general problems of the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 - part 1

70 problems related to electrical system have been reported for the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 based on all problems reported for the 2021 Sierra 1500.

1 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/28/2026

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the battery charge indicator to zero. The vehicle lost motive power, and the vehicle was unable to exceed 30 mph while driving. The vehicle was driven in limp mode. The battery saver mode message was displayed before and during the failure. The vehicle then failed to restart. The vehicle had been repaired a year prior to the failure. The contact's blood pressure became elevated due to the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.

2 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/20/2026

Dashboard keeps returning to aljarir type writing. We bought it with american english but won't stay in english. Monday will be 30 day and I believe the dealer is ghosting me. Y'all have any ideas how to reset the dashboard without replacing the radio??? closest answer I was given.

3 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/15/2026

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25 mph near the residence with the contact's daughter as a passenger, the vehicle experienced a complete loss of motive power when depressing the accelerator pedal. Several unspecified warning lights illuminated. The contact and the passenger pushed the vehicle to the residence. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the electrical system experienced a severe power loss and the electrical modules were damaged. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.

4 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/07/2026

I own a 2021 GMC sierra at4 3. 0l duramax (VIN [xxx]). The vehicle has codes p1098 (coolant control valve performance) and p129f which coincides with the first code. My dealer believes this is consistent with an engine coolant control valve failure. I understand special coverage xxx exists for this issue, but I've been told my VIN is not included. My truck has the exact engine, symptoms, and diagnostic codes addressed by special coverage n252508341, but my VIN is excluded. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

5 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/05/2026

So I made an appointment to have my truck recalled and the Wednesday before I took it, and it cranked no start and I called the dealership. Ask if they had any other those like this and they said that it could be the fuel injector module and so I got it to a mechanic shop to read the codes and it gave me a code p062b and I asked the dealership to look into it and they never figured out what we were not wrong. I just testing the battery. Well, then I got it back after the recall was done and new transmission valve body put in and about 30 miles down the road it started to shake violently and had a flashing engine light so I got it home called the dealership the next morning because they were closed set up another appointment got it to the dealership dealership said it had a couple misfires but since it wasn’t over 100 they weren’t concerned even though I’m pretty sure it is related to the fuel model going out because it has been cranking rapidly whenever I try to start it, but they won’t do anything to figure out what’s wrong?.

6 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/02/2026

I am submitting supplemental evidence regarding my 2021 GMC sierra (VIN [xxx]) for recall query rq26001, campaign 25v-274. Despite multiple repair attempts, my vehicle remains unsafe and non-compliant with gm service bulletin n252494002. The recall remedy was performed deficiently. [xxx] northeast Buick GMC installed a remanufactured short block instead of the required complete engine, reused the original seized-engine oil pan (which continues to leak), and failed to address critical electrical damage. Documentation proves they deleted labor operation 14buz (engine electrical) after their technician noted a blown mega fuse. A second dealer, penske Chevrolet, subsequently deleted labor operation 77cvz01 from my repair order, demonstrating a systemic pattern of ignoring recall-required repairs. Electrical damage has cascaded, resulting in a burnt fuse block and active faults p0615, p0617, p26e4, p26e6, u0623, and u0284. More critically, within 24 miles of my last service, the vehicle developed a new, severe safety failure: the "service brake pad monitor" system failed, accompanied by a red "service system" dashboard alert and a noticeably spongy brake pedal. These brakes were recently serviced, yet this failure introduces a new risk of crash not present prior to the recall "remedy. " gm executive resolution case xxx has provided no resolution, reimbursement, or safety assurance, ignoring all deadlines since xxx. I possess extensive documentation, including service orders showing deleted labor operations and diagnostic logs. I request this update be integrated into the investigation of rq26001, as the current remedy is demonstrably ineffective and has exacerbated safety hazards. The manufacturer’s refusal to remediate these issues, despite my compliance, leaves me with an unsafe vehicle and significant financial loss. I am prepared to provide all supporting records to substantiate this complaint. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

7 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/01/2026

When I put the vehicle in park, the dash warning says it is not in park or shift to park. The components continue to work. I have taken it to the dealership and according to the service manger, this is a very common occurrence in these trucks. This seems to me that it would be a very serious safety issue if one assumes their vehicle is in park and it is actually not. The shift to park warning is a safety warning to alert the driver it is not in park so the vehicle doesn’t roll off and hit someone (especially a child playing in the driveway). Assuming that alert is just a malfunction could get someone killed. I did notice that this was considered a safety recall for some models of GMC vehicles but not others. I’m not sure why there hasn’t been a recall on these trucks when the service manager specifically said they are having this issue on a lot of trucks.

8 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/24/2026

My truck will not start when I press the push-button ignition. After waiting a few seconds and trying multiple times, it typically starts on the third attempt. Additionally, it will not restart after the auto stop feature activates at stop signs or traffic lights. This is very concerning, especially when pulling into oncoming traffic, as I’m worried the truck could shut off while I’m crossing. I have already had the battery, starter, and alternator checked, and all components tested fine. However, the issue is still occurring. There are also no warning lights or messages displayed on the dashboard.

9 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/19/2026

Coolant control valve.

10 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/22/2026

2021 GMC sierra at4, VIN [xxx] , NHTSA campaign 25v-274, gm case xxx. Brake pad monitor failed at 128,923 miles -- 24 miles after leaving penske Chevrolet (released at 128,899, ro xxx, 04/17/2026). Brakes became spongy immediately following service. Monitor disabled entirely to stop recurring red service system alert. Root cause is a burnt fuse block ground fault confirmed in writing by two gm-authorized dealers. Ray skillman (ro xxx, 06/05/2025) documented the fault then deleted labor operation 14buz engine electrical from the recall repair work order. Penske documented verbatim: "all of these other faults share this same ground circuit. " the recall repair at ray skillman used a remanufactured short block instead of a complete engine per n252494002. The original seized-engine oil pan has never been replaced across three dealerships and 128,000 miles. Gm's own part 573 filing states this defect "increases the risk of a crash. " I drove 300 miles on an interstate on 04/22/2026 with active brake warning and no loaner because gm executive resolution refused to authorize one. Three gm dealers have inspected this vehicle. Gm executive resolution team [xxx] ) has not returned calls or emails and has not confirmed in writing this vehicle is safe to operate. Onstar issued a critical alert for p0617 on 04/15/2026. Zero brake faults existed in the 13 months prior to the penske visit. This is a direct continuation of unresolved electrical damage from a botched federal safety recall repair at 384 days and counting. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

11 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/19/2026

Driving down road and had total loss of power steering and yes it is available for inspection. Almost drove it off the road due to loss of steering yes, it happened to be a failed main grounding strap that created the issue. The dealership made the repair. No, it was inspected and repaired by the dealership yes, started with loss of power steering, then truck died and these codes popped low fuel code, but tank was full; trailer brake system code; side detection code and esc traction control code.

12 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/29/2026

Power steering locked up while driving. Multiple dash lights turned on, on its own after the issue, 4wd, emergency brake, abs, and other ones im not sure what they are. Took it to the dealership for a recall and told them the issue that happened.

13 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/29/2026

Power steering locked up while driving. Has been inspected and repaired by manufacturer. Recall.

14 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/27/2026

Rear tailgate on my 2021 sierra opens or drops when wet. This seems to only happen in a heavy rain or after a truck wash. This problem has been recognized by the manufacturer and the dealer. There is no warning other than the constant clicking of the electric switch allowing the tailgate to drop. This problem has been recalled on the 3/4 & 1 ton trucks but not the 1/2 ton. The tailgate and switches are the same on all 3. Because my VIN# does not show for this recall I had to pay for the replacement.

15 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/02/2026

Received re-call for engine failure! dealer replaced engine oil and oil cap @ 85,544 miles. I read of the re-call prior to the notice and I waited for it to come. After I received it and the dealer made the changes, it made me afraid to leave town using my truck for fear of a breakdown on the freeway. I use a walker, so if I broke down and I was in the left lane and lost all power it would be very dangerous for me to get to the right side of the road! the truck started using excessive oil after they changed the oil. I replaced four (4) quarts of oil @ 2526 miles! speedometer reading 88070 miles.

16 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 12/24/2025

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50-65 mph on an incline, the contact believed that the transmission was slipping or there was a misfire coming from the engine. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to restart automatically after the engine auto start/stop system was engaged after a complete stop. Additionally, the contact stated that after driving for a while, the vehicle went into limp mode. The check engine warning light and other warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact related the failure to gm campaign number: n252515590 (corroded ground strap); however, the dealer had informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered because the VIN was not included and there was no warranty coverage on the vehicle. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

17 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 12/15/2025

The intermediate speed sensor 2 and internal transmission harness failed. The repair was to replace the internal transmission harness and intermediate speed sensor. This vehicle is a 2021 and I was told this was recalled on a 2022 only.

18 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 11/21/2025

Experience a automatic ota update to the info system on my 2021 GMC sierra(I did not iniciate) which burnt out the radio module which controls the info system. I am being charged $1,300+ for repair due to vehicle being out of warranty(52,000 miles) and no recall on this vehicle model for this issue. GMC does have a recall for this exact issue on the 2021 GMC tahoe models, but not the GMC sierra. If the GMC utilizes the same componets for both models of vehicle how doe the recall#n202319250 not cover the exact same issue on both models?.

19 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 11/14/2025

Muti pro tailgate has electric issues due to moisture. Tailgate will open up driving down the road.

20 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 10/27/2025

Following the remedy of the engine recall in 2025, the truck started having intermittent electrical issues (I. E. Warning lights on dash turn on/off: service 4wd, loss traction control, etc) come one while the truck is being driven. If the truck is turned off while the dash warning lights are on, it will not start for about 24 hours. If the warning lights are ignored, eventually they will go off on their own. Additionally, the truck is having "no-start" problems (randomly the truck does not start, then after a few days it starts). A new development, when backing up there is a scraping/squealing sound (possibly universal joint). Truck has been back to the dealership that replaced the engine block for the recall and they have failed to identify any issues as these problems are intermittent. Engine recall replacement invoice (attached).

21 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/29/2025

I am an active u. S. Air force member. My 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 failed gm recall n252494003 on sept 29, 2025 (l87 engine loss of propulsion). Gm states this defect can cause sudden engine failure and loss of propulsion, increasing crash risk. Despite the confirmed failure, ocean Cadillac (miami, FL) told me to keep driving the unsafe vehicle and refused all courtesy transportation. The service manager admitted in writing that the engine failed, the defect can cause loss of propulsion, and the replacement engine is delayed under gm national control for up to 3 months — yet they still denied me a loaner or rental. His statements contradict the gm documents he attached: • gm bulletin dcs7222 says courtesy transportation can be provided during l87 recall downtime and dealers must consider loaners/rentals. • gm faq n252494002 says courtesy transportation is available for this recall. • gm faq lists recall symptoms (check engine light, hesitation, high rpm, reduced power) — not battery drain. • gm states: “if the engine fails, the vehicle will lose propulsion. ” ocean Cadillac ignored these rules and put me back on the road in a known unsafe vehicle. As an american manufacturer, gm has a responsibility to protect american drivers. Their failure to follow recall procedures placed me, my family, and other motorists at risk. I request NHTSA investigate whether gm/ocean Cadillac are complying with recall safety requirements and whether customers are being told to drive unsafe vehicles after confirmed failures.

22 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/17/2025

Truck went in service 9/17/2025 because the wheels locked up while driving. Transmission was replaced. Picked up truck and 2 hours later the truck shut off while driving and was started back up and was limp mode. Was told wire chaffing and they taped and rerouted wires. Picked truck back up and next day it did the same thing. Took back to the dealer and they said wires again. They taped wires back up and we picked up the truck. We had it 7 days and while driving down the expressway the whole truck shut off and would not start up again. Clearly that is a safety issue. After sitting on the side of the expressway for 10 minutes it started up again and was in limp mode and taken to the dealer again. I don’t know what has been done to it yet as they are not great at communication but they have had our truck for 4 months minus the 7 days we had it before it had to go back to the dealer.

23 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/10/2025

I am experiencing a recurring issue with my 2021 GMC sierra where the dashboard displays a “shift to park” warning even though the vehicle is already in park. This typically occurs when I attempt to shut off the vehicle. The doors unlock as expected, confirming the truck is in park, but the warning prevents me from turning off the ignition immediately. After a few seconds, the warning usually disappears, allowing me to shut off the truck. This issue is more frequent in cold weather, suggesting a temperature-sensitive electrical or mechanical fault. Based on research and community reports, this appears to be a known issue across multiple gm vehicles, often linked to a faulty micro switch or wiring harness in the shifter assembly. I am concerned about the safety implications, especially if the vehicle fails to shut off properly or if the issue worsens over time. Gm has not issued a recall for this problem, and I believe it warrants further investigation due to its widespread nature and potential risk.

24 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/01/2025

I took my truck through a car wash and then parked at my parents house. While the vehicle was parked, the trunk latch kept releasing. The trunk popped open. I left it open but you could hear the latch continually releasing and the lights blinking. This went on for an hour and I was unable to drive home because my trunk kept unlatching! a recall was released for other sierras but not mine. Please investigate my VIN and others that may be affected.

25 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/05/2025

2021 GMC Sierra 1500 [xxx] miles 36,500. My childs seatbelt does not work and the lane keep assist does not work information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

26 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/18/2025

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that there was an abnormal change with the rpm. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 25v274000 (engine and engine cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The dealer received an email from the manufacturer, but the verbiage was incorrect to move forward with the repair. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 39,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

27 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/01/2025

Gm has has a known issue with a switch/sensor placed at the base of the shifter that causes the “shift to park” error message that prevents the electrical system from shutting down when the vehicle is physically in park and the engine is turned off, in fact, gm has issued a recall for several different models in which a “shift to park” error message is displayed because of the poor design; however, they continue to see the same issue occur but claim it is not a warranty issue (unless it occurs within 3 year/36,000 mile time frame. This is not an issue that can be caused by owner misuse, and I believe that gm should be held liable for repairs given that the issue is, and has been, known for several years now.

28 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/12/2025

Esc error parking break not releasing dashboard lights started flashing check engine light came on.

29 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/28/2025

This truck, along with many others, has had wiring harness issues. My truck has fought this issue within the first six months of owning the truck. Since Jan 2025 it has left me stranded 3 times to be towed, and in the shop a total of 6 times for wiring harness issues. Rubbing that gm is 100% aware of how its designed. This has caused the truck to hesitate, shake, lunge, go in and out of gear severely hard then shut off while driving. All three time this happened to me recently I was on the interstate. Gm has work orders out with all the codes and symptoms but wont do anything about it. Yes, I am out of warranty, but I am now paying over $5,000 for a new harness to be installed by a different dealer. The dealer that had always worked on this truck requested $8,100 so I called a new gm shop. This is a large issue and they keep turning their back and not addressing the issue and putting drivers at risk! can provide last diagnostics and can request all notes from stoops Buick GMC in muncie indiana, I have a rather large file there on this truck.

30 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/16/2025

Multi functional tail gate will open on its own while driving. I have had this repaired by gm 3 times and still have issues. This problem is currently on the recall list for 2500 hd series trucks and the 1500 series trucks in canada but not on recall in united states. This problem poses a life threatening problem while on the road due to contents of truck possible becoming projectiles to other drivers due to tailgate opening on its own .

31 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/15/2025

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact attempted to turn off the vehicle; however, the vehicle remained running. A message was displayed to shift to park(p). The contact stated that the lights, radio, and other functions remained operational. On another occasion, the vehicle jerked, and the steering was difficult to turn. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle had not been taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact also stated that the trunk failed to fully close. The message that the trunk was open was displayed. The contact attempted to close the trunk and message on the displayed was turned off; however, the trunk remained slightly open. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,315.

32 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/02/2025

Assure guard (877-831-3077) contract number [xxx] GMC customer care melissa (866-790-5600 ext [xxx] ) case#[xxx] dealership: phil moore GMC (601-956-0150) my truck is barely 4 years old. I should not have this problem . Why is it no one guarantee the product they make? I paid too much money for this vehicle financing it as a new truck. I paid 766. 95 to replace/install the shark fan antenna on the roof of my truck because it literally came loose on his own. No one (dealership, GMC, assure guard) would assist with repairs. The shark fin antenna started leaking water and it was wobbly where, it was no longer sealed on the body of the truck. Water leaking through out the ceiling/roof. I didn’t do anything to cause this! GMC customer care refused to refund nor, help with the cost of repair. I tried to file a claim with my extended warranty company(assure guard) contract number [xxx] - they refused to cover the antenna. I have owned several 1500 truck models, and none of them has had the antenna to fall off the vehicle. I had to return to phil moore, GMC a second time because they did not properly seal the antenna. This caused the whole interior of my truck to be drenched with rainwater. I am upset with the dealership, GMC and my extended warranty(assure guard) because I spent too much money on my vehicle to have this happen and I would like to be refunded. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

33 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 12/12/2024

Transmission recall was performed at a GMC dealership. Vehicle has been the the shop repeatedly since. Coolant control valve crank case position sensor new catalytic converter and dpf system. New low temp coolant loop pump. In the shop now for another low temp coolant pump that’s been shorted out. Seems to have on going electrical issues since recall was performed.

34 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 12/10/2024

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission slammed into gear and the rear wheels locked up. In addition, the vehicle decelerated independently. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road and turned off. The vehicle was restarted, and the contact noticed that the vehicle was independently reset. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed wiring harness. The contact was informed that the wiring harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,129.

35 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 11/27/2024

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the tailgate opened unintendedly. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer informed the contact that the VIN was not included in gm campaign number: n232426401. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 57,000.


Other Electrical System related problems of the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500


☘ Sierra 1500 Service Bulletins
⚑ Sierra 1500 Safety Recalls
☤ Sierra 1500 Defect Investigations