POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE; POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:FLUID/LUBRICANT:VALVES/VALVE BODY
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data
Data refreshed
Overview
Our database contains 825 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, most frequently naming the engine, powertrain (other) and electrical categories. 8 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; 5 NHTSA investigations name it; and 1,458 manufacturer communications are on file.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Complaint activity over time
When owners filed reports about this model year
View as table
| Month | Complaints filed | Cumulative |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 2021 | 5 | 48 |
| Nov 2021 | 7 | 55 |
| Dec 2021 | 5 | 60 |
| Jan 2022 | 5 | 65 |
| Feb 2022 | 2 | 67 |
| Mar 2022 | 3 | 70 |
| Apr 2022 | 1 | 71 |
| May 2022 | 5 | 76 |
| Jun 2022 | 5 | 81 |
| Jul 2022 | 11 | 92 |
| Aug 2022 | 9 | 101 |
| Sep 2022 | 3 | 104 |
| Oct 2022 | 3 | 107 |
| Nov 2022 | 2 | 109 |
| Dec 2022 | 3 | 112 |
| Jan 2023 | 2 | 114 |
| Feb 2023 | 5 | 119 |
| Mar 2023 | 5 | 124 |
| Apr 2023 | 8 | 132 |
| May 2023 | 6 | 138 |
| Jun 2023 | 5 | 143 |
| Jul 2023 | 5 | 148 |
| Aug 2023 | 11 | 159 |
| Sep 2023 | 3 | 162 |
| Oct 2023 | 5 | 167 |
| Nov 2023 | 4 | 171 |
| Dec 2023 | 3 | 174 |
| Jan 2024 | 4 | 178 |
| Feb 2024 | 6 | 184 |
| Mar 2024 | 3 | 187 |
| Apr 2024 | 8 | 195 |
| May 2024 | 4 | 199 |
| Jun 2024 | 4 | 203 |
| Jul 2024 | 6 | 209 |
| Aug 2024 | 10 | 219 |
| Sep 2024 | 9 | 228 |
| Oct 2024 | 7 | 235 |
| Nov 2024 | 14 | 249 |
| Dec 2024 | 16 | 265 |
| Jan 2025 | 32 | 297 |
| Feb 2025 | 28 | 325 |
| Mar 2025 | 25 | 350 |
| Apr 2025 | 40 | 390 |
| May 2025 | 40 | 430 |
| Jun 2025 | 29 | 459 |
| Jul 2025 | 28 | 487 |
| Aug 2025 | 21 | 508 |
| Sep 2025 | 18 | 526 |
| Oct 2025 | 24 | 550 |
| Nov 2025 | 27 | 577 |
| Dec 2025 | 17 | 594 |
| Jan 2026 | 37 | 631 |
| Feb 2026 | 23 | 654 |
| Mar 2026 | 28 | 682 |
| Apr 2026 | 26 | 708 |
| May 2026 | 22 | 730 |
| Jun 2026 | 23 | 753 |
| Jul 2026 | 22 | 775 |
| Aug 2026 | 28 | 803 |
| Sep 2026 | 22 | 825 |
What owners report
Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded
- Engine43041.7%
- Powertrain (other)23122.4%
- Electrical11110.8%
- Brakes454.4%
- Steering414.0%
- Body & structure292.8%
- Fuel system282.7%
- Driver assistance262.5%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Safety recalls
8 campaigns cover this model year
Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.
Check a VIN on NHTSA.govENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE; POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:FLUID/LUBRICANT:VALVES/VALVE BODY
Safety investigations
NHTSA inquiries naming this vehicle. An investigation is not a finding of a defect.
Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy
On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V-274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GM’s recall remedy for Recall 25V-274 consisted of two different repairs, either an oil viscosity change or an engine replacement, based on the results of the remedy inspection procedure. ODI continues to receive reports of engine failures after the completion of the recall remedy. To date, ODI has received 499 complaints alleging post-remedy engine failure in vehicles subject to Recall 25V-274, 473 of which involved an oil viscosity change and 26 a complete engine replacement. Additionally, ODI has received 191 reports of L87 engine failures in engines produced after the production period cited in Recall 25V-274. GM reported receiving 6,953 complaints of post-remedy engine failure. ODI is opening this Engineering Analysisto continue investigating complaints of post-remedy engine failure. ODI is expanding the scope of this Investigation to include engines produced after the production period cited in the recall. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Loss of motive power due to engine failure
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 1,157 reports of engine bearing failure failures in the L87 6.2L engine produced by General Motors (GM). Of the 1,157 reports received, 173 are outside of the scope of recall 25V-274. These engines are installed in Model Years (MY) 2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, and 2021-2024MY Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV vehicles. The subject engine failures were investigated as part of a Preliminary Evaluation (PE25001). GM determined that these engine failures were due to multiple supplier manufacturing and quality issues. GM issued recall 25V-274 to address the supplier manufacturing and quality issues produced between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024. Based on the issuance of recall 25V-274, NHTSA has closed PE25001. ODI continues to receive a significant number of reports of engine failure in vehicles outside the scope of 25V-274. This presents a potential safety risk that warrants further investigation. ODI is opening this Engineering Analysis (EA) to further evaluate the scope and severity of the potential problem and to fully assess the potential safety-related issues of vehicles built outside the recall scope. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy
On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V-274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GM’s recall remedy for Recall 25V-274 consisted of two different repairs, either an oil viscosity change or an engine replacement, based on the results of the remedy inspection procedure. ODI continues to receive reports of engine failures after the completion of the recall remedy. To date, ODI has received 499 complaints alleging post-remedy engine failure in vehicles subject to Recall 25V-274, 473 of which involved an oil viscosity change and 26 a complete engine replacement. GM reported receiving 6,953 complaints of post-remedy engine failure. ODI will close this RQ and continue to investigate complaints of post-remedy engine failure for Recall 25V-274 as part of an Engineering Analysis (EA26005). To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Loss of motive power due to engine failure
On January 16, 2025, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE25001 after receiving complaints and field reports concerning engine failures in MY2019-2024 GM’s full-size truck and SUV T1XX platform equipped with the L87 6.2L V8 engine. These complainants alleged engine bearing failures resulting in knocking and growling noises from the engine’s bottom end and in some cases more severe consequences such as broken connecting rods leading to engine damage, or engine failure. If the engine fails during vehicle operation, the vehicle will lose propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. On April 24, 2025, GM issued recall 25V-274 to address the concern with L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issues. GM’s recall remedy will be either an oil change to an oil with a different viscosity or engine replacement depending on the results of the remedy inspection procedure. To date, ODI has received 1,157 allegations of engine bearing failure. GM submitted 55,464 reports in total, with 29,752 unique VINs. ODI continues to receive allegations of L87 engine failures which fall outside of the scope of recall 25V-274. Based on GM’s recall, ODI will close this PE. NHTSA will continue to investigate complaints of engine failure outside the scope of recall 25V-274 as part ofEngineering Analysis (EA25007). To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Recent owner complaints
Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words
the engine seized. I tore into the motor to inspect what caused it and it spun a connecting rod bearing on cylinder 1. I have been paying 600 a month on it without being able to drive it since this happened in november of 2024.
- NHTSA ID
- 11766765
- Incident
- Nov 15, 2024
According to 2 mechanics- including a body shop - the frame has prematurely rusted due to: TSB 19-NA-255 - Wax Coating on Frame Peeling, Metal Shows Corrosion/Rusting There's so much damage to a 2021 truck, that it may not survive this winter. The frame welds are breaking due to the lack of frame protection. I asked my dealership, Lamoille Valley Chevrolet 868 VT RT 15E HYDE PARK, VT 05655, on two separate occasions to check for damage. One time they made no report, the second time they told me it was normal wear and tear. I've been told trucks 20 years older than mine, are in better condition. There was no protection for this frame.
- NHTSA ID
- 11766547
- Incident
- Sep 23, 2026
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that after activating the 4WD feature, the rear wheels locked up with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer on several occasions to be diagnosed. Several unknown parts were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced Safety Recall : N242454440; as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 102,490.
- NHTSA ID
- 11766400
- Incident
- May 14, 2025
- Mileage
- 102,490 mi
Around 60k miles my truck started shifting rough and at odd times. Then it went into “limp” mode. I took it to the dealership and they replaced my battery and a solenoid. I asked about the transmission and they told me it was because it was in “limp mode”. I’ve continued to have issues with it then a couple of months ago while driving to work at around 60mph the truck harshly downshifted into a low gear causing the rear tires to break loose on the wet roads and sending me into an extended spin. I had the truck towed home and then to the local dealership. After researching, I have found that this is very common with the same vehicles in this year and that there are multiple recalls to address the issues. Unfortunately my VIN is not included. I believe the needed repairs and the associated costs should be GM’s responsibility under special coverages: N242454441 and N242454440-03
- NHTSA ID
- 11765787
- Incident
- Jul 21, 2026
My truck started skipping and over time the check engine light came on. I took it in and they are saying it is the lifters, which is costly. I know this truck was built during COVID and I know a lot of the manufacturers were dealing with skeleton crews. I heard this was an issue with the 2021 Silverado trucks, and a recall. Can you please advise?
- NHTSA ID
- 11765689
- Incident
- Sep 1, 2026
The water pump went bad at 31,000 miles. If I continued driving and the pulley fell off the engine would overheat. I took it to the dealer and they confirmed the pump failure and want me to pay over $1,400 for repair that should be covered under warranty. There was no warning lamps lit, the pump just started making a grinding sound.
- NHTSA ID
- 11765602
- Incident
- Sep 17, 2026
Engine failed and truck caught on fire from the engine failure
- NHTSA ID
- 11765533
- Incident
- Jan 24, 2026
2021 silverado engine failure. Yes it was inspected by a dealership and my extended warranty company and serviced by the dealership. Back on August 5th I experienced a misfire cylinder 3 and felt loss of power. On August 7th the dealership diagnosed both camshafts, 1 lifter, 1 valve, and 1 fuel injector was damaged and never received at warning lights or messages on the dashboard. I was without the vehicle for 39 days and within 10 hrs after picking up the truck i got an engine light on and several new codes on it and can not be driven and being towed. I feel these engines need a recall as it is well documented that these engines go between 60 and 80,000 miles and some a lot less than that, mine has 70,800 and went and now being towed with in less than 24 hrs after engine repair. I will be in contact with a lawyer to follow up on this matter.
- NHTSA ID
- 11764947
- Incident
- Aug 5, 2026
Manufacturer communications
A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.
This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
This document assists GM dealer technicians with diagnosing torque converter concerns to ensure torque converter replacement is necessary. The torque converter part number will be placed on order restriction, and the technician will be asked to follow 25-NA-148 before requesting a part through PQC.
This Preliminary information communicates to dealer to perform a MEC reset for wireless projection issues
This Preliminary information communicates an issue where an aftermarket autostop device or rear taillights is causing a dead battery.
This document assists GM dealer technicians with diagnosing torque converter concerns to ensure torque converter replacement is necessary. The torque converter part number will be placed on order restriction, and the technician will be asked to follow 25-NA-148 before requesting a part through PQC.
This PI provides information to repair the door water deflector which is not sealed properly allows water into the door jam/sill area.
Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.
Compare model years
Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Investigations | Issue Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 101 | 3 | 1 | 59.2 |
| 2025 | 100 | 0 | 1 | 50.5 |
| 2024 | 310 | 2 | 4 | 61.2 |
| 2023 | 382 | 3 | 4 | 65.0 |
| 2022 | 630 | 6 | 4 | 67.8 |
| 2021Viewing | 825 | 8 | 5 | 70.2 |
| 2020 | 730 | 12 | 3 | 67.1 |
| 2019 | 1,082 | 10 | 2 | 64.6 |
| 2018 | 520 | 7 | 0 | 55.1 |
| 2017 | 711 | 7 | 0 | 57.4 |
| 2016 | 794 | 12 | 1 | 60.2 |
| 2015 | 1,105 | 11 | 2 | 63.4 |
| 2014 | 1,436 | 6 | 2 | 59.1 |
| 2013 | 301 | 2 | 2 | 53.7 |
| 2012 | 216 | 2 | 2 | 53.2 |
| 2011 | 563 | 4 | 2 | 56.9 |
| 2010 | 363 | 3 | 2 | 56.0 |
| 2009 | 444 | 3 | 2 | 53.3 |
| 2008 | 914 | 3 | 3 | 59.0 |
| 2007 | 849 | 2 | 3 | 55.1 |
| 2006 | 359 | 0 | 0 | 40.1 |
| 2005 | 525 | 0 | 0 | 39.6 |
| 2004 | 797 | 0 | 0 | 36.5 |
| 2003 | 805 | 0 | 3 | 43.9 |
| 2002 | 509 | 0 | 2 | 49.0 |
| 2001 | 468 | 0 | 2 | 49.0 |
| 2000 | 614 | 0 | 2 | 51.0 |
| 1999 | 587 | 2 | 2 | 57.5 |
| 1998 | 361 | 2 | 0 | 48.1 |
| 1997 | 555 | 2 | 0 | 49.3 |
| 1996 | 7 | 0 | 0 | — |
| 1995 | 3 | 0 | 0 | — |
| 1994 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 38.6 |
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.