GMC Chevrolet Trucks Tailgate Recall: In 2025, General Motors (GM) announced another round of recalls involving GMC and Chevrolet trucks, specifically targeting the tailgate mechanisms on several model years of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra.
The issue centers on power tailgates that may unlatch while driving, potentially leading to cargo falling onto the road and increasing the risk of accidents.
This article provides a full breakdown of the tailgate recall, which models are affected, what causes the issue, and what owners should do next.
1. Overview of the GMC and Chevrolet Tailgate Recall
General Motors issued the tailgate recall after identifying reports of unexpected tailgate openings during vehicle operation.
According to GM and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall impacts full-size pickup trucks produced between 2020 and 2024, equipped with power-operated tailgates.
Reason for the Recall
The defect involves a faulty electronic latch release system, which may short-circuit due to moisture or corrosion. When this happens, the tailgate can open unintentionally, even when the vehicle is in motion.
Main Concerns
- Cargo loss: Items falling from the bed could endanger other drivers.
- Vehicle damage: Tailgates may strike trailers or other objects when opening.
- Injury risk: Owners may be injured while standing behind a malfunctioning tailgate.
GM stated that while no injuries have been confirmed, multiple incidents prompted a preventive safety campaign to address the issue.
2. Vehicles Affected by the Recall
The GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall includes a wide range of popular pickup models across multiple production years.
Affected Models (U.S. Market)
- 2020–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- 2020–2024 GMC Sierra 1500
- 2020–2023 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 HD
- 2020–2023 GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD
Approximate Units Affected
Over 320,000 trucks are estimated to be part of this recall in North America, according to NHTSA Campaign Number 24V-473 (as referenced in related GM safety bulletins).
Vehicle Identification
Owners can verify if their truck is included by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at:
- The official GM Recall Center
- The NHTSA.gov Recall Lookup Tool
If listed, the vehicle should be brought to an authorized Chevrolet or GMC dealership for inspection and repair.
3. The Cause Behind the Tailgate Malfunction
The root cause of the tailgate failure lies in the electrical design of the power tailgate latch system.
Technical Explanation
- The electronic actuator responsible for latching the tailgate can receive false signals due to water intrusion or wiring faults.
- In humid or wet environments, short circuits may cause the latch motor to activate spontaneously.
- The result: the tailgate opens unexpectedly without driver input.
GM engineers found that excessive current draw in certain control modules made the issue more likely, particularly in trucks with heavy towing packages or bed-mounted cameras.
Previous Related Issues
This recall is not the first of its kind.
A similar recall occurred in 2019, affecting earlier Silverado and Sierra models with manual latch tailgates that would fail to close properly.
The 2025 recall, however, focuses specifically on electronic tailgate control systems.
4. What GM Is Doing to Fix the Problem
General Motors has taken proactive measures to repair and prevent further issues related to the tailgate recall.
Official Fix
GM dealerships will:
- Inspect the tailgate actuator and latch wiring.
- Install improved waterproof seals to prevent short-circuiting.
- Update the software in the Body Control Module (BCM) to improve signal filtering.
- Replace defective components free of charge, if necessary.
Repairs typically take under two hours, depending on parts availability.
Customer Notification
GM began mailing recall notices to affected vehicle owners in August 2025.
Owners can also check the recall status on:
Dealerships are instructed to prioritize vehicles that regularly carry heavy loads or tow trailers, since these are more prone to potential cargo loss.
5. What Truck Owners Should Do Now
If you own a Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra from 2020–2024, it’s important to take immediate action to ensure safety.
Step-by-Step Guidance
- Check your VIN on the GM or NHTSA recall portals.
- Contact your dealership to schedule a repair — even if you haven’t noticed any issues.
- Avoid loading fragile or heavy cargo near the tailgate until repairs are complete.
- Manually test your tailgate to ensure it’s securely latched before driving.
- Keep your recall notice for records and resale purposes.
Temporary Safety Tips
- Park the truck under cover to reduce moisture exposure.
- Disable the power tailgate feature if possible via vehicle settings.
- Visually inspect the tailgate wiring for signs of corrosion or damage.
Taking early action can prevent property damage or road safety hazards caused by cargo loss.
6. Broader Impact of the Recall on GMC and Chevrolet Brands
The GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall highlights the ongoing challenges automakers face as vehicles become increasingly electronic and software-driven.
Brand and Consumer Trust
While recalls can temporarily affect brand perception, GM’s transparent handling of this issue and quick dealer response have helped maintain customer trust.
GM emphasized that modern vehicles contain thousands of electrical connections, and periodic recalls are part of maintaining long-term reliability.
In fact, analysts note that the speed of GM’s response to this recall has been faster than many competitors in similar cases.
Future Prevention
GM engineers are now:
- Designing more water-resistant connectors.
- Implementing predictive diagnostics to detect latch malfunctions early.
- Expanding recall communication systems to alert drivers digitally via OnStar or mobile apps.
The company has reiterated its commitment to safety-first engineering, ensuring newer models like the 2025 Silverado EV and Sierra Denali EV use upgraded tailgate mechanisms free of this defect.
Conclusion
The GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall is a significant but manageable issue affecting select Silverado and Sierra models from recent years.
While the malfunction poses potential safety concerns, GM’s recall campaign ensures all affected vehicles receive free, effective repairs.
Truck owners should act promptly to verify their VINs and schedule inspections, keeping both their cargo and fellow drivers safe.
Ultimately, the recall underscores GM’s ongoing effort to improve vehicle durability, electronic reliability, and customer safety across its iconic truck lineup.
FAQs
1. What models are included in the GMC Chevrolet tailgate recall?
The recall includes 2020–2024 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra models equipped with power tailgates.
2. Why is the tailgate being recalled?
Due to electrical faults that can cause the tailgate to open while driving, increasing the risk of accidents.
3. Is there a cost to repair?
No. All recall repairs are free at authorized GM dealerships.
4. How long does the repair take?
Typically 1–2 hours, depending on inspection and parts availability.
5. How can I check if my truck is affected?
Visit NHTSA.gov/recalls or my.gm.com/recalls and enter your VIN for verification.
