I eased up slightly or did not push all the way, the truck would hesitate to start. I brought it in to Courtesy GMC of [XXX]. They found metal debris in oil. The car warranty did not want to replace the entire engine as General Motors' bulletin had stated as a corrective solution. They only wanted to replace the camshaft and rocker arms because [XXX] did not tear down the engine to the point of failure. [XXX] stated that they did. After going back and forth with EasyCare (myself and [XXX]) I authorized the repairs EasyCare suggested. XXX, a Service Brake Assist message came on. I brought it to [XXX]. They rectified the issue. XXX,Truck stalled getting off XXX at light. Truck kept turning on and off. I put it in park and was able to turn in on. As I was driving the truck was rocking back and forth as I pressed the gas pedal. I was able to pull into the Super1 Foods parking lot. Trucked stalled halfway into parking lot. After two attempts to turn off and start truck I was able to pull it up all the way to ensure safety. Texted [XXX] at Courtesy. I called the number he sent and a tow truck from Cliff’s Towing and Recovery, LLC retrieved my truck and brought it to Courtesy GMC in [XXX] where it is currently residing. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Loud engine knock, made it to dealer. Dealer confirmed engine failure as defined in the applicable recall. No idea when a replacement can be aquired. Unable to drive anywhere due to design and manufacturinf issues I did not cause.
The infotainment system inadvertently shuts down and restarts which creates a unsafe situations while using the navigation system, backing up using the backup camera and while trailering. In a 30 mile drive it might do it 10 times and it might do it 30 times and eventually it doesnt restart until the vehicle is shut off. Each time it does it, it starts with the screen locking up which has resulted in me backing into my boat trailer 3 times while backing up to put the trailer on the hitch and numerous near misses with pedestrians and other vehicles in parking lots. Research on the internet indicates it is a known issue across several GMC platforms and has been since 2016. I took my truck to the dealer, they did a software update which was unsuccessful, then they did a global reset, charged me $240.00 and told me it was fixed. It shutdown 2 times before I got out of their parking lot.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, a reduced power mode warning message unexpectedly illuminated, and the vehicle unexpectedly entered limp mode. The contact stated that the temperature gauge indicated a high temperature and the vehicle was overheating during the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the control valve had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer informed the contact that this was a known failure and escalated the issue to the manufacturer for further assistance. The contact stated that the failure was associated with Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) N252508340 and believed the repair should have been covered under warranty. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure via telephone and website. The contact was also referred to NHTSA for further assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 110,900.
1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The failure involves the NOx emissions control system, specifically NOx Sensor #2 and the associated NOx catalyst/DPF assembly. Diagnostic trouble codes P11D5, P14D4, P22A1, P2832, P2833, and P28AF confirm abnormal NOx readings caused by sensor breakdown and catalyst performance degradation. Yes, the components are available for inspection at the servicing GM dealership. 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? A malfunctioning NOx sensor and catalyst can cause the vehicle to enter reduced‑power or limp‑mode operation, which may limit acceleration or speed unexpectedly. This can create hazardous situations during highway merging, passing, towing, or maintaining speed in traffic. Additionally, improper emissions control can lead to engine performance irregularities that may affect vehicle responsiveness. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. The issue has been confirmed by a GM dealership through diagnostic testing. The dealer verified all fault codes and confirmed the NOx sensor failure and abnormal catalyst readings. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? The vehicle has been inspected by GM‑certified dealership technicians. No inspections have been performed by police, insurance representatives, or other third parties. 5. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Yes. The check engine light and emissions‑related warnings appeared around 80,000 miles, coinciding with the emissions warranty limit. Diagnostic trouble codes related to the NOx system were present, and the vehicle exhibited abnormal emissions readings consistent with sensor and catalyst malfunction.
2021 GMC with 6.2L motor. The engine begin to produce a clattering noise in the upper part of the engine. When the clattering happens the vehicle will shudder. I took the vehicle into a certified independent service center who diagnosed a catastrophic engine failure as a result of lifter and camshaft bearing failure. They further advised that this year of vehicle (2021) and engine (6.2L) was known to have this defect and might be subject to a safety recall. I contacted GM customer service who stated that my VIN was not included in the recall even though the year and engine matched the recall. I found that to be odd especially when I noted that nearly 600K vehicles matching my failed engine was recalled. She stated that I (owner) had to bear the cost of replacing the defective engine and labor. I had to have my vehicle transported from [XXX] to [XXX] at the cost of 1400 dollars. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
While towing a trailer on 6/26/26, the 6.2L L87 engine suffered a sudden drop in oil pressure, began knocking, and completely lost motive power on the roadway. Because the engine seized instantly, the vehicle experienced a sudden loss of power steering and power braking while managing the extreme weight of a trailer. This combination created a severe and immediate safety hazard, forcing me to maneuver a heavy, unpowered truck and trailer combination through active traffic to the shoulder without full steering or brake control, putting my life, my passengers' lives, and the safety of surrounding motorists at extreme risk. My dad read the codes before we took it to my mechanics and the only code I can remember is P0016. I took it and dropped it off at my local mechanics on 6/28/26. This is what my mechanic said: No Start-Truck came in not running. Had timing codes. I believe the crank bearing failed causing the engine to lose oil pressure. With the sudden loss of oil pressure, the timing chain tensioner slacked and caused the cam/crank to go out of time. Drained engine oil and found bearing material. We also cut oil filter open and found more bearing material. The timing cover was removed and verified the cam timing was off. In conclusion the engine has failed and will need full replacement. This is the exact failure mechanism under active NHTSA Investigation EA26005.
Vehicle is a 2021 GMC Sierra with 3.0 Diesel. Coolant control valve is bad. Vehicle has 108,000 miles. GM issued Bulletin N252508341 extending the warranty to 15 years or 150,000 miles for 2021-2022 GMC Sierra. Now they are saying my VIN # is not effected and they will not cover the replacement which costs about $2100. After researching this I'm finding many VINs are not covered and there are many trucks with failed parts that are not covered. GM should extend this to all VINs under those years. Its an obvious problem but their bulletin does not cover all the vehicles affected. They make it look like they are trying to make it right but in reality, its misleading.
Was just driving along and the car just died
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving and towing a 5,000-pound load, the vehicle made an abnormally loud sputtering sound at 3,000 RPM. The contact stated that the failure was more noticeable while towing a load. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where an audible diagnostic test was performed and the contact was informed that the sound was related to the engine bearings. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with fifty-two engine misfires. The contact was informed that the misfires should have caused the check engine warning light to illuminate; however, the light was not illuminated. The dealer replaced the ignition coils and spark plugs; however, the failure recurred while driving. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Truck was in motion and the engine light started blinking then stopped. A couple miles down the road the truck jilted and the engine light came on again. The Service ESC and emergency parking brake light came on. The truck started shaking. We pulled over and parked. Turn off the truck and when we turned it back on it started shaking. When we drove we started hearing popping, knocking, loss in power of the vehicle. This could’ve caused serious damage to ourselves or other drivers if we could’ve have stopped. Vehicle is being inspected. Multiple same vehicles have had the same issues in my town. At least 5 that we know of. At one point all of the lights came on and now there is just a few lights. More than what I listed earlier.
Lifter collapsed at 31970 miles. It was fixed at GMC dealership. It just happened out of no where. No warning signs.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that the transmission was previously replaced. The contact stated that 20,000 miles later, the vehicle started to experience erratic hard shifting while driving at various speeds, and the vehicle failed to respond upon shifting into reverse(R). The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the battery was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V797000 (Power Train). The vehicle was towed back to the dealer, where it was determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The contact was advised that the repair was not covered under the extended warranty coverage associated with the recall because the required DTC was not retrieved. The contact advised the dealer to complete the TCM software update under the recall, which would enable the generation of warning lights and DTC. After several attempts, the dealer informed the contact that the TCM software update was unsuccessful. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone and email, a case was filed, and documents were sent to the manufacturer. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.
Vehicle Safety Hazard Summary: This complaint concerns an incomplete, non-compliant post-collision structural repair on a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 (VIN: [XXX]). It has resulted in immediate vehicle tracking failure, dangerous steering drift, and a compromised cabin safety cage following a passenger-side side-impact collision. 1. Severe Suspension and Tracking Misalignment • Electronic Alignment Failure: The post-repair electronic wheel alignment documents a Rear Thrust Angle of 0.17°. General Motors OEM specifications require a maximum allowable thrust angle of 0.10° or less for this 4WD Crew Cab chassis. The system printed a critical warning: "One or more values are not within specification. Tire wear, handling and safety problems may result." • Physical Wheelbase Displacement: Physical cross-measurements confirm a 1.25-inch tracking variance between the rear wheel wells. This proves the solid rear axle has shifted along the leaf springs due to a sheared centering pin or a bent axle/spindle assembly. • Road Hazard Handling: The truck exhibits a severe right-hand steering drift. The driver must hold the steering wheel significantly off-center to prevent the vehicle from pulling off the road. This creates an immediate risk of control loss during highway driving, sudden avoidance maneuvers, or wet weather. 2. Compromised Cabin Structure and Latch Failure • Structural Binding: The facility performed an outer B-pillar sectioning repair. Upon delivery, the B-pillar door check bracket was left un-torqued. When this structural hardware is torqued to factory specifications, the passenger door binds severely against the cab shell and will not latch or close without being violently slammed. This mechanical binding confirms the underlying inner high-strength steel pillars remain deformed, compromising side-impact and rollover crashworthiness. The vehicle is mechanically out of safe operating specifications, and the repair facility refuses to perform further corrections INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
Received Re-Call for Engine Failure! Dealer replaced Engine Oil and Oil Cap @ 85,544 Miles. I read of the Re-call prior to the notice and I waited for it to come. After I received it and the Dealer made the changes, it made me afraid to leave town using my truck for fear of a breakdown on the Freeway. I use a Walker, so if I broke down and I was in the left lane and lost all power it would be very dangerous for me to get to the right side of the road! The truck started using excessive Oil after they changed the oil. I replaced four (4) quarts of oil @ 2526 miles! Speedometer reading 88070 miles.
1. I am being told that the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) catastrophically seized and locked up internally while driving. Because the HPFP on the 3.0L Duramax (LM2) engine is directly driven by the engine's timing system, this sudden mechanical seizure instantly destroyed the engine timing gears and snapped/skipped the timing chain. The failed components are currently intact inside the vehicle and are fully available for inspection upon request at Ron's Smith GMC in Merced, CA. 2. The failure occurred on busy Labor Day (XXX) while our family of [XXX] was traveling back home at 70 mph on a major highway. The truck violently shook, instantly lost all engine power, and forced the vehicle into a dangerous limp-mode state before completely stalling in live highway traffic at night around 10:45 pm. This sudden loss of propulsion at high speed severely compromised our ability to safely navigate out of the way of fast-moving highway traffic, creating an immediate & extreme risk of a high-speed rear-end collision. At times hazard lights didn't work causing family panic & screaming as truck shook with passing traffic. 3. The problem has been officially confirmed by Ron Smith GMC in Merced, CA. Their service department diagnosed the issue, confirming that the high-pressure fuel pump had locked up and subsequently destroyed the timing belt/chain & engine gears. 4. The vehicle and its failed components have only been inspected by technicians at the Ron Smith GMC dealership service department. No police, insurance representatives, or outside third parties have inspected the vehicle yet. 5. I had been extremely happy with my truck and there were absolutely no warning lamps, dashboard messages, or driving symptoms prior to the failure. The truck was operating perfectly normally under cruise until the exact moment of the failure, at which point a "Reduced Engine Power" warning flashed on the dashboard simultaneously with the mechanical lock-up, shaking, and immediate stall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF
1. I am being told that the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) catastrophically seized and locked up internally while driving. Because the HPFP on the 3.0L Duramax (LM2) engine is directly driven by the engine's timing system, this sudden mechanical seizure instantly destroyed the engine timing gears and snapped/skipped the timing chain. The failed components are currently intact inside the vehicle and are fully available for inspection upon request at Ron’s Smith GMC in Merced, CA. 2. The failure occurred on busy Labor Day (XXX) while our family of [XXX] was traveling back home at 70 mph on a major highway. The truck violently shook, instantly lost all engine power, and forced the vehicle into a dangerous limp-mode state before completely stalling in live highway traffic at night around 10:45 pm. This sudden loss of propulsion at high speed severely compromised our ability to safely navigate out of the way of fast-moving highway traffic, creating an immediate & extreme risk of a high-speed rear-end collision. At times hazard lights didn’t work causing family panic & screaming as truck shook with passing traffic. 3. The problem has been officially confirmed by Ron Smith GMC in Merced, CA. Their service department diagnosed the issue, confirming that the high-pressure fuel pump had locked up and subsequently destroyed the timing belt/chain and engine gears. 4. The vehicle and its failed components have only been inspected by technicians at the Ron Smith GMC dealership service department. No police, insurance representatives, or outside third parties have inspected the vehicle yet. 5. I had been extremely happy with my truck and there were absolutely no warning lamps, dashboard messages, or driving symptoms prior to the failure. The truck was operating perfectly normally under cruise until the exact moment of the failure, at which point a "Reduced Engine Power" warning flashed on the dashboard simultaneously with the mechanical lock-up, shaking, and immediate stall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V-274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GM’s recall remedy for Recall 25V-274 consisted of two different repairs, either an oil viscosity change or an engine replacement, based on the results of the remedy inspection procedure. ODI continues to receive reports of engine failures after the completion of the recall remedy. To date, ODI has received 499 complaints alleging post-remedy engine failure in vehicles subject to Recall 25V-274, 473 of which involved an oil viscosity change and 26 a complete engine replacement. Additionally, ODI has received 191 reports of L87 engine failures in engines produced after the production period cited in Recall 25V-274. GM reported receiving 6,953 complaints of post-remedy engine failure. ODI is opening this Engineering Analysisto continue investigating complaints of post-remedy engine failure. ODI is expanding the scope of this Investigation to include engines produced after the production period cited in the recall. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V-274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GM’s recall remedy for Recall 25V-274 consisted of two different repairs, either an oil viscosity change or an engine replacement, based on the results of the remedy inspection procedure. ODI continues to receive reports of engine failures after the completion of the recall remedy. To date, ODI has received 499 complaints alleging post-remedy engine failure in vehicles subject to Recall 25V-274, 473 of which involved an oil viscosity change and 26 a complete engine replacement. GM reported receiving 6,953 complaints of post-remedy engine failure. ODI will close this RQ and continue to investigate complaints of post-remedy engine failure for Recall 25V-274 as part of an Engineering Analysis (EA26005). To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 1,157 reports of engine bearing failure failures in the L87 6.2L engine produced by General Motors (GM). Of the 1,157 reports received, 173 are outside of the scope of recall 25V-274. These engines are installed in Model Years (MY) 2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, and 2021-2024MY Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV vehicles. The subject engine failures were investigated as part of a Preliminary Evaluation (PE25001). GM determined that these engine failures were due to multiple supplier manufacturing and quality issues. GM issued recall 25V-274 to address the supplier manufacturing and quality issues produced between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024. Based on the issuance of recall 25V-274, NHTSA has closed PE25001. ODI continues to receive a significant number of reports of engine failure in vehicles outside the scope of 25V-274. This presents a potential safety risk that warrants further investigation. ODI is opening this Engineering Analysis (EA) to further evaluate the scope and severity of the potential problem and to fully assess the potential safety-related issues of vehicles built outside the recall scope. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
On January 16, 2025, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE25001 after receiving complaints and field reports concerning engine failures in MY2019-2024 GM’s full-size truck and SUV T1XX platform equipped with the L87 6.2L V8 engine. These complainants alleged engine bearing failures resulting in knocking and growling noises from the engine’s bottom end and in some cases more severe consequences such as broken connecting rods leading to engine damage, or engine failure. If the engine fails during vehicle operation, the vehicle will lose propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. On April 24, 2025, GM issued recall 25V-274 to address the concern with L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issues. GM’s recall remedy will be either an oil change to an oil with a different viscosity or engine replacement depending on the results of the remedy inspection procedure. To date, ODI has received 1,157 allegations of engine bearing failure. GM submitted 55,464 reports in total, with 29,752 unique VINs. ODI continues to receive allegations of L87 engine failures which fall outside of the scope of recall 25V-274. Based on GM’s recall, ODI will close this PE. NHTSA will continue to investigate complaints of engine failure outside the scope of recall 25V-274 as part ofEngineering Analysis (EA25007). To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
On April 9, 2021, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE21-010 to investigate instances of air bag malfunction indicator light (MIL) illumination and potential for frontal air bag non-deployment in several vehicles manufactured by General Motors (GM). The vehicles included model year (MY) 2020 through 2021 CT4 and CT5 passenger cars, Sierra and Silverado trucks (1500/2500/3500 models), XT4 and MY 2021 Escalade, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon SUVs.Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 21-NA-005, issued in March 2021, addresses air bag MIL illumination with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) B0001-1B or B0012-0D. It cites rust particles in the connection terminal interface of the driver air bag inflator housing as the cause of the air bag MIL illumination. Illumination of the air bag MIL under these circumstances may result in a non-deployment of the frontal driver air bag during a frontal collision and increased risk of injury to the driver.GM stated a correlation exists between production delays due to the pandemic shutdown and premature corrosion initiation on the surface of the air bag inflator housing, which, in some cases, caused rust development during a seven (7) month period of vehicle production. In the rare instance when a rust particle dislodges from the driver air bag inflator housing and enters the air bag connector prior to assembly, an intermittent resistance spike at the air bag connector may result. The condition generates excessive resistance in the air bag electrical system when the steering wheel horn cover is manipulated or the steering wheel is turned. This excessive resistance is momentary. A crash commanding air bag deployment would need to occur exactly when the momentary excessive resistance occurs. Thus, there is a very low likelihood the hazard will present a risk during a crash of sufficient severity to warrant a commanded deployment. This failure mechanism occurs early in life and results in an air bag MIL illumination that corresponds to a DTC warning the driver that the vehicle requires service. The vehicle's air bag remains functional while the MIL is illuminated, and the DTC is present.Once the connection of the driver air bag module to the clockspring is made at the plant, or at the dealership for service, there is no longer an opportunity for rust migration into the connection point. The connector is sealed and has gold terminals, eliminating the expectation of fretting corrosion. All subject vehicles passed standard corrosion validation testing for extensive corrosion with no issue of air bag non-deployment.There is a low rate of occurrence: 1.41 incidents per thousand vehicles (IPTV) for all related occurrences, and 0.04 IPTV for occurrences with a mention of visible rust and/or corrosion on the air bag inflator housing. The average occurrence mileage for the subject vehicles is approximately 2,100. Every occurrence related to the alleged defect experienced an air bag MIL illumination and there are no verified allegations of air bag non-deployment within all data sources.To date, there have been no reported fires, crashes, injuries, or fatalities related to this issue. In view of the low rate, and the nature of early-life failure, the high detectability of failures, and low potential hazard to drivers, this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by new circumstances.Review the ODI reports cited above at nhtsa.gov under the following identification numbers: 11537927, 11528888, 11525020, 11521401, 11506057, 11493107, 11486767, 11441525, 11433146, 11425658, 11423440, 11385267, 11376429, 11373466, 11366995.
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.