RoadVitals

2025 GMC Sierra 2500 Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
28
Latest Sep 18, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
12
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
4

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2025 GMC Sierra 2500, 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

  • Brakes720.6%
  • Steering720.6%
  • Engine411.8%
  • Powertrain (other)38.8%
  • Airbags25.9%
  • Body & structure25.9%
  • Electrical25.9%
  • Exterior lighting25.9%
  • Suspension25.9%
  • Fuel system12.9%
  • Driver assistance12.9%
  • Other / unspecified12.9%

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

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

7
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My 2025 Sierra 2500HD repeatedly displays “Trailer Brakes Disabled—Service Required” with a lithium- and solar-equipped trailer. The truck passes the EL-52641 simulator, but the failure occurs intermittently while towing and resets after Park or reconnecting the trailer. This closely matches the higher-trailer-battery-voltage/backfeed condition described in N232414840. Please open a TAC case and determine whether my 2025 has the revised Trailer Brake Power Module or whether GM engineering authorizes module replacement.

NHTSA ID 11753160 · filed Jul 27, 2026

Normal driving 40mph brake failure and power steering loss. Towed vehicle to dealership

NHTSA ID 11744937 · filed Jun 18, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

7
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Normal driving 40mph brake failure and power steering loss. Towed vehicle to dealership

NHTSA ID 11744937 · filed Jun 18, 2026

Power steering pump failed when decelerating after 9500 miles. When power steering pump fails, power assisted braking also fails. Upon deceleration, I could not turn the steering wheel at all or stop the vehicle without extreme pressure on the brake pedal. I narrowly avoided impact with a concrete barricade at the entrance to a parking lot. GM issued a technical bulletin (DCS7112) on January 16, 2025 identifying the problem and failure and directing dealerships to replace the pump on inventory vehicles. No mention was made to repair or notify owners of the potential problem.

NHTSA ID 11735271 · filed May 2, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Component / System Failure The exhaust system, specifically the exhaust manifolds and previously the EGR system components, appear to have failed or malfunctioned, allowing exhaust gases to enter the passenger cabin. The dealer initially replaced the EGR cooler diverter on December 23, 2025. However, the condition persisted. On February 3, 2026, cracked exhaust manifolds were identified by the dealership, and a major front-end teardown was advised to complete the repair. The vehicle is currently available for inspection upon request. ⸻ How Safety Was Put at Risk The malfunction allowed exhaust gases, including carbon monoxide, to enter the passenger cabin during vehicle operation. Carbon monoxide readings inside the cabin reached up to 50 parts per million (ppm) while driving. Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that can cause: •Headaches •Dizziness •Impaired concentration •Nausea •Vision disturbances Because carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, this presents a significant safety risk, particularly at highway speeds where driver alertness is critical. The exposure occurred while operating the vehicle in normal driving conditions. This created a potential risk of driver impairment and increased risk of collision. ⸻ Has the Problem Been Reproduced or Confirmed? Yes. The vehicle was presented to the dealership three times for the same exhaust intrusion concern: •December 16, 2025 •December 29, 2025 •February 3, 2026 During the February 3 visit, the dealership confirmed cracked exhaust manifolds requiring major disassembly for repair. The carbon monoxide readings were observed during vehicle operation. The exhaust odor and intrusion symptoms were consistently present following the first attempted repair. ⸻ Has the Vehicle Been Inspected by Manufacturer or Others? The vehicle has been inspected by the authorized dealership on multiple occasions. Two manufacturer customer care cases were opened.

NHTSA ID 11717926 · filed Feb 13, 2026

Burning an unusual amount of oil. Have seen several instances of blue smoke in the exhaust. Have had to add over a quart of oil twice in less than 6500 miles.

NHTSA ID 11714116 · filed Jan 29, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The transfer case leaked out all the fluid while driving over a period of time and damaged internal parts before the first oil change. This has happened 2 times now, and is currently leaking again with less than 10k miles.

NHTSA ID 11721851 · filed Mar 3, 2026

transmission locked up 8 times from 1,050 miles to current 3,885 miles. It has happens each time around 40 mph. Each time it’s like hitting the brakes. The 8th time it locked really hard like slamming on the brakes. I’m worried with winter months what will happen on snow/ice covered roads. Called dealership and was told GM refuses to do anything until it completely fails. It seems they know what the problem is but refuse to fix till the truck stops moving during complete failure. No warning lamps and dealer ship says they can’t replicate it.

NHTSA ID 11698271 · filed Nov 7, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Air bags didn’t deploy after being hit so hard in the side it bent the frame and my daughters head head hit the side window

NHTSA ID 11765437 · filed Sep 18, 2026

A driver hit me in the side of the car at around 70 mph to where it bent the frame of the truck and the airbags did not deploy causing a major issue and my daughters head to hit the side window.no warning lamps and it’s currently at a body shop right now

NHTSA ID 11765436 · filed Sep 18, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2025 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact stated that the front driver’s side door handle failed to operate as needed, and the contact was unable to exit the vehicle through the driver’s side door. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, and a new handle was ordered. The part was replaced under warranty. Soon after the repair, the liftgate failed to open or close as needed and became inoperable. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer for the liftgate to be serviced under warranty. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle remained with the dealer unrepaired. The failure mileage was approximately 300.

NHTSA ID 11731146 · filed Apr 14, 2026

The accident occurred when the tailgate opened without warning or any buttons being pushed while towing a boat trailer. The tailgate become bound between the truck and trailer. The tailgate was damaged and limited my ability to turn the truck. My truck is normally parked in a garage and doesn’t sit in the weather. This truck is my 3rd vehicle so it doesn’t really get driven unless it is pulling a trailer, I tow with it all the time but very rarely use the bed or tailgate. Monday June 16 – Drove from Gallatin, Tn – Eddyville, Ky – Paducah, Ky the weather was constantly heavy rain and wind. Tuesday June 17 – Drove from Paducah, Ky to Defeated, TN more of the same bad storm. There were 3 of us and no one opened the tailgate, we hooked up to my boat and drove less than a quarter mile to the boat ramp, when we arrived, the tailgate had opened and the stairs on the boat had impacted the small part of the tailgate during a right turn. Prior to leaving the driveway and after hooking up the boat I had to back up slightly and remove pressure to remove the chock block from the boat trailer tires. (I would have noticed that the tailgate was open) this happened with no warning, put me and my passengers at risk and did over $1000 dollars in property damage. I was expecting GM to replace the parts that were faulty and the small part of the tailgate that was damaged. I returned twice to Larry Stovesand GMC and had them access the switch. They have refused to supply paperwork from those visits and have become dismissive and deceptive. The contact there is Craig Morgan [email protected]

NHTSA ID 11695282 · filed Oct 23, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 experienced repeated electrical failures that caused complete battery drainage and multiple overnight no‑start conditions within the first year of ownership. These failures occurred in extreme desert heat, where temperatures in [XXX] reach 120°F. A vehicle that repeatedly fails to start in these conditions creates a serious safety hazard, including risk of heat‑related medical emergencies if stranded. The defect persisted despite multiple repair attempts and two battery replacements. The dealership ultimately told me I would “need to replace batteries as needed,” instead of diagnosing the underlying electrical issue. Detailed Description of the Problem Multiple overnight no‑start incidents Several jump‑start events required XXX – 15,265 miles: Battery replaced due to electrical drainage XXX: Battery replaced again for the same defect Electrical system continued to fail after repairs Dealer advised ongoing battery replacement rather than addressing root cause The truck was unreliable and unsafe in extreme heat. A no‑start condition in 120°F temperatures can leave occupants stranded without air conditioning, posing a life‑threatening risk. Frequency of the Problem The electrical failure occurred multiple times over several months, including late 2025, early 2026, and again in mid‑2026. The defect was consistent and repeatable. Consequences Risk of being stranded in extreme heat Loss of air conditioning during no‑start events Potential for heat exhaustion or heat stroke Vehicle unreliable for daily use Safety hazard for driver and passengers INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11759584 · filed Aug 25, 2026

See attached document for complaint.

NHTSA ID 11692152 · filed Oct 8, 2025

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.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 experienced repeated electrical failures that caused complete battery drainage and multiple overnight no‑start conditions within the first year of ownership. These failures occurred in extreme desert heat, where temperatures in [XXX] reach 120°F. A vehicle that repeatedly fails to start in these conditions creates a serious safety hazard, including risk of heat‑related medical emergencies if stranded. The defect persisted despite multiple repair attempts and two battery replacements. The dealership ultimately told me I would “need to replace batteries as needed,” instead of diagnosing the underlying electrical issue. Detailed Description of the Problem Multiple overnight no‑start incidents Several jump‑start events required XXX – 15,265 miles: Battery replaced due to electrical drainage XXX: Battery replaced again for the same defect Electrical system continued to fail after repairs Dealer advised ongoing battery replacement rather than addressing root cause The truck was unreliable and unsafe in extreme heat. A no‑start condition in 120°F temperatures can leave occupants stranded without air conditioning, posing a life‑threatening risk. Frequency of the Problem The electrical failure occurred multiple times over several months, including late 2025, early 2026, and again in mid‑2026. The defect was consistent and repeatable. Consequences Risk of being stranded in extreme heat Loss of air conditioning during no‑start events Potential for heat exhaustion or heat stroke Vehicle unreliable for daily use Safety hazard for driver and passengers INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11759584 · filed Aug 25, 2026

Reverse lamps are not bright. Camera does not brighten area either. Very unsafe to reverse in the dark. Have to touch the brake pedal to be able to see while backing. Also have tried the LEDs in the mirrors while backing- although the LEDs are bright- lights to see while backing are insufficient on the stop lamps.

NHTSA ID 11733163 · filed Apr 22, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Suspension

Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Had a minor wreck was to be two weeks to then it had to have a new frame they said it coun't be repair if a minor wreck can do this much damage there is a problem with subpar frames that any sudden stops or turns

NHTSA ID 11710058 · filed Jan 10, 2026

The passenger side rear wheel went into a pothole while making a right turn on a city street. This resulted in the right rear leaf spring breaking at the forward mounting point. This caused thr rear axle to swivel impacting the rear of the wheel well. The ESC malfunction indicator and impact sensor malfunction llights illuminated appropriately 2-3 miles later after I was in a highway. This is a significant safety concern as I was at an increased speed in heavy traffic by the time the lights illuminated. This not only puts the vehicle occupants at risk, this is potentially a significant risk to other motorist. There were no noticeable indications of damage besides pulling until I was at appropriately 55mph on the highway. The vehicle is currently at a dealership for repair.

NHTSA ID 11667918 · filed Jun 19, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

Component / System Failure The exhaust system, specifically the exhaust manifolds and previously the EGR system components, appear to have failed or malfunctioned, allowing exhaust gases to enter the passenger cabin. The dealer initially replaced the EGR cooler diverter on December 23, 2025. However, the condition persisted. On February 3, 2026, cracked exhaust manifolds were identified by the dealership, and a major front-end teardown was advised to complete the repair. The vehicle is currently available for inspection upon request. ⸻ How Safety Was Put at Risk The malfunction allowed exhaust gases, including carbon monoxide, to enter the passenger cabin during vehicle operation. Carbon monoxide readings inside the cabin reached up to 50 parts per million (ppm) while driving. Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that can cause: •Headaches •Dizziness •Impaired concentration •Nausea •Vision disturbances Because carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, this presents a significant safety risk, particularly at highway speeds where driver alertness is critical. The exposure occurred while operating the vehicle in normal driving conditions. This created a potential risk of driver impairment and increased risk of collision. ⸻ Has the Problem Been Reproduced or Confirmed? Yes. The vehicle was presented to the dealership three times for the same exhaust intrusion concern: •December 16, 2025 •December 29, 2025 •February 3, 2026 During the February 3 visit, the dealership confirmed cracked exhaust manifolds requiring major disassembly for repair. The carbon monoxide readings were observed during vehicle operation. The exhaust odor and intrusion symptoms were consistently present following the first attempted repair. ⸻ Has the Vehicle Been Inspected by Manufacturer or Others? The vehicle has been inspected by the authorized dealership on multiple occasions. Two manufacturer customer care cases were opened.

NHTSA ID 11717926 · filed Feb 13, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2025 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the RPM was fluctuating while driving. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the warranty. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 600.

NHTSA ID 11634563 · filed Jan 7, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Other / unspecified

Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2025 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact researched online and became aware that there was a recent recall under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V815000 (Equipment) for the Owner's Manual. The contact stated that the vehicle was sold without the Owner's Manual. The contact stated that the manufacturer was called and was advised that the recall was only related to the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado models and the vehicle was not the same year, make or model. The contact was attempting to retain a physical copy of the Owner’s Manual and thought that it was a safety issue since there was a safety recall. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA ID 11703311 · filed Dec 5, 2025

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

Data on this page last refreshed .