Owners filed 51 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the power train. It has been recalled 6 times.
Park away from buildings
NHTSA attached an advisory to a recall on this vehicle. Advisories apply to specific production runs — check your VIN with the manufacturer or at nhtsa.gov/recalls before driving it.
What fails
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Power Train
12
1
0
1
Exterior Lighting
8
0
0
0
Service Brakes
6
0
0
0
Engine
5
0
0
0
Electrical System
5
1
0
0
Latches/Locks/Linkages
3
0
0
0
Unknown or Other
2
0
0
0
Structure › Body
2
0
0
0
Air Bags
2
1
1
0
Tires
1
0
0
0
6 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Fluid/Lubricant › Valves/Valve Body24V797000
Filed Oct 24, 2024463,295 vehiclesGeneral Motors, Llc
Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with diesel engines. The transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock-up.
Risk. Rear wheel lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Dealers will install new transmission control module software, free of charge. GM will provide a special coverage program to cover the repair of transmissions that are identified by the remedy software as containing a defective control valve. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2024. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, GMC customer service at GMC 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N242454440.
Filed Feb 1, 2024570,434 vehiclesGeneral Motors, Llc
Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates. The tailgate's electronic gate-release switch may short circuit due to water intrusion, which can result in the tailgate inadvertently unlatching while the vehicle is in park.
Risk. An unlatched tailgate may open while driving and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Owners are advised to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before driving. Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2024. 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 N232426400.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist › Electric › Control Module21V758000Park outside
Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 2500, and Sierra 3500 vehicles with electronic brake control modules (EBCM) replaced during vehicle assembly. The bolts that attach the brake pressure modulator valve (BPMV) assembly may not be properly tightened, which could fail to seal the two sub-assemblies and allow water intrusion.
Risk. Water in the BPMV may cause an electrical short circuit and increase the risk of fire.
Remedy. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other structures until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will replace the BPMV assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 20, 2021. 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 N212349181.
Tires › Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire21V578000
Filed Jul 29, 202186 vehiclesGeneral Motors, Llc
Defect. General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and GMC Sierra 2500 vehicles equipped with a 17" spare tire (RPO ZHQ or ZXT) and either the 20" accessory road tire (RPO REM) or the 18" accessory road tire (RPO Q2V). Operating the spare tire with other 20" or 18" tires can prevent the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) from engaging.
Risk. An ABS system that cannot control the rear wheels independently increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Dealers will provide the appropriate spare tire and apply a new spare tire information label, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 18, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212329780.
Seat Belts › Critical Fasteners20V811000
Filed Dec 23, 2020470 vehiclesGeneral Motors, Llc
Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.
Risk. If a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.
Seat Belts › Critical Fasteners20V792000
Filed Dec 17, 2020624,216 vehiclesGeneral Motors, Llc
Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, 2021 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe and GMC Yukon XL and 2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The seat belt brackets may not be secured to the seat frame in the front-row center seating position.
Risk. If a seat-belt bracket is not secured, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the front-row center seat position, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect left-side and right-side front-row center seat-belt bracket attachments and reassemble it correctly as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202314670.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Service Brakes
Filed Aug 5, 2026NH
The left rear internal "top-hat" parking brake shoes suffered a total manufacturing bonding failure, causing the friction lining to completely delaminate and detach from the metal backing plates inside the rotor hub. This triggered Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) C060B (Left Park Brake Actuator Circuit). The failed components were replaced by the servicing facility and are unavailable, but the official dealer diagnostic scan sheet and itemized repair invoice are preserved and available for inspection upon request. Safety was compromised in two ways. First, the mechanical failure completely disabled the electronic parking brake system, forcing a heavy-duty truck to rely exclusively on the transmission's parking pawl to remain stationary. This creates a severe rolling vehicle hazard, especially on inclines or when hauling/towing heavy loads. Second, when these shoes disintegrate, the loose friction debris trapped inside the enclosed drum can shift, wedge, and cause a sudden mechanical wheel lockup or severe brake dragging at highway speeds, threatening vehicle control. The problem was officially confirmed and diagnosed by an authorized General Motors dealership service center. The technician scanned the vehicle, retrieved DTC code C060B, and confirmed upon inspection that the internal parking brake shoes had completely disintegrated. There were absolutely no physical symptoms, abnormal noises, dragging sensations, or brake pedal changes prior to the failure, as the parking brake
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 30, 2026OH
After finishing a long drive south, I shut the engine off and a yellow engine code popped on. I connected my computer to it and revealed a P129F code (fuel pump control module). I have noticed that other GMC models have been included in a recall concerning this problem. The 2021 GMC 2500 Denali should be also since it is the same problem. This needs to be covered by the manufacturer since it is a constant problem.
Power Train
Filed Jun 26, 2026IL
I am reporting repeated failures involving both the transmission and diesel emissions (DEF) system on my 2021 GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali equipped with the 6.6L Duramax diesel engine and Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. While under warranty, the truck required replacement of the aftertreatment fuel injector and later the Reductant Control Module due to DEF/emissions system failures. General Motors also completed recall-related transmission software updates on the vehicle. At approximately 154,833 miles, the transmission began shifting improperly, set transmission fault codes, and required complete replacement at my expense. Less than 5,000 miles later, the vehicle again experienced a "Service DEF System" warning with multiple diagnostic trouble codes. Repairs required replacement of the DEF tank, DEF heater assembly, and NOx sensor. These repeated failures involve major drivetrain and emissions components on a heavy-duty truck. DEF system failures can place the vehicle into reduced-power (derate) mode, limiting vehicle performance and creating potential safety concerns while driving or towing. I am submitting this complaint so these failures can be documented as part of NHTSA's evaluation of similar vehicles.
Power Train
Filed Jun 1, 2026CO
We keep getting an error message that shows we need to service DEF SYSTEM, it also started to limit my MPH and is now locked at 55 MPH. initial check of the DEF SYSTEM shows a malfunctioning module. it has been happening over the last year to 18 months. they would reset it or it would sometimes go away on its own after having to drive it in order for the error to clear.
Structure › Body › Step/Ladder
Filed Apr 23, 202693,726 milesTX
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact stated that on several occasions, the automatic power side-out step failed to extend as designed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 93,726.
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 22, 2026MO
XXX Power Assist Step Reversing I have a 2021 GMC Sierra 2500HD that the local dealership (Ozark MO 65714) is stating has expired and not covered by the warranty. I researched online and as I understand this recall falls under SAFTEY recalls and is to be fixed and doesn't expire? It requires no parts but the reprogramming of the K4 Assist Step Control Module. What is my next step or recourse?
Engine
Filed Apr 1, 202677,000 milesIN
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, the vehicle stalled unexpectedly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The engine was replaced; however, the failure recurred. While at a stop and attempting to drive around a curve, the vehicle stalled. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 77,000. The VIN was not available.
Power Train
Filed Mar 24, 2026NH
While driving on the highway at normal speed, my vehicle was operating completely normally with no warning lights, messages, or prior issues. Without any warning, the vehicle suddenly lost the ability to accelerate and felt as if it had been shifted into neutral. I immediately had to pull over to the side of the highway, as this created a dangerous situation with surrounding traffic. The vehicle had to be towed to a mechanic. Upon inspection, I was informed that a coolant line connected to the transmission had completely blew off, causing a rapid loss of transmission fluid and resulting in total transmission failure. I was told this was not due to a rusted or deteriorated clamp, but rather a sudden component failure. This vehicle has been meticulously maintained and I have owned it for less than one year. There were no prior symptoms, leaks, or warning signs leading up to this incident. This appears to be a sudden and unexpected mechanical failure, not caused by neglect or misuse. The loss of power while driving at highway speed posed a serious safety risk to myself and others on the road.
Engine
Filed Feb 3, 2026MA
80,000 Miles, complete engine break down. 12,000 to repair
Exterior Lighting
Filed Jan 6, 2026IL
My right headlamp/ turn signal assembly began flashing at random intervals. The high beam would come on and off randomly. The entire assembly would randomly flash along with the turn signal. The headlamp would go on and off randomly. This included switching between setting. High beam, low beam, daytime running light, and completely off with no warning. This causes blinding conditions for oncoming drivers, loss of visibility for driver, and loss of visibility during inclement weather due to high beam coming on and off, then entire unit turning off. As of right now, the vehicle is undrivable due to incorrect lighting, and flashing lights.
Power Train
Filed Dec 8, 2025MI
Pulling into a driveway and the truck made a loud clunk and the check engine light, traction control light, and a reduced engine power light came on and the truck came to an abrupt stop. When the gear shift was put into reverse or any forward gear the truck would rev up without touching the gas pedal. The left rear wheel locked up. After paying over $700 in tow bills to get the truck towed to our house and then to the dealer we were told that the transmission had a catastrophic internal failure. This truck only has 82,000 miles on it and is a 2021!
Power TrainCrash1 injured
Filed Oct 29, 202578,000 milesCO
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact stated that while driving at 50 MPH, the contact was pulling a trailer that he had loaded, and he drove around a curve, the gear shifted down independently, and the trailer pushed the vehicle off the right side, causing him to crash into a post and embankment. The contact mentioned he was able to shift the gear into Four Wheel Drive to get back on the road. The contact mentioned he pulled over to the right side of the road, exited the vehicle to inspect, and noticed damage to the vehicle and the trailer. The contact stated no air bag deployed. The contact stated that he sustained injuries left arm and neck, causing his muscles to tighten. No medical attention was required. The contact stated no police report was filed. The contact mentioned that the vehicle was previously repaired for a manufacturer's recall with the transmission, but failed to prevent the failure. The contact was relating the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V797000 (POWER TRAIN). The vehicle was serviced by the dealer, but the remedy failed to repair the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure was not diagnosed by a dealer or independent mechanic. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 78,000.
Service Brakes
Filed Oct 8, 2025MI
2021 GMC Sierra 2500HD 6.6L gas 6 speed automatic transmission W/4wd After a brake service job the vehicle will randomly kick on the traction control/ABS and the right front brake will lock up. The steering wheel jerk is violent enough to remove the wheel from the drivers hands. No Traction control or ABS lights flash on the dash when this occurs and it has caused the vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic and also off the road. The dealer was unable to recreate the issue nor are there any stored codes/issues found when having the truck diagnosed. ABS and speed sensor wires have been reviewed and none were damaged during the brake job. All wheel speed sensors are functional and reading when the issue happens. This issue happens during dry or wet conditions and is random without warning.
Electrical SystemCrash
Filed Sep 11, 2025CA
When I’m in reverse the up the cameras turn off. On one incident I was backing up and the camera turned off causing me to back up into the wall of my house
Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Aug 26, 202553,000 milesIN
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact received Manufacturer's Recall Number: N232426400, for water intrusion into the electronic gate-release switch. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that six months after the vehicle was repaired, the tailgate failed to operate as intended. While at the residence, the taillights and headlights were flashing. The contact also became aware that the tailgate had unlatched independently while the vehicle was parked. The message "Integrated Tailgate Open or Integrated Tailgate not Latched" was displayed. The contact stated that there was an abnormal clicking sound coming from the actuator when the tailgate opened independently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was water in the switch. The dealer informed the contact that the repairs were already made and, due to the water intrusion into the switch, the dealer refused to redo the repair under the previous recall. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and denied assistance since the recall repair was already performed. The failure mileage was approximately 53,000.
Service Brakes
Filed May 21, 2025OH
Parking brake locking up. There is recall on the brake module for my year make and model but my vehicle isn't on the list and I feel it should be. I'm having the same issues as they are. I can't drive it until it is fixed. Very dangerous.
Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Apr 23, 202555,700 milesMA
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact stated that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V060000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages) and the main exterior touchpad switch assembly was replaced. The contact stated that after the recall repair the second exterior touchpad switch assembly suddenly short circuited and caused the trunk to open unintendedly. The vehicle was returned to the dealer who stated that that only one exterior touchpad switch assembly was replaced, despite the remedy stating that the exterior touchpad switch assemblies would be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and opened a case. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 55,700.
Power Train
Filed Mar 29, 2025SC
Radiator hose connection broke and loose fluid and transmission got broken
Power Train
Filed Mar 20, 2025OH
While driving down the highway pulling a trailer the truck started to slow down rapidly. We were able to pull to the side of the road before the truck came to a complete stop on its own. From that point forward, we could not get the truck to move forward even in 4WD. Ended up towing the truck back and a repair shop determined the transmission needed replaced. About 4 months later, we received notice of a recall describing a similar scenario. I submitted the invoice and documentation to GM, but my claim was denied because the codes and symptoms did not match the criteria for the recall.
No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.
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: Oct 24, 2024. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.