If you have invested in a heavy-duty pickup truck, all you can expect is reliability, durability and most importantly its safety. However, GM has announced the GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall that had a great impact on large number of heavy-duty trucks including 132,037 vehicles due to a critical defect that could cause tailgates to open unexpectedly while driving. This recall turns out to be the second recall marked for this year having the same issue and the questions about vehicle safety and manufacturer accountability.
Understanding the GMC Chevrolet Trucks Tailgate Recall
The tailgate malfunction issue has led to a recall of a particular model year’s 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500 and 3500, as well as GMC Sierra HD 2500 and 3500 pickups. It involves trucks having optional power-unlatching tailgates that may get the electronic release switch short-circuited because of water getting in. The defect can cause the tailgate to open when the car is in park or, even worse, while driving on the road.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that this recall only affects heavy-duty truck variants outfitted with the optional power lock and release tailgates that were manufactured between August 1, 2023, and March 8, 2024. Other GM pickups with similar but not identical tailgate configurations are not included in the recall precaution.
This GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall targets specific trucks with electronic release systems that are vulnerable to moisture damage. The precision of this recall indicates the defect relates to particular component designs rather than broader manufacturing failures. For owners with proper electrical system maintenance, understanding these specifics helps identify why your truck may or may not be affected.
Timeline of the Tailgate Issues
First Recall (February 2024)
The ongoing recall of GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall is the second attempt to solve the problem that has existed for a long time. GM recalled the first 570,434 HD pickups in February 2024 after receiving 136 reports from the field stating that tailgates opened while driving during the period from September 1, 2020, to August 1, 2023.
GM study revealed that the tailgate was susceptible of water intrusion especially at the switch area. In order to eliminate these worries, the car manufacturer resorted to new switch material that was made specifically to prevent water intrusion. This revised part was introduced on August 1, 2023. However, field data would later contradict the effectiveness of this initial fix, leading to the need for advanced electrical component redesign strategies.
Second Recall (Current)
Despite the initial fix, GM received 237 additional field reports of tailgates unlatching even with the updated switch. This prompted a second investigation, which revealed that the new component was still vulnerable to water intrusion. The decision to issue this second recall was made by GM’s safety field action decision authority on November 21, 2024.
Key Details of the Current Recall
| Recall Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Vehicles Affected | 132,037 pickups |
| Models Included | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500/3500, GMC Sierra HD 2500/3500 |
| Production Dates | August 1, 2023 – March 8, 2024 |
| Defect | Electronic release switch short circuit due to water intrusion |
| Estimated Defect Rate | 1% of recalled trucks |
| Reported Crashes/Injuries | None |
| Notification Date | January 13, 2025 |
| Cost to Owner | Free repair |
What Causes the Problem?
The GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall can occur due to the poor design in the power tailgate system that can act in a way it shouldn’t. Here some of the issues that can emerge due to this flaw.
- Water Intrusion: Moisture enters the tailgate switch assembly, typically through gaps or seals in the exterior touchpad. Environmental exposure to rain, car wash spray, and humidity creates pathways for water infiltration that compromise electrical control systems.
- Electrical Short Circuit: As the water gets inside the tailgate it leads to the malfunction of electric switch leading to short circuit. Corrosion of electrical contacts and wiring components creates unintended electrical paths that bypass safety logic designed to prevent unintended release.
- Unintended Unlatching: The short circuit triggers the tailgate release mechanism without user input
- Safety Risk: The tailgate can open while the vehicle is parked or, more dangerously, while driving
It’s worth noting that GM designed the control logic of the body control module to prevent tailgate release when the vehicle is in gear, even if the exterior touchpad release switch is pressed. However, this safety feature doesn’t completely eliminate the risk, as evidenced by the numerous field reports.
The Solution: What GM Is Doing
To address this GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall, dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies at no cost to owners. GM has revised the tailgate switch a second time, now using wires sealed in butyl tape for improved water resistance. These enhanced switches were introduced into production at all GM assembly plants by March 8, 2024.
The repair process includes:
No cost to vehicle owners for parts or labor
Complete replacement of the exterior touchpad switch assembly
Installation of the improved, water-resistant switch design
Quality inspection to ensure proper installation and function
What Should Affected Truck Owners Do?
If you own a 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD or GMC Sierra HD with a power tailgate, take these immediate steps:
- Verify Your Vehicle: Check if your truck was produced between August 1, 2023, and March 8, 2024
- Watch for Notification: Expect to receive an official recall letter by January 13, 2025
- Inspect Before Driving: Always check that your tailgate is closed and fully latched before driving away
- Contact Your Dealer: Schedule an appointment for the free repair as soon as possible
- Monitor Your Tailgate: Report any unusual behavior or unexpected opening to your dealer immediately
- Visit NHTSA Website: Check the NHTSA website using your VIN to confirm if your vehicle is affected
Safety Considerations and Risks
While GM reports no crashes or injuries related to this defect, the potential risks are significant:
- Cargo loss: The items kept in the truck bed could fall out on the road, which may be dangerous for other drivers.
- Traffic Accidents: The sudden opening of the tailgate while driving the truck, could distract the driver or cause the vehicles coming from behind hit the brakes suddenly.
- Property Damage: Valuable cargo could be damaged or lost
- Rear Visibility: An open tailgate while driving could obstruct the driver’s rear view
Conclusion
GM is offering free repairs as a remedy to the tailgate recall of heavy-duty pickups that affect a total of 132,037 GMC Chevrolet trucks. Although the company has not received reports of any accidents or injuries, the recall is still a significant concern due to the possibility of losing cargo and causing traffic hazards. It is for this reason that the affected truck owners’ recall has been made a priority.
If you own a 2024 Silverado HD or the Sierra HD that features a power tailgate, do not hesitate get in touch with your dealer right away to set up your free repair. Always make a point of checking your tailgate before hitting the road, and keep yourself updated with GM’s communications regarding this matter. Safety is a shared concern, and hence, the need for quick and thorough action on this GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall. NHTSA is here for more information or for you to check your vehicle’s recall status at nhtsa.gov or contact the nearest GM dealer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my truck is included in the GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall?
Check if you own a 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500/3500 or GMC Sierra HD 2500/3500 with an optional power tailgate produced between August 1, 2023, and March 8, 2024. You can verify your vehicle’s status using your VIN on the NHTSA website or by contacting your GM dealer.
Will this recall cost me anything?
No, the repair is completely free. GM will replace the exterior touchpad switch assembly at no cost for parts or labor.
Is it safe to drive my truck before getting it repaired?
GM advises owners to check that the tailgate is closed and fully latched before driving. While the body control module is designed to prevent release while in gear, it’s recommended to get the repair completed as soon as possible.
What if my tailgate has already opened while driving?
Report this incident to your dealer immediately and schedule the recall repair. You may also want to file a report with the NHTSA to help track the issue.
How long will the repair take?
The switch replacement is relatively straightforward and should take a few hours. Contact your dealer for specific scheduling and timing information.
