2015 GMC Sierra 1500

Above average

Owners filed 720 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the brakes. It has been recalled 9 times.

Avoid One of the GMC Sierra 1500 years to avoid: 2.9× the complaints of a typical Sierra 1500 year. Which GMC Sierra 1500 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
47,000 milesMedian miles at failure

465 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 problems

218 of the 720 complaints (30%) are about the brakes.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Service Brakes · brakes209
1412
Power Train · transmission76
000
Exterior Lighting · headlights75
000
Electrical System69
150
Engine59
010
Steering43
201
Unknown or Other42
012
Air Bags · airbags34
406
Structure › Body · body and frame23
010
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system12
000

2015 GMC Sierra 1500 brakes problems

30% of all complaints

218 of the 720 complaints are about the brakes. This is what owners describe:

  • loses its brakes or the pedal sinks18% · 39
  • sets off warning lights on the dash9% · 19
  • loses power3% · 7

Share of the 218 brakes complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
57,000 mi
median of 161 reports
Peak year of filing
2019
77 brakes complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
15 · 1 · 2
in these complaints
Recalls on the brakes
“When backing up, either on a hill or flat surface, the brakes fail to stop the vehicle. There is a pulsing sensation with the brakes due to failure of the vacuum. The brake pedal also becomes impossible to depress. No warning lights appear when this occurs.”
Owner complaint, filed Jul 7, 2026
“I had and still have the Brake Assist failure warning light on and having issues with brake pedal effort not working as it should to stop vehicle and also the stability control warning lights., the brakes hardly work at all at low speeds and most of the time don't stop the vehicle almost causing several crashes.”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 2, 2026

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2015: 17 complaints, 0 about the brakes'152016: 72 complaints, 0 about the brakes'162017: 56 complaints, 12 about the brakes'172018: 101 complaints, 53 about the brakes'182019: 139 complaints, 77 about the brakes'192020: 55 complaints, 19 about the brakes'202021: 64 complaints, 13 about the brakes'212022: 66 complaints, 16 about the brakes'222023: 43 complaints, 11 about the brakes'232024: 31 complaints, 3 about the brakes'242025: 48 complaints, 10 about the brakes'252026: 28 complaints, 4 about the brakes'26Recall 16V209000 (seat belts)Recall 16V651000 (seat belts)Recall 17V437000 (seat belts)Recall 18V586000 (steering)Recall 19V645000 (brakes)Recall 19V761000 (brakes)Recall 20V736000 (airbags)Recall 21V245000 (seat belts)Recall 21V504000 (airbags)NHTSA investigation PE18012
All complaintsAbout the brakesRecall (red: the brakes)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2015 Sierra 1500 peaked in 2019, with 139 filed that year. Owners had filed 133 complaints about the brakes before the first recall that covers it, 19V645000 in September 2019; 85 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 28 so far.

9 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Side/Window › Curtain › Inflator21V504000
Filed Jul 1, 2021410,019 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2016 GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, and Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks. The roof-rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator, or the inflator sidewall may rupture.

Risk. A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the left and right side RRAB modules, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed on August 18, 2021. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy is available. Phase I owner notification letters were mailed on May 5, 2022. Phase II owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on May 31, 2022. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. This recall supersedes NHTSA recall number 20V-736. GM's number for this recall is N202324251.

Seat Belts › Front21V245000
Filed Apr 8, 20212,568 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2015-2016 Chevrolet Tahoe, and 2014-2015 GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles that may have received an incorrect replacement tensioner cable assembly as part of a previous recall remedy or a subsequent repair. The flexible steel cable connecting the driver's seat belt to the outboard side of the seat may be repeatedly bent over the seat side shield as the driver enters and exits the vehicle causing the cable to fatigue and separate.

Risk. A broken pretensioner cable reduces the effectiveness of the driver's seat belt, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver seat belt lap pretensioner, free of charge. The recall began on May 5, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212330040.

Air Bags › Side/Window › Curtain › Inflator20V736000
Filed Nov 25, 20209,279 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2016 GMC Sierra 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and 2015 GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500 trucks. The roof-rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator.

Risk. If the end cap separates from the inflator, the compressed gas will escape and the end cap can be propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RRAB modules on the left and/or right side, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on December 22, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. Note: GM filed a new recall, number 21V-504 that supersedes this recall. All vehicles previously recalled under 20V-736 will now be repaired under the new recall number 21V-504. GM's numbers for this recall are N202309680, N202309681, and N202309682.

Service Brakes19V761000
Filed Oct 24, 2019652,967 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Yukon, and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles equipped with a 5.3-liter engine, a 3.08-ratio rear axle and four-wheel drive. If a wheel-speed sensor fails, while the vehicle is traveling between 41 and 60 mph in four-wheel or automatic mode, the Electronic-Brake Control Module (EBCM) software may activate the driveline-protection system.

Risk. Unintended activation of the driveline-protection system will cause unintended braking on the wheel on the opposite side of the failed sensor, causing the vehicle to pull to one side unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192261050.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist › Vacuum19V645000
Filed Sep 6, 20193,456,719 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Cadillac Escalade, 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, 2015-2018 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon vehicles. The amount of vacuum created by the vacuum pump may decrease over time.

Risk. As the vacuum level drops, the brake assist decreases, increasing braking effort, extending the distance required to stop the vehicle, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Electronic Brake Control Module, free of charge. The recall began October 8, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192268490.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System18V586000
Filed Sep 7, 20181,015,918 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Tahoe and Suburban, GMC Sierra 1500 and Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade vehicles. Electric power steering (EPS) assist may be lost momentarily, followed by a sudden return of EPS assist.

Risk. If EPS assist is lost and then suddenly returns, the driver may have difficulty steering the vehicle, especially at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the EPS module software, free of charge. The recall began October 12, 2018. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18289.

Seat Belts › Pretensioner17V437000
Filed Jul 10, 201740,683 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Spark EV, Caprice PPV and SS vehicles, 2014-2017 Buick Encore and Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles, 2015-2016 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Trax, Suburban and Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles, and 2015-2017 GMC Sierra HD 2500 and 3500 vehicles. While being previously remedied for recall 16V-651, the affected vehicles may not have received the complete software update necessary to remedy the recall condition. Without the update, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.

Risk. A failure of the front air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reflash the SDM software. Vehicles that have had a previous air bag deployment will have the SDM replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 17287.

Seat Belts › Pretensioner16V651000
Filed Sep 8, 20163,640,162 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, 3500 HD, Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles and 2014-2017 Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500, Trax, Caprice Police Pursuit Vehicle, GMC Sierra 1500, Buick Encore, and 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse, Chevrolet Spark EV and SS vehicles. In the affected vehicles, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.

Risk. A failure of the front air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reflash the SDM software. Vehicles that have had a previous air bag deployment will have the SDM replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on October 13, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 16007.

Seat Belts16V209000
Filed Apr 12, 2016895,232 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 trucks manufactured January 29, 2013, to January 21, 2015. While entering the vehicle, the seat belt tensioner cable may be positioned such that the driver slides over it. This movement may result in the fatigue and separation of the cable.

Risk. If the tensioner cable separates, the driver may not be properly restrained in the event of a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will modify the vehicles to prevent the tensioner from being damaged. Any tensioner that has already been damaged will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on August 11, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 15822.

All 9 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 2 name the 2015 Sierra 1500.

Desiccated Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA21002Open
Opened Sep 17, 2021airbags

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at …

Brake Vacuum Pump FailurePreliminary evaluation PE18012Closed
Opened Nov 20, 2018Closed Apr 10, 2022Led to recall 19V645000brakes

On November 20, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE18-012 to investigate instances of sudden onset of a hard brake pedal that could result in extended stopping distance due to an issue with the brake assist vacuum pump in model year (MY) 2014 through 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series pickup trucks and MY 2015 through 2016 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, and GMC Yukon SUVs.If the brake assist vacuum pump fails to operate as intended, the amount of brake power assist supplied to the driver can be significantly reduced, …

Technical service bulletins

1,440 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2015 Sierra 1500. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 334engine 276electrical system 211transmission 142body and frame 59fuel system 54suspension 42visibility 32
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

N192265660Service campaignJan 7, 2020transmission

Customer Satisfaction Program - Certain 2014-2019 model year Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra vehicles equipped with a power sliding rear window (RPO A48) may have areas of high electrical resistance on the rear defroster circuit. This could be caused, in part, by mechanical stress from opening and closing the rear power window, intrusion of debris, and …

15086AService campaignJun 22, 2017electrical system

15086A - Customer Satisfaction Program. On certain passenger cars and light duty trucks, equipped with Gen 10 OnStar®, the embedded phone flash memory chip may become corrupted, causing the OnStar® system to become inoperative. Dealers are to replace and program the vehicle communication interface module (VCIM).

GCUS-3-567Service campaignMay 31, 2016trailer hitch

15809 - Service Parts Customer Satisfaction Program - Certain Chevrolet Silverado LD and GMC Sierra LD model vehicles equipped with the 12,000 lb. trailering package (RPO Z82) may have been serviced with, or the customer sold over the counter, a trailer hitch platform that could develop cracks at the weld points over time. With heavy towing loads over …

PIT5282GService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 13, 2024brakes

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician that a customer may request the factory Integrated Trailer Brake Control be bypassed and their aftermarket trailer brake controller be installed instead. Technician will need to gain access to the body harness. Install trailer brake controller harness General Motors part …

PIT6212Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 11, 2024brakes

This Preliminary information communicates an issue with the Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic trailer brake system causing a voltage spike into the trucks electrical system which is causing DTC C1114 to set.

PIT5509LService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 11, 2024brakes

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to diagnose and repair vehicle that may have a "Check Trailer Wiring" or "Service Trailer Brake System” message on the Driver Information Center when a trailer is connected to the vehicle. Diagnostic Trouble Code C1114 set in the Chassis Control Module. Chassis Control …

PIT5479FService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 6, 2024brakes

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about fluid leaking from the brake caliper piston area found during a service of the vehicle. The substance is actually excess assembly grease from the caliper boot and piston installation. This grease can be cleaned off and the rest of the service completed.

PIT3665LService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 18, 2022brakes

This 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.

PIT5681CService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 17, 2022brakes

This Preliminary information communicates the location of the GM Accessory Performance Brake System Rotor Specifications

Showing the newest 6 of 31 bulletins about the brakes, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2015 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/CC 4WD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.4%
2015 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/CC RWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.9%
2015 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/EC 4WD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.4%
2015 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/EC RWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.9%
2015 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/RC 4WD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.4%
2015 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/RC RWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.9%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Power Train
Filed Oct 21, 2026TN

The 6-speed automatic transmission (6L80) developed a severe shudder during normal driving. A service center diagnosed the problem as torque converter clutch failure; the torque converter sheds metal debris through the transmission, so the transmission now requires a full rebuild quoted at approximately $6,000. The failure occurred at approximately 92,000 miles in October 2026 (incident date is approximate). This is a widely documented failure pattern on GM 6L80 transmissions. Loss of reliable power delivery from the transmission is a safety concern. No crash, no injuries, and no fire occurred. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.

Engine
Filed Sep 25, 2026MA

In August, 2019, at 93,672 miles, GM covered a lifter failure on our 2015 GMC Sierra, V8 AFM engine. Only the left side was repaired. Now, in 2026 at 130,000, the right side has the same issue and needs repair. The estimate to repair is $16,697. This is a known issue and a safety concern.

Power Train
Filed Sep 22, 2026FL

The transmission Started Shuddering, it would slip occasionally and slipped badly when i was driving in rush hour traffic in the middle of a left turn. had no power for several seconds then it finally reengaged. The shuddering got worse and worse to the point i took it to a transmission shop to look at it and they said i needed a replacement transmission unit. I did get a replacement unit, the whole process was extremely unpleasant. The previous unit was sent as a core to be remanufactured. The company that i used to get a remanufactured unit is Fraser Transmissions. No warning lamps appeared prior to the transmission acting up.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 10, 2026IL

Power steering seems to be lost for a second or two at low speeds turning. Happens multiple times a day.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 31, 2026IA

My 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 recently started having all the symptoms under GM internal recall number 18289. I lose my power steering briefly and the electronics turn off momentarily. I lose dash, AC, radio and GPS. It comes back on within a second or two and only does this during low speed turning. I ran my VIN but it does not show under this recall despite having the correct Make/Model/Year. It is currently at the shop because it isn't safe to drive and I was hoping I could get a reimbursement for the repairs. NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V586000 (GM's Internal Number: 18289)

Structure
Filed Aug 21, 2026VA

See attached document for complaint.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 20, 2026LA

From time to time since I got the vehicle, the lights flicker inside and out. I've had the alternator changed but it continues. Then when pressing the lock button on the key fob the horn sounds as if it has a shortage. Sometimes its loud and sometimes it's barely heard.

Power Train
Filed Aug 6, 2026NE

My 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE has the 6L80 transmission. While traveling on the interstate with my fiancé, the transmission failed. It was towed to a garage and they informed me that it needed to be replaced.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jul 12, 2026ND

My rear window defrost turned on when i auto started my pickup. i realized it was on after about a half hour and looked back and my drivers side of the rear sliding window was shattered completely

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 7, 2026MS

When backing up, either on a hill or flat surface, the brakes fail to stop the vehicle. There is a pulsing sensation with the brakes due to failure of the vacuum. The brake pedal also becomes impossible to depress. No warning lights appear when this occurs.

Seat Belts
Filed Jun 8, 2026153,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the front driver's seat belt completely failed. The lap belt portion came apart, causing the chest strap to loosen. Upon inspection, the contact observed that the steel anchor cable bolted to the floor had separated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 153,000.

Electrical System
Filed May 26, 2026RI

For no apparent reason the truck goes into “low power mode” and gives off code p2138 often happens around 30-35 mph. Have had it happen to me also around 45 mph also. I have replaced sensors and parts to which a month or so goes by and it happens again.

Service Brakes
Filed May 16, 2026SC

Vehicle doesn't stop in low speeds

Electrical System › Body Control Module/Bcm
Filed May 13, 202690,100 milesKS

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Sierra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and also while the vehicle was parked, the ABS and stability control warning lights would unexpectedly illuminate. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the warning lights were cleared. The contact was informed that if the failure recurred, the EBCM and BPMV would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure recurred. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the EBCM and BPMV had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,100.

Engine
Filed Apr 20, 2026SC

Active Fuel Management Miss firing Idle rough Shaking Loss of power #7 cylinder loss of all compression Bad fuel mileage Skipping

Air BagsCrash
Filed Mar 30, 2026218,000 milesAR

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500. While traveling on a two-lane highway at approximately 55 MPH, another vehicle suddenly turned into the contact's lane, resulting in a severe frontal "T-bone" collision. The force of the impact caused the other vehicle to be propelled into a ditch, while the contact's vehicle remained on the roadway. Despite the significant nature of the crash and the speed involved, no air bags deployed. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 218,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Mar 23, 2026WI

Truck started to make loud clunking noise when driving taken it to two shops and wrong parts were installed as stated below. Bought from a used car dealership and they sold it as is now with the wrong parts.

Structure › Body
Filed Mar 23, 2026WI

Bad paint used by manufacturers that causes frames to rust out.

EngineFire
Filed Mar 17, 2026124,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 45 mph, he observed a popping noise beneath him. The contact stopped the vehicle and observed smoke emanating from the front of the vehicle. The vehicle went into limp mode, lost power, and when the brake was depressed, the vehicle did not slow the vehicle down as intended. The contact stated that as he pulled into a parking lot to inspect the vehicle, he observed flames emanating from the hood. The contact stated that he pressed the hood latch, which did not open the hood, and he then exited the vehicle and observed the hood engulfed in flames. The contact mentioned that a store employee brought a fire extinguisher out and attempted to extinguish the flames. The fire department was called and extinguished the fire fully. There was no police report, but the police did come out to assist. The contact sustained a right-hand injury, but medical attention was not needed. The vehicle was then towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 124,000.

Engine
Filed Mar 8, 2026ID

Another GM truck AFM failing. It failed at 70,000 miles causing P0307 cylinder 7 misfire. No aggressive driving just commuting to work. Truck just got done with a new oil change. It's another to add to the hundreds/thousands seen on Reddit threads of all 5.3/6.2 AFM/DFM that this organization turns a blind eye to.

Service Brakes
Filed Mar 2, 2026NM

I had and still have the Brake Assist failure warning light on and having issues with brake pedal effort not working as it should to stop vehicle and also the stability control warning lights., the brakes hardly work at all at low speeds and most of the time don't stop the vehicle almost causing several crashes. I took vehicle to gm service center and they said they updated software but when I picked up the vehicle and drove it not long after the brake assist warning came back on and I still had no brakes at slower speeds and the problem had actually gotten worse than it was before i took it to them. I called the dealership and told them that the problem had not been fixed and it was worse they said that I would have to pay the service fee / price for parts if I wanted to bring the vehicle back in and to have problem fixed...I explained it was a re call and it was taken to them to have issue fixed in the first place ...and I was told I would have to pay since they updated software ..I then explained it was worse than when I took it to them and still got denied any kind of resolution to the problem. Nothing was fixed or solved. I still had the warning lights on dash and the problem was worse then when I took the vehicle to them for repair. Not long after the transmission went out and the vehicle hadn't been drove. So it sat for 2 yrs or so. I just got a new one put in and the vehicle still has the same problems with the brake system . I reached out to dealership once again and

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Feb 25, 2026MA

I remote started my truck, and when I got to it there was smoke and a flame coming from the rear power window. The remote start activates the rear defrosters, which started the electrical issues. I shut off the engine, and a loud pop followed, which was the shattering of the driver side rear window. The flame went out, and could have easily ignited the tarp covering the truck bed. There were no warnings on the console for the issue, and no recalls available. I have seen similar recall, but in a different state and back in 2022. This leaves me with a shattered window in the back, which is unsafe for visibility, and a bill to pay due to manufacturing errors for a feature in the truck. The rear window is all melted, and the glass is chipping away.

Power Train
Filed Feb 18, 2026WA

During day to day driving when the truck is accelerating from a stopped position there's a massive clunk or hard shift from either 1st to 2nd gear. have also heard similar complaints from other 2015 sierra 1500 owners saying the transmission is having a hard shift on acceleration from a stop. Have seen possible issues with the TCCM

Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Feb 18, 2026132,235 milesKY

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was firm and unresponsive, and the vehicle was difficult to stop. The vehicle eventually came to a stop with the ABS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was driven back to the residence. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 132,235.

Power Train
Filed Feb 17, 2026OH

Tranmission is shuttering and not wanting to shift right

Power Train
Filed Feb 10, 2026225,740 milesLA

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while at a complete stop and attempting to shift into reverse(R), Drive(D) or park(P), the gear shifter was stuck, and the contact had to go underneath the vehicle to move the shifter cable into the intended gear. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the upper and lower shifter cables were replaced. The contact stated that upon returning to the residence and attempting to park the vehicle, the gear shifter failed to remain in the intended gear and was moving unintendedly. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 225,740.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 9, 2026OH

I remote started my truck. I got in about 5 minutes later. When I shut the door the rear window, passenger side of the power sliding window blew out. GM says my VIN is not affected by the recall but my truck shows that it should have been part of the recall or customer satisfaction program. N192265660 Rear Window Defroster Thermal EventS

Engine
Filed Jan 22, 2026AL

The engine seized up traveling about 40MPH in the middle lane on a busy road with my child in the passenger seat. I was able to get off the busy road but part of my truck was still intruding into the lane. The truck is parked at my house. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone and is still in the same condition as the day the engine seized. The only thing that indicted any issue was a couple popping noises right before the engine seized. It all happened while I was driving in traffic and I did not notice any indications on dash. I was more concerned about getting off the road and out of traffic before I got rear-ended or involved in a pile up.

Engine
Filed Dec 8, 2025TN

The GMC Sierra 1500 started a knocking sound. The collapsed lifter on a AFM cylinder bent a push rod which led to cam failure. Metal fragments are throughout the oil system.

Steering
Filed Dec 6, 2025RI

Loses power steering when vehicle is low speed or stopped. Same details as safety recall 14743 for 2015 gmc sierra.

Steering
Filed Dec 1, 2025130,379 milesCA

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering functionality and shut off. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road even though the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts. The contact stated that the failure had recurred while driving. The contact stated that the message "Service Stabili-trak" might have been displayed. The local dealer and another dealer were contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V586000 (Steering). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,379.

Engine
Filed Nov 2, 2025FL

While driving the vehicle at approximately 40MPH the motor made a tapping sound, I was able to pull into a parking lot and have the vehicle towed to the dealer. The dealer told me that the vehicle was out of warranty and appeared that under initial inspection the would have to rebuild the motor due to a lifter failure at the estimated cost of $18,000. I had the vehicle towed to a reputable repair shop and after the did a tear down to the small block they determined a bent push rod and broken lifter, all pushrods and AFM lifters were replaced at the cost of $10,754. dollars as invoice shows. The issue occurred again on 10/25/25 causing catastrophic failure that will cost me a complete engine replacement.

Engine
Filed Oct 31, 2025WA

This occurred 5+ years ago. Coming home one night I had a sudden loss of power with the truck and barely made it home. Was able to limp the truck to the dealership the next day and was told that one side of the engines lifters had failed. Prior to the failure I had noticed a ticking sound coming from the engine that was becoming increasingly more prominent. It was several thousand dollars to repair. Fortunately the failure occurred near home, not on the freeway where I could have been dodging cars while trying to limp the truck to the shoulder. Some online research while the repair was being done revealed that several other owners with the 6.2L engine had the same problem. When I mentioned it to the dealer the response was that they had no bulletins from GM on the issue and I was stuck with the bill. Got the same response a year or two later when the torque converter on the transmission went out. The reason I am reporting it now is I saw that GM is recalling 6.2L vehicles with lifter issues but not back to 2015 even though the issue appears to go back farther than that. They claim it's limited to a specific run of engines for the recall. They have been having various lifter problems for many years that have put drivers in danger when they fail but refuse to acknowledge it. As for the repair they made to the engine I've driven another 70 K miles and the ticking has started again. I fear another failure. Please note that the date previously given for the incident is my best gue

Electrical System
Filed Oct 18, 2025MA

The temperature sensor in the transmission is faulty leading to hard/delayed shifting, shuttering, and vibration

Power Train
Filed Oct 15, 2025WV

Transmission failed at 110k miles roughly. Safety was put at risk due to this happening on a highway. Yes, transmissiom was replaced by a local repair shop, the means of failure was identical to thousands of vehicles in this model year failing prematurely. No it wasnt inspected by the dealer. No there was no warning light, we were going up a hill and it failed.

Seat Belts
Filed Oct 14, 2025170,000 milesWI

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated the front passenger’s seat belt was difficult to buckle, and it recently started unbuckling while a passenger was seated in the passenger’s seat with the seat belt buckled. The contact stated that when the seat belt was unbuckled, the seat belt warning light was illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.

Engine
Filed Oct 13, 2025GA

Lifter and camshaft failed

Power Train
Filed Oct 5, 2025WI

Push rod failure in #4 cylinder at 104,000 miles. Bent push rod. Possibly due to AFM.

Engine
Filed Aug 20, 2025MI

I have owned 4 of these trucks in my lifetime ranging from 2007-2015 all equipped with the same drivetrain. 5.3l engine and 6l80 transmissions. All have had the same failures. The engine afm system particularly the lifters fail which in turn destroys the camshaft and destroys the engine. More importantly the transmission torque converter fails sending debris through the whole system causing a sudden loss of drive. This happened while driving down the road and was a safety concern for myself and others. This time it costed me $6500 to replace the transmission. All of the trucks I have owned experianced the same failures how is this not a problem?

Exterior Lighting
Filed Aug 13, 2025PA

Headlights on this vehicle, since purchased, have not cast enough light in order to see in unlit backroads, or extrememly dim areas. I have to drive with my brights on constantly, in order to get enough light thrown onto the road, for the left and right sides, as well as the front. These were not working well since purchase. I took my child to a friends house in rural PA, and I literally could NOT SEE THE street signs, let alone far enough down the road. I nearly hit a stone wall.. My eyes keep asking to see more, but truck does not produce enough headlight. I even went to the eye doctor, after that situation, thinking it was my vision dimming, but was told I have 20/20. There needs to be a formal recall. I am not the only one complaining about these HORRIBLE projection headlights. To replace these headlights would cost over 1000K, out of pocket, which is not something I should have to fix. I am complaining now, because with the light getting darker earlier, am noticing how lousy driving at night really is.. and honestly, being BLINDED by oncoming LED's , without having proper headlights on my truck in order to see when blinded, really [XXX]. Please address these [XXX]. Make headlights great again! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Visibility
Filed Aug 6, 2025163,353 milesMI

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact’s son closed the front passenger’s side door, and rear window glass exploded. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 163,353.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 3, 2025TX

The steering assist fails, Power and steering is reduced at driving speeds. Steering wheel locks and vehicle looses voltage and stalls while driving at low speeds and have been close to collision. Vehicle was inspected by Group One Gmc in el Paso Texas. They did not fix recall because it "did not pertain to my vin" . There is a recall for the steering assist on all gmc 2015 1500, but not for my gmc 2015 1500 for some reason. Whether it was manufactured in the us or the moon its still a gmc 2015 1500 with faulty steering assist system from the manufacturer with an open recall. Thanks for your help

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 20, 2025KS

Starting vehicle in parking lot and backing out of parking space. Brakes failed and truck continued to roll backwards almost hitting a pedestrian. I was able to stop hard on the pedal and stop the vehicle. This has happened several times. I have a steep driveway and backing down to the street the brake pedal will unexpectedly have little resistance and the truck will continue to roll into the street almost hitting oncoming traffic.

Suspension
Filed Jul 19, 2025IL

The mount for the rear shock absorber has completely rusted away on the driver side. The tube is gone now that it was attached to. This is a way to new of a truck for that kind of rust to happen I have been around 40 year old trucks that this never happened to.

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 17, 2025AZ

Brake pedal pivot nut came loose and fell off while driving.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 16, 2025TX

When parking and turning the wheel the truck stalled, radio turned off and on, ac stopped working, battery reading dropped. Maybe an electrical issue since it happens continuously, while making turns at slow speeds the truck wants to turn off, lights dim then go back to normal.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 16, 2025LA

At low speeds when applying the brake, whether in a turn or traffic, the vehicle will shut off completely. This has happened multiple times and has almost caused accidents on a few occasions. It has also happened while just driving down the road, the entire truck lost power and then came back, the windshield wipers came on as well.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 9, 2025LA

Fuel pump losses prime overnight. gas sprays from fuel line onto top of fuel tank. problem was brought to my attention by a repair shop.. found several instances listed on YouTube of this problem

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 1, 2025OK

I was driving pulling an empty small U-Haul trailer and attempted to pull in to a fuel station when my brake became impossible to depress. I barely was able to miss hitting gas pumps and ran down into a ditch before the truck stopped. I informed the dealership where I had just purchased this truck used. I took it to their service department and I was told there was no issues with the brakes. They had to have this recall bulletin in their computer system yet failed to make me aware or to perform this recall or report it to GM. The problem continues to worsen to the point I am scared to drive it. I almost rear ended another car at a stoplight yesterday because I was unable to depress the brake pedal. I stood on the brake and heard an electronic sound but finally came to a stop.

Power Train
Filed Jun 26, 2025AL

I am writing to formally submit a serious safety complaint regarding the transmission in my vehicle, which nearly caused a life-threatening accident while driving under normal conditions. While traveling on a two-lane rural highway, I was attempting to climb a steep hill when the transmission suddenly began to slip. My vehicle lost power mid-ascent, despite steady pressure on the gas pedal. The RPMs shot up erratically, but the vehicle failed to accelerate. As I began to crest the hill, the transmission completely disengaged, forcing my vehicle into a free-roll situation. The danger escalated quickly. As I started to descend the hill, I attempted to downshift to control my speed—but the transmission would not respond. It slipped again, and I was essentially coasting with no engine braking. An 18-wheeler was behind me, approaching fast. I could see it barreling toward me in my rearview mirror, and I had nowhere to go. With the road shoulder too narrow and no pull-off in sight, I had to veer dangerously close to the edge to avoid being rear-ended. I truly believe that if the driver of the semi hadn’t taken evasive action, I would not be here to write this complaint today. This transmission failure is not only unacceptable—it is a critical safety issue. A vehicle should not lose all power and braking control during normal highway driving. This is not just an inconvenience or a performance issue. This is a defect that puts lives at risk. I am requesting that this transmission be

Complaints 1-50 of 720, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2014
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
2026147200Do not drive
2025125110Routine
2024379100Above average
2023506320Above average
2022602650Above average
2021599760Above average
20204841250Above average
20196581030Above average
2018305710Above average
2017355640Above average
20163438130Do not drive
2015 — this page720990Above average
2014743971Fatalities reported
2013116310Routine
2012107300Routine
2011284530Above average
2010168420Routine
2009234440Above average
2008381250Above average
2007263320Above average
2006145251Fatalities reported
2005177390Routine
2004212510Above average
2003180440Routine
2002166400Routine
2001140500Routine
2000181300Routine
1999158400Routine
199859420Routine
199783500Routine
19965010Routine
19953010Routine
199413000Routine

Compare every Sierra 1500 year →

2015 GMC Sierra 1500: questions buyers ask

Is the 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Sierra 1500 years to avoid: owners filed 720 complaints, 2.9 times as many as a typical Sierra 1500 year. The most common complaint is about the brakes (30%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2015 GMC Sierra 1500?

The brakes: 218 of the 720 complaints (30%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses its brakes or the pedal sinks (18%), sets off warning lights on the dash (9%) and loses power (3%). The typical report comes at 57,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 have?

9 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jul 1, 2021. The largest, 16V651000, covered 3,640,162 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 47,000 miles. For the brakes the midpoint is 57,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2015 GMC Sierra 1500?

Yes, 2 times. The latest, EA21002 ("Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture"), was opened Sep 17, 2021 and is still open.

Are there service bulletins for the 2015 GMC Sierra 1500?

The manufacturer filed 1,440 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (276), the electrical system (211) and the transmission (142). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jul 1, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.