“The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal vibration in the steering wheel. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the tires were replaced, and the wheels and bearings were inspected by an independent mechanic, but no failure was found.”
Owner complaint, filed Feb 17, 2026 at 28,000 miles
“I OWN A 2018 GMC SIERRA DENALI ULTIMATE, The truck has the 6.2 engine which had the lifter issue as stated with the current situation. At the time, the truck had 37,000 miles when the issues started. I purchased the truck from Andy Mohr with 8806 miles on it in November of 2019. I worked overseas for the DOD so that’s why the miles are low.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 20, 2026
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)
Complaints about the 2018 Sierra 1500 peaked in 2025, with 65 filed that year. No recall on file covers the transmission, the subject of 35% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 29 so far.
Filed May 21, 20264,315 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC
Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 2500, and Sierra 3500 vehicles. The left-side or right-side roof rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Risk. A detached end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape and project the end cap or fragments of the inflator into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy. Dealers will replace both RRAB modules, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 24, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N262557310. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 21, 2026. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 26V166.
Filed Mar 19, 20262,819 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC
Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 2500, and Sierra 3500 Crew Cab vehicles. The left or right-side roof rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Risk. A detached end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape and project the end cap or fragments of the inflator into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy. Dealers will replace the left and right-side RRAB modules, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N262549710. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
Filed Jun 26, 20251,658 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC
Defect. General Motors (GM) is recalling certain 2018 GMC Sierra 1500, 2019 Sierra 2500, 3500, Chevrolet Silverado 3500, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab vehicles. The left or right-side roof-rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Risk. A detached end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape and project the end cap or fragments of the inflator into the vehicle, increases the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy. Dealers will replace the left and right side RRAB modules, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2025. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N252513060.
Air Bags › Side/Window › Curtain › Inflator24V756000
Filed Oct 10, 20242,061 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC
Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2018-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, and GMC Sierra 2500, 3500 Crew Cab trucks. The left or right-side 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. Owner notification letters were mailed November 8, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC Customer Service at 888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N242474500.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist › Vacuum20V603000
Filed Oct 1, 202014,620 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC
Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500 and Yukon vehicles equipped with either a 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engine. The output of the mechanical vacuum pump can decrease over time, decreasing the amount of vacuum/power brake assist.
Risk. A decrease in brake assist can increase the brake pedal effort and distance required to stop the vehicle, 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 November 11, 2020. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-522-9559, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438. GM's number for this recall is N202300860.
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
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.
All 7 campaigns on file, newest first.
Technical service bulletins
956 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2018 Sierra 1500. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
engine 200equipment 163electrical system 132transmission 95body and frame 37fuel system 37wheels 25steering 23
N252494770-01Service campaignJun 20, 2025unknown or other
Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the affected vehicles …
N252494770Service campaignJun 17, 2025unknown or other
Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the applicable vehicles …
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 …
22-NA-244Warranty extensionMay 3, 2024electrical system
This service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories - Dealer-Installed, Repaired or Replaced During Warranty Coverage Period.
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that may have a delayed engagement into drive, shudder at a launch, or the transmission is slipping when shifting into 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th gears. This may be due to loose stator support to pump cover bolts causing a leak at the stator support to pump cover …
This service bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
Showing the newest 6 of 95 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version tested
Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid PU/CC RWD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
17.9%
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/CC 4WD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
17.4%
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/CC RWD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
17.9%
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/EC 4WD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
17.9%
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/EC RWD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
17.4%
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/RC 4WD
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
17.4%
2018 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 9, 2026WA
My 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 experienced significant transmission problems that began as rough, inconsistent shifting, hesitation, and abnormal transmission behavior before eventually progressing to complete transmission failure. These symptoms were present before the transmission's ultimate failure and while the vehicle was still within its warranty period. Unfortunately, during the COVID-19 pandemic, local dealership service departments faced significant staffing shortages and appointment backlogs, making timely diagnosis and repair extremely difficult. By the time the transmission failed completely, the vehicle had exceeded the warranty's 84-month time limitation but remained substantially below its mileage limitation. Despite the relatively low mileage, the earlier symptoms, and the extraordinary circumstances affecting service availability, General Motors declined to provide warranty or goodwill assistance. I was forced to bear the substantial financial burden of a major transmission failure in a vehicle that had not reached the mileage threshold established under its warranty. I believe this failure warrants investigation because transmission problems involving GM trucks and SUVs from this period have been widely reported by other owners. I am particularly concerned about whether GM was aware of recurring transmission defects, whether affected owners received adequate notification, and whether these failures present a potential safety risk through unexpected loss of propulsi
Engine
Filed Sep 21, 2026CO
I was backing out of my garage and truck made strange noise and shut off . Tried to restart but just made ding and wouldn't turn over . Dash lights went blank. Had vehicle towed to shop and mechanic stated it was crank and connecting rods after he dropped the oil pan. I ordered new OEM engine and waiting on delivery . Been 5 weeks now since order . Vehicle only has 106,000 miles on it and have had it since 20,000 miles and all maintenance has always been done . Engine can be inspected at shop as new engine has not arrived
Engine
Filed Sep 21, 2026GA
CUSTOMER STATES: THINKS CRANKSHAFT PULLEY IS LOOSE DUE TO PRIOR WATER PUMP REPLACEMENT-CRACKSHAFT PULLEY HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH WATER PUMP REPLACEMENT. BEFORE INSPECTING/STARTING ENGINE VERIFIED OIL LEVEL-OIL LEVEL IS ON FULL MARK. STARTED ENGINE-LOUD RATTLING/KNOCKING NOISE FROM ENGINE-ENGINE HAS INTERNAL FAILURE-ENGINE REPLACEMENT IS REQUIRED. ALSO HEARING NOISE IN REAREND-CANNOT TEST DRIVE DUE TO ENGINE CONDITION SEVERAL TSB'S ON ENGINE FAILURES WITH 6.2L ENGINES. GM HAS POSSIBLE RECALLS COMING ON 2019-2024 YR MODELS. NOT SURE IF EARLIER MODELS MAYBE INCLUDED UNDERHOOD INSPECTION 1 7003186 06NS 52.50 52.50 LBR-DISC CUST SAT
Power Train
Filed Sep 17, 2026CA
Vehicle purchased Certified Pre-Owned in October of 2021 with roughly 43,000 miles. During the first service (47,598 miles) at a GM dealer I reported very hard shifts, but this issue was ignored during service. At the next servce (54,571 miles) I again reported the hard shifts and "surging" when coming to a stop but the dealer reported they were unable to replicate the issue and did not address it. At the next service (61,620 miles) I reported the issues with the transmission once again and this time they performed a transmission fluid flush/replacement, acknowledging the issue and asking me to drive for 200 miles and return if the issue was not fixed. I returned at 62,058 miles as the issue was not resolved and they replaced the torque converter. During my next visit (68,709 miles) I reported the issue was still present but was informed they would not address it as I was now outside of warranty. I reported this to GM but was told to pay for a diagnostic and repair and "hope" that the dealer would elect to cover it.
Power Train
Filed Sep 16, 2026MS
Unknown
Power Train
Filed Sep 6, 2026KY
I own a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 V8 5.3 liter which is at 46, 433 miles. Over the past few weeks I have noticed the transmission having difficulty shifting in first gear and lurching, and making shuddering noises, and as well making a constant ticking noise. After an experienced mechanic had put a diagnostic system onto my truck, his system diagnosed a Transmission Lifter Failure, specifically 2 out of the 8 lifters. A few days later (9-04-26) I took my truck to a certified GMC servicing business (Patriot Chevrolet of Hopkinsville KY 270-886-1207) and had a transmission servicing done. I had told the Customer Service representative Amanda Williams about the ticking and that I thought 2 lifters going bad in the transmission were the source of it. 3 hours later the servicing was done which cost $ 474.43. She did not know if the ticking had stopped or not. I started my engine to head home and the ticking was still happening. Nothing had changed. I got home, parked and have not started the engine since to minimize any further damage. I have become aware that this year, make and model has become infamous for the engine/transmission design and parts failure which has been at the center of thousands of class action lawsuits. I have owned this vehicle since inheriting it from my late father for 2 months before he developed dementia and suffered a broken hip. I have religiously had the oil changed every three months regardless of the mileage, and this is a sealed transmission which cannot
Power Train
Filed Sep 4, 2026VA
Within the first 3 years of purchase as a new vehicle, my 2018 GMC Sierra Denali equipped with the GM 8L90 automatic transmission developed a pronounced judder during light acceleration, resembling driving over rumble strips. The condition was first reported to an authorized GMC dealer on October 23, 2021, at 26,648 miles while the powertrain warranty was in effect. GM authorized a transmission-fluid exchange from the technical service bulletin (TSB) 18-NA-355, dated April 2020, but that repair did not provide a lasting correction. The condition continued, and in 2026 the authorized dealer diagnosed an “internal stator issue causing judder on light acceleration” and recommended replacement of the torque converter. We completed the repair and retained the removed converter. The defect affected the vehicle while accelerating and created concern about predictable power delivery when merging, entering traffic or crossing an intersection. Continued torque-converter malfunction can generate heat and debris, damage the transmission and potentially impair acceleration or power transfer. GM had issued technical bulletins addressing torque-converter shudder in 2018 Sierra vehicles before this truck was purchased, but there has been no recall. I request that NHTSA evaluate whether this recurring defect presents an unreasonable safety risk in GM vehicles equipped with the 8L90 transmission.
Power Train
Filed Sep 1, 2026NY
Automatic Transmission not shifting properly unable to accelerate bangs gears while shifting noises from the transmission not reported no warning lamps
Service Brakes
Filed Aug 26, 2026IN
There was a mass recall on 2018 GMC Sierras to due to a faulty break pump vaccum. We are experiencing the same problems but for some reason were not included in the recall. We were told to reach out on here as others have to see what can be done as this is a saftety hazard.
Steering
Filed Aug 11, 2026NC
Head gasket failure and overheating. After fixed, power steering has just failed during driving. Will have to have it towed to shop
Seat Belts
Filed Aug 6, 2026IN
THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR IS FAILING TO RETRACT. I HAD A PASSENGER IN THE VEHICLE AND AS WE CAME TO A STOP IN MY DRIVEWAY TO EXIT THE VEHICLE SHE UNHOOKED (RELEASED) THE SEATBELT AND IT WILL NOT RETRACT. THE SEATBELT IS NOW CURRENTLY EXTENDED OUT AND WILL NOT RETRACT BACK INTO THE RETRACTOR. I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE TODAY 08-05-2026, I CALLED THE DEALER I PURCHASED IT FROM AND THEY STATE THAT THERE IS NO RECALL ON THE VEHICLE WITH THIS ISSUE. I DID LOOK THE ISSUE UP ON GOOGLE AND INFACT IS STATES A PROBLEM WITH THE SEATBELT RETRACTOR FOR MY VEHICLE. I SENT THEM A SCREENSHOT OF THE CONFIRMATION FOUND AND THEY DECLINE TO ACKNOWLEDGE A REPAIR STATING THERE IS NO RECALL. I WAS ABLE TO MANUALLY FEED THE BELT BACK INTO THE RETRACTOR, IT WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT BUT I SAT IN THE SEAT TO DUPLICATE THE ISSUE AND IT WILL DUPLICATE. THE SEATBELT IS CURRENTLY EXTENDED AND WILL NOT RETRACT AUTOMATICALLY. THE SHOULDER STAP WILL NOT FIT SECURELY AROUND A PASSENGER AT THIS TIME. I HAVE HAD NO PRIOR USE OF THE VEHICLE UNTIL TODAY AS I PURCHASED IT FROM A REPUTABLE DEALER WHO STATES THEY DID A FULL INSPECTION OF IT PRIOR TO SELLING BUT APPARENTLY THIS ISSUE WAS NOT REPAIRED PRIOR TO SELLING IT.
Engine
Filed Jul 31, 2026IL
ENGINE FAILURE, 5/3/22, 23,987 MILES, ALL LIFTERS WAS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY, ENGINE FAILURE, 7/6/26, 46004 MILES, TOOK TRUCK IN FOR OIL CHANGE AND WHEN RETURNED HAD A TICKING NOISE. DEALERSHIP NOTIFIED ME THAT CAMSHAFT ISSUES AND METAL DETECTED IN OIL. ENGINE NEEDS REPLACED. 6.2 V8 2018. TURPIN MOTORS, GENESEO, IL HAS DONE ALL SERIVCE ON TRUCK. NO WARNING LIGHTS OR CODES. VEHICLE IS IN MY GARAGE AND AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION. I OPENED CASE WITH GM #105652237. DEALERSHIP OPENED CASE ON GM PORTAL ALSO. RESPONSE FROM GM IS THAT TRUCK IS OUT OF WARRANTY
Power Train
Filed Jun 11, 2026AR
Vehicle Details: 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Z72 4x4, 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 engine, VIN: [XXX] Mileage at time of incident: 220,000 miles Location: [e.g., Little Rock, Arkansas area or specific road/highway – please provide if desired] What happened: The 5.3L V8 engine’s hydraulic roller lifters failed. One or more lifters collapsed, stuck, or lost proper oil pressure/operation. This led to improper valvetrain function, causing loud ticking/knocking noises, cylinder misfires, significant loss of engine power and performance, and internal engine damage (such as camshaft lobe wear or related components). Component or system that failed or malfunctioned: Hydraulic valve lifters (camshaft followers) in the engine valvetrain, associated with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system. The failed lifter(s) and related components are available for inspection upon request. How safety was put at risk: The engine malfunction resulted in sudden or progressive power loss and misfiring while driving. This reduced the vehicle’s ability to accelerate or maintain speed, especially in traffic or on highways, creating a hazardous situation that put my safety and the safety of other road users at risk of collision or breakdown. No accident or injuries occurred , or other symptoms prior to the failure with details recall, e.g., ticking noise timeline, misfires Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? “Yes, confirmed by shop inspection” Has the vehicle or component
Steering
Filed Jun 10, 2026TX
Power steering went out for 2-3 seconds as I was making a turn into a street , this happened twice to be exact
Engine
Filed Jun 2, 2026NJ
Incident description: On three occasion I have had the same catastrophic Engine failure putting myself and my family along with the general public in harms way. Starting March of 2022 while driving at approximately 60 MPH on the West Shore Expressway my truck experienced a sudden and total loss of motor power. My engine stalled out and I lost my ability to safety steer and stop my vehicle. This all happened during rush hour while driving in the left lane of traffic. This sudden loss of power forced me to maneuver the vehicle to the right shoulder of the expressway across the right lane of traffic. As there was no shoulder to pull over on the left side of the highway. This created an immediate crash risk for myself and other drivers. Upon inspection at the authorized GMC dealership where I purchased the truck new, a certified mechanic determined that the engine experienced a complete failure requiring replacement or rebuilding of the engine. I paid to have the engine rebuilt at the dealership. The second instance was similar to the above incident. Once again I paid for the repair. The third instance was more dangerous as when my trucks engine failed it almost caused an accident. As of today my truck is still sitting in the dealership for over 6 months and no one from the dealership or manufacturer will give me an answer on what has to be done now. This patter of sudden repeated engine failure clearly indicates a systemic safety defect that extends beyond normal wear and tear.
Structure › Body
Filed May 18, 2026VA
Paint flaking top above windshield within one year of ownership! Paint flaking on left rear door within last month!
Power Train
Filed May 15, 2026WA
The transmission has always been rough. It has now gone out at 75,000 miles. This transmission issue really seemed to get worse about 50,000 miles. But when I called the dealer, they said they were backed up and couldn't get to it for 9-12 weeks (Covid excuses at that point). Then, it really had an issue going down a large grade into [XXX] . But the issues seemed fairly intermittent. I had an independent shop who said it was hard to tell if it was intermittent. They didn't find metal shavings at the time. ADDITIONALLY, it has also always been a little rough driving. A mechanic looking at it today told me there are no sway bar links at all. This truck has not been modified. This had to have come off the line faulty. Among all the other things. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 31, 2026LA
I’ve owner the vehicle since new. My A/C condenser has failed 3 times, meaning I’m now about to be on my 4th. The welds are weak and it cracks in the same spot 95% of the time. It should last more than a 2 year average.
Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 17, 2026NY
Premature frame rot
Air Bags
Filed Mar 5, 202680,000 milesLA
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH on bumpy terrain, the driver’s and passenger’s side curtain air bags deployed unexpectedly. No warning light was illuminated, and there was no impact to the vehicle to cause the air bags to deploy. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it remained for further investigation. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Electrical System
Filed Mar 3, 2026WI
1. Electronic power steering modular issue. My 2018 GMC SEIRRA 1500 CREW CAB JUST LOST ALL POWER STEERING. THEN WHEN I PARK IT. Assist notifications come on, ABS notices, BRAKE light stays on, trailer/tow notifications, trailer assist, parking brake, etc SUDDENLY A LOUD thump & feels like the whole truck just drops like 5” inches, settling. I cannot afford an inspection (ID theft in 2025, compromised all accts & all credit cards) BUT. It IS available as long as cost is covered by YOU !! 2. Lucky it happened in a grocery store parking lot. However not expecting power steering to go out, almost hit a pedestrian. 3. No it has not Ben inspected yet I can’t afford the bill 4. No it has not been reported what for I didn’t hit anybody and the cops in this area they could give her rats ass they don’t make a report the question you like you’re like a criminal. 5. No warnings or anything until it happened that day leaving the grocery store. There is absolutely no notification it was gonna happen. It ran fine when I parked it to grocery shop Come back out & I could barely back out to leave. I can lift up my had fatboy if needed so I’m sure turning a steering wheel…. lol Thnx a lot If I could figure out what part needs to be changed out or you could cover the parts needed. I do work in cars or have in the past, I don’t like the new ones, but this seems simple enough if I knew exactly what part I needed to pull out change out or I see that there’s recalls on previous vehicles and GMC afte
Power Train
Filed Feb 28, 2026SD
I’ve gone through two transmissions on my 2018 gmc sierra 1500 both times the same issue. The gears are shot, hard shifting. Vehicle is well maintained. Both transmissions one original equipment and second bought at the dealership the truck was bought both only lasted over 80000 miles. Driving the truck loss of power or torque is noticed, then a hard shifting. Checked fluid all was good not seeing metallic shavings. Then the overheating of the transmission, faulty valve replaced with aftermarket bypass and did transmission flush. But each occasion there was an incident I would’ve driving on the interstate and vehicle would lose power and almost hard stop and cause a crash. Then vehicle would only go in reverse both times the transmission gave out. The only warning light that ever came on was a transmission overheating and nothing else. I’m currently in the process of having to get another transmission because of the same issue again. Vehicle was seen by a technician and deemed the transmission was shot again.
Power Train
Filed Feb 20, 2026130,000 milesLA
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked abnormally hard. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission was failing. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under warranty. The transmission was replaced two years ago. In addition, the contact stated that the original transmission had failed at 130,000 miles. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage of the second transmission was approximately 40,000.
Power Train
Filed Feb 17, 202628,000 milesNY
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal vibration in the steering wheel. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the tires were replaced, and the wheels and bearings were inspected by an independent mechanic, but no failure was found. The independent mechanic related the failure to an undisclosed transmission recall; however, the dealer informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 28,000.
Engine
Filed Jan 29, 2026150,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. While starting the vehicle, it was shaking violently, with reduced power. The vehicle was restarted and worked as designed. Upon research, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Action Number: PE25001 (Engine and Engine and Cooling). The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined there was metal in the engine, and there was a misfire coming from cylinder #2. The mechanic recommended that the engine be replaced. There were loose wires from the ECM, and the failure halted after the mechanic secured the wires. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 150,000.
Power Train
Filed Jan 20, 2026IN
I OWN A 2018 GMC SIERRA DENALI ULTIMATE, The truck has the 6.2 engine which had the lifter issue as stated with the current situation. At the time, the truck had 37,000 miles when the issues started. I purchased the truck from Andy Mohr with 8806 miles on it in November of 2019. I worked overseas for the DOD so that’s why the miles are low. After I got it fixed, ($4500 dollars at Hare Chevrolet) I experienced the transmission shake while driving home from work with my children in it. The transmission was shaking so bad the whole cab was rocking.That repair was $3,300. Now, the truck has piston slap and rod issues and currently at Hare Chevrolet for service. I was told I need a full rebuild ($12,000 dollars or a new engine $14000 dollars). As a retired Air Force veteran, I didn’t expect issues like this, especially when I baby the truck and it currently has 40,530 miles. I had regular oil changes and service, yet now stuck with a high class truck that has serious issues that seem to be ignored by GM and Andy Mohr GMC. Andy Mohr sold me an extended warranty at time of purchase but I paid for a year and a half that wasn’t usable. If I had that warranty I would be covered now.But besides that, it’s a Denali, I shouldn’t be having a new engine at 40,530 miles. I am happy that there is an investigation but it needs to be widened because my truck was right before the new model rollout but I am having the same issues. If needed, I have all my receipts and information and will provide
Engine
Filed Jan 19, 2026OH
The lifters in my engine collapsed. This caused a push rod to be bent and the cam shaft to be damaged causing thousands to fix. While I was driving. I could feel the engine malfunction causing my speed to significantly decrease. The vehicle was fixed through an independent mechanic. Mechanic stated that the active fuel management system is the cause for the lifter collapse. There was no warning before the failure
Power Train
Filed Jan 15, 2026140,000 milesAR
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shaking abnormally. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the torque converter had failed. The torque converter was replaced, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, who replaced the torque converter a second time. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Engine
Filed Jan 6, 2026OR
Engine failure. 6.2l with AFM system Extreme oil consumption Heavy metal in oil Loud ticking 120789 miles Purchase date 05/29/2025 Madras, Oregon Chevrolet Dealer
Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System › Condensor/Evaporator
Filed Dec 17, 2025CA
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air conditioning system became inoperable. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the air conditioning system failed to function properly. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the air conditioning condenser had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.
Engine
Filed Dec 15, 2025SC
I have 125,000 miles on my truck. I was traveling with my grandkids in the back seat. We were going through a four way stop. My truck started tapping like a lifter issue. The next thing I know is the truck engine light started flashing and car started to shake. Then, my truck lost all power and a big cloud of blue smoke came out of the tail pipe. The truck could not be driven any further. The symptoms: engine tapping, low oil, engine light flashing, shaking, lost all movement, and a cloud of smoke We had to tow my truck to the dealer and they are still accessing the issue. All symptoms are identical to the current recall of the GMC engines.
Engine
Filed Nov 20, 2025NV
The injector failure in my 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 resulted in repeated misfire conditions (P0300 and P0307), causing the vehicle to lose power unexpectedly while driving. The engine would hesitate, shake, and struggle to accelerate, especially during merging or highway speeds. These symptoms created a significant safety hazard because the vehicle could not reliably maintain speed or respond to throttle input. Sudden power loss in traffic exposes the driver and surrounding motorists to an increased risk of collision, particularly during lane changes, freeway merging, intersection crossings, and passing maneuvers. The dealership confirmed internal injector failure, and the vehicle has been out of service for three months without resolution. This is a safety-critical defect that compromises vehicle controllability, stability, and safe operation on public roads.”
Power Train
Filed Nov 18, 2025CA
2018 GMC Sierra started having shuddering/jerking/jumping problems at around 60k miles. This problem occurs while driving on straight aways, going uphill and while in drive at a stop sign/light. When the gas is accelerated the truck then hesitates and jerks/jumps. We have taken it to the GMC dealership and paid for the diagnostics and were informed “the problem wasn’t severe enough”. The truck has only been serviced by GMC dealership. So after failed attempts with GMC service department we have taken it to a local small auto shop and they automatically said it was the Drive Train and needed to be taken to a transmission shop. We have been GM owners for decades and are so disappointed in the service received from them.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Torque Converter
Filed Nov 14, 202589,000 milesAL
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission vibrated. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a failing torque converter. The contact was informed that the torque converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact was informed of a Manufacturer's warranty. The contact was informed of a Manufacturer's warranty for the 2018 GMC vehicle's transmission failure due to the incorrect oil being used during production of the torque converter. The dealer was made aware of the failure; however, the contact was informed that the manufacturer needed to approve the repair coverage. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.
Power Train
Filed Nov 7, 2025KY
Repeated transmission issues with the 8 speed transmission due to the malfunctioning valve body. This has caused major safety issues and nearly killed my family with the vehicle locked up and wouldn’t shift on the interstate. The dealership did a warranty repair on the torque converter which made the symptoms slightly better until the vehicle was no longer covered by warranty, at which time all symptoms came back. GM knows their 8 speed transmission has an issue and hasn’t provided a solution. Now, due to the faulty valve body, I have to have my entire transmission replaced for $8000.
Engine
Filed Oct 31, 2025FL
I purchased a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 6.2 Denali new. I followed all service requirements including oil changes by GM dealerships. 2025 i noticed my truck power was decreasing. Than I started to hear knocking noses. I took it to a dealership for diagnosis but they couldn't identify anything. Finally it started to skip this is when a dealership diagnose it as being an issue with the active fuel management system. They said my lifters, camshaft, and various other parts was damaged and had to be replaced. Additionally, they said it was a recall on 6.2 engines with the same identical issue but my year wasn't included. The cost to repair approximately 10,000. I really need your attention to this matter! September 10, 2025 my truck placed me and others in danger when it lose engine power. Also my engine light was on for the first time.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Oct 9, 2025169,000 milesND
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a stoplight, the vehicle hesitated before accelerating. A day later, the failure reoccurred, and the RPMs increased before the vehicle accelerated. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed that the connecting rod had failed, and there were metal shavings inside the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that there was no recall on the VIN. The manufacturer opened a case for the failure. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 169,000.
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Oct 3, 2025241,556 milesIL
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 72,000. It was later discovered later that the mileage was 241,556.
Power Train
Filed Aug 29, 2025FL
Transmission shutters when going over 50mph
Power Train
Filed Aug 22, 2025101,000 milesGA
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed toward the residence, the accelerator pedal was depressed and traveled to the floorboard, and the vehicle failed to drive forward as intended. The vehicle started rolling backwards and the contact carefully maneuvered the vehicle while attempting to park. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.
Engine
Filed Aug 19, 2025110,000 milesPA
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving on a neighborhood road at 40 MPH, the check engine warning light was flashing with an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine, and the vehicle was vibrating abnormally. The contact pulled over and used a diagnostic scanner to perform a diagnostic test on the vehicle. The scanner retrieved DTC: P0301 (Cylinder #1 Misfire). The vehicle was towed to a local dealer to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the lifters, pushrods, camshaft, sparkplugs, and oil pump were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 111,000.
Power Train
Filed Aug 12, 2025AL
Transmission shutting and torque converter came apart destroying the transmission.
Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 12, 2025MO
The truck started to vibrate or shudder . We are having to deal with replacing the transmission on our truck, which has only 45,000 miles on it. We have noticed numerous complaints about transmission problems with this model and the place that is replacing the transmission said they have had 3 customers in the last couple of months with the same issue on the same GMC model. This is a lot for our small town and area. Why hasn't GMC issued recalls ?
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 11, 202590,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal banging sound coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact inspected fluids but found no defects with the vehicle. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, where the mechanic discovered that the lifters and cam shaft were defective. Due to the failure, the engine was replaced. The contact stated that recently, the abnormal tapping sound returned. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, who confirmed that the failure with the lifters had returned. The vehicle was taken to a dealer who confirmed the lifter failure, and the contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was provided a case number. The contact was then referred to the NHTSA to report the failure. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
Engine
Filed Aug 7, 2025VA
Radiator cracked along outer edges. Similar to previous TSB’s as released by GM, but my vehicle doesn’t fall under the years covered by that TSB
Electrical System
Filed Aug 6, 2025NM
2018 GMC Sierra SLT's electric power steering suddenly stopped working, I almost got killed this issue has been reported by other owners
Electrical System
Filed Aug 5, 202536,000 milesFL
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that the battery had been replaced three times since 2018. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with the recall. In addition, the contact stated that the first battery was replaced a month after the vehicle was purchased, and the second battery was replaced three weeks after the first replacement. The contact stated that the third battery was replaced a day after the second battery replacement. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.
Power Train
Filed Jul 26, 2025SC
I have a 6.2 engine that had a number 4 cylinder failure due to a engine defect of the crankshaft. They have recalled the 6.2 motors on the 2021-2024 year models. The 2018 year models with the 6.2 engine should be recalled also bc they are having the same issue. Please help
Power Train
Filed Jul 25, 202581,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH and attempting the pass another vehicle, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle lost motive power and decelerated unintendedly. The contact pulled over and restarted the vehicle however, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 40 MPH. The vehicle was later taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the transmission was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 81,000.
Power Train
Filed Jul 24, 2025125,326 milesTX
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, there was an abnormal vibration coming from the steering wheel. No warning light was illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and transferred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 125,326.
Complaints 1-50 of 305, newest first, reproduced as filed.
It is not among the Sierra 1500 years to avoid. Owners filed 305 complaints, against about 249 for a typical Sierra 1500 year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (35%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500?
The transmission: 106 of the 305 complaints (35%) are about it. Owners most often say it vibrates or shakes (26%), shifts hard, late or not at all (24%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (23%). The typical report comes at 32,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 have?
7 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed May 21, 2026. The largest, 19V645000, covered 3,456,719 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 34,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 32,000 miles.
Are there service bulletins for the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500?
The manufacturer filed 956 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (200), the electrical system (132) and the transmission (95). They include a service campaign, N252494770-01, filed Jun 20, 2025. 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: May 21, 2026. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.