2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Engine43041.7%
- Powertrain (other)23122.4%
- Electrical11110.8%
- Brakes454.4%
- Steering414.0%
- Body & structure292.8%
- Fuel system282.7%
- Driver assistance262.5%
- Airbags201.9%
- Interior & seats171.6%
- Suspension161.6%
- Other / unspecified90.9%
- Visibility70.7%
- Seat belts70.7%
- Transmission60.6%
- Exterior lighting60.6%
- Tires & wheels30.3%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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?
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
My 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST with the 6.2L engine experienced an engine seizure. The engine was replaced by a Chevrolet dealership under a GM safety recall. Immediately after picking up the vehicle following the recall engine replacement, the truck stalled while still in the Chevrolet dealership parking lot. There was no warning before this first stall. We continued our trip because we did not realize at the time that the stall could indicate a problem following the engine replacement. During the drive from [XXX] to [XXX], the problem continued. In [XXX], the check engine light illuminated and the truck began malfunctioning. The vehicle subsequently stalled again. The problem continued after returning to [XXX]. A Chevrolet dealership in [XXX] inspected the vehicle and reproduced/confirmed a problem involving the camshaft position sensor wiring/connector. The dealership demonstrated the problem by manipulating the connector/wiring and recorded a video of the diagnostic procedure. The vehicle is currently at the Chevrolet dealership and is available for inspection. The affected component should also be available for inspection because it has not yet been repaired. The [XXX] dealership has characterized the wiring/connector condition as normal wear. However, the first stall occurred immediately after the GM recall engine replacement, while the vehicle was still on the repairing Chevrolet dealership's property. Unexpected engine stalling creates a serious safety risk because the vehicle can lose propulsion without warning while driving, including at highway speeds or in traffic. I am concerned that the camshaft position circuit/wiring/connector problem may be associated with the recall engine replacement procedure or replacement engine. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether other vehicles receiving this GM 6.2L engine recall remedy have experienced similar camshaft position circuit failures or unexpected stalling after engine repair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FO
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
While coming to a stop, a snap ring came off the brake master cylinder. Vehicle top speed was 40mph, with the parking brake automatically engaged. ***Note from mechanic: Vehicle has several brake faults, C05CC and C05CF master cylinder piston position sensor performance, C2A17 hydraulic brake sponginess, and C0277 brake pedal position sensor fault. Tech recommends Hydraulic Brake Unit replacement***
Turned from [XXX] into my street, about 9 houses down, i could not brake or turn steering wheel. Ended up hitting 2 cars, the problem was that the air bags did not deploy and the seat belt did not lock. truck was totalled. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
When I put the pickup in park, I get a message that states "Shift to Park". The pickup is completely stopped, the gear shift indicator is in "P". When I get out of the vehicle I get two loud two-horn alerts indicating that the pickup in not in Park, when in fact it is. Doing some research, I have seen that this is a common problem for GM vehicles. The console shift vehicles are actually involved in a class action lawsuit, while the steering column shift vehicles are not.
Sudden loss of power steering, usually upon initial start. May return, may not return during drive. Began around 1 week ago. Sudden loss of power steering when turning either right or left has occurred causing a dangerous situation. Upon loss of power steering, 2 warnings appear. One for loss of power steering and the other for the trailer brake. Have never trailered anything with truck. Check engine light has come on at times, others it has not. Steering failure has occurred approximately 6 times. An internet search found some reference to my vehicle being informally added to the recall affecting other GM Vehicles. Vehicle has not been inspected yet.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
Statement for NHTSA Subject: Safety Complaint – 2021 Chevrolet Silverado Unexpected Jerking/Harsh Transmission Engagement I am submitting this complaint regarding my 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2.7L Turbo with approximately 128,000 miles. My vehicle has developed a recurring problem involving harsh/jerking transmission engagement, hesitation, shuddering and abnormal shifting. The truck can jerk when engaging or changing gears and has also experienced a hard engagement when shifting from Reverse into Drive. During normal driving, the vehicle can hesitate or feel as though it is repeatedly fluttering/shifting instead of providing smooth and predictable acceleration. The vehicle has produced diagnostic trouble codes including P0700, U0100 and P0420. I am concerned that this condition could create a safety hazard, particularly if the vehicle unexpectedly jerks, hesitates or fails to respond normally when accelerating or changing gears in traffic. I am requesting that NHTSA document this complaint and review whether there is a pattern or potential safety-related defect involving transmission engagement, shifting or drivetrain control on 2021 Chevrolet Silverado vehicles. GM has published service information concerning delayed and harsh transmission engagement on certain Silverado applications, including 2019–2021 models, which makes me concerned that my vehicle may be experiencing a related issue. I am retaining my repair records, diagnostic information, receipts, videos and mileage/date information documenting when the problem occurs. I am willing to provide this information if requested. Please help me get my truck corrected, I love my Chevy Truck. Thanks Sincerely [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
My 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST with the 6.2L engine experienced an engine seizure. The engine was replaced by a Chevrolet dealership under a GM safety recall. Immediately after picking up the vehicle following the recall engine replacement, the truck stalled while still in the Chevrolet dealership parking lot. There was no warning before this first stall. We continued our trip because we did not realize at the time that the stall could indicate a problem following the engine replacement. During the drive from [XXX] to [XXX], the problem continued. In [XXX], the check engine light illuminated and the truck began malfunctioning. The vehicle subsequently stalled again. The problem continued after returning to [XXX]. A Chevrolet dealership in [XXX] inspected the vehicle and reproduced/confirmed a problem involving the camshaft position sensor wiring/connector. The dealership demonstrated the problem by manipulating the connector/wiring and recorded a video of the diagnostic procedure. The vehicle is currently at the Chevrolet dealership and is available for inspection. The affected component should also be available for inspection because it has not yet been repaired. The [XXX] dealership has characterized the wiring/connector condition as normal wear. However, the first stall occurred immediately after the GM recall engine replacement, while the vehicle was still on the repairing Chevrolet dealership's property. Unexpected engine stalling creates a serious safety risk because the vehicle can lose propulsion without warning while driving, including at highway speeds or in traffic. I am concerned that the camshaft position circuit/wiring/connector problem may be associated with the recall engine replacement procedure or replacement engine. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether other vehicles receiving this GM 6.2L engine recall remedy have experienced similar camshaft position circuit failures or unexpected stalling after engine repair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FO
On August 22, 2025 the malfunction indicator lamp (code: P146B Evap. purge pump) illuminated with no noticeable change. Ran codes at auto zone which stated engine failed and emissions not ready. August 25, 2025 drove to certified Chevy dealer dropped off vehicle and showed the service advisor the fix finder test results from auto zone as well as the illuminated indicator lamp (check engine light). August 26, 2025 picked up my vehicle with receipt stating "found dtc's P146b and P1467 stored in ECM (engine control module) for evap purge pump fault. inspected evap canister for any signs of fuel and none were found. replaced evap purge pump per special policy #N232395310. Cleared dtc and road tested vehicle to verify repair". September 9, 2025 my engine indicator light illuminated and my engine entered limp mode, a safety feature which reduces cylinder output/capacity. September 12, 2025 while in limp mode, I returned to the service dealer and informed them of the reduced power (limp mode) and my confusion as the second engine symbol that has been illuminated is in a different area than the first and my truck has ONE engine. (editor note: malfunction indicator lamp is for the emissions). My original transmission (8L90) was replace, because my vehicle was under power train warranty and the service advisor took it upon himself to approve the disassembly of my running, in good condition 8L90 transmission without consulting me or my approval. the 8L90 was "discontinued" for the 2020-2022 years without recall come to find out (sarcasm). I now have a new transmission (8L86-85) with the "special coverage" part (#N232395310) still connected, only now I have NO additional powertrain coverage for a new transmission, but the "special coverage" originally issued in 2023, BY MAIL, for 15 yr/150,000miles has extended two years plus mileage. (15 yr / 152,955) .The "special coverage" part should NOT affect the engine! Engines produce power/HEAT not CO2 . Sarbane - Oxley Act.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
I was on the highway doing 70 MPH with my family driving down I-40 through western NC (mountainous terrain) when my brakes went out and the vehicle went into limp mode. I was able to safely pull over thank God and then had my vehicle towed to the dealer. The dealer just informed me that a software update is needed, and not covered under warranty. There are multiple safety bulletins coming out for related years and issues related to the braking system of this make/model and I would like this documented as well as Chevy to cover the cost of repairing this defect.
Once I disengaged the auto stop on my vehicle, I would accelerate from a stop and I would loose my brakes. This happened several times. I took it to the shop and was told it was fine. Finally, one day I was descending on an overpass, disengaged my auto stop and my brakes were complete failure, even my emergency brakes, my check engine light engaged (the code read emissions issue). Was able to stop in a field, get it back to the dealership to find out I lost the master break cylinder but no indication on prior visits. The truck, check engine light will spontaneously start blinking but hold no codes. I have had it routinely serviced and it will overheat and oil will run hot but mechanics find no issues
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
Turned from [XXX] into my street, about 9 houses down, i could not brake or turn steering wheel. Ended up hitting 2 cars, the problem was that the air bags did not deploy and the seat belt did not lock. truck was totalled. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air bag light was on , took to dealership because this was absolutely a safety hazard! The left front crash sensor is defective.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle, it was later discovered that the rear tailgate door had erroneously opened. The contact indicated that the failure had occurred on multiple occasions. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 22,000.
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds, the tailgate inadvertently opened. The tailgate was closed, but the tailgate reopened unexpectedly within several seconds. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the tailgate opened unexpectedly. After closing the tailgate, the tailgate reopened within several seconds. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
On 2-23-2026, while traveling at highway speeds on the freeway, the front upper and lower A-arms (control arms) suffered a complete structural failure. This caused an immediate loss of steering control, forcing the vehicle off the road. By sheer luck and reactive maneuvering, I was able to avoid a multi-vehicle collision; however, the failure resulted in over $4,000 in mechanical and body damage.
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. While driving 43 MPH, the message "Brake Failure" was displayed. The contact then lost control of the vehicle, and the vehicle drove from the right side to the left side of the road, the vehicle drove off the road and crashed into a ditch before coming to a stop. The driver had not sustained any injuries. There was no property damage. The air bags did not deploy. The check engine, the ABS and several unknown warning lights were illuminated after the failure. A tow truck driver who was also a mechanic inspected the vehicle and informed the contact that the driver's side front suspension had fractured from the upper ball joint and the wheel was folded in underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was being diagnosed. A Police Report was filed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
Starting back in June 2025 Loss of engine power multiple times. Many times almost hit from behind as I turned onto a highway. Found out vehicle had a stop sale recall at the time of purchase and I had issues with back right tire. Took truck to a tire shop and learned that the wheel was welded in many places and fracture was visible. Finally, got the dealership to pay attention in October to my concerns. They were going to allow me to trade the vehicle out for another one while paying off the bank but that’s not what they did. They attempted the repair and tried to hand it back to me. 1/27/26 Was recently told this was corrected, and the sales person told me when he picked it up from shop he couldn’t go more than 30 mph. Dealership management told him not to tell me. I am submitting this complaint for immediate review regarding Ruiz Ranch Motors (Spring Branch, TX) for an illegal vehicle sale, prolonged withholding of my vehicle, misrepresentation of a “loaner” vehicle, and coercive threats involving law enforcement. This matter involves ongoing safety risks, financial harm, and improper dealer conduct affecting both myself and my minor child. Summary of Key Facts (Concise): • On June 25, 2025, I purchased a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado (VIN 1GCUYHET7MZ155657) from Ruiz Ranch Motors, financed through Ally Financial. • The vehicle was subject to a GM Stop-Sale / No-Sale Safety Recall (NHTSA 24V797000) at or around the time of sale. • I repeatedly raised safety concerns beginning shortly after purchase. These concerns were dismissed for months. • In November, Ruiz Ranch Motors took possession of my 2021 Silverado under the representation that they were “working on trade numbers” and a solution to correct the experience. Misrepresented “Loaner / Trade” Vehicle: • I was provided a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado, represented as a potential trade option, no trade was made (only dealership delay) this vehicle now has a engine light and no cooperation from dealership
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the rear wheels locked up, causing the vehicle to slide across the road. The contact was able to regain control of the vehicle and came to a stop in the middle of the road. The check engine and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The contact turned off and then restarted the vehicle and became aware that the transmission failed to shift into the intended gear. The vehicle was towed to the contact's place of employment. The contact who is a certified mechanic performed a diagnostic test and retrieved DTC: P0747, indicating a failure with the pressure control cylinder in the transmission. The contact also found information on NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V797000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not included int the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 83,830.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
Window switch failed and I was unable to roll down the window. Dealer confirmed and performed repairs. Problem occurred on a dry day with no previous issues and the dealer stated it was manufacturing defect with the switch.
Rain is coming in through the back window. Dealer is stating that the rain is coming from the sliding window but satellite is stating it’s the brake light on the top of the truck.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
Turned from [XXX] into my street, about 9 houses down, i could not brake or turn steering wheel. Ended up hitting 2 cars, the problem was that the air bags did not deploy and the seat belt did not lock. truck was totalled. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I am submitting a safety complaint regarding a vehicle restraint system failure. I was involved in a collision with a deer. During the incident, the seat belt pretensioner activated; however, the seat belt did not properly restrain me. I experienced forward movement despite the pretensioner activation. The airbags did not deploy. Because pretensioner activation is intended to lock and tighten the seat belt during a collision, I am concerned that the restraint system failed to function as designed. This raises concerns about occupant safety and the ability of the seat belt system to provide protection in future crashes. I am submitting this complaint to document a potential safety defect and request review of this restraint system failure.“After reporting the seat belt restraint failure to General Motors, I was informed that because I was not injured, no action would be taken and no further review would occur.” Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle jerked unexpectedly. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the valve body needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to parts not being available and the VIN not being included in a recall. In addition, the part was ordered at the owner's expense. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 145,565.
See attached document for complaint.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
While towing at night with horses, trailer lights started blinking on and off, eventually for longer periods, then stopped working all together. Research shows this is a common problem in GM vehicles related to the wiring and trailer light module. This is especially dangerous when pulling horses at night and all of the sudden lights go out. GM issued a technical service bulletin. This should be a recall...
Rain is coming in through the back window. Dealer is stating that the rain is coming from the sliding window but satellite is stating it’s the brake light on the top of the truck.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
A tire purchased new as part of a complete set failed on June 29, 2026, approximately 58 days after purchase. The vehicle was being driven on a smooth road surface under normal driving conditions when the tire suddenly failed. There was no known impact with a pothole, curb, road debris, or other road hazard before the failure, and there were no warning lights, messages, or noticeable symptoms indicating a problem with the tire before it failed. The sudden tire failure created a serious safety concern because it occurred while the vehicle was being driven and could have resulted in loss of vehicle control, a collision, or injury to the vehicle occupants or other motorists. Because the failure occurred while traveling out of state, the tire was taken to an independent tire service center for inspection. After inspecting the failed tire, the service center documented that the tire had separated internally and determined that the failure was due to a manufacturing defect. Written documentation of the inspection findings was provided. The failed tire was later taken to the selling Goodyear location for inspection. Goodyear disagreed with the independent inspection and claimed that the failure resulted from a pothole impact. No pothole or other road hazard was struck before the tire failure. The failed tire has been retained and remains available for inspection upon request. The independent service center’s written inspection report, photographs, purchase documentation, and other supporting records are also available. 275/65R18 116T
Unknown,don’t want to have an accident if my rear wheel lock up on me for my recall of my vehicle don’t want to put my family at risk
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
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.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .